Does SimpliSafe work in Canada? (What are the Alternatives?)

SimpliSafe systems offer modern smart home security solutions, easily customizable to fit your needs. With this in mind, I wanted to learn if SimpliSafe systems would also work in other countries, like Canada.

Does SimpliSafe work in Canada? The SimpliSafe system does not currently support security monitoring in Canada. Fortunately, there are several comparable alternatives if you’re still looking for smart home security in other countries.

If you’re set on specifically using SimpliSafe systems for your smart home security, you may be out of luck, but there are still many viable alternatives. I also wanted to research what types of compatibility issues you may experience if you do decide to use your system outside of the US.

SimpliSafe; A Quick Look

Before we discuss the requirements for using the SimpliSafe system outside of the US, here’s a brief look at what the SimpliSafe system has to offer:

SimpliSafe Security System

• 24/7 Live Alarm Monitoring
• Backup Cellular Connection
  • In the event of a power outage or loss of WiFi connection.
• Remotely Arm and Disarm System from Mobile Device
• Unlimited Recording (With Paid Interactive Plan)
• No Monthly Contracts

With these features in mind, it’s apparent why people would want international access to this system. I also discovered that SimpliSafe’s monitoring service isn’t exclusive to the US.

Where Does SimpliSafe Work for Monitoring Services?

Now that we know SimpliSafe doesn’t currently offer active monitoring in Canada, where are their services available?

SimpliSafe currently offers professional monitoring in the United Kingdom in addition to the United States.

Additionally, residents in the UK can build their custom SimpliSafe systems at the SimpliSafe UK website. The ability to use the monitoring services associated with SimpliSafe systems is exclusive to the United States and the United Kingdom, but what kind of functionality can you get from the devices if you live in Canada?

Can I Still Use the SimpliSafe System if I live in Canada?

If you already live in Canada or are planning to move there with your existing SimpliSafe system, the good news is; you’re not out of luck (though you will only be able to access basic functions). Let’s take a look at some of the features still available:

Features Available without Monitoring Services

The SimpliSafe systems will still function as a basic home security system, even if you don’t have access to the additional Monitoring Services. However, you will not be able to receive notifications if your alarm has been remotely triggered, as it will only function as a “local alarm.”

According to SimpliSafe’s Customer Support:

Even without monitoring, the system can function as a local alarm. If you’re worried about being able to customize settings on your system, the All-New SimpliSafe allows you to do this via the Keypad without monitoring.

Same Power Source

For those of you who aren’t aware, Canada uses the same electrical supplies and electric outlets (120 Volts and 60Hz) as those found in the United States. So your existing US model can be set up without running into any power issues.

If you’re looking to use a non-US/UK SimpliSafe model, however, you’ll need a power adapter for local monitoring. With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the alternatives if you want access to a fully monitored home security system and live in Canada.

What are the Alternatives?

If you still want to add to your smart home security but live in Canada, many excellent alternatives offer comparable monitoring services. Let’s take a look at some of the systems available in Canada:

ADT

ADT is perhaps one of the most well known and established security systems currently available, with over “145 Years of Experience” (according to adt.com). Additionally, ADT support is available in many other countries as well, not just the US and Canada.

Key Features

• 6 Month Money-Back Guarantee
• Affordable High-End Security
• Multiple Security Centers Monitoring 24/7
• Customizable Alerts

Front Point

Front Point is a highly rated home security system available in Canada loaded with many comparable features to SimpliSafe. Here’s a look at some of the key features Front Point has to offer:

Key Features

• Professional Monitoring (with Standard or Interactive plan)
• Easy Setup (No Complicated Wiring)
• Smart Home Integration (Google Home and Alexa)
• Customizable Smart Phone Notifications
• No Long-term Contracts

Vivint

The Vivint system offers 24/7 monitoring and smart home notifications sent to your devices, even if you’re not home. Additionally, the Vivint system can seamlessly integrate with your existing smart home technology, offering voice control with Google Home and Amazon Alexa.

Key Features

• Optional Professional Installation Available
• Arm System Remotely from Mobile Device
• “Green” Friendly
  • Vivint system can be adjusted and configured to help conserve energy.
• Remote Access to Vivint Video Doorbell from Anywhere
• All-in-one App Can be Used to Control your Entire System

Ring Alarm

With the support of Amazon, it’s no surprise that the Ring Alarm system is also available in Canada. This reputable system can provide your home with advanced smart home security with a familiar interface. Here are some of the key features the Ring system offers:

Key Features

• Customizable Alarm Kits or Buy Pre-made Bundles
• Integrated with Alexa Smart Home Ecosystem
• Easy DIY Installation
• Affordable Monitoring Services
• Smart Lighting Kits Available

Bell Smart Home System

Perhaps a lesser-known brand in the home security game, Bell systems offer competitive features at reasonable prices. Bell also provides the ability to communicate with Bell agents directly from your smart device. Additionally, you can opt to bundle Bell security services with your existing Bell plans (TV, Internet, Phone Plan) for a discounted rate.

Key Features

• Discounted Services if Bundled with Existing Bell Plans
• Manage the Entire System with Smart Home Voice Control
• Create “Scenes” to Integrate Multiple Devices Simultaneously

Now that we’ve seen some of the key features for these comparable, Canada-friendly systems,  I’ve included a quick side by side comparison, to get a better idea of how the systems stack up:

Feature(s)	ADT	Front Point	Vivint	Ring Alarm	Bell
24/7 Monitoring Services	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Smash-Proof Technology	n/a	✔	n/a	n/a	n/a
Smart Home Integration	Alexa/Google Home	Alexa/Google Home	Alexa/Google Home	Alexa/Google Home	Alexa/Google Home
Intrusion and Environmental Sensors	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Mobile Notifications	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔

Fortunately, if you’re looking to beef up your smart home security and you live in Canada, there are plenty of comparable options available.

Summary

People all around the world are looking for ways to improve their home security. Regardless of where you live, there are many comparable smart home security systems available to you. Though the SimpliSafe system does not currently offer monitoring services if you live in Canada, you still have viable options to get started with smarter home security.