Article
Best Medical Guardian Devices in 2026
Comprehensive review of Medical Guardian's medical alert systems, from the MGMove smartwatch to traditional home devices. Compare pricing, features, and alternatives to find the right emergency monitoring solution.
Medical Guardian has earned recognition as one of the top medical alert providers in 2026, offering everything from traditional home systems to innovative smartwatches. With five device options, fast 20-second response times, and flexible terms, they’ve become a go-to choice for seniors seeking modern emergency monitoring.
Our team tested Medical Guardian’s full device lineup and compared them against leading alternatives. Here’s everything you need to know about Medical Guardian systems and whether they’re the right choice for you.
Quick Comparison
| Device | Best For | Monthly From | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Medical Guardian MGMove | Best Smartwatch Alert | $42.95/mo | Nationwide 4G LTE |
| 2. Medical Guardian Home Guardian | Best for Home Protection | $32.95/mo | 1,300 feet from base |
| 3. Medical Guardian Mini Guardian | Best Portable GPS Device | $37.95/mo | Nationwide cellular |
| 4. Medical Guardian Family Guardian | Best for Families | $36.95/mo | Nationwide cellular |
| 5. Medical Guardian Active Guardian | Best for Active Lifestyles | $41.95/mo | Nationwide cellular |
Medical Guardian Devices in Detail
Medical Guardian MGMove
The MGMove smartwatch represents Medical Guardian's most innovative device, combining emergency monitoring with modern fitness tracking and communication features. Perfect for tech-savvy seniors who want discreet, multifunctional protection.
Pros
- ✓Doubles as fitness tracker with step counter
- ✓Weather app and Shake to Wake feature
- ✓Optional voice messaging ($5/month)
- ✓Optional medication reminders ($5/month)
- ✓Most advanced Medical Guardian device
Cons
- ✗Highest monthly cost at $42.95 (or $38.95 annual)
- ✗$199.95 equipment fee
- ✗Requires charging more frequently than pendant
Medical Guardian Home Guardian
Medical Guardian's Home Guardian delivers traditional in-home protection with superior range and audio quality. The 1,300-foot coverage area is among the best in the industry, providing reliable protection throughout large homes and yards.
Pros
- ✓Industry-leading 1,300-foot range
- ✓32 hours of battery backup power
- ✓Enhanced two-way audio quality
- ✓Smart Voice Assist for hands-free calling
- ✓Available in landline or cellular versions
Cons
- ✗$149.95 equipment fee
- ✗Fall detection costs extra $10/month
- ✗Limited to home and yard coverage
Medical Guardian Mini Guardian
The Mini Guardian provides nationwide protection in Medical Guardian's most compact form. GPS tracking ensures emergency responders know exactly where you are, making it ideal for active seniors who spend time outside the home.
Pros
- ✓Smallest, most portable Medical Guardian device
- ✓GPS location tracking for emergencies
- ✓Works anywhere with cellular coverage
- ✓Two-way communication built-in
- ✓Clip-on design for easy carrying
Cons
- ✗Must be charged regularly
- ✗Requires cellular signal to function
- ✗Fall detection costs extra $10/month
Medical Guardian Family Guardian
Family Guardian connects seniors with caregivers through the MyGuardian mobile app, offering location tracking and activity monitoring. Perfect for families managing care from a distance who want to stay connected and informed.
Pros
- ✓MyGuardian app for caregiver access
- ✓Real-time location sharing with family
- ✓Activity monitoring and check-ins
- ✓Mobile GPS protection nationwide
- ✓Peace of mind for remote caregivers
Cons
- ✗Requires family members to use app
- ✗Higher monthly cost than basic plans
- ✗Technology learning curve for some seniors
Medical Guardian Active Guardian
Active Guardian targets seniors who maintain active lifestyles, offering waterproof protection and fitness tracking in a wrist-worn design. It provides freedom to exercise, travel, and enjoy activities with confidence.
Pros
- ✓Waterproof for swimming and showering
- ✓Wrist-worn design always accessible
- ✓Activity and fitness tracking features
- ✓Works anywhere in the U.S.
- ✓Designed for active seniors
Cons
- ✗Higher monthly cost
- ✗Requires regular charging
- ✗May be bulkier than standard watches
GetSafe
GetSafe offers a modern alternative to Medical Guardian with voice-activated emergency calling and smart home integration. Their innovative approach appeals to tech-comfortable seniors seeking 21st-century features at lower monthly costs.
Pros
- ✓Voice-activated emergency calling (hands-free)
- ✓Lower monthly cost than MGMove
- ✓Modern smart home integration
- ✓No long-term contracts
- ✓Wellness check-ins included
Cons
- ✗Requires internet connection
- ✗Newer company with less history than Medical Guardian
- ✗Limited mobile options
Bay Alarm Medical
Bay Alarm Medical provides solid protection at significantly lower costs than Medical Guardian. While lacking some advanced features, their free couples coverage and transparent pricing offer excellent value for budget-conscious seniors.
