Vivint vs. ADT: Which home security system is better?

If you’re trying to choose the best security system for your home, Vivint and ADT are two of the leading names. Both companies have a strong reputation for delivering reliable, innovative security solutions, with extensive product offerings and customer support.

But which one is the right choice for you? It can be difficult to decide, given the complex features and functionalities available. As a security expert who’s always trying to find the best value security products, I collaborated with the Cybernews team to comprehensively evaluate and compare Vivint vs ADT.

This comparison will help you make an informed decision by breaking down the key factors such as installation, monitoring options, pricing, equipment quality, and customer support. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, we’re here to guide you through the strengths and differences of these leading home security systems.

Vivint vs. ADT alarm systems: In a nutshell

As a first step, we’ll compare these two security giants. While both Vivint and ADT have all-in-one home security solutions, their methodology, pricing, and functionality differences are significant. To help you quickly assess the highlights of each provider, we have summarized its key traits below:

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Vivint vs. ADT similarities

Both Vivint and ADT are great home security providers offering a comprehensive range of features. Here are the common factors between them.

• 24/7 Professional Monitoring: Both Vivint and ADT provide around-the-clock professional monitoring services, ensuring immediate support and response during emergencies.
• Wide Variety of Security Equipment: Vivint and ADT offer a broad selection of equipment options, such as cameras, motion sensors, door and window sensors, and smart locks, catering to various security needs.
• Mobile App Control: Each provider offers a mobile app that allows users to manage their security system remotely, including arming/disarming, live video streaming, and receiving alerts.
• Smart Home Integration: Both systems support popular smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control and seamless integration with other smart devices.
• Customizable equipment packages: While each company offers pre-designed packages, users can also choose fully customized home security systems that best meet their needs.
• Extra safety components: Apart from their reliable security equipment, Vivint and ADT also offer a range of additional components that you can add to your place to make your home safer. These include devices like smoke, gas leak, and carbon monoxide detectors.

Vivint and ADT differences

Now that you know the similarities, let’s look at what distinguishes Vivint and ADT. Below are the key differences between these home security systems:

• Installation Options: Vivint requires professional installation. ADT allows users to install some components and systems.
• Contract Requirements: Vivint provides flexible, contract-free plan options, especially when you purchase the equipment upfront. On the other hand, for ADT, a long-term contract (usually 36 months) is required. However, if you build a custom package, you don’t need to be tied to a contract.
• Pricing: Vivint’s equipment has a higher upfront cost but offers advanced technology and smart features. ADT’s pricing is generally more affordable upfront due to longer payment terms, appealing to those seeking lower initial costs. These distinctions allow each provider to cater to different security needs and budgets.

Vivint vs. ADT system: features and tech

When comparing Vivint vs ADT, understanding each system’s unique features and technology can help you find the best match for your home security needs. Both providers offer top-of-the-line equipment and advanced tech options, yet each has distinct strengths. We’ve assessed both systems on some key aspects to help you decide which aligns best with your lifestyle and security priorities.

Security Cameras

Vivint and ADT offer a range of security cameras but differ in technology and functionality. Vivint provides an advanced lineup of indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras, each with high-definition video quality, night vision, and smart AI capabilities. Notably, Vivint’s outdoor cameras are impressive for their 4K HDR video resolution – the Outdoor Pro – and wide coverage, and they feature intelligent AI functions like facial recognition, package detection, and the ability to distinguish between people, pets, and cars. These advanced features allow Vivint users to receive specific alerts for familiar faces, intruders, and deliveries, setting Vivint’s cameras apart for users seeking top-tier, smart monitoring. Vivint’s cameras also offer local storage options for privacy and data security.

ADT also offers high-quality cameras, including indoor, outdoor, and doorbell options. However, ADT’s cameras generally don’t have the same advanced AI-driven features as Vivint offers. While ADT cameras deliver reliable HD resolution and good night vision, they lack cutting-edge AI functionalities that enable more precise detection. ADT’s video doorbells are effective for basic surveillance and two-way communication but don’t match the tech-driven capabilities of Vivint’s outdoor and doorbell cameras.

Wrapping up

Overall, Vivint wins in the security camera category for its superior camera quality, extensive AI-driven features, and smart home integration. Vivint’s cameras offer more value and adaptability for users prioritizing advanced surveillance technology.

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Monitoring

Concerning professional monitoring, both Vivint and ADT offer 24/7 coverage to ensure fast responses to security alerts, but they differ in pricing and added features. Vivint’s monthly monitoring plans start around $40, providing advanced features like smart notifications, AI-driven alerts, and customized monitoring options that allow for deep integration with smart home devices. This appeals to those who prioritize high-tech security and want cutting-edge protection.

