The SimpliSafe SimpliCam is an easy to use accompaniment for anyone that already has a SimpliSafe alarm system installed. The camera adheres nicely to the SimpliSafe principle of providing easy to install and reliable security components.
Like the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro, this camera is an excellent accompaniment for those that already subscribe to the SimpliSafe security system as the monthly fee will include free cloud storage.
Software
You can access the SimpliSafe SimpliCam with an Apple iOS or Android smartphone. Additionally, SimpliSafe provides full functionality from the browser for all their cameras.
SimpliSafe has a cloud storage plan for a fee or free for those already subscribed to an alarm monitoring plan. The plan provides 30-days worth of video storage.
For those with a SimpliSafe security system, a feature known as video verification can be opted into. This permits the SimpliSafe monitoring center to access video corresponding to an alarm event. The video can be forwarded to law enforcement.
This camera is insanely easy to setup, just like all of their components. Set this up off your phone. You will use the same app that is used to control the alarm system. Tell the app that a camera is being added, enter the WiFi password, have the camera scan a UPC code generated on your phone and you’re ready to go.
The simplicity of the SimpliSafe SimpliCam can be found in the software features too. There are pros and cons to this. Simplicity results in less features. While all the major features are present, the customization omissions can be noticed, especially when compared to alternative camera manufacturers.
There is a motion sensitivity setting. A medium setting seems to work well. Unlike the SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro, there are no separate settings for day and night provided. Motion detection zones are lacking which is an important omission as we have found these to be an excellent method for circumventing false motion alerts from things like pets or blowing leaves.
Hardware
The SimpliSafe SimpliCam is a larger and relatively heavy home security camera. The unit checks in at 4.56 in. x 2.55 in. x 2.08 inches and weighs about 6 ounces.
Most of the weight is due to the included metal stand. The heavier stand adds to the stability. You can tilt the camera up and down, but it does not swivel from side to side.
This is a wired camera that comes with a 25 foot micro USB cable and A/C wall adapter. That’s much longer than most other cameras. The cable inserts into the back of the camera and you might want to snake the cable through the back of the stand for stability and aesthetics..
This is a 720p camera with an option to step it down if bandwidth challenged.
The SimpliSafe SimpliCam has a built-in speaker and microphone that will allow 2-way conversation with the person at the door. The quality of the speaker is adequate.
A status light is present on the top front of the camera. It can be turned off from the app. Useful if wanting to keep the camera in stealth mode or using it to see through a window.
There isn’t any on-board storage so no micro SD card here. You will need to rely on the cloud if there’s a need to go back and review prior activity.
The daytime image quality is good. The night image quality is just ok and seemed to be effective for roughly ten feet.
This camera provides a 120 degree wide angle lens which should cover most of a room if placed in a corner.
Connectivity
The SimpliSafe SimpliCam connects via 802.11n at 2.4 GHz frequency so be sure your home router is not a 5 GHz only model. While 5 GHz is faster, the 2.4 frequency carries further.
Mounts
The metal stand inserts into a slot on the back of the camera. As already stated, it’s weighted so fairly stable. There is no industry standard 1/4″ – 20 threaded tripod screw hole, so third party mounts are going to be difficult to find.
Fun and Different
A metal privacy shutter is built into the camera. It can be tied into the security system alarm settings. The default settings are closed when the alarm is turned off or armed in Home Mode. The security shutter is defaulted to open when armed away. These settings can be customized in the SimpliSafe app. That’s different.
Summary
The SimpliSafe SimpliCam is best for those that already have a SimpliSafe home security product. There are some clear advantages where it integrates into the alarm system to show the view at system arming, privacy mode integrations and the use of video integration.
For those without a SimpliSafe security system, there are lower priced and equally capable options with free cloud storage and 1080p capability that can be considered.
Quick Specs:
| Video Quality | Field of View | Cloud Support | SD Support | Night Vision | Mobile/Web App | Alerts | Outdoor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 720p | 120 Degrees | Yes | No | Yes | Yes/Yes | Yes | No |
Manufacturer Link: SimpliSafe