Customers express satisfaction with the Defend Wireless Home Security System's ease of use and straightforward installation process. Many appreciate the system's wireless capabilities and long battery life of its components. However, some customers find the keypad's design to be outdated. The keypad's lack of illumination and overall aesthetic were points of concern for a few users.
This summary was generated by AI based on customer reviews.
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
Page 4 Showing 61-80 of 80 reviews
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
No Monthly Contracts!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This system is easy to install took less than an hour. Most of that time was spent deciding where to put the sensors. The kit includes the base itself, keypad, six sensors, 2 motion detectors, and a keychain remote, window decals and front yard sign. That’s enough to cover my first floor which is enough coverage for my house. Monitoring cost $15/25 a month depending on coverage tier. You can stop and start back anytime without any fees. Really like that there is no contract.
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Simple, Easy to Install, and Works as Advertised
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The SimpliSafe - Defend Wireless Home Security System is the answer to traditional, high-priced security solutions. Before receiving my package, I watched a video showing how easy and simple it is to set up. I was duly impressed, but assumed the reality would be more difficult than the video presented. To my pleasant surprise, setting the system up was as easy as advertised!
My use scenario is in a mid-sized duplex and I had no issues with distances between the base station and the various sensors. All items went up quickly and securely with the included adhesive strips. Set-up instructions were simple and easy to understand and implement.
The one issue I encountered was not due to the system, but was a consequence of the small, isolated community where I am currently living. We do not have sufficient coverage by T-Mobile, SimpliSafe's preferred cellular carrier. This prompted a call to their customer service which was friendly, responsive and took immediate steps to solve the issue. In my case, they shipped (overnight) a new part for me to (easily) swap out in the base station so it would work with Verizon. Once completed, I tested the unit and immediately received both email and app notifications of the sensors I'd intentionally triggered. After turning off the 'test' mode, I tried the panic button and then stopped it. I immediately received a call from SimpliSafe checking to see if assistance was needed (and also received the app and email notifications).
I am very impressed with this system. It is not just a great idea for an affordable solution to security needs, it is also very well implemented and exceptionally easy to self-install. Well done.
I would recommend this to a friend
Cons mentioned:
Design
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Customer service needs work...
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Living in Oakland, California you need to have adequate protection for your home. I had been looking into an alarm system for our home, and with the many other services that offer you hopes and dreams at an expensive cost, Simplisafe seemed like a reasonable option at a much lower cost.
Unlike the other systems that will "give" you the alarm system, SimpliSafe will have to be purchased at full price, as you can see. This is an immediate downside because it is an upfront cost. On the flip side, you don't have to sign a contract to get the "free alarm system" that the other companies/providers offer. I am not a big fan of contracts for services like these, so SimpliSafe was a much more appealing service than the others.
SimpliSafe's Defender package is a very good alarm system that provides all of the bells and whistles for your home. It comes with more than enough sensors for my ~1,050 square foot home. I put one motion sensor in my living room, another in the hallway, and entry sensors in my front and rear door. One thing that SimpliSafe lacks from the other guys is "curve appear." The keypad is...well...just that. It lacks a modern design, so this was a big disappointment for me, as I am into touchscreen technology with more modern features. I really hope that SimpliSafe does something to upgrade their hardware.
The actual setup of the sensors is extremely easy. You can either use the adhesive strips that the sensors come equipped with, or you can screw them onto your walls/doors. Once you have setup the sensors where you want them, you will need to run a system test to make sure that the sensors are all functioning.
Here is where the issue came up for me. Apparently there is a "trial" period of around 72 hours for you to test and get familiar with the system. I tried to contact customer service multiple times to try to get the system going, but it was hard to get a gold of someone during their normal business hours (Different from the monitoring center hours). When I was finally able to get a hold of someone, they informed me that I could have bypassed the trial/test period so that my house can be monitored by their service center (It is not monitored during the test period). I was a bit upset because I thought that you had to wait until the test period was over, and that it would automatically be switched to live monitoring...it wasn't. I had to call to have them set this up. This was a big headache! Hence the rating.
After all of the troubles of getting customer service to start my service, the alarm system has actually been great. I had the alarm go off due to user error, and got an immediate phone call to ask if I needed emergency help. The remote keychain is pretty cool, but can be a bit bulky to carry around with you. Also, the cap comes off really easy from the remote, so you will most likely lose it. Maybe this is why they offer replacements for sale on their website. How about just updating the design to something better?
In terms of reliability, I feel safe trusting my home and family to SimpliSafe. It is not the best looking system around, but it serves its intended purpose. The folks at the monitoring service are great, and will contact you immediately if the alarm goes off, which mine did this morning. I immediately flipped my surveillance cameras on and saw that it was a false alarm, so I called it off. I went with the $24.99/m service that offers online access, but they have a $15 option that is basically just monitoring without the online interactive website access. You can also use the system without live monitoring, but that would kind of define the purpose of having an alarm system. Best of all, I was able to get a discount in my home insurance thanks to this system. One more thing to add, I had to get a permit from the police department for my alarm system, so make sure to check with your local authorities for proper permits. SimpliSafe helped me take care of this, so it was easy.
