Alert1 Review and Pricing in 2025
Alert1 offers various simple at-home and mobile medical alert systems at decent prices, starting at $28.95 per month.
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Alert1 offers a diverse lineup of medical alert systems to help people age in place while maintaining control and quality of life. The company is also committed to inclusivity, offering veteran, AAA, AARP and refer-a-friend discounts, language support for nearly 200 languages, and nonverbal protocol for people with hearing loss. With prices starting at $28.95 per month, Alert1 falls in the middle of the price range for the medical alert industry.
The company has many options for at-home and on-the-go protection. For this review, I’ll be taking a closer look at the On-the-Go + Home Fall Detection system, which I spent over 50 hours testing. Read on to learn more about my experience with Alert1 and how the brand compares to the best medical alert systems. I’ll discuss packages, pricing, setting up the systems and more!
The company has many options for at-home and on-the-go protection. For this review, I’ll be taking a closer look at the On-the-Go + Home Fall Detection. Read on to learn more about my experience with Alert1. I’ll discuss packages, pricing, setting up the systems, and more!
Pros About Alert1
- Simple payment plans: Alert1 offers two straightforward payment plans: pay monthly or prepay for a year.
- Language support: Alert1 offers assistance in 190 languages and nonverbal protocol for those with hearing loss. An Alert1 operator will have an interpreter ready whenever you call.
- Website experience: I was happy to see that Alert1 has an easy-to-navigate website with clear pricing information and a thorough FAQ page.
- Cancel anytime: With Alert1, you aren’t tied to a contract. If you decide to cancel in the middle of a multimonth service plan, Alert1 offers a prorated refund. Alternatively, you can donate your remaining months to a low-income individual or veteran.
- No hidden fees: I didn’t see any hidden fees when I tested Alert1. Prorated refunds are also available anytime.
Cons About Alert1
- Smaller range:The range of Alert1’s in-home system is smaller than other companies we’ve reviewed, such as MobileHelp. The In-the-Home system (with or without fall detection) has a 600-foot range.
- No lifetime warranty: The company does not offer a lifetime warranty. They will replace the On-the-Go button or In-the-Home unit free of charge if the system malfunctions. For additional coverage, I would recommend adding the Advantage Plan, which covers accidental damage or loss.
- Myriad options: With five systems and lots of add-ons and accessories to choose from, making a selection could be overwhelming. Fortunately, Alert1’s customer service team can guide you in the right direction.
- Fall detection: To get fall detection as an add-on, you have to pay $10 extra per month.
Alert1 vs. Other Medical Alert Systems
Alert1 provides a wide range of high-quality medical alert systems. As an added bonus, Alert1 makes it easy to set up a payment plan or cancel your service and get a prorated refund if you’re unhappy with the service. Alert1 medical alert systems don’t have a very big in-home coverage range compared to many competitors, however, and without a lifetime warranty you could be on the hook to replace products out of pocket. If you want to compare Alert1 to other providers, take a look at our picks for the best medical alert systems below.
Overview of Alert1 Systems
By 2030 there will be about 71.2 million Americans ages 65 or over and only about 69.1 million Americans under age 18. That means the demand for products designed for aging adults will be even greater.1 Let’s look at my experience interacting with Alert1 and trying their systems. Then we’ll dive into product details and a cost breakdown of Alert1 systems.
The Buying Experience
Whenever I’m scoping out a company, the first place I look is its website. Alert1 earned big points with me for its transparent and informative website. Still, I wanted to learn more. I called their customer service line.
After a short wait, a friendly woman named Alicia answered my call. She advised me that their bestselling product is the In-the-Home + Fall Detection system. Alicia let me know it would be more cost-efficient to bundle it with the On-the-Go system if I wanted to try both systems. She looped me in on their referral program, an easy way for customers to earn a free month of service for themselves and their friends.
Buyer’s Tip: Save $9 per month by choosing the annual plan instead of the one-month plan.
I would recommend calling Alert1 to see if there are any current promotions not advertised online. When I purchased my system, Alicia let me know that the one-time $19.95 activation fee would be waived with an annual plan. That isn’t the most expensive activation fee I’ve ever seen (Life Alert's fee is nearly $200), but every bit of savings counts! Deals change throughout the year, so make sure to call and check before purchasing.
