Vivint vs ADT: Which home security system is better?

Vivint and ADT are two of the most trusted names in home security. The pair uses high-grade cameras, accurate sensors, comprehensive monitoring services, useful smart home devices, and powerful AI technology to deliver robust systems.

On the surface, the two are almost identical, making it hard to choose the most suitable home security system for your needs. However, some key differences in pricing, durability, functions, and service standards likely make one a better fit for your home.

So, which is the right choice? To find out, I partnered with the expert Cybernews team to evaluate Vivint vs ADT based on product pages, contract terms, customer reviews, and an in-depth feature analysis.

Read this comparison and get a complete breakdown of ADT and Vivint, including device quality, equipment cost, installation services, monitoring packages, and modern tech capabilities.

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, I have summarized its key traits below:

	Vivint	ADT
Rating	#1 out of 5 home security systems	#5 out of 5 home security systems
Overall rank	#1 out of #9	#6 out of #9
Installation	Professional	Professional or DIY
Monitoring	24/7 professional	24/7 professional
Contract	Optional 5-year contract required only if you need financing for equipment	Three-year minimum contract (24 months in California) for professional install packages
Cost of equipment	$$$ High	$$ Moderate
Smart home integration	Yes	Limited
Mobile app	Yes (Vivint Smart Home)	Yes (ADT Control)
Customer support	Phone and live chat support are available Online knowledgebase Relatively good customer service user ratings (3.8 on Google)	Live chat is available from 7 a.m. to midnight EST Online knowledgebase Relatively low customer service user ratings (2.5 on Google)

Vivint vs ADT: key 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 vs ADT: key 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: equipment

Both Vivint and ADT offer complete home security solutions with many device options. I created a custom package with both providers to see how much a complete smart security system may cost with Vivint vs ADT – these are the results:

	Vivint	ADT
Indoor camera	1x Vivint Indoor Camera Pro	1x Google Nest Cam
Outdoor camera	2x Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro	2x Google Nest Cam
Smart lock	1x Kwikset	1x Yale
Sensors and detectors	4x door and window sensor 1x glass break sensor 1x water sensor 1x smoke detector 1x CO detector	4x door and window sensor 1x glass break sensor 1x water and temp sensor 1x smoke detector 1x CO detector
Total equipment cost	$1,529.96	$1,119.96

For my quote, and in general, ADT equipment is cheaper. Although, there are also some crucial quality differences between the providers:

• FOV (diagonal): Vivint Indoor Camera Pro delivers a 150° FOV, and its outdoor camera covers 140°. ADT indoor is 128.6°, and the outdoor is 95° (or 130° for either with Google Nest), resulting in less coverage per camera.
• Motion range: ADT motion sensors monitor up to 40' x 56' while Vivint covers less, 40’ x 50’. ADT also offers a longer battery life using four CR123A batteries, unlike Vivint, which uses two CR123As.
• Durability: looking at review sites like Trustpilot, I found many positive Vivint reviews mentioning satisfaction with its cameras, sensors, and smart devices. I couldn’t find many positive ADT reviews that mention device quality specifically, pointing to Vivint being more durable.

Vivint vs ADT: monitoring

Professional and self-monitoring options are available with both Vivint and ADT. Self-monitoring doesn’t cost extra, but you’re left responsible for observing your security system. Alternatively, with a professional monitoring plan, an expert team is put in charge of surveillance.

Concerning professional monitoring, both Vivint and ADT offer 24/7 coverage to ensure fast responses to security alerts, with similar pricing and features.

Vivint’s monthly monitoring plans start at slightly less, $19.99 monthly. ADT provides equally reliable 24/7 monitoring beginning at around $24.99 with safety support, including real-time alerts and fire and medical response options.

However, for advanced features like smart notifications, AI-driven alerts, and customized monitoring options for deep integration with smart home devices, both providers charge about $40.00.

Vivint monitoring is especially popular with those who prioritize high-tech security and want cutting-edge protection. ADT is excellent if you want monitoring services from a reliable company with 150 years of experience in security and highly credible operators.

I created this table to help highlight the key similarities and differences:

	Vivint	ADT
Monitoring type	24/7 professional monitoring	24/7 professional monitoring
Monitoring technology	Cellular, broadband, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi	Cellular, broadband, and landline options
Mobile app access	Vivint Smart Home app	ADT Control app
Home automation	Supports many automation devices on packages costing around $40/month	Broad smart home compatibility on plan beginning for about $40/month
Monthly pricing	Often starting at $19.99/month	Typically beginning at $24.99/month

Vivint vs ADT: installation

I like Vivint and ADT's distinct approaches to installation, both giving users helpful options based on their preferences and budgets.

