Bay Alarm Medical Alert System Cost and Pricing

The Fast Facts: Bay Alarm Medical’s Equipment and Pricing

A Closer Look at Bay Alarm Medical’s Systems and Value

The company’s starting prices are among the lowest for the top medical alert providers we've reviewed, especially for their on-the-go systems. The SOS Micro, SOS Smartwatch, and SOS All-in-One 2 systems each have a one-time device fee, but they’re not too expensive.

As far as extra fees, the good news is Bay Alarm Medical’s packages don’t include pricey activation fees like ADT’s systems and Lifeline’s packages do. The SOS Home is the least expensive system for those on a tight budget, starting at just $24.95 per month for the landline option. Let’s get into the key features, pricing, and value of each system.

All Bay Alarm Medical subscriptions give you free access to the Bay Alarm Medical App, which gives you access to your account, caregiver tracking, and other features. We found the app was easy to use and very effective in keeping a closer eye on your loved one. It helped us track our medical alert system, view an emergency call history, battery level, and build a safety plan with emergency contacts and home entry information.

SOS Home

Bay Alarm Medical’s In-Home Medical Alert system starts at $24.95 per month for the landline model. We recommend this system if you’re a homebody, on a tight budget, or living in an area with poor cell reception.

Bay Alarm Medical’s at-home system

If you don’t have a landline, you can opt for the 4G LTE cellular connection, which uses AT&T service, for $29.95 per month. Every package, regardless of connection, includes a personal waterproof help button, which you can wear as a wristband or necklace. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 36 million falls are reported each year with 3 million of those requiring treatment in an emergency department, so extra protection throughout the house is essential.

We found the system’s base unit a little bulky with the appearance of an old answering machine device, but it has a two-way audio feature and a range of 1,000 feet, which is much larger than other companies we’ve reviewed, like LifeStation. Whether you press your wearable help button or press down on the big red button on the base unit, the response team will get on the line to secure immediate assistance. When we tested the system, we were connected in about 15 seconds, which is great considering Bay Alarm Medical advertises the response time takes up to 45 seconds. The reception was clear and loud and the operator was friendly and patient. She identified who we were and confirmed our address. She did not hang up until all of our questions were answered.

Expert Insights

From Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech Expert

Unlike other popular companies, including Medical Guardian and ADT, you can’t add fall detection to Bay Alarm Medical’s landline system. This is pretty disappointing, especially for those who live in areas with spotty cellular coverage and need a landline system. If you have reliable cellular coverage, I’d recommend selecting the cellular SOS Home system for this reason.

The system also offers a backup battery for added reliability. In the event of a blackout or power outage, the system can continue to function for up to 32 hours, and the battery will automatically recharge itself as soon as power is restored. Overall, this system offers the essential features to keep you safe for an excellent price.

SOS All-In-One 2

If you’re looking for a system that works both at home and on the go, SOS All-In-One 2 is an excellent solution. At $34.95 per month with a $149 device fee, this hybrid system offers great value. While you’re out and about, you can put on the mobile unit equipped with a two-way speaker, GPS tracking, and a built-in help button. When you’re at home, you can set the mobile unit on its charger and put on one of the SOS All-In-One 2’s wearable help buttons as a bracelet or necklace. During an emergency, press the wearable button, and it will connect to the mobile unit and call for help. You can add auto fall detection to this system for an extra $10 per month.

Using Bay Alarm Medical's SOS All-in-One 2

To test it out, we pressed the help emergency button for three seconds and then the device announced that “an SOS alert has been activated.” The monitoring center will connect over the two way speaker— we were connected in 60 seconds, exactly as the instruction booklet mentioned. Per the instruction booklet, another way to call for help is to hold down the “side button up” (the ON button that looks like a phone symbol) for three seconds. Instructions recommend testing your device once a month.

