ADT vs. Ring: Which home security system is a better choice?

As a Cybernews expert, I explored two of the top names in home security, aided by our research team. These are ADT and Ring. Both brands are highly regarded by customers and in the industry, but they address different needs.

Since so many homeowners compare Ring security systems vs ADT or consider switching between them, I’ll analyze their differences to help you determine which works best for your security goals.

The demand for smart home security has soared, leading to a market split between traditional, professionally monitored systems and DIY-friendly, flexible setups.

ADT, a company with a long history, focuses on high-security and full-service monitoring. On the other hand, Ring appeals to those seeking easy self-installation and affordability.

I’ll give you a detailed overview of these systems, from features to pricing to installation options. Whether your priority is control or convenience, this comparison guide will help you make an informed choice for your home security setup.

ADT vs. Ring: In a nutshell

ADT is a company with well over a century of experience in the security industry. It offers professional installation and monitoring services. Ring is much more recent, offering DIY-oriented options with flexible self-monitoring. Here they are, in a nutshell:

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ADT vs. Ring similarities

To get a clearer picture of the common features between ADT and Ring, I’ve created a list of the key similarities between the two home security leaders below for your reference:

• Smart home integration. Both ADT and Ring support integration with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This enables voice control over the system. You can arm/disarm the system and manage other connected devices via simple voice commands.
• Mobile app control. Each system offers a proprietary mobile app. ADT’s is called ADT Control, while Ring has the Ring app. You can control your security remotely, receive real-time alerts, and view live footage on the go.
• Security cameras. Both ADT and Ring offer indoor and outdoor cameras and video doorbell cameras. These allow for live video monitoring from the app. The cameras include motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio.
• Customizable packages. Both companies let users customize their security packages according to their property’s size and preferences.

As you can see, both support smart home ecosystems and offer mobile app control, advanced cameras, and customizable packages. Now, let’s look at the key differences between ADT and Ring.

ADT vs. Ring differences

Now, let’s dive into what separates the two home security systems. There are some significant differences between the two that you should take note of:

• Installation. With ADT, you’ll be visited by ADT technicians for a professional installation unless you opt for the Self-Setup. In contrast, customers buy Ring’s services for their practical do-it-yourself (DIY) installation, which is more cost-effective.
• Monitoring options. ADT focuses on providing 24/7 professional monitoring services requiring long contract commitments but now allows free self-monitoring via Self-Setup. With Ring, you can self-monitor and avoid extra monitoring charges. Pro tip: Oversight is available as an add-on with a monthly fee.
• Cost. ADT’s packages (equipment + monitoring) come with higher costs and long-term contracts. Conversely, Ring does not mandate contracts, and equipment costs less upfront.
• Reputation & trust. ADT is one of the oldest security providers in the world, founded about 150 years ago. Ring was founded in 2013, focusing on tech-savvy customers seeking quick, affordable solutions.

The most stark differences here are that ADT’s approach prioritizes long-term professional monitoring for full-service security, while Ring offers more freedom and affordable solutions free of contractual commitments.

ADT Vs. Ring: features and tech

Below, you will see an overview. These are my key features and technology findings based on what ADT and Ring offer to customers.

Security Cameras

Both companies offer a wide selection of extremely capable cameras. However, they do vary in features, performance, and integration.

ADT provides access to high-quality cameras with live HD video, HDR, and night vision. Options include the Google Nest Doorbell, Nest Cam Indoor, and Nest Cam Outdoor, each with “intelligent alerts” for motion, package, and familiar face detection. All cameras are wide-angle, exceeding 130° field of view.

The Nest Cam with Floodlight offers added security with a motion-activated light. These cameras integrate with ADT’s professional monitoring service, with continuous video recording available through the Nest Aware Plus plan.

Known for DIY flexibility, Ring offers a variety of indoor and outdoor cameras, such as the Stick Up Cam, Spotlight Cam Pro, and Floodlight Cam Pro. Ring cameras deliver 1080p HD video and include motion detection, color night vision, and two-way audio.

When comparing ADT doorbell vs Ring doorbell cameras specifically, Ring's expertise in this area shows. While both offer HD video and motion detection, Ring's Video Doorbell originated this category and offers more specialized features.

The Spotlight Cam Pro also offers 3D motion detection and Bird’s Eye View technology for enhanced motion tracking. Ring’s cameras are ideal for DIY users and can operate with solar or plug-in power.

ADT cameras are ideal for users seeking a high-end, Google-backed experience. Ring’s affordable options are better for DIY enthusiasts.

Wrapping up

ADT cameras are ideal for users seeking a high-end, Google-backed experience. Ring’s affordable options are better for DIY enthusiasts.

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Monitoring

Where monitoring services are concerned, there are obvious differences between ADT and Ring. The companies’ options are clearly tailored for different types of customers.

