ADT and Alarm.com are prominent players in the home security industry, offering comprehensive solutions for safeguarding homes and businesses. ADT specializes in full-service home security systems, presenting various packages and options. On the other hand, Alarm.com provides a white-label service, giving maximum control for your system. It includes a home security monitoring platform, enabling you to closely monitor your security system. If you’re uncertain about which home security service to choose or which company offers the best solution,
To simplify this decision, this article addresses all the essential aspects related to an ideal security system. Based on these factors, you can match your requirements and choose the best security solution for you. For instance, users who need self-monitoring support or prefer DIY installation can directly compare these factors between these two brands and select the product with peace of mind, without any doubt about choosing the wrong product. First, we cover the background and some reviews of both brands, providing you with an understanding of their reputation and services.
Overview of ADT
ADT is a standalone home security service known for its long-standing presence in the industry. It provides a wide range of security packages with professional installation support and a 24×7 monitoring system for users. ADT offers home automation, environmental disease protection, a medical panic button with GPS, a six-month guarantee, and remote service. All equipment is one hundred percent wireless, remote, and easy to access. ADT provides seamless integration features with other smart devices and compatibility with various ecosystems like Alexa and Google Assistant, based on automation. These features empower users to effortlessly experience smart automation with just a single touch.
There are some pros and cons of ADT
Pros
- ADT requires professional installers for efficient security system setup, proving advantageous for users who appreciate expert assistance.
- Professional monitoring support ensures that a dedicated team is ready to contact the user in any dangerous situation or emergency case.
- ADT provides high-performance, high-quality products with customizable packages according to your budget and housing needs.
Cons
- ADT is costly when compared to other home security companies.
- If you notice the company has a low customer rating, it indicates that you might not receive the desired service for installation, support, and cancellation.
Overview of Alarm.com
Alarm.com, on the other hand, collaborates with home security companies nationwide to deliver its services. It is a platform that unites different security systems to provide a unified and smart security experience. Alarm.com offers live video streaming and many more options that can be monitored through a downloadable app, a smart thermostat, and a video doorbell. This system is compatible with Alexa and Google platforms. Alarm.com provides motion trigger sensors, environmental and hazard detection, as well as crash or blast protection.
There are some pros and cons of alarm.com:
Pros
- Alarm.com provides a professional installer to install this technical team, analyze your home management, visit your residence, and suggest the optimal place for enhanced security.
- Alarm.com has integrated with local emergency services. This means that in the event of any danger or emergency, a dedicated professional team will monitor the situation and provide a quick response at any time.
Cons
- An additional payment is required equal to the alarm security system for your extended warranty, which typically ranges between $2 to $4.95. This may not be favorable for everyone.
- When compared with the ADT security system, this brand has a restricted product range available in the market.
- Alarm.com has limited coverage areas in their services. Therefore, if you are planning to relocate, you may not be able to access their services.
ADT vs Alarm.com: Similarities
ADT and Alarm.com are both US-based companies that focus on cloud services and smart home security. Both companies offer 24/7 monitoring systems, and they provide remote connectivity, allowing maximum control of your system through mobile apps with internet or Wi-Fi connectivity.
1. 24/7 Professional Monitoring
Both ADT and Alarm.com offer 24/7 professional monitoring services, ensuring an immediate response to security alerts.
Both companies provide two types of monitoring: professional and self-monitoring. Professional monitoring involves skillful handling of danger or emergency situations. In addition to this, professional monitoring offers self-monitoring support as well. Personalized monitoring services are based on localization to provide emergency support, quick issue resolution, and building trust with the customer. This allows users to connect at any time with their communication center and resolve issues with professionals.
2. Live video Streaming Services
Both services offer live video streaming capabilities, enabling users to monitor their properties in real-time through connected cameras. Users can monitor their home or property using the live video streaming service connected to their smartphone through Wi-Fi or an internet connection. Through the smartphone, users can watch anytime, anywhere using mobile apps. Some mobile apps provide live streaming for your security system connected to your security device. For live streaming, a high-resolution camera is required to provide clarity in the footage.
ADT vs Alarm.com: Features Comparison
Installation for Alarm.com and ADT services needs to be handled by professionals with the appropriate equipment required. Video monitoring and control panels are both important features of ADT and Alarm.com. Services are wireless, including indoor and outdoor cameras and a doorbell, which are connected through your Wi-Fi network. These outdoor devices have excellent video resolution and two-way audio, along with doorbell camera functionality.
1. Installation
Both services require professional installation, and different types of equipment are needed for each, necessitating the assistance of a professional installer.
- ADT Installation
ADT installation processes may be a bit challenging for users, but not for professional technicians, which is perfectly fine. You’ll need a professional installer for your security system. The installer, along with their team, sets up all the home security accessories you require in appropriate places. This includes configuring the control panel and installing security devices such as cameras and sensors in suitable locations.
- Alarm.com Installation
The installation for Alarm.com is similar to ADT, requiring professional installation. The only difference is that you have an authorized service provider who schedules your appointment for installation. During the appointment, the technician ensures that all your security devices are placed according to your requirements and cover optimal locations.
