The 30-Second Verdict
ADT is the professional choice: licensed installers, 24/7 monitoring with a 6-second average response time, and deep smart-home integration — but you'll pay $45–$60/month and sign a 3-year contract. SimpliSafe is the no-contract DIY alternative at $20–$30/month that's easy to move when you relocate within Florida. For owned homes in high-crime areas or homes with complex alarm needs, ADT is worth the premium. For renters, condo owners, or anyone who wants flexibility, SimpliSafe wins on value.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
ADT
Pros
- Professional installation ensures sensors are optimally placed for FL home layouts
- 24/7 professional monitoring with average 6-second alarm response time
- 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
Cons
- 3-year contract required — early termination fees $750–$1,500
- $45–$65/month monitoring — significantly more than DIY competitors
- Equipment costs $100–$500+ even after promotional discounts
- Customer service reviews are inconsistent nationwide
SimpliSafe
Pros
- No contract — month-to-month monitoring, cancel anytime
- $19.99–$29.99/month monitoring — roughly half of ADT
- DIY install takes 30–45 minutes, no technician scheduling needed
- Easy to move: unplug sensors and take them when you relocate
- Fast Base station ships in 1–3 days — active before an ADT installer arrives
Cons
- Self-install means no professional assessment of coverage gaps
- No in-person support — all service is phone/chat based
- 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 | |
|---|---|---|
| ADT | SimpliSafe | |
| Monthly Cost | $45–$65/mo | $20–$30/mo |
| Contract | 3 years | Month-to-month |
| Installation | Professional | DIY (30-45 min) |
| Monitoring | Professional 24/7 | Professional 24/7 |
| 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 | $100–$500+ | $229–$489 kit |
| Best For | Owned homes, high-crime areas | Renters, snowbirds, movers |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ADT work during Florida hurricanes when power goes out?
Yes. ADT systems include a battery backup (4–24 hours depending on panel) and cellular monitoring — so even if WiFi and power go out during a storm, the system stays active and can still reach ADT's monitoring center. SimpliSafe also has cellular backup and a 24-hour battery on the base station, making both solid choices for hurricane-prone Florida.
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. SimpliSafe's no-contract model makes more sense in a condo: you're not drilling through walls (often prohibited), you can cancel if you sell, and the monthly cost is half of ADT's. Save ADT for single-family homes with larger perimeters.