When it comes to protecting your home and family, having a reliable home security system is a must. Two popular options on the market are Lorex and SimpliSafe.
But which one is better for your needs? Let’s take an in-depth look at the key features, pros, cons and differences between Lorex and SimpliSafe.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Lorex | SimpliSafe |
| Installation | DIY or professional installation options | Wireless DIY installation only |
| Camera Quality | 1080p or 4K HD wired cameras | 1080p HD wireless cameras |
| Field of View | 140-180° ultra wide-angle lens | More limited ~115° FOV |
| Night Vision | Excellent night vision up to 200 ft | Standard night vision ~30 ft |
| Local Storage | Continuous recording to DVR/NVR | Cloud storage limits |
| Smart Home | Works with Alexa and Google Assistant | Integrates with Alexa, Google, Apple Watch |
| Monitoring | Self-monitoring or paid plans | Self or no-contract monitoring |
| Contracts | No long-term contracts | No required contracts |
| Expansion | Add-on cameras and components available | Easily add components anytime |
| Cost | DIY systems from $399 | Starter kits from $229 |
Overview Of Lorex Home Security
Lorex is a well-known brand of home security cameras and systems owned by Dahua, a leader in video surveillance technology. Lorex offers both wired and wireless security systems equipped with HD cameras, smart motion detection, night vision, wide viewing angles, remote access and more.
Some of the key features of Lorex home security include:
- HD Video Quality – Lorex systems capture video in 1080p or 4K resolution for crisp, detailed footage day and night. This helps identify faces, license plates and other important details.
- Smart Motion-Activated Alerts – Detect human motion, vehicles, animals and other activity and get alerts on your phone with images and video clips. Reduce false alarms with customizable motion zones.
- Night Vision – Infrared night vision provides visibility up to 100 feet or more in total darkness.
- Wide Angle Lens – Camera lenses as wide as 180° provide an expanded field of view with fewer blindspots.
- Smart Home Integration – Connect with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free voice control. View security cameras on smart displays.
- Remote Access – View live video from any of your security cameras using Lorex’s apps for your smartphone, tablet or computer. Works anywhere with internet access.
- Weatherproof Cameras – Wired and wireless outdoor cameras withstand the elements to monitor outdoor areas in any weather.
- Long-Term Local Storage – Record continuous footage locally with Lorex security DVRs and NVRs. Play back recorded video easily. No monthly fees.
Lorex offers both DIY kits for self-installation and professional installation services. Their systems can be customized with different camera types and features based on your budget and needs.
Also Read: Comparison Between Clevguard And mSpy
Overview Of Simplisafe Home Security
SimpliSafe is another top provider of home security systems known for its easy DIY installation and flexibility. Their systems work over WiFi with HD wireless cameras, motion sensors, entry sensors, smoke/CO detectors and more.
Here are some of the key advantages of SimpliSafe:
- No Contracts – There are no long-term contracts. Monthly monitoring plans are optional and can be canceled anytime.
- Wireless DIY Installation – All SimpliSafe equipment is wireless and easy for homeowners to set up themselves within minutes. No cables or wiring needed.
- Customizable Systems – Build your own system by selecting the sensors, cameras, alarms and other devices you want from their wide range of options.
- Smart Home Integration – Connect SimpliSafe with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Watch. Use voice commands to arm, disarm or check cameras.
- HD Video – Streaming over WiFi, SimpliSafe’s indoor/outdoor wireless security cameras capture crisp 1080p HD video with a 115° viewing angle and 12x digital zoom.
- Activity Alerts – Get instant alerts and live streaming video whenever motion is detected. Customize motion sensitivity.
- Remote Access – Monitor your home and cameras from anywhere in the world using SimpliSafe’s mobile app.
- Smoke/CO Detection – Wireless sensors alert you to smoke, fire or dangerous levels of carbon monoxide 24/7.
- 24/7 Professional Monitoring – Optional monitoring plans include fast 30-second response times from emergency personnel if needed.
SimpliSafe doesn’t require a long-term contract for monitoring services. You can opt for self-monitoring or flexible no-contract monitoring plans starting at just $15 per month.
Also watch the review video of Simplisafe!
Comparison Between Lorex And Simplisafe
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Lorex and SimpliSafe, let’s directly compare the pros and cons and key differences between these two home security providers:
Installation
- Lorex – Offers both DIY and professional installation options. Most systems need wiring for cameras and a DVR/NVR. Handy homeowners can self-install Lorex’s wireless systems.
