Alarm Systems · Head to head

Arlo Home Security System SS1201 vs SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit

Full Smart Alarm Systems comparison in 2026

Updated October 2026
Data from the official Arlo and SimpliSafe sites.
2026 verdict
SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit wins the 2026 matchup against Arlo Home Security System SS1201, mainly on rating, connectivity, and sound level.
The main reason it wins is rating, connectivity, and sound level, and its broader overall balance strengthens that case. There is still a case for Arlo Home Security System SS1201, but mainly if price is what you value most. That is why the final call still favors SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit.
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FeatureArlo Home Security System SS1201SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece KitWinner
Price$149.99$172.99Arlo Home Security System SS1201
Rating3.44.4SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit
Connectivity2.4 GHz WiFi, Other2.4 GHz WiFi, Bluetooth, OtherSimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit
Sound Level90 dB100 dBSimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit
Backup BatteryNO24 hoursDifferent strengths
Warranty1 year1 yearTie
IntegrationsGoogle Home, Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, Home AssistantGoogle Home, Alexa, Home AssistantTie
MonitoringApp Without a Plan, Alerts Without a Plan, Professional Monitoring, Cellular Backup, Smoke/CO ListenerApp Without a Plan, Alerts Without a Plan, Professional Monitoring, Cellular Backup, Smoke/CO ListenerTie
KitKeypadKeypadTie

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better overall: Arlo Home Security System SS1201 or SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit?

SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit has the stronger overall profile in this comparison, especially for rating, connectivity, and sound level.

What is the biggest difference between Arlo Home Security System SS1201 and SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit?

Price is one of the clearest differences: Arlo Home Security System SS1201 lists $149.99, while SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit lists $172.99.

Which one looks better on price?

Arlo Home Security System SS1201 is listed at $149.99, while SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit is listed at $172.99. Arlo Home Security System SS1201 (better spec).

Who should buy Arlo Home Security System SS1201?

Choose Arlo Home Security System SS1201 if your priority is price and that matters more than rating.

Who should buy SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit?

Choose SimpliSafe (Gen 3) 5-Piece Kit if your priority is rating and connectivity and that matters more than price.

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