Pros
- ✓Much lower cost than Medical Guardian ($24.95 vs $32.95+)
- ✓Free monitoring for spouse/partner
- ✓No activation fees or equipment charges
- ✓Month-to-month contracts available
- ✓15-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- ✗Fewer device options than Medical Guardian
- ✗Shorter in-home range than Home Guardian
- ✗Less advanced features than MGMove
LifeStation
LifeStation competes with Medical Guardian on response speed, actually beating them by 6+ seconds. Their caregiver-friendly features and Uber integration provide modern conveniences, though device variety is more limited.
Pros
- ✓13.7-second average response (faster than Medical Guardian's 20)
- ✓Text-based location tracking for caregivers
- ✓Uber Health integration for transportation
- ✓30-day money-back guarantee
- ✓No long-term contracts
Cons
- ✗Activation fees $50-$99.95
- ✗Fewer device options than Medical Guardian
- ✗Higher cost than budget alternatives
MobileHelp
MobileHelp matches Medical Guardian's quality while offering lifetime equipment warranties and superior in-home range. Their transparent pricing and flexible terms make them a strong alternative for those prioritizing long-term reliability.
Pros
- ✓Lifetime warranty (vs Medical Guardian's standard warranty)
- ✓Longest in-home range at 1,400 feet
- ✓$0 equipment fees
- ✓17-26 second response times
- ✓No long-term contracts
Cons
- ✗Fall detection costs $11/month (vs Medical Guardian's $10)
- ✗Text alerts cost extra $2.99/month
- ✗Less device variety than Medical Guardian
Lively Mobile Plus
Lively adds value beyond emergency monitoring with their Urgent Care nurse hotline, providing 24/7 health advice Medical Guardian doesn't include. Their extended battery life and mobile focus serve active seniors who need on-the-go protection.
Pros
- ✓Urgent Care nurse hotline included (24/7 health advice)
- ✓5+ day battery life (longer than MGMove)
- ✓Nationwide GPS coverage
- ✓Small, lightweight design
- ✓No contracts required
Cons
- ✗Fewer features than MGMove smartwatch
- ✗Higher cost for full feature set
- ✗Limited in-home options
Medical Guardian Pricing Breakdown
Monthly Monitoring Costs
Medical Guardian systems range from $27.45 to $46.95 per month depending on the device and payment plan:
- Home Guardian (Landline): $32.95/month (or $27.45/month annual)
- Home Guardian (Cellular): $32.95/month
- Mini Guardian (GPS Mobile): $37.95/month
- Family Guardian: $36.95/month
- MGMove (Smartwatch): $42.95/month (or $38.95/month annual)
- Active Guardian: $41.95/month
Equipment Fees
Medical Guardian now charges separate equipment fees:
- Standard Devices: $149.95 (Home Guardian, Mini Guardian, Family Guardian)
- MGMove Smartwatch: $199.95
- Active Guardian: $149.95
Add-On Costs
- Fall Detection: $10/month (all devices except MGMove)
- Device Protection Plan: $6.99/month
- Extra Help Buttons: $2.99-$5/month
- Lockbox: $2.99-$5/month
- Support Circle Apps (MGMove only): $5/month
- Messages App
- Reminders App
Annual Plan Savings
Medical Guardian offers discounts for annual prepayment:
- Free activation (normally varies by device)
- Free shipping
- Complimentary lockbox
- Lower monthly rates (save $5-10/month)
Medical Guardian vs Top Alternatives
| Feature | Medical Guardian | Bay Alarm Medical | MobileHelp | LifeStation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $32.95/mo | $24.95/mo | $24.95/mo | $35.95/mo |
| Equipment Fee | $149.95-$199.95 | Included | Included | $50-$99.95 |
| Response Time | 20 seconds | 16 seconds | 17-26 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Device Options | 5 devices | 3 devices | 4 devices | 3 devices |
| Contract Length | 90-day minimum | Month-to-month | Month-to-month | Month-to-month |
| Fall Detection | +$10/mo | +$10/mo | +$11/mo | Included in some plans |
| Smartwatch Option | Yes (MGMove) | Yes | No | No |
Why Choose Medical Guardian?
Fastest Response Times in Testing
Medical Guardian averages 20 seconds to connect with a live emergency dispatcher, among the fastest in the industry. In emergencies, every second counts, and their consistent performance provides peace of mind.
Most Device Options
With five different device types, Medical Guardian offers more choices than most competitors:
- Home Guardian - Traditional in-home protection
- Mini Guardian - Compact GPS mobile device
- MGMove - Advanced smartwatch with fitness tracking
- Family Guardian - Caregiver-focused with mobile app
- Active Guardian - Waterproof for active lifestyles
Advanced Technology
Medical Guardian invests in innovation:
- Smart Voice Assist for hands-free emergency calling
- Enhanced two-way audio for clearer communication
- MyGuardian app for device management and caregiver access
- Fitness and wellness tracking on smartwatch models
- Medication reminders and messaging (MGMove add-ons)
20+ Years of Experience
Since 1998, Medical Guardian has monitored over 615,000 customers. Their track record demonstrates reliability and expertise in emergency response services.
