Seven years ago, a simple misstep by my son triggered SimpliSafe's alarm system, leading to an unexpected police call. Since then, I’ve expanded the system with add-ons like smoke alarms, CO2 detectors, outdoor cameras, and additional smart locks.

The heart of SimpliSafe is its base station, which doubles as a diffuser-like device, and a keypad for easy control—both accessible via the app too. The Indoor package includes motion sensors, door entry sensors, and a yard sign; the Outdoor variant adds an outdoor camera with Active Guard Outdoor Protection.

While I prefer Arlo cameras elsewhere, SimpliSafe's outdoor camera struggles with lag due to its AI algorithms needing time to process alerts and confirm whether a face is familiar. The smoke alarm listener ensures thick smoke is detected, unlike photoelectric-only smart alarms, which can miss fast-moving flames.

The system’s DIY nature and flexibility appeal to those who want control over their security setup without committing long-term contracts or hefty fees. Despite minor flaws, it remains an impressive solution for home safety.