SOS Smartwatch

Bay Alarm Medical is one of the few medical alert providers to offer a smartwatch system. This is excellent for active older adults who spend a lot of time out and about or tech-savvy seniors who prefer devices without the look and feel of a traditional monitoring system. The SOS Smartwatch has an easy-to-navigate touchscreen and just two buttons, one of which is an SOS button. Users can track their steps, set daily goals, and check the weather, and call for help with the swipe of a finger. You can also choose from a few different watch faces, including one that looks like a cat!

Changing the SOS Smartwatch's face

The SOS Smartwatch is a solid choice for more discreet protection, with less “old-fashioned-” looking equipment. It has an upfront $199 equipment fee, but after that, you’ll pay $39.95 per month, which is affordable compared to some other popular medical alert watches on the market. You get the most bang for your buck with this system.

Watch our video review below for a closer look at the SOS Smartwatch.

SOS Micro

With a lightweight and sleek design, the SOS Micro offers convenient mobile protection for seniors on the go. With plans starting at $29.95 per month, this is one of the most affordable mobile options on the market. Just a reminder — there’s a one-time equipment fee of $149.

Charging Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Micro system

When testing it out, we found it simple to install and use. While it comes in a wrist band form, we like that you can remove the watch strap and wear it as a lanyard or buckle. It was easy to carry and lighter than MobileHelp’s systems. We wore it on a walk, while running errands, and at home. The battery life lasts up to 36 hours.  In our testing, we liked wearing it as a watch most as it was comfortable, small, and lightweight. There is a big button to push and two-way communication to easily talk to emergency response staff.

Thanks to the button’s 4G LTE GPS technology, you can call for help whether you’re at the store or out walking your dog. As long as you’re in an area with AT&T or Verizon LTE coverage, you’ll be connected with an operator as soon as you press your help button.

To make a call, we pressed and held the SOS button for three seconds until a blue light turned on. After a while the device announced that it was calling the support center. When we called, the first to answer was an automated voice assistant that asked if we needed a real person. During the SOS call the blue light was solid. Here’s a shortcut: If you call a second time or more, it will bypass the automated voice assistant and go straight to a live operator. That’s good to know in case you want to reach live help in a hurry!

The SOS Micro device also comes with access to Bay Alarm Medical’s Caregiver Tracking app, which let us track the user’s whereabouts and even check the battery status.

For extra monthly fees, you can add automatic fall detection. The fall detection feature ($10 more per month) sends an automatic alert when it senses a downward motion followed by no movement. Compared to other popular providers, this mobile system is affordable. For example, Medical Alert’s prices for mobile products start at $39.95 per month, so Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Micro system is $10 cheaper, and the $149 device fee is reasonable.

In-Home and On-the-Go Bundles

If you’re looking to save, bundling is your best bet. Luckily, Bay Alarm Medical provides a number of bundle options to meet various needs. Pair the In-Home Medical Alert system with the SOS Micro or SOS Smartwatch for full coverage no matter where you are. You can save around $60 per year by buying both a mobile and in-home solution.

Add-On Accessories: Pricing and Features

How To Get the Best Deal With Bay Alarm Medical

Bay Alarm Medical offers seasonal promotions and discounts, so be on the lookout on their website or call a rep to inquire!

The best value you’ll get from Bay Alarm Medical is by bundling. We found that you can save around $60 a year just by bundling. If you’re looking for the cheapest option, stick with the SOS Home system. The SOS Smartwatch is the priciest in terms of upfront costs, but it’s well worth your money if you’re very active. Plus, once you pay the equipment fee, the monthly costs are some of the lowest for on-the-go systems in the industry. With no activation fees or required contracts, you can cancel your service at any time.

Here are a few other ways to save on Bay Alarm’s systems:

• Consider a warranty protection plan: Bay Alarm will replace your device for normal wear and tear. The Premier Protection Plan allows one free system replacement per contractual year, and it offers a 50 percent discount on lost or damaged accessories. For at-home systems, it also includes a lifetime personal help button low battery replacement. The plan costs $2.95 per month for the SOS Micro, SOS Smartwatch, and SOS Home. If you purchase a bundle, everything can be covered under the same plan for $4.95 per month. If you opt out of the protection plan, you’ll pay up to $299 for nonmanufacturing-related damage.
• Speak with a representative: Always speak with a Bay Alarm Medical representative when considering your options. They can recommend the system that’s best for your wallet and may even offer you exclusive discounts.
• Pay for systems quarterly or annually: You don’t get a discount for paying quarterly or annually, but for most packages, you’ll get free shipping if you pay quarterly. If you pay annually, you’ll get free shipping and one free month of service.

