Types of Home Security Systems
Before making a decision on installing a home security system, it is helpful to understand the common types of security systems, their pros and cons, and average costs. This will...
Home Security
Average Cost: $499 - $1,586
ADT stands out as a leading provider of home security solutions with nearly 150 years of industry experience, offering comprehensive services such as 24/7 professional monitoring, smart home compatibility, and medical alerts. Costs for ADT systems range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for equipment and installation, with monthly monitoring fees starting around $25 to $50. Despite the higher fees and required professional installation, ADT’s long-standing reputation and extensive security features make it a trusted choice for many homeowners.
In a market saturated with offerings, ADT stands out as a leading provider of home security solutions. With a reputation in the industry going on 150 years, the company has developed a name for itself as a convenient, trusted and reliable option when looking to keep your property and personal belongings safe. In this ADT review, we’ll look at what the company offers and how it compares to competitors in the space based on customer reviews, offerings, cost and performance.
ADT, which stands for American District Telegraph, began in the late 1870s when a home break-in prompted the company’s founder to connect nearby homes via a “telegraph-based” call box. That was the start of a community safety alert system that has since become a comprehensive solution for businesses and homeowners.
Today, ADT offers around-the-clock professional break-in monitoring. The company has evolved to include not only burglary and theft prevention but also features such as fall-detection for seniors living alone through its medical alert systems.
ADT Home Security Services
Like all security systems, ADT comes with its pros and cons. Below, our ADT review dives into some of the most commonly referenced factors.
ADT offers a range of security systems and services for both commercial and residential applications. These offerings include:
ADT’s cost varies depending on the specific security package and customization options you choose. Generally, costs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars for equipment and installation, with monthly monitoring fees typically starting at around $25 to upwards of $50 a month.
Each of their products offers a 6-month, money back guarantee for added peace of mind when purchasing. On top of that, ADT promises to pay up to $500 toward your insurance deductible if a burglary occurs while your system is armed. Finally, ADT prides itself on the security of its customers’ homes and data. The company uses encryption and multi-factor authentication to keep data secure.
| Product | What’s Included | Equipment Cost | Monitoring Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build Your Own | 1 ADT Command Touchscreen 1 ADT Door/Window Sensor ADT Control app | $499 | $24.99 per month |
| Starter | 1 Security Panel with Touchscreen 1 Google Nest Doorbell (battery) 2 Door/Window Sensors ADT Control App | $778 | $34.99 per month |
| Premium | 1 Security Panel with Touchscreen 1 Google Nest Doorbell (battery) 1 Google Nest Cam (indoor, wired) 1 Google Nest Cam (outdoor, battery) 2 ADT Door/Window Sensors 1 Smoke Detector 1 Water Detector 1 ADT Temperature Sensor ADT Control App | $1,586 | $34.99 per month |
Several factors can influence the cost of your chosen ADT security solutions.
Investing in ADT provides numerous benefits, including:
ADT might be one of the longest standing security solutions on the market, but they’re not the only one. ADT’s biggest competitors include Vivint and SimpliSafe, which are often considered less expensive than ADT.
ADT prides itself not only on its professional monitoring and 24/7 customer support but also its guarantees, which most competitors, including Vivint and SimpliSafe, do not offer.
| ADT | Vivint | SimpliSafe | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Years in Business | 140+ | 20+ | 15+ |
| Professional Installation Required | Yes | Yes | No |
| 24/7 Monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Customization | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Equipment Costs | $400 to $2,500 | $300 to $2,000 | $200 to $800 |
| Contract Required | Yes | Yes | No |
Our comprehensive ADT review shows that their security solutions are ideal for homeowners and businesses looking for reliable and comprehensive security systems that are backed by professional monitoring services.
Keep in mind that most ADT systems require professional installation. The DIY option offers a much different line up of products than the standard and premium packages, but it is also an option.
In general, ADT offers a wide range of customization options that ensures you will get a system that works for your budget and property.
Customers who choose ADT love that the company offers around-the-clock monitoring at its six centralized security hubs throughout the United States. Its security features for seniors are an added bonus for those aging in place.
Because the company requires contracts for its monthly professional monitoring fees, and upfront equipment and installation costs, it’s best to compare quotes from competitors before choosing.
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