Home Security Alternatives to ADT

Long contracts, high monitoring fees, frustrating sales reps—we get it. We've spent a lot of time over the years reviewing ADT-monitored home security, and despite its longstanding reputation as a leading home security provider, it's definitely not for everyone. The good news is that there are several quality home security alternatives to ADT, and we've rounded them up for you. We'll show you how they compare when it comes to pricing, contracts, equipment, customer service, and installation.

You're pretty sure ADT-monitored security isn't a good fit for you, but the number of other home alarm system options is overwhelming. Where to start? Here are some things to consider as you shop around for an alternative to ADT.

Long contracts and high termination fees are a big frustration for ADT customers, especially when an unexpected move hits. If you think you might relocate within the next three years or you just don't want to be locked into a contract, look for a home security company with a portable security alarm system or no contracts or termination fees.

Getting a security system for free may seem tempting, but those systems are very basic, and they come with the burden of a three-year contract.* Adding in more equipment like cameras and app access will cost you more in equipment, installation fees, and monthly monitoring fees. It all adds up, and to get what you want, you may end up paying a lot more in the long run. Take the time to compare the costs over the course of three years before you decide which alarm system is right for you.

One of the strengths of an ADT-monitored system through SafeStreets is its fleet of experienced technicians who can get your alarm system up and running for you without you having to do a thing. But that installation comes with an extra fee, and many companies are now offering systems that require little to no technical expertise to install so you can do it yourself. ADT alternatives include both DIY and professionally installed alarm systems, so it's important to consider which you'd be more comfortable with.

ADT's mandatory professional monitoring with redundant security monitoring centers is great, but it definitely ups your monthly fees. Just like with installation, you can go with a professional or a DIY option when it comes to monitoring your alarm system. There are companies out there offering a choice between professional monitoring through a monitoring center, self monitoring through an alarm app, or some combination of the two. It's a good idea to decide which feels right to you before you start shopping around.

If you've already invested in smart home devices like a Nest thermostat, Ring doorbell, or Amazon Echo, you’ll probably want to find an alarm system that works with what you have so you can operate everything from one place. While few alarm systems out there are compatible with everything, many are increasing their integrations every day, so it's a good idea to check and see what's compatible with your favorite devices.

We've broken down our list of three strong alternatives to ADT by highlighting the main differences between each security company and the leading home security giant.

How it's different from ADT:

• Portable system
• DIY installation
• No monitoring contract

Frontpoint has consistently ranked at the top of our lists for best home security systems, and it's for good reason. This DIY alarm system comes preprogrammed, so it's simple to install. Unlike ADT, however, Frontpoint doesn't require a long-term monitoring contract, and its systems are designed to be portable so you can take them with you if you move.

When it comes to pricing, Frontpoint packages are similar to other DIY systems out there, and the quality of its alarm equipment is comparable to ADT. Frontpoint also gives you the option to finance your equipment package with no money down. It has more smart automation options than SimpliSafe, but not as many as ADT. Its keypad doubles as a smart home hub for Z-Wave devices, and it's compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home so you can have voice control over your system. Frontpoint is also known for great customer service with a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Frontpoint is a good DIY ADT alternative if you want a portable system that's equal to ADT in quality and smart home integration.

Read Our Full Frontpoint Review

How it's different from ADT:

• Lower prices
• No contracts
• Less smart home compatibility
• DIY installation option

Unlike ADT and Vivint, SimpliSafe gives you a choice between professional installation and DIY installation, so you can skip the hassle of an installation appointment and install it yourself. SimpliSafe is also contract-free, and you can cancel your monitoring anytime you want with no termination fee. It's about half the price of ADT monitoring, even when you add on remote access to your system from the SimpliSafe app, and the company is very up-front with packages and pricing.

If you don't want your equipment bundled into a package like ADT, SimpliSafe's Build My System tool can help you choose only the devices you need. But selection is limited—while it includes the basics like sensors and cameras, its devices don’t include protocol for Zigbee or Z-Wave devices, so compared to ADT you won't get as many options for smart home automation. SimpliSafe also doesn't have any outdoor cameras or video doorbells. But its systems are compatible with August smart door locks, Amazon Alexa, and Nest.

If your idea of home security mostly includes contact sensors and motion sensors and you aren't worried about integrating your security system into your smart home automation setup, then SimpliSafe is an affordable security service provider.

Read Our Full SimpliSafe Review

How it's different from ADT:

• No contracts
• Cheaper equipment

When it comes to ADT alternatives, Vivint is probably ADT's top contender. Like ADT, Vivint offers professional alarm system installation, home automation, and professional monitoring, but it does it for a lot less than the cost of ADT. Vivint's starter packages have more equipment than ADT's, and its smart home equipment costs less. Vivint also steers clear of lengthy contracts with affordable month-to-month options. The two companies match up when it comes to installation fees, and neither charges activation fees.

The one place where ADT pulls ahead of Vivint is experience. Compared to Vivint's 20 years of experience in the security industry, ADT has over 140 years, with seasoned technicians and support staff. We've found that Vivint's equipment also isn't as reliable as ADT's, with sensors that stop working after a year or two and cameras that frequently lose signal. Still, if you'd rather have your system professionally installed and you want all the benefits of smart home integration without being locked into a contract, Vivint is an excellent alternative to ADT.

Read Our Full Vivint Review

ADT is kind of like a home security grandpa: it's old and wise, but it also holds on to some outdated notions like lengthy contracts and mandatory professional installation. Newer companies might not have the experience of ADT, but they have a lighter touch and are more in tune with what many of today's consumers are looking for with more flexible, budget-friendly, DIY systems. They're definitely worth a look if you're ready for something different.

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