For instance, ADT primarily focuses on professional 24/7 monitoring, which comes at a higher monthly price. For those comparing Ring Alarm vs ADT specifically for professional monitoring, ADT's six monitoring centers provide more comprehensive coverage than Ring's third-party monitoring service.

Such an extensive network, combined with ADT’s reliable and high-performance Google Nest cameras and high-quality sensors, enhances reliability and ensures rapid response for situations like break-ins, fires, and smoke or flood alerts. In fact, customers have praised ADT’s seriousness on these points.

Ring, meanwhile, is an entirely different model. With Ring, users can choose between DIY self-monitoring, which is included at no additional cost. In addition, affordable professional monitoring via Ring Protect plans is also available.

Wrapping up

Overall, the freedom of choice with Ring, besides the flexibility and affordability, makes it the preferred candidate. This is because you can add professional monitoring when you like or avoid it if you prefer and monitor your property personally. Bear in mind that emergency response is entirely your responsibility if you choose to self-monitor.

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Installation

Both ADT and Ring also have distinct approaches to installation. Traditionally, ADT is a company that focuses on professional installation via its own technicians and usually recommends this route. This will cater to customers wanting a hands-off approach. In addition, installation is not free. However, ADT does offer a Self-Setup option for those who want it.

On the other hand, Ring is a DIY-friendly system, and the company encourages this type of installation. This is for customers who prefer a quick, portable installation so they can control it themselves without additional installation costs.

Though Ring is DIY-focused, it also offers a professional installation (at a price), which you can book through OnTech, Ring’s installation partner. However, Ring offers extensive DIY setup guides on its official website, so if you have time, go for the DIY route. The guides cover all of Ring’s devices and components, a haven for the true DIYer.

Wrapping up

The DIY flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and the addition of an option to add professional installation make Ring the clear winner where installation is concerned. Though I respect ADT’s adherence to professional setup for optimization, Ring offers greater freedom and choice in this category.

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Customer support

Customer support is a key area where ADT and Ring diverge, each catering to different user needs based on their service models.

ADT offers extensive, well-established support channels, including 24/7 phone support, online chat, and technician visits. ADT users frequently highlight the reliability of ADT’s support, noting its value for technical issues and complex system needs.

Some users appreciate the professional level of service and technical assistance, even mentioning ADT’s effective troubleshooting for urgent situations. However, others express frustration over long wait times and constraints due to contract terms, which may limit flexibility.

In contrast, Ring’s customer support, which is suited for a DIY-oriented model, offers phone, chat, and extensive online resources. Feedback on Ring’s support is mixed. Many users appreciate Ring’s team's help in guiding them in basic troubleshooting and setup.

However, some find the support less effective when issues are more technical or require a quick response. Users expressed frustration with wait times and inconsistency, particularly in more complex situations.

Wrapping up

Overall, ADT wins, but not by a large margin. Though Ring tries hard to attend to its customers, ADT’s long years in the business and extensive support channels give it the edge.

Winner

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Plans and Pricing (+ comparison table)

Next, you will find a quick-glance plan and pricing comparison that I have prepared. I found that ADT’s higher cost comes down to higher monthly costs, equipment, and professional installation costs, while Ring’s more flexible and affordable options without contracts lowers its prices.

Adding to that, both companies offer free self-monitoring via their respective apps. In ADT’s case, which is traditionally a professionally installed system, ADT Self-Setup was added just last year. Customers can now own ADT equipment outright and self-monitor for free, although more advanced and extensive paid options exist.

When opting for professional monitoring plans, ADT charges between $29.99 to $44.99 (Secure, Smart, and Complete monitoring), while Ring starts from $9.99 to $19.99 (Standard and Premium packages). For Ring, since the system is DIY-focused, the Alarm Professional Monitoring and Virtual Security Guard are add-ons on the Standard and Premium packages., Its SOS Emergency Response feature is only available with Premium.

Check out other security systems comparisons:

Final word on the ADT vs. Ring comparison

My in-depth exploration of ADT vs. Ring has given me several insights I can share. All in all, each has its strengths and caters to different types of customers.

ADT is a company for customers who want hands-off, hassle-free, professional-grade home security services. Customers with large properties or small home businesses may prefer ADT.

On the other hand, Ring is ideal for tech-savvy, budget-conscious customers who prefer flexibility and self-installation. For instance, renters benefit from Ring's portability and easy-to-understand product tiers and services.

Whether you're choosing between Ring vs. ADT security or considering other options like Vivint vs. ADT vs. Ring, your decision should ultimately depend on your personal needs, such as the type of monitoring you need, the type of products you need, the desired features, and your budget. Both systems are trustworthy and use high-quality components with the option of adding professional oversight to secure your property.

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