Nest Vs. SimpliSafe Video Monitoring: What Are The Major Differences?

Deciding on a home security system is no small task. If it’s too cheap, it can seem suspicious. But sometimes, the systems that cost a fortune have way more equipment than you need. And then there’s the growing desire to connect all appliances to smart devices. Enter Nest and SimpliSafe.

Nest offers motion-sensor cameras and doorbells. However, they no longer have a security system with options to outsource video monitoring to an alarm company. Users can subscribe to Nest Aware, a video monitoring service through Google, which allows for additional safety features on Nest devices.

SimpliSafe offers bundled security system packages that feature a variety of equipment. You can also build a system to your liking. They don’t require a contract, but certain features require a monthly monitoring plan.

Please note: At one time, Google had a security system through Nest, but it’s been discontinued. The following information is based on Nest’s current security devices.

In addition to its smart thermostats, Nest also offers home security devices that are compatible with Google Assistant. However, in October 2020, Google discontinued the full-blown security system, aptly called Nest Secure. Now, you must purchase items individually to build your own system.

Easy to install, the Nest hub simply gets plugged in and set up on the mobile app. You have the choice to self-monitor through the app or pay for a monthly monitoring plan through Nest Aware.

(Note: These devices will not send alerts to home monitoring companies. In the event of an emergency, it is up to the user to contact authorities.)

Similar to Nest, SimpliSafe employs a plug-and-go mentality, making DIY installation easier than ever. Place the wireless sensors around your home and plug in the Base Station. If you’ve signed up for a monitoring plan, triggers sensors send an alarm to SimpliSafe’s monitoring center.

SimpliSafe offers many equipment packages at reasonable prices. Although it is smart device-compatible, a monitoring package is required to use it with smart devices. In addition, it can only be operated remotely by subscribing to a monitoring package.

Perhaps the biggest leg up that SimpliSafe has is its ability to connect to home security monitoring companies. It takes the burden off the user, making them feel safe and protected at all times. SimpliSafe offers two types of monitoring plans: a Standard Plan and an Interactive Plan.

The Standard Plan costs $14.99 a month and connects the base station to a monitoring center. Simple, easy, and no-frills.

The Interactive Plan costs $24.99 a month and gives access to the mobile app and alert notifications. With this plan, you can connect the system to other smart devices, like Amazon or Google devices.

SimpliSafe goes a step further. If you purchase a monthly subscription, they throw in a 20% discount on equipment purchases!

The closest thing Nest has to a home monitoring service is a subscription called Nest Aware. Depending on the subscription you choose, you’ll get video history recording and alerts across other Nest devices.

The biggest drawback is no connection to an outside security service. If an alert comes through, it’s up to the user to contact authorities. However, you do have the ability to contact 9-1-1 through the Home app.

Below is a chart comparing the two types of Nest Aware subscriptions.

Do you still have more questions about Nest and SimpliSafe? You’ve come to the right place! Below are some other questions users had regarding the features of SimpliSafe and Nest.

SimpliSafe is compatible with the Nest thermostat and Nest Protect but may not work with other Nest devices. Both Nest and SimpliSafe are compatible with Google Assistant. So, it’s possible you can control your SimpliSafe system with Google Nest products. However, you’ll need to purchase the $25 subscription through SimpliSafe in order to connect it to other smart devices.

The only ongoing cost associated with SimpliSafe is the monthly monitoring plan which can be canceled anytime. If you want to self-monitor, there is no cost associated with that. You would simply pay once for the equipment and monitor things yourself for free.

The door needs to be closed and the alarm activated before SimpliSafe starts monitoring it. Once the alarm is on and a door is opened, you will be alerted unless you disarm the system.

In terms of home security systems, there’s no contest. SimpliSafe is the winner. They offer the most options all around—from customizable equipment packages to no-contract subscription plans.

While it’s true Nest has more camera options and integrates with smart devices more easily, they don’t offer the same peace of mind. With Nest, the only option is self-monitoring, and that may be alright for some people.

But SimpliSafe at least gives the option to have an outside service monitor your home. And that is the clincher for most people looking for a home security system.