ADT home security system review (2024)

For over 150 years, ADT has made security its business. Today, more than 6 million customers rely on ADT home security.

ADT is one of the oldest and most well-known home security companies. It offers various products and services, including smart home automation, security cameras, business security, ADT 24/7 monitoring, and senior safety.

But is the ADT home security system any good? I worked with the Cybernews research team to conduct a comprehensive assessment of this security system. In this ADT review, we’ll cover everything from installation to equipment, performance, app functionality, customer service, pricing, and its pros and cons.

ADT security system overview

ADT’s home security system is billed as one of the most reliable and secure. It comes with numerous features, including 24/7 monitoring, smart home automation, and various equipment (cameras, sensors, etc.). ADT’s security packages are customizable and can be tailored to suit various home sizes and security needs.

Here’s a brief overview showing key features of the ADT home security system:

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ADT security system: pros and cons

While ADT home security has many pros, there are also a few cons you should be aware of. I’ve highlighted the pros and cons of this home security system below.

What does ADT security do?

The ADT home security system includes various products and services designed to protect your home and give you peace of mind. The only thing it lacks is a self-monitoring plan. However, you can still view your ADT camera footage and receive notifications via the app without signing up for professional monitoring.

ADT offers 24/7 professional monitoring for outdoor, indoor, or both areas. Thanks to its Smart Monitoring technology, you’ll receive emergency alerts and benefit from faster response times.

More precisely, the system quickly alerts a 24/7 ADT monitoring center and sends you a text that lets you verify or cancel the alarm. If you verify it, the ADT team will alert the police and fire service on your behalf. But ADT Home Security doesn’t stop here!

It integrates well with smart home systems, so you can control it via Google Assistant or Alexa voice commands. In addition, it comes with a wide range of equipment, like motion sensors and security cameras, to ensure comprehensive home protection.

ADT is also highly flexible. You can add extra devices based on your home size and individual needs or opt for ADT’s Build Your Own plan.

ADT home security equipment overview

Each ADT security package comes with a lot of equipment that contributes to the system's overall functionality. So, before we delve deeper into each part, let’s see what the ADT subscriptions offer in the package:

ADT has one of the best home security equipment packages on the market. There’s no cheap plastic or outdated aesthetics; everything is built to last. From the control panel to the door sensors, each equipment is made to blend in with your trim and interior. Now, let’s briefly focus on some of these items.

• Base: The Base is essentially the brain of ADT’s security system. It lets you control the system and connects all your sensors and automation devices in one easy-to-use master control center. The Base has a touchscreen, allowing you to control the whole ADT security system.
• Door/window sensors: These wireless sensors protect entry points in your home, like doors and windows. You can also use them to monitor cabinets and drawers to protect your jewelry, cash, and other valuable items. These sensors are pet-friendly; they can differentiate between a cat and a burglar.
• ADT+ app: The ADT+ app lets you arm and disarm the security system. You can use it to monitor and manage your home security system from anywhere.
• Google Nest Cam: You’ll also receive a Google Nest Cam that you can put anywhere. Nest Cam knows the difference between people and vehicles, so you only get essential alerts. You can stream live video from the camera on your phone or Google Assistant-enabled device. And, with the ADT Smart Monitoring with Video Verification, you’ll get a faster response from the police.
• ADT smoke and carbon monoxide(CO) detector: This monitors and alerts you using sound, light, and ADT+ app notifications when smoke, carbon monoxide, or heat is detected inside your home. You’ll get notifications on the ADT+ app as soon smoke or CO is detected or heat levels spike.
• ADT water and temperature sensor: This sensor prevents water damage or frozen pipes in attics, basements, and flood-prone areas. It detects water or extreme temperatures early and sends you alerts so you can take action. This sensor helps you keep your pets safe while away, alerting you when your home is getting too warm or too cold for them.
• Yale Smart Lock: You can integrate this smart lock seamlessly into your ADT smart home security system and turn your smartphone into a virtual key using the ADT Control app.

ADT home security customer service

You can contact the ADT support team via 24/7 live chat. It also has a knowledge base, FAQ section, and detailed manuals.

While ADT offers chatbot support, you can request to talk to a live agent. I reached out to ADT’s customer support team to learn how to set up automatic payments, and they guided me through the process. I first engaged with the chatbot and was directed to choose a topic to narrow down the issue.