Pricing: Bay Alarm Medical vs. Competitors

Bay Alarm Medical vs. Medical Guardian

Bay Alarm Medical’s systems are slightly cheaper than Medical Guardian’s. For instance, MGClassic, Medical Guardian’s in-home landline system, costs $32.95 per month compared to $24.95 per month for Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Home. Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Smartwatch starts at $39.95 per month with a one-time $199 device fee, compared to Medical Guardian’s MGMove watch, which costs $39.95 per month with a one-time $199.95 equipment charge.

Comparing Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian at-home systems

If budget is a concern, Bay Alarm is generally the cheaper choice. However, if you want a more sleek system with all the bells and whistles, Medical Guardian is our top pick.

Bay Alarm Medical vs. Life Alert

Life Alert products cost between $49.95 and $98.85 per month, which is quite expensive compared to Bay Alarm Medical’s starting rates of $24.95 per month. Getting your equipment professionally installed tacks on a $197 fee. Most providers, including Bay Alarm Medical, don’t charge an installation fee, so this is something to keep in mind. Life Alert does not provide free spouse coverage, fall detection, or caregiver tracking. Unlike Bay Alarm, Life Alert also requires a long-term commitment.

Bay Alarm Medical offers much more affordable prices and better value in our opinion. If you still want to compare your options, check out our Life Alert review.

Bay Alarm Medical vs. MobileHelp

MobileHelp has a selection of at-home, on-the-go, and hybrid systems. Their most affordable system, the MobileHelp Classic, starts at $24.95 per month, which is the same as Bay Alarm Medical’s starting rates. Unlike Bay Alarm Medical, MobileHelp does not offer a free trial. But MobileHelp offers free ground shipping and free lockbox on annual plans, free equipment, and free activation. When it comes to caregiver apps, MobileHelp’s caregiver portal costs extra, while Bay Alarm Medical’s app is free. Check out our MobileHelp review to learn more.

Is Bay Alarm Medical Right for Me?

Bay Alarm offers a broad range of coverage and prices flexible enough for most needs, from the active older adult to those aging in place. Because their products are location-based (in-home versus mobile), lifestyle should play a big role in deciding which package and add-ons work best for you.

Are you home most of the time? Do you live in a smaller space? The reasonably priced SOS Home is a solid choice for basic at-home protection.

If you come and go a lot but want peace of mind when you’re away from home, the SOS Micro, SOS Smartwatch, and SOS All-in-One 2 offer flexibility. These systems also come with the Bay Alarm Medical mobile app, which is good for those who need extra monitoring. The smartwatch works for active, tech-savvy people who want an emergency backup or a discreet medical alert system. Smartwatches are gaining popularity, with experts projecting that nearly a third of smart wearable users will be over 55 by 2026.

Navigating Bay Alarm Medical's companion mobile app

Final Thoughts on Pricing and Value for Bay Alarm Medical

Bay Alarm Medical is a worthy contender in the growing medical alert market. With monthly rates that are less expensive than competitors we've reviewed, like Medical Guardian, innovative solutions for different types of seniors, and essential add-ons, Bay Alarm Medical fits the bill for affordable, top-of-the-line products. Aside from paying the one-time equipment fee for the SOS Micro, SOS All-In-One 2, or SOS Smartwatch, we found that the monthly rates were reasonable. If you’re looking for a well-rounded company that offers a diverse range of medical alert systems, Bay Alarm Medical could be the perfect solution for you.

To learn more about Bay Alarm Medical, watch our hands-on review of the company’s products below.