Citywide Alarms vs. SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is built for people who want to install security themselves. Citywide designs, installs, and services the whole system for you. Here is how they compare.

The Answers Before You Buy

Citywide Alarms and SimpliSafe, Side by Side

Citywide Alarms and SimpliSafe, Side by Side

Feature Citywide Alarms SimpliSafe
InstallationCitywide technicians design and install every systemDIY; professional install through a third-party service
MountingProfessionally mounted; hardwired cameras availableWireless sensors mounted with adhesive strips
SupportThe local team that installed it, from offices in Clayton and St. CharlesApp support and an online knowledge base
CompanyFamily-owned, St. Louis-based since 2010National DIY security brand
ContractsNo contract required or financing available if qualifiedNo contract required
Keypad / panel7-inch touchscreen panelPhysical-button keypad
Equipment rangeDoor, window, motion, glass break, smoke, CO, and flood sensors, plus remote garage controlCore sensors; some types missing, such as garage door sensors
24/7 professional monitoringYesOptional; self-monitoring available
Live agents respond through camerasAgents view cameras and will dispatch authorities if neededYes, with a camera monitoring plan; agents can access the live feed and use the two-way speaker
Cellular connectionNo landline or internet requiredCellular backup included
Camera lineupWireless, IP, and hardwired PoE cameras, plus full NVR systemsIndoor camera, outdoor camera, and a video doorbell
ResolutionHD to 4KIndoor camera records at 1536p
RecordingOn-site and/or cloud recording; weeks of footageCloud storage, included with select plans
Video doorbellYes, KSDK's top video doorbell provider in St. LouisYes (wired)
Home automationSmart locks, lights, thermostat, and garage control, with remote armingLimited
Business securityCommercial security, access control, and commercial fire systemsBusiness plans available; smoke and CO detectors are designed for residential use

SimpliSafe information based on SafeHome.org's SimpliSafe and ADT reviews, SafeWise's SimpliSafe equipment guide, and SimpliSafe's business security support page, as of October 2026.

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Key Differences Between Citywide & SimpliSafe

Installed by Professionals, Not Peel-and-Stick


A DIY system leaves sensor placement, mounting, and pairing to the homeowner. SafeHome’s testers ran into this when a SimpliSafe motion sensor fell off the wall after the adhesive strip was pressed for 15 seconds instead of the recommended 30. They switched to the included bracket. Citywide makes those decisions for you. A technician walks through the home, places each sensor and camera for coverage, and mounts it properly. Learn more about our home alarm systems.

A Complete System, Not a Starter Kit


SimpliSafe covers the core sensors, but some equipment types, such as garage door sensors, are missing. Citywide builds the system around the property. That can mean hardwired PoE cameras feeding an NVR for continuous recording, wireless cameras where they make more sense, and resolution up to 4K. Person, vehicle, and animal alerts, tripwire, and custom zones keep the notifications relevant. Learn more about our security camera systems.

Smart Home That Goes Beyond Security


SafeHome describes SimpliSafe’s smart home and automation capabilities as limited. Citywide treats the security system as part of the whole house. Along with remote arming, a Citywide system can include smart locks that disarm in one step for guests and accept time-limited codes, remote garage control, thermostat scheduling, and Z-Wave lighting. Location-based automation adds another layer. Explore our smart home options.

Local Service When Something Needs Attention


SimpliSafe supports its customers through the app and an online knowledge base, which fits a system the homeowner installs and maintains. With Citywide, the team that installed your system also services it, from offices in Clayton and St. Charles. When a sensor needs attention or a camera needs adjusting, you are working with people who already know how the system was designed and where everything is. Citywide has been family-owned since 2010, with an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.8-star average from customers.

Switching from SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe does not require a contract, so there is nothing to wait out before you switch. SafeWise notes that SimpliSafe uses proprietary add-ons that work with only a fraction of third-party devices, so ask any company what it can reuse before you count on keeping the old equipment. When you are ready, a Citywide technician walks through your home, then designs and installs a complete home security system around it: sensors, cameras, a touchscreen panel, and smart home controls, all handled by one local team.

What Others Think Of Our Service

Proudly Serving Construction Sites All Over The St. Louis Metro

Citywide Alarms provides trusted security solutions throughout St. Louis and surrounding communities. Whether you’re a home or a business, we’re ready to help you protect what matters most.
  • St. Louis
    7733 Forsyth Blvd. Suite 1100
    Saint Louis, MO 63105
  • St. Charles
    965 Sycamore Dr.
    St. Charles, MO 63304

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