What to Compare
For owned homes in high-crime areas or homes with complex alarm needs, ADT is worth the premium.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
ADT
Features and considerations
- Professional installation ensures sensors are optimally placed for FL home layouts
- Deep integration with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave smart home devices
- 145+ years in business — local Florida dealer network for fast service
- Cellular + broadband dual-path monitoring — no WiFi outage risk during hurricanes
SimpliSafe
Features and considerations
- DIY install takes 30–45 minutes, no technician scheduling needed
- Easy to move: unplug sensors and take them when you relocate
Limits and questions
- Self-install means no professional assessment of coverage gaps
- Outdoor camera quality still trails ADT's professional-grade hardware
- Smart home integration more limited than ADT's Z-Wave ecosystem
Side-by-Side Comparison
| ADT | SimpliSafe | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | Request an itemized quote for ADT; compare the same scope and payment period. | Request an itemized quote for SimpliSafe; compare the same scope and payment period. |
| Contract | Read the current ADT agreement for coverage, exclusions and cancellation terms. | Read the current SimpliSafe agreement for coverage, exclusions and cancellation terms. |
| Installation | Professional | DIY (30-45 min) |
| Monitoring | Ask the ADT provider to document monitoring for the exact offer. | Ask the SimpliSafe provider to document monitoring for the exact offer. |
| Response Time | ~6 seconds avg | ~45 seconds avg |
| Cellular Backup | Yes (standard) | Yes (standard) |
| Smart Home | Google, Alexa, Z-Wave | Google, Alexa (limited) |
| Equipment Cost | Request an itemized quote for ADT; compare the same scope and payment period. | Request an itemized quote for SimpliSafe; compare the same scope and payment period. |
| Fit for your project | Ask the ADT provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. | Ask the SimpliSafe provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ADT work during Florida hurricanes when power goes out?
Compare ADT and SimpliSafe on monthly cost, contract, installation, using the actual models or local proposals. Ask for supporting documentation and a written explanation of how the proposed option meets your needs.
Can I take my SimpliSafe system when I move within Florida?
Yes — this is one of SimpliSafe's biggest advantages for Floridians. The sensors use magnets and adhesive mounts, not hardwired connections. Unplug the base, pull the sensors, and reinstall at your new address in under an hour. ADT equipment is typically hardwired and stays with the home.
Is ADT worth the contract for a Florida condo?
For most condo owners, no. HOA buildings often have shared lobby security and building-level monitoring.
Consumer resources
Use these official resources when evaluating an offer. They provide general guidance and do not establish a winner between these options.
- FTC: comparing home-security offers — Contract and shopping guidance; not a rating of the named systems.