ADT pros:
Customizable security packagesSix-month, money-back guaranteeFree service and repairs
ADT cons:
Cancellation feeRequires a contract
ADT packages
Date effective 06/19/20 *Plus equipment financing if paying for equipment over contract term ADT offers a variety of packages, from basic to full home automation with video surveillance. The Secure package comes with door and window sensors as well as a motion detector, which focuses solely on home intrusion. However, for those wanting more control over the system, the Smart and Complete packages offer access to the system via the mobile app. This feature provides remote access to the system, the ability to control lights and temperature and even unlock and lock doors through the Smart Lock. The Complete package adds video capabilities with an indoor ADT camera and a video doorbell camera.
Who is each ADT package best for?
ADT’s packages are highly customizable, but here are our recommendations for some of their most popular options.
Secure – Best for the basics
For those who just want simple home security, this plan includes door and window sensors plus up to two motion detectors, along with a touchscreen security panel and 24/7 alarm monitoring.
Smart – Best for home automation
If you like convenience, this plan includes the same as the secure plan, but adds a smart lock, remote access and customizable alerts, which you can control using the mobile app.
Complete – Best for home automation with video
If video is a priority, this plan builds on the smart plan by incorporating an indoor ADT camera and a video doorbell camera you can access through the mobile app.
ADT equipment
For its home security packages, ADT offers several pieces of equipment that can be customized to your plan.
Door/window sensorsMotion detectorTouchscreen security panelWireless keychain remoteSmart door lockAppliance module (Smart plug)Indoor Pro HD Camera (1080p)ADT HD Video Doorbell Camera
ADT prices
ADT security costs vary based on the plan you sign up for, but all are based on monthly charges. Plans start at $45,99 per month and usually require a multi-year contract. Additional fees may apply based on local permit fees and other costs. Early termination charges of 75 percent of the monthly service charges due for the remainder of the initial contract term may apply. In addition, equipment costs start at $599 total, which may be financed at rates as low as $9.98 per month for 60 months. ADT maintains special offers that could provide savings on equipment and monitoring costs but may require enrollment in ADT Easy Pay, the company’s automated payment service.
Ease of use
ADT types of installation
Professional installation
ADT offers professional installation with all of its security packages. A professional installer will come to your home to install and set up your security equipment. Prequalified customers — based on a soft credit inquiry — can receive free installation. Otherwise, installation costs range between $99 and $199 based on the home security package you select. Pros:
Customized to your needsInstructions on how to useSix-month, money-back guarantee
Cons:
May have to wait for installation
ADT types of monitoring
ADT offers 24/7 home monitoring service with all of its home security plans. The Secure plan is the most basic, covering just home intrusion with door and window sensors and motion detectors. If you want home automation capabilities, you’ll get that with both the Smart and Complete plans, while the Complete plan includes video capabilities.
Additional Benefits
Additional Drawbacks
Unlike some other home security providers, ADT charges for its equipment, which can make the total monthly cost for home security monitoring more expensive. Unless you pay for it upfront, this equipment charge will be financed over five years, at which time your monthly charge will decrease.ADT’s six-month, money-back service guarantee only applies after the company has worked to resolve problems with your system within the first six months of your contract. It does not apply to satisfaction with the company or its employees.
The bottom line
Although ADT may be more expensive than other home security providers, it offers a good selection of equipment with professional installation and 24/7 monitoring. In addition, the company continually earns high marks for customer satisfaction. In J.D. Power’s 2019 Home Security Satisfaction Study, ADT ranked second in highest customer satisfaction with a score of 847. Therefore, if you want a high-quality home security provider with professional monitoring, ADT could be the best home security choice for you.