Setting Up My System
In-the-Home + Fall Detection Setup
I started by setting up my In-the-Home + Fall Detection system. First, I plugged the power cord of the base unit into an electrical outlet. The unit beeped, and the green power light turned on. Then, I plugged the phone cord into the back of the base unit and connected the other end to a phone outlet.
I tested the system by pressing the Emergency button on the unit. That illuminated the red Alarm Status light. When the operator answered the call, I let him know I was testing the system.
The last thing I needed to do was pair my fall-detection pendant to the base unit. That required a few extra steps:
- I held down the green Reset button on the base until I heard four beeps. Then, I released the button.
- I held down the button again until I heard three beeps.
- I held down the green Reset button and the button on my fall-detection pendant. I released both buttons when I heard a beep from my base unit.
- I pressed the button on my pendant and let the operator know I was testing the system.
On-the-Go + Fall Detection Setup
Next, it was time to set up my On-the-Go + Fall Detection pendant. I plugged the charging cord into a power outlet and plugged the other end into the unit’s charging port. The unit blinked red to indicate that it was charging. Once it was fully charged, the light blinked blue. I then connected the lanyard clasp to the unit and put it around my neck.
I pressed the black Help button to test the system until the status light turned blue. The light let me know the call was being made. After about 30 seconds, I was connected to an operator. Again, I let them know I was running a test.
Setup Advice: More of a visual learner? Alert1 provides installation videos for each system, which you can find on their website.2
Once my systems were up and running, I called Alert1 to set up my Circle of Care, aka my custom responders. Overall, the devices were straightforward to set up on my own. Alert1 is always ready to guide customers through installation over the phone if needed.
Contracts and Warranty
Alert1 offers a limited warranty covering battery replacements and product defects. The warranty doesn’t cover loss or damage from accidents, negligence or repairs performed by an unauthorized service.
The Advantage Plan can be added for an additional $8.33 per month. It protects customers from paying for a new system in case of non-defect-related damage or loss. In my eyes, spending less than 30 cents a day to help protect your system is worth it!
Alert1 Systems at a Glance
| System | Price for monthly plan | Price for annual plan | Equipment | Shipping | Activation fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-the-Home | $28.95 per month | $19.95 per month | Free | Free | $19.95 |
| In-the-Home + Fall Detection | $38.95 per month | $29.95 per month | Free | Free | $19.95 |
| On-the-Go with GPS | $38.95 per month | $29.95 per month | Free | Free | $19.95 |
| On-the-Go Wristband | $38.95 per month | $29.95 per month | Free | Free | $19.95 |
| On-the-Go + In-the-Home + Fall Detection | $58.95 per month | $49.95 per month | Free | Free | $19.95 |
Alert1 Systems and Product Details
In-the-Home
Alert1 In-Home system
Cost
The system costs $28.95 per month for the month-to-month plan. The annual plan costs $19.95 per month. For all plans, you’ll pay a $19.95 activation fee. Equipment and shipping are always free, regardless of the payment plan you choose.
Alert1’s monthly prices are a bit higher than some other budget-friendly providers. For comparison, Bay Alarm Medical’s prices start at $24.95 per month for their in-home system. You don’t have to sign up for a long-term service plan like you do with Alert1 to get these lower rates.
Equipment
The system comes with a landline base unit, so it’s great for those who don’t have reliable cellular coverage in their area. The base unit has a loud and sensitive two-way speaker, so you can hear it across the room. The system also comes with a showerproof help button, which can be worn as a necklace or wristband.
Did You Know? Alert1’s average response time is between 20 to 45 seconds. This is within the industry average of 15 to 45 seconds. Visit our list of the best medical alert systems to find out how this compares to other top systems.
During an emergency, simply press your wearable help button. You’ll be connected to an operator. You can talk to the operator through the base unit’s two-way speaker. The button works within a 600-foot range from the base unit. That range is below average compared to in-home systems from competing companies we’ve reviewed, such as One Call Alert (up to 1,400 feet).
Alert1’s In-the-Home system includes all of the essential features and an excellent range, but it’s a bit of an eyesore. If you’re looking for something that’s more sleek and less noticeable, check out our hands-on Aloe Care Health review. I found that the company’s in-home system blended right in with my kitchen counter!