I would recommend the SimpliSafe Defender Security System to anyone in the market for an alarm system. It has served its purpose, but you just have to be a bit patient with their customer service department. The price for live monitoring is great, plus you can expand your system to add multiple different sensors to your system. After you get your alarm up and running, you won't need to deal with customer service again, so that headache is gone after. The service has been great so far, and best of all, absolutely no contracts!
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Installation
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
SimpliSafe Defend Wireless Home Security System
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I just received my SimpliSafe Defend Wireless Home Security System to test out. Setup was fairly easy, however, I thought the manual could have been a little more specific in the setup process, however, the base station has an automated voice station that also guides you through the setup process. The included USB stick also guides you through the setup process once inserted into the top of the base station. After setting up the base station, the keypad, and motion sensors, I connected the 6 entry sensors around the house to the front door, the living room widows, and bedroom windows. I had one entry sensor left over since we have no back door and all the windows were covered. The keypad was pretty much self-explanatory and the menu was easy to navigate as well. I put it in test mode and it worked flawlessly. After taking it out of test mode, I went back into the settings to change my PIN number on the keypad. As of right now I did not sign up for the security service as it is optional, however, at $14.99 a month, that's not a bad deal to ensure safety to your home and your loved ones. Inside the package comes a display sign that you could place in your window or outside in the yard to hopefully deter would be burglars. The whole setup process was done in under 10 to 15 minutes. Pretty good system that I would recommend to anyone looking for that extra security.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Easy to setup, but need to pay for monitoring
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
this was an easy to setup system; it came complete with a keypad, 6 sensors and a base unit, and I had it up and running in 30 minutes..
Only problem was in order to use the remote/web interface properly, you have to sign up for a home monitoring plan; you get one month free to try, and after that you pay.
I guess we'll see if we like it enough going forward to pay for that monitoring..we also had a few errors with the sensors, but their customer service folks are very nice and knowledgeable, and I was able to fix it easily.
Definitely worth talking a look at if you are looking for an inexpensive alternative to the big name systems..
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
So Far so GREAAAAT!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I have always wanted to add a security a security system to my home. The normal monthly fees from the big guys are not affordable for my family of 6. Here is you budget savior!! Simplisafe, easy self install, not $300 install fee. Took myself under 30 minutes to be secured.
I have completed the 72 hour test phase and my home is 100% covered. The distance the sensors reach are insane for a wireless system. My garage is detached almost 150 feet away, all the sensors work perfect in my garage.
The sensors and accessories are super easy to add to the system. Once you register them via the number pad, they are live, no wires, no programming, just type a number and installed.
The customer service is also top notch, I emailed them and within 5 minutes had an answer. I have never seen this fast of a response ever from a company, this shows promise.
Do not be afraid of this system, and if you have ADT, the Simplisafe logo fits perfect over their signs, lol.
I would recommend this to a friend
Cons mentioned:
Design
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Decent system, but not up to Modern standards
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I’ve been in the market for a security system for a while. After a few robberies in the neighborhood, I installed cameras, but I wanted something that would actually monitor my home. I saw this Simplisafe kit available and I was excited to try it. It comes with enough contact sensors for a one story home and two motion detectors.
Set up was as simple as planing where to put everything and then mounting the hardware. I’m still currently on the trial period for monitoring, and so far it seems to work fine.
Now, there are some complaints with the system. Monitoring can get quite expensive. The $24.99 plan is the only one that will allow you to check on your system through a smartphone app remotely. The other $14.99 plan does not give you that access. There are other systems coming out that have remote access as standard for a much lower price per year. Also the design of the keypad is not very modern or sleek. It seems like you’d find it in an older home. That was my first thought when I opened the package. I think the overall design of the system needs to be modernized and use nicer materials. It has a key fob that you can use to disarm the system before you enter, and I'm sure you can purchase more for other members of your home.
Overall, it is a decent system for people who want something simple, like an older couple. For those looking for a more robust, modern system, there are better alternatives.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Installation
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Great Alarm that does not require professional ins
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I liked that I was able to give us the benefits of a home alarm without professional installation and contracts. The system is pretty complete however I wish it had about 3 more sensors and a glass break sensor. These are must haves to the system. It is nice you can add camera, smoke detector and flood detector for full home protection. I just wish they included more.
Cons: the instructions could use more guidance and the alarm base is quite.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Installation
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
True security system
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Setup is fairly easy whether using user manual or usb stick that goes in the base station. Setup took me about 15 minutes and everything was done! No drilling or gluing is needed as each piece comes with its adhesive strip that makes setup easy and clean. In order to have a better security service is to getting a dispatch link activated on base station by subscribing monthly for $14.99 which not a big deal as home is secured perfectly. This package has base station, wireless keypad, 2 motion detectors and 6 entry sensors for doors and windows. Loved it!!