2. Control Panel
- ADT Control Panel
The ADT control panel is user-friendly, allowing you to control all your devices wirelessly on a single screen. ADT control panels enable users to easily arm or disarm their security system and provide a lot of customization settings, along with real-time alerts. The ADT control panel ensures a quick response to potential security threats.
- Alarm.com Control Panel
The Alarm.com control panel offers a similar interface to ADT. Users have full access and control through the dedicated mobile app, enabling remote management and monitoring. The interface and design are simple, allowing users to navigate through various features for optimal performance and receive important updates for their security system.
3. Video Monitoring
ADT and Alarm.com, both companies have standard security systems, providing doorbells, and outdoor, and indoor cameras. These cameras are all wirelessly connected through your device, connecting via your home Wi-Fi networks. Every camera has excellent video resolution, and the doorbell camera provides two-way audio features that allow you to directly communicate with whoever is around your doorbell camera.
4. Equipment and its Cost
ADT offers three basic packages: the first one is traditional, priced at $29 per month; the second, control, is $37 per month; and the third, video, is $53 per month. Each package incurs a $125 cost, covering installation, setup, and service charges of $19 per month.
For Alarm.com services, the monthly cost for each service level is listed, but payments are made annually. For instance, Level 1 is $7.95 per month, totaling $95.40 for the year. The overall cost depends on the authorized service provider you choose to work with.
5. Connectivity
Both ADT and Alarm.com offer users convenience for 24×7 connectivity. This means you can manage or access your security system at any time in the real world, enhancing overall effectiveness and user-friendliness for this service.
One of the main features is that you can access your control system and security system remotely at any time from anywhere. Also, you can monitor your properties and receive real-time alerts through your smartphone device. Both systems provide users with a specific mobile app available on the Play Store as well as the App Store. These apps can manage and monitor your security system and provide you with features like live streaming and live video recording.
6. Smart Home Devices
User-friendly mobile apps are available on the Play Store as well as the App Store for your facilities. This app has self-monitoring device management and features such as live, streaming and video recording. You can get full control through the remote. You can also connect these devices to your home like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Z wave ecosystem, and integrate with IFTTT. This feature provides users with increased flexibility, which provides you with a better security system. These features allow users to access with a single command just like lock and unlock security doors,
7. Mobile App
Both systems offer their own mobile applications, accessible on both the Play Store and the App Store. Simply download the app and connect through the internet or Wi-Fi. For self-monitoring services, utilize these apps. Through the app, you can easily monitor your home or office, add or remove devices, and check their status. The app includes user-friendly features such as live-streaming and video recording. Additionally, users receive real-time alerts or notifications based on customized events. You can also arm or disarm your security equipment using the app. All these functions can be conveniently managed through your mobile application.
ADT vs Alarm.com – FAQs
Ans: ADT serves as an ideal home security system, providing a comprehensive solution for protecting both homes and businesses. ADT operates independently as a single company, offering a complete range of security solutions. However, the dynamic shifts when considering alarm.com. This entity collaborates with different home security brands, working collectively to provide their services.
Ans: Yes, for alarm.com services the monthly cost for each service level is listed. you need to do the annual basis payment for this. For example, level one is $7.95 per month or if you get an annual pack, it costs you around $95.40 per annum.
Ans: No, you cannot use an Alarm.com camera without a service provider. To enable active monitoring services, you require a camera that is consistently surveilling. You’ll need to subscribe to a basic plan, such as the Video Safi, Platinum Plan, or the Platinum Plus Plan.
Ans: Yes, you have the option to utilize ADT without a subscription for the doorbell feature, allowing you the flexibility to observe, listen, and interact with your home visitor from any location. Additionally, there is the choice of using a standalone ADT doorbell camera with a wired connection, independent of the system.
Ans: No, we cannot use any communication without a cellular or wireless connection. For communication, we need Wi-Fi or an Internet connection. which provides us with 24×7 Protection and connectivity.
Ans: If you are opting for the base plan, Then it will offer a maximum of up to 4 cameras, and along with this you are able to upload 1000 footage per month on the cloud storage services or on the cloud server of Alarm.com. Additionally, you can get the 24/7 hours of real-time monitoring for all footage of your installed cameras.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both ADT and Alarm.com offer robust home security solutions, but their approaches differ. ADT stands as a standalone service, while Alarm.com’s strength lies in its work with various security providers, offering a different and customizable security experience. Consider individual preferences, installation needs, and integration capabilities when choosing between the two. Selecting a security system becomes simpler for users when considering factors meeting their home safety needs. Seeking professional advice, we discovered that ADT stands out as the most trusted and reliable brand in the security system market. It provides advanced features not found in the Alarm.com security system.
If you are in search of an affordable security product with basic functionality that fulfills your requirements, then Alarm.com is the ideal choice. However, if you’re willing to slightly expand your budget, you can acquire a premium security system with advanced technology that ensures no regrets or disappointments. This article aims to assist you in making a more informed decision between ADT and Alarm.com security systems.