Service and Monitoring
The In-the-Home system is Alert1’s most basic package, and it requires a landline connection. It’s an excellent choice for seniors who spend most of their time at home or who are on a tight budget. You get 24/7 monitoring, and you can add fall detection for an additional $10 per month.
In-the-Home + Fall Detection
Our editor-in-chief displays the Alert1 In-the-Home fall-detection device.
Cost
The system costs $29.95 per month if you pay for a year up-front, or you can choose a month-to-month plan and pay $38.95 per month. The month-to-month option is fairly pricey for the industry; I’d recommend going with the annual plan to get the most bang for your buck. You can also add GPS tracking to the system for an extra $10 per month.
Equipment
Alert 1 Home Fall Detection
This package was part of my bundle. It included:
- A base unit with a 600-foot range
- A showerproof fall-detection pendant
- A wristband help button
The fall-detection pendant has a lifespan of over two years, and you can request a free replacement when the battery dies. No worrying about dead batteries here!
Given that 3 million older adults are treated for a fall injury each year,3 I was glad to see that Alert1 has an at-home system with automatic fall detection. I recommend it for older adults who spend a lot of time at home and are concerned about falling.
Other than the added fall detection, this system works exactly like the In-the-Home package. I found that the speaker on the system’s base unit was powerful. When I tested my help button in the kitchen, I could hear the base station connecting in the living room. As long as you’re within the 600-foot range, you should have no problem calling for help.
Service and Monitoring
If the fall-detection pendant senses a fall, it automatically connects to the base unit and calls for help. You don’t have to press the help button to initiate the call. Alert1’s 24/7 U.S.-based monitoring center will dispatch the appropriate response to your home.
This at-home system runs on a landline or AT&T cellular connection. You can switch between them at any time. I appreciate the flexibility that comes with changing between a landline and cellular connection. Other providers we’ve reviewed, such as Medical Alert, make you choose between the two.
On-the-Go
Jeff Hoyt times how long it takes to receive a response using Alert1's On-the-Go device.
Cost
The system costs $29.95 per month with an annual payment plan, while the month-to-month plan costs $38.95 per month. You can also add fall detection for $10 per month.
Equipment
Alert1 On-the-Go device
The showerproof On-the-Go system may be the best option for older adults who live an active lifestyle. With a 30-day battery life and portable charging station, it’s designed to be worn around the neck wherever you go. You can also carry it with a belt attachment. As long as the device is charged and within cell coverage, you’ll have around-the-clock protection. Medical Guardian, a top provider we’ve reviewed, similarly offers various mobile units with batteries that last up to seven days.
Service and Monitoring
The On-the-Go system works anywhere with Verizon or AT&T cellular service. If you need help, just press the unit’s help button. It will connect you with a trained operator in Alert1’s Command Center who can locate you using 911 technology and dispatch emergency services if needed. It also has a built-in GPS, so responders can locate you even if you’re unable to speak during an emergency.
On-the-Go Wristband
Cost
At $38.95 per month, the system is competitively priced for mobile systems. If you pay for the system annually, you can save a decent amount. The annual plan breaks down to $29.95 per month. You can also add fall detection for an additional $10 per month.
Equipment
The On-the-Go Wristband system is a wrist-worn device for mobile protection. It’s small, simple and very lightweight, and it has a battery that lasts up to seven days. You can communicate with a monitoring center agent during an emergency through its two-way speaker. It’s a great choice if you want a streamlined, affordable system without extra features.
Alert1 used to offer another wrist-worn system that functioned like a smartwatch. Similar to watches from other brands, such as Bay Alarm Medical, it had features such as step tracking and goal setting. I was disappointed to see that the system was discontinued, but the On-the-Go Wristband system is a decent alternative.
Service and Monitoring
The On-the-Go Wristband can use either of Alert1’s cellular connections — AT&T and Verizon — so you have a pretty good chance of maintaining a strong cellular connection. Like Alert1’s other products, the wristband connects to a monitoring center that is open around the clock.
On-the-Go + At-Home Fall-Detection Bundle
Alert1 offers bundles for complete protection.
Cost
The bundle is Alert1’s most expensive package at $49.95 per month with the annual plan. The price rises to $58.95 per month for the month-to-month option. Although the system seems pricey, it’s a great deal since you’re getting two systems and fall detection. It would cost at least $20 more to purchase the systems separately.
