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ADT is a home security provider that offers self-setup and professionally installed alarm systems and cameras. The company has been operating for nearly 150 years, making it one of the most well-known names in home security.
ADT has transitioned from more traditional home security equipment to newer technology by collaborating with Google Nest cameras, making its systems smart-home compatible.
The company’s long-term contracts can feel restrictive, but the benefits can be worth it for customers looking for a professionally installed and monitored home security system from a household name.
Deciding factors | |
|---|---|
One-time costs | About $195 for basic equipment. |
Monthly fees | $24.99 and up. |
Installation | Professional install and self-setup options. |
Video monitoring | Self-setup:
Pro install:
|
Contract | 36-month minimum; 24 months in California. |
To purchase an ADT system, you visit the company’s website and select a package. The company will mail your equipment.
If you choose professional installation, you’ll schedule an appointment for an ADT technician to come to your home and set up the equipment. Appointments are usually available within three days.
If you choose self-setup, you’ll follow the instructions provided in the included setup guide. If you need extra help, you can consult the ADT virtual assistant feature on the app.
ADT offers six home security system packages, three self-setup and three pro-install. The pro-install packages come with monitoring contracts. The company often runs promotions, typically 25% off packages with a required one-month minimum pro monitoring plan. The prices below are list prices.
Package | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
Build Your Own | $194.98 | Smart home hub, door/window sensor and app. |
Starter | $389.96 | Everything in Build Your Own package plus one more sensor (two total) and a Google Nest doorbell. |
Premium | $744.92 | Everything in Starter package plus an indoor camera, outdoor camera, smoke detector and water/temperature sensor. |
Package | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
Build Your Own | $499.99 |
|
Smart Home | $778 |
|
Video and Smart Home | $1,586 |
|
You can also customize any system by adding specific items, such as cameras and life safety detectors, to an existing package. For example, you can add a smoke detector to a basic package for $39.99.
Owns 12 interconnected monitoring stations across North America, leading to fast alarm response times.
Has a self-monitoring option, though discounted packages may require a one-month subscription.
Integrates with Google Nest cameras.
Had a security breach in 2020 that affected customers in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX area.
The required monthly monitoring fee is on the expensive side compared to other providers. The self-monitored starter plan is affordable, but more comprehensive plans have steep equipment and professional monitoring costs.
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