- SimpliSafe – Specifically designed for fast, wireless DIY installation with adhesive mounts, no wiring and easy step-by-step instructions. No professional installation offered.
Video Quality
- Lorex – HD cameras capture crisp 1080p or 4K ultra HD video quality with a wide 140-180° field of view.
- SimpliSafe – Streams 1080p HD video over WiFi from wireless cameras. Quality depends on your internet speeds. More limited viewing angles.
Night Vision
- Lorex – Infrared night vision is very good, ranging from 100 to over 200 ft based on the camera model.
- SimpliSafe – Wireless cameras have standard night vision reaching out to about 30 feet.
Storage & Monitoring
- Lorex – Records continuous 24/7 video footage locally to a DVR/NVR with capacity for 14-60 days of storage. Play back video on demand.
- SimpliSafe – Cloud storage with limits unless you pay monthly fees. Self-monitoring with alerts or pay-as-you-go monitoring.
Smart Home Integration
- Lorex – Integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
- SimpliSafe – Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Watch. Wider range of smart home partners.
Expansion Options
- Lorex – Add extra cameras as needed. Available components depend on initial system purchased.
- SimpliSafe – Easily add any sensors, cameras or other devices at any time to customize your system. No compatibility issues.
Cost Comparison
- Lorex – DIY systems start around $399. Professional installation adds about $99+. No required monthly fees but video storage is limited.
- SimpliSafe – Starts at $229 for a basic starter kit. Scales up according to components added. Optional monitoring plans from $15/month.
Both Lorex and SimpliSafe offer affordable equipment to get started. SimpliSafe requires more monthly fees for full access to features like unlimited video storage and professional monitoring. Lorex relies more on upfront equipment purchases.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Some top alternatives that compete with SimpliSafe include:
Lorex – Offers superior wired systems with excellent HD video and night vision. Local storage and no required monthly fees.
Ring Alarm – Very easy to install DIY system from Amazon’s Ring brand with flexible components and plans.
Nest Secure – User-friendly wireless system from Google with smart integration. Requires more monthly fees.
Cove – Affordable, flexible DIY security with free video storage and no contracts.
Abode – Customizable wireless systems with home automation functionality.
Vivint – Professionally installed systems with 24/7 monitoring and smart home tech. Expensive.
According to consumer reviews and ratings, the top home security companies are:
Vivint Smart Home – Professionally installed systems with 24/7 monitoring and smart home integration. High customer satisfaction but expensive.
ADT – Longtime leader in security with professional installation and local monitoring centers. Reliable protection but rigid contracts.
Frontpoint – Affordable DIY systems with straightforward pricing and highly rated customer service.
SimpliSafe – Flexible no-contract, wireless systems that are quick and easy for homeowners to install.
Ring Alarm – Popular wireless systems from Amazon’s Ring, known for ease of use, customization and affordability.
Yes, Lorex is one of the better quality and more reliable home security camera brands, especially if you want a fully wired system. Benefits of Lorex include:
Top-rated video and image quality with 1080p and 4K cameras, night vision, wide viewing angles
Rugged weatherproof cameras built to withstand outdoor conditions
Local storage on DVR/NVR with no recurring subscription fees required
Integrations with Alexa and Google Home for voice control
Reputable company with good warranties and customer service
The biggest downside is Lorex systems require wiring for installation. Overall, Lorex is a good option for DIY homeowners wanting robust wired security camera systems.
n 2019, Best Buy removed all Lorex security cameras and systems from their stores and online shop. This decision was part of Best Buy’s strategy to shift focus to providing their own exclusive brands of electronics and smart home technology products.
Lorex had been one of Best Buy’s most popular security camera brands for years. But with Lorex owned by Dahua, a Chinese company, Best Buy opted to go with other brands they had more control over and could customize, such as Arlo and Ring.
However, many customers were upset by Best Buy discontinuing Lorex, known for being a reliable value brand. Lorex products are still available from retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, Costco, Sam’s Club and directly from Lorex.
Also Read: Comparison Between Neebo And Owlet Baby Monitor.
The Verdict
For most homeowners wanting an easy-to-install wireless security system, SimpliSafe is the better overall option. The flexibility to build your own custom system affordably and no required contracts gives SimpliSafe an advantage.
Lorex is better suited for do-it-yourselfers who want wired cameras, localized storage, high video quality, and expansive night vision. Lorex provides wider video storage and coverage without the need for monthly fees. But installation is more complex.
It depends whether you prefer the convenience of wireless systems or the performance of wired systems. Both Lorex and SimpliSafe provide great home security with remote access. Your choice comes down to your technical needs and budget.