Keep in mind that there are a few more affordable bundles on the market, including MobileHelp’s Home Duo Bundle, which costs $44.95 per month. You can visit our MobileHelp review to learn more.
Equipment
The bundle includes the In-the-Home + Fall Detection and the On-the-Go + Fall Detection systems. My package came with:
- An in-home base unit and fall-detection pendant
- An extra wristband
- A mobile fall-detection pendant
- A charger
All pendants are showerproof. I tested them while showering and found that they still worked with no problem. The On-the-Go device lasts up to five days on a single charge, while the at-home fall-detection pendant has a battery life of up to two years.
Service and Monitoring
The bundle combines the safety features of on-the-go and at-home fall detection. It is a match made in heaven for older adults who want the highest level of protection. It covers you in your home with a landline or AT&T connection. While on the go, you’ll be covered by Verizon or AT&T service. Both systems are backed by Alert1’s 24/7 monitoring services. Plus, the on-the-go device features GPS technology, which I’m a big fan of.
Add-on Features and Accessories
Alert1 offers a multitude of add-ons to supplement any system. I appreciate that the company provides options such as colorful silicone wristbands and beaded necklaces, but I found that the most important items are functional add-ons, such as the Advantage Plan and the medication reminder and organizer. Let’s take a closer look.
Add-on Services
Advantage Plan
The Advantage Plan ($8.33 per month) protects customers from paying for any damage to their devices. With the plan, you can get one free equipment replacement per contractual year due to unforeseen damage.
Spouse and Roommate Protection
For older adults living with a spouse or roommate, Alert1 offers steep discounts on their systems when you add a second user to your plan.
Add-0n Accessories
Medication Reminder and Organizer
Alert1 medication reminder and organizer
Some companies we've reviewed, including LifeFone, offer medication reminders. Alert1 has an accessory to help older adults keep their medications organized for a one-time fee of $149.95. Alert1’s tamper-proof medication reminder and organizer holds up to 28 doses. It allows you or your caregivers to program up to four medication reminders per day, a task that’s similar to setting a digital clock.
Fall Protection Package
Alert1’s Fall Protection Package costs $200 and is perfect for older adults at risk of falling who want an extra layer of protection. The package comes with two wall-mounted emergency buttons, two wireless motion-sensing night lights, 12 corner guards and adhesive tub grip strips.
Emergency Lockbox
Alert1 Lockbox
Many medical alert companies offer emergency lockboxes to avoid the cost of broken-in doors during an emergency. Alert1’s emergency lockbox is $39.95 and can be set up on the front door or any other secure item near the door. It can hold up to five keys, and you can change its four-digit PIN at any time.
Wall-Mounted Emergency Button
Alert1 Wall Button
Alert1’s wall-mounted emergency buttons are wireless. They are equipped with a battery that lasts for about nine years. The buttons are mounted to surfaces using Velcro adhesive strips, which means they can be placed anywhere! The buttons are also 100 percent showerproof, making them perfect for the bathroom, bedroom or stairs. Each button costs $39.95.
Monitored Smoke Detector
Alert1 smoke detector.
Nearly 60 percent of home fire deaths were in homes without smoke alarms.4 Alert1 offers a monitored smoke detector for just $10 per month. It serves the same purpose as a regular smoke detector, but Alert1 goes the extra mile by automatically connecting the customer with an operator. Other providers we’ve reviewed, such as Bay Alarm Medical, don’t offer smoke detectors, so it’s a unique add-on.
Additional Pendants and Wristbands
Alert1 offers additional pendants and wristbands, including:
- Fall-detection pendant ($29.95)
- Alarm bracelet ($19.95)
- Alert pendant ($19.95)
Keep in mind that the prices are for the devices only. They must be paired with an Alert1 medical alert system.
Silicon Alarm Button Wristbands
For Alert1’s home emergency buttons, the company offers fun silicone wristbands in gray, blue and purple for $9.95. These are not compatible with mobile or fall-detection pendants.
Alert1 vs. the Competition
Alert1 vs. Medical Guardian
When we tested Medical Guardian, it stood out for having very high-tech products and prices that start at $36.95. The company offers landline and cellular connections with in-home systems, smartwatches, wrist-worn systems and more. Fall detection costs an extra $10 a month. The in-home coverage range is up to 1,300 feet, and the average response time is 15 to 60 seconds.