On the other hand, ADT provides equally reliable 24/7 monitoring but starts at a lower monthly cost, around $28.99. While ADT may have fewer high-tech, AI-driven features, it focuses on delivering robust, dependable service that users have trusted for decades. ADT also offers additional safety support with real-time alerts and fire and medical response options, catering to users who want a simpler but trusted monitoring solution.

Wrapping up

While both providers deliver quality monitoring, ADT’s lower monthly cost makes it a more affordable choice, especially for those who want solid protection without extra smart features. ADT wins in this category for offering reliable, professional monitoring at a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent option for users seeking dependable, cost-effective security.

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Installation

Vivint and ADT offer distinct approaches to installation, giving users flexibility based on their preferences and budgets. Vivint allows customers to choose between professional installation and a DIY option, depending on the equipment they purchase. For users who pay for the equipment upfront, Vivint does not require a contract, adding flexibility and appeal for renters or those wanting a month-to-month arrangement. However, a contract is required if users prefer to finance the equipment and pay over time, giving users flexibility while ensuring cost-effective equipment access.

ADT generally provides professional installation, typically bundled with comprehensive packages that often require a 3-year contract (or 2 years in California). This traditional model provides security over time and ensures a long-term commitment. For those looking for a no-contract solution, ADT offers Blue by ADT, a customizable package allowing users to build their system without committing to a contract. Blue by ADT is particularly well-suited for renters who want more flexibility in their home security setup.

Customer support

When comparing customer support between ADT and Vivint, we are glad to report that both companies offer a range of assistance options. First, ADT has an extensive support network with 24/7 phone support, online chat, and in-person consultations, making it easy for customers to reach for help when needed. ADT’s long-standing reputation in the security industry gives it a broad infrastructure for customer service, and many customers appreciate its consistent support options.

Vivint, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and tech-focused support. Vivint’s customer service is available 24/7 through phone, online chat, and mobile app support, allowing users to troubleshoot and receive updates quickly. User reviews for Vivint often highlight the promptness and helpfulness of their support agents, along with a modern approach to customer service that includes in-app assistance for a smoother experience. Although some customers mention challenges with occasional wait times, overall satisfaction with Vivint’s service is generally high, with praise for its responsive support and knowledgeable staff.

Wrapping up

Vivint takes the edge in this category due to its focus on personalized, tech-integrated service that aligns with its advanced product offerings. This commitment to efficient, modern support makes Vivint the stronger choice for customer care.

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Plans and pricing (+ comparison table)

We understand that price is a key factor for most users when choosing a home security system. After all, you want to be sure you’re making a good investment that will give you peace of mind and value for your money.

When comparing the pricing plans of Vivint and ADT, there are key differences in equipment costs, monthly monitoring fees, and any additional charges that determine the system's total cost. I’ll explain these below:

• Equipment Costs: Vivint tends to have higher upfront equipment costs, especially with its advanced technology and high-end devices like HD cameras and smart home integrations. Prices start at $599.99 for the basic kit. You can pay for Vivint equipment upfront or finance it over time, but financing requires a contract. ADT, meanwhile, has lower equipment costs, starting at $269.00 for the basic build-your-own package.
• Monthly Monitoring Fees: Vivint and ADT both offer professional monitoring, though ADT generally provides more affordable monthly plans. ADT’s monitoring fees start at $29.99, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking professional 24/7 monitoring. Vivint’s monthly fees are higher at $39.99, reflecting the advanced technology and smart home support included in their packages.
• Additional Fees: ADT typically requires installation fees, which vary based on the package and service area. Vivint may also charge an installation fee if professional installation is selected, though DIY installation is available for those looking to avoid this cost.

In terms of value, ADT might appeal more to budget-conscious customers due to its competitive monthly fees and flexible package options. Vivint is ideal for those seeking advanced, integrated systems and who are willing to pay for high-end technology.

To make things clearer, below is a table comparing the pricing of Vivint vs ADT:

Final word on the Vivint vs. ADT comparison

Vivint and ADT are both excellent home security options, each suited to different user needs. Vivint is ideal for those seeking cutting-edge smart home technology, flexible installation choices, and contract-free monitoring services, making it especially appealing to renters or tech-savvy users who prioritize control and customization. Its advanced AI features and seamless smart home integration make it a top choice for those focused on high-tech security.

On the other hand, ADT is perfect for users who value long-standing reliability, professional installation, and established customer support. With its extensive history and focus on professional monitoring, ADT is great for homeowners who prefer a hands-off approach with dependable, long-term security.

Ultimately, both systems have unique strengths. Users should weigh factors such as budget, contract preferences, monitoring needs, and desired features to find the best fit for their home security.

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