Flexible Terms
Unlike Life Alert’s 3-year contracts, Medical Guardian requires only a 90-day minimum commitment. You can prepay annually for discounts or continue month-to-month after the initial period.
When to Consider Alternatives
If Budget Is Your Top Priority
Bay Alarm Medical and MobileHelp start at $24.95/month with no equipment fees, saving you $96-$288 per year compared to Medical Guardian’s $32.95/month plus equipment costs.
If You Want Fastest Response
LifeStation averages 13.7 seconds, about 6 seconds faster than Medical Guardian. For some families, this faster response justifies the similar pricing.
If You Need Longer In-Home Range
MobileHelp offers 1,400-foot range compared to Medical Guardian’s 1,300 feet. For very large properties, this extra 100 feet may matter.
If You Want Voice-Activated Technology
GetSafe offers hands-free voice control at $29.95/month with modern smart home integration, appealing to seniors comfortable with Alexa-style technology.
If You Want No Contracts
Several alternatives offer true month-to-month service with no minimum commitment, while Medical Guardian requires 90 days.
How We Evaluate Medical Guardian Devices
Our comprehensive testing examined:
Real Response Time Testing
We made multiple emergency test calls across different times of day:
- Measured actual connection time to live dispatcher
- Evaluated audio clarity and volume
- Assessed dispatcher professionalism and protocol
- Tested consistency across multiple calls
Coverage and Range Testing
We verified performance in real-world conditions:
- Measured actual in-home range vs. advertised claims
- Tested GPS accuracy for mobile devices
- Evaluated cellular connectivity reliability
- Assessed performance in various home layouts
Feature Analysis
We tested all advertised capabilities:
- Fall detection accuracy and sensitivity
- MyGuardian app functionality and ease of use
- Battery life under normal usage
- Smartwatch features (fitness tracking, messaging, etc.)
Cost Analysis
We calculated total ownership costs:
- Monthly monitoring fees (month-to-month vs annual)
- Equipment and activation costs
- Required add-ons (fall detection, etc.)
- Optional features and their value
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Medical Guardian cost per month?
Medical Guardian costs $32.95-$46.95 per month depending on the device. Home Guardian starts at $32.95/month, while the MGMove smartwatch costs $42.95/month (or $38.95/month with annual plan). Equipment fees range from $149.95-$199.95. Fall detection adds $10/month.
Does Medical Guardian require a contract?
Medical Guardian requires a 90-day minimum service period. After that, you can continue month-to-month or prepay annually for discounts. This is more flexible than Life Alert’s 3-year contract but less flexible than some competitors offering true month-to-month from the start.
What is the Medical Guardian MGMove smartwatch?
The MGMove is Medical Guardian’s advanced smartwatch combining emergency monitoring, fitness tracking, weather updates, and optional messaging/reminder features. It costs $42.95/month ($38.95 annual) plus $199.95 equipment fee. Support Circle apps (messages and reminders) cost an extra $5/month.
Does Medical Guardian work without a landline?
Yes. Medical Guardian offers cellular systems that work without a landline. Their cellular devices use 4G LTE networks to connect to monitoring centers. The cellular Home Guardian costs the same as the landline version ($32.95/month).
How long does Medical Guardian battery last?
Battery life varies by device: Home Guardian base has 32 hours backup power; pendants use long-life non-rechargeable batteries; MGMove smartwatch requires charging every few days; Mini Guardian and mobile devices need multi-day charging depending on usage.
Does Medical Guardian have fall detection?
Yes. Medical Guardian offers automatic fall detection as an add-on for $10/month on all devices. The MGMove smartwatch includes fall detection built into the base price. Fall detection uses sensors to automatically alert monitoring if it detects a fall, even if you can’t press the button.
Can I cancel Medical Guardian anytime?
After the 90-day minimum commitment, you can cancel Medical Guardian services. If you prepaid annually, you’ll receive a prorated refund for unused time. Check your service agreement for specific cancellation procedures and any applicable terms.
Does Medicare cover Medical Guardian?
Traditional Medicare doesn’t cover medical alert systems. However, some Medicare Advantage plans include coverage or discounts on Medical Guardian services. Veterans may qualify for coverage through VA benefits. Contact your insurance provider to verify your specific coverage.
How does Medical Guardian compare to Life Alert?
Medical Guardian costs less ($32.95 vs $69.95/month), offers fall detection (Life Alert doesn’t), requires only 90 days vs 3 years, and features modern devices like smartwatches. Medical Guardian provides better value with more features and flexibility, while Life Alert charges premium prices for basic technology.
What is the MyGuardian app?
The MyGuardian app lets you manage your Medical Guardian device, review usage, check battery status, and (on certain plans) allows caregivers to access location information and receive alerts. It’s available free for iOS and Android devices.