Eventually, I was connected to an agent who explained the process step-by-step and in detail everything I needed to do. I was done in less than 5 minutes.

I was delighted with ADT’s other support channels. For example, ADT’s support center is well-organized and has different categories. You can even find articles specific to your system. If you’re in a rush, check out ADT’s FAQ section for answers to some of the most common questions and troubleshooting guides.

ADT home security monthly costs

ADT’s home security service is slightly expensive compared to its competitors. However, considering everything it offers, it doesn’t surprise me much. As I already mentioned, there are three packages: Outdoor Video, Front Door Protection, and Total Safety. All three include professional monitoring.

Here’s a breakdown of these packages and their prices:

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ADT’s plans are valid for 24, 36, or 60 months without any down payment. There are two installation options: you can either set up the system yourself or pay an additional cost to have the ADT team install it. The 60-month plan supports professional installation only.

Here’s a table comparing ADT and other home security systems side-by-side:

How to install ADT home security system

ADT’s home security system typically requires professional installation. However, here’s what to expect during the installation:

1. Install security cameras by the main entry and exit points. The entrances to your home are where you are most vulnerable, so placing cameras in these areas ensures a high level of surveillance.
2. Install door sensors in entry points with low visibility. It’s crucial to be strategic in how you use the sensors you do have. Consider entry points that have low visibility or that are covered in shade or shrubbery, as these are the areas that criminals most like to target.
3. Prepare a high-speed wireless Internet connection. To complete installation, you will need access to a high-speed internet connection. Enter your Wi-Fi or wireless network (SSID) name and password, and specify your encryption or security type.
4. Use the ADT Pulse gateway to connect your new DIY security system to your Wi-Fi. If you have broadband, ADT can still install your security system, but it may incur additional fees.
5. Set up your ADT signs. ADT includes free yard signs and stickers for you to place around your home as a safety measure. I recommend placing them strategically to ensure potential intruders know your home is protected.

ADT home security app overview

The ADT Plus app is a very user-friendly home security and automation platform that gives you control over all your ADT and Google Nest devices. The app lets you manage all your ADT and Google Nest devices, including cameras, thermostats, locks, and more.

The app also allows you to monitor your security system, view camera footage, and enable features like Trusted Neighbor. What’s more, ADT Plus is compatible with the ADT Self Setup system, making installing the security system yourself easy.

Furthermore, the ADT app integrates with Google Nest devices, enabling you to control your Nest products and view Nest Cam footage directly within the app.

The ADT Plus app provides a convenient and user-friendly way to manage your smart home devices and security systems. Its dashboard is well-organized, so it’s not difficult to figure out how to use it.

ADT home security reviews

I analyzed customer reviews from reputable sources, like ConsumerAffairs and Reddit, to see what others have to say about the ADT home security system.

I discovered that many users weren’t satisfied with the ADT team's installation, as it took a lot of time. Some users also complained that the loud alarm noises are pretty nerve-racking, and the pricing is high compared to other security systems.

However, many satisfied users pointed out the excellent features and the simple navigation from the control panel, which I can attest to.

Our methodology

When creating this ADT review, here are the most prominent things that I focused on:

• App: 15%: I tested the app by focusing on its user-friendliness, UX/UI, and available features. These aspects are crucial for the user experience and the ease of use of the app.
• Cost: 25%: The cost is very often the make-or-break deal for purchasing any app. That’s why I went over the package prices to ensure that you’ll get good value for your money.
• Security: 40%: The security aspect is the most prominent factor that I focused on, as you would like to have well-rounded protection with this home security system. So, I focused on the features and the tools you receive when purchasing ADT.
• Customer support: 10%: I tested the customer support based on the channels they offer for you to contact them and how fast they reply. I also considered the quality of the responses.
• Installation: 10%: Ultimately, I explored how easy it is to install the ADT home security system and whether it takes a lot of time or not.

My final verdict on the ADT home security system

ADT has extensive experience in the security field, and its home security system provides some of the best products and services for your safety. Its key strengths include its reliable monitoring and smart home integration.

ADT best suits homeowners looking for professional monitoring and comprehensive home automation. Consider using ADT home security if you’re comfortable with higher costs and long-term contracts.

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