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
The alarm system for the rest of us or...
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This alarm system is simple but the pieces you get in the box are not complete. I jumped into really my only gripe. The instructions tell you how to install it and includes numerous items that are not part of the main system. It really appears that they have thought of everything else in this kit. It really does work when the power goes out and all included sensors worked well. I have not looked into the missing or extra items you would want but I can image they are not cheap. The service is cheaper than most but there is a component of trust both ways without buying the extra items. There is no active alarm in the box and I would consider this a basic have to item. I guess the push is to make sure you get their service and see what they can get you to add. The feel is a little cheap but not cheap in that it seems like the pieces will last a long time. I would sum it up as the most complete incomplete system on the market.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Not bad for a DIY
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This system is not bad for a DIY. I decided to stop paying for a home monitoring system. After a year of indecision and research, I chose SimpliSafe and have been very satisfied. It's a simple system to configure and setup and gives me a sense of security after ending a contract with another company. The price is great and the system is awesome. I've added more sensors and will add cameras. I highly recommend SimpliSafe.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Easy Set up
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
It took me a little while to get to setting up this system but I can say it was very easy and straight forward. For less than I was paying per month for my wired system (with no option for expansion) I have the basic package. In the future, I will get some of the accessories like a couple cams. As for pets my 51 pound dog has not set it off accidently which makes me very happy knowing that there wont be false alarms.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Installation
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
A Comprehensive Security System!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This is a great home security system! I especially like and appreciate all the resources this company included to make one’s home feel safe when in the home as well as away from home. The setup of the equipment was a seamless experience that was easy to install. I recommend this product if you’re looking for added security to your home with all the bells and whistles at affordable pricing!
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Gets the job done
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
First things first, this system is extremely easy to set up. I was able to install this with just a simple power screw driver in a little over an hour. Once installed all components were already loaded into the system so that’s a plus. The part that I don’t like is in order to use the app you must sign up for monitoring service. I would have liked to be able to log into the app without signing up for anything to use the app and system without needing a credit card. Well with that said the SimpliSafe alarm system will get the job done. Easy to read instructions and simple installation makes this system worth installing.
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Doesn't get any easier than this!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
What a great and easy product so far. Set up is so simplified that I couldn't believe it. You hear and see the commercials but untill you set it up you have no idea. The hardest part was removing everything from the packaging. The only negative comment I have is that I wish all the products were smaller. The keypad seems oversized as well as the key fob and window/door sensors. Other than that I am super happy. I ordered a few extra window sensors with extra magnets so I can keep the windows open on cool evening's, I also ordered a siren to mount in the living room behind the home theater.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Installation
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great Security System
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This system comes with so many useful sensors and it can be expanded to include a camera to make it even better. Setup was straight forward.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Ease of use
Rated 2 out of 5 stars
Just OK if you don't want to spend more money
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Don't get me wrong, everything works as advertised. Easy to install the sensors, just peel the tape and stick them on. Easy to configure the base station and keypad and then you realize that without shelling out at least $14.99 a month all you get is a loud alarm. There are no alerts to your phone unless you subscribe and very little you can do with IFTTT if that's what you're thinking. I will purchase their external 105dB alarm to at least annoy the neighbors to come see what's going on but I really don't want to spend $180 a year when I already have cameras around my house. The least they could do would be free text alerts/email if the alarm goes off.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Very Easy To Set Up
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
This alarm system is great home protection that's easy to install and use. The SimpliSafe app is a great companion to the system as well.
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 1 out of 5 stars
SimpliSux: Doesn't Work on A Mac?!
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Spent ALL day setting the system up. The sensors went up easily and the directions were clear.
However, when I tried to use the setup wizard, everything went wrong. The included app would not run properly on my Mac. Lots of spinning while saving and then, nothing but more spinning.
Tech support is a joke. The people I spoke with told me their software was not compatible with Macintosh, but was compatible with "Mac." Really?
Then we went through an hours-long work around to try to get the software working. All for nothing, as their tech workaround also did not work.
Finally, the tech had me pull the unit apart and pull out batteries and the wire plugs out of the mother board, then put the whole thing back together. Viola, still not working.
Finally, the tech offered to send me a pre-programmed keychain remote that would make the changes to the system that I should have been able to make in about 30 seconds, IF SimpliSafe's software actually worked on a "Mac."
Great concept, lousy execution. For Mac users, SimpliSafe SimpliSux.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Rated 1 out of 5 stars
Terrible System
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I have had several breakins at my home and each time the SimpliSafe system was ON and yet the police were NOT notified and the system did NOT go off. And, when I called SimpliSafe to find out what happened, I was told the system had definitely been on. Come to find out, if someone has a cell phone jammer (not legal to own, but easily purchased online), it will render the system inoperable. So the SimpliSafe system has no technology built into it that will recognize when it is being jammed. In essence, you have nothing more than a wall ornament with SimpliSafe. BUYER BEWARE - FIND ANOTHER SYSTEM MORE REPUTABLE.