Alert1 vs. Bay Alarm Medical
Bay Alarm Medical is our top pick, and it’s the best value thanks to its prices that start at $24.95 and variety of products. We reviewed Bay Alarm medical’s at-home and on-the-go options, and we found them more affordable than much of the competition. You can add fall detection for $10 a month. The device range is up to 1,000 feet, and they have an average response time of 10 to 20 seconds. Bay Alarm Medical also offers a mobile app for caregivers and families.
Alert1 vs. LifeFone
LifeFone offers several medical alert systems, including mobile units, at-home systems and a smartwatch. LifeFone’s prices are quite high, however, particularly if you pay monthly. We also learned after testing LifeFone that their coverage range is up to 1,300 feet. LifeFone systems have a lifetime warranty, which means all equipment is covered for normal wear and tear, including battery replacements.
The Bottom Line on Alert1
I was impressed with Alert1’s systems for in-home and on-the-go use. The lack of a lifetime warranty and the at-home systems’ limited base-to-button range are downsides, but the company’s lifesaving features and customizable packages made it worthwhile. Many customer testimonials commend the company’s fast response times and the peace of mind their Alert1 system offers every day.
Alert1 provides a level of care that some other companies don’t. They offer assistance in multiple languages, discounts for veterans and nonverbal protocol for people with hearing loss. When reviewing a medical alert system, I look not only at how the company will treat a customer during an emergency but also at how they treat their customers daily. Alert1 exceeded my expectations.
Watch our Alert1 video review below for a closer look at this provider.
Our Methodology
When we test medical alert systems, our team evaluates several key factors that customers should consider when selecting a system, including reliability, ease of use, customer-service quality, value, average response times and useful features.
We test every system ourselves to give our readers a hands-on look at the product. We use all of our research, testing and feedback from older adults to give each company a rating out of five. Below are some of the criteria we used when evaluating Alert1 products.
- Pricing and value: We tested Alert1 with pricing in mind for older adults living on a budget. Criteria evaluated included monthly fees, such as the cost of service plans; equipment costs; activation or cancellation fees; trial periods; and refunds.
- Features and functionality: We looked at the types of products, including landline, cellular and smartwatch systems. We examined whether there was two-way communication, GPS, fall detection, health monitoring and smart-home integration.
- Caregiver and family features: Some medical alerts provide extra features, such as a caregiver app to keep family and caregivers in the loop. We looked at whether there were caregiver alerts and customizable emergency contacts, as well as the ability for family and caregivers to see battery life, tracking and activity for their loved ones.
- Response times: We determined Alert1’s average response times by making 10 test calls to the monitoring center. We repeated the same process with their fall-detection pendant to determine the feature’s accuracy.
- Customer reviews and reputation: We evaluated Alert1 against its competitors, considering customer reviews and ratings, negative and positive experiences, Better Business Bureau ratings, and complaints such as poor service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alert1
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How much does Alert1 cost per month?
Alert1’s monthly costs vary depending on the system, payment plan and add-ons. Without add-ons, prices range between $28.95 and $58.95 per month.
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What is the return policy for Alert1?
Alert1 offers new customers a 30-day, risk-free trial. To qualify for a refund, the customer must place a successful test call to the Command Center and mail the device back in its original condition. If you want to return your device in the middle of your service plan, you can donate any remaining time to a low-income person or a veteran through the Alert1 Cares Program.
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Does Alert1 offer any payment discounts?
Yes, Alert1 offers discounts for veterans, AAA members, and AARP members. The company also offers a free month of service through its refer-a-friend program. Users who want to add a second unit or button to cover another household member also receive a discount.
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Is there a charge for pressing the emergency button?
All of Alert1’s systems come with unlimited button pushes, so you can feel comfortable pushing your button even for minor emergencies. You will not be charged for accidental pushes either.
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Who responds to emergency calls?
Once the emergency button is pressed on a device, the user is connected with an Alert1 operator in the Command Center. The operator will answer the call and access the customer’s information in just 20 to 45 seconds.
Consumer Affairs. (2024). Medical Alert Statistics 2025.
Alert1. (2021). Your Alert1 Medical Alert System: Setup.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Facts About Falls.
National Fire Protection Association. (2024). Smoke Alarms in U.S. Home Fires.