It’s clear to me that Vivint aims to support various household budgets, allowing customers to choose between professional installation and a DIY option, depending on the equipment they purchase. While ADT generally provides professional installation to ensure quality control.

If you’re looking for a fair contract agreement, I’d definitely recommend Vivint. It requires a 42-60-month contract if you want to finance the equipment and pay over time to ensure low monthly bills and cost-effective equipment access.

ADT’s comprehensive packages often require a 3-year contract (or 2 years in California). It also supports up to 60 months of financing, making it ideal for budget-conscious users.

For users who pay for the equipment upfront, Vivint does not require a contract, adding to its flexibility. But I see ADT as equally versatile, as it offers a no-contract solution, Blue by ADT, a customizable package allowing users to build their system without committing to a contract.

Vivint vs ADT: app

With Vivint’s Smart Home app, you get:

• Complete system management: configure camera settings, alarm systems, smart locks, thermostats, and other security devices from a single app
• Live and recorded video: watch your indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras live or catch up on past footage
• Notifications: receive near-instant alerts for security events such as glass breaking, door breaches, or motion sensor triggers
• Customizable actions: set up automation like locking doors at a certain time, adjusting the thermostat, or switching on lights
• Multi-user support: create individual user accounts for trusted family members or friends with unique permissions

Using the ADT+ app, you get:

• Full system control: arm your security system remotely, manage alarm systems, or use Google Nest integration to connect with smart devices
• Live and historical footage: view your connected cameras, including Nest Cams and doorbells, from its unified platform
• Home automation: manage lights, locks, thermostats, and garage doors with configurable settings
• Personalizable alerts: use unique notifications to handle specific events, including motion detection and alarms
• Trusted Neighbor™: allow trusted individuals temporary or scheduled access for pre-arranged events

Vivint vs ADT: customer support

When comparing customer support between ADT and Vivint, I am glad to report that both companies offer a range of assistance options.

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. Its long-standing reputation in the security industry gives it a broad infrastructure for customer service that many customers appreciate.

Vivint also places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and tech-focused support. Its customer service is available 24/7 through phone, online chat, and mobile app support, allowing users to troubleshoot and receive updates quickly.

However, Vivint’s user reviews are especially positive, highlighting the promptness and helpfulness of their support agents. Additionally, customers praise its modern approach to customer service options, like its expert in-app assistance.

Although some Vivint customers mention challenges with occasional wait times, It appears overall satisfaction with Vivint’s service is generally higher than ADT, based on reviews I analyzed.

Vivint vs ADT: plans and pricing (+ comparison table)

I 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 around $599.99 for a 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 $24.99, while Vivint costs as little as $19.99. For monitoring with smart device support, both providers charge about $40, depending on your system size (number of devices). These Vivint deals can get you this advanced security system at a much lower price.
• 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:

	Vivint	ADT
Equipment cost	Usually starts at $599.99	Build-your-own package often begins at $269.00 A basic professional package costs about $649.00
Monitoring cost	Professional monitoring as low as $19.99 per month	Professional monitoring from just $24.99 per month
Contract	Contract not required if you pay upfront for the equipment 5 years on financed equipment	Not required for DIY systems A 3-year contract is mandatory for professional systems (2 years in California)
Installation	Normally $199, often waived during promotions	User-installed or variable professional installation prices

Additionally, I found some excellent Vivint discount codes, still working in April %currrentyear%%:

• Get up to 3 FREE months of monitoring plus FREE installation with promo code THREEFREE
• Save $150 on your Vivint system plus FREE installation with promo code SAVE150

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Final word on the Vivint vs ADT comparison

Vivint is the better choice, in my opinion. Although ADT also delivers premium-grade home security systems, I prefer Vivint’s security camera quality, smart home technology, flexible installation choices, and contract-free monitoring services.

Customer reviews also played a large role in my decision. On Trustpilot, Vivint is ranked 3.7/5, while ADT is 1.2/5. Plus, I found many happy Vivint reviewers that specifically mention device quality, whereas the positive ADT reviews I read focus mainly on customer support and issue resolution.

That said, ADT is still a great option for users who value long-standing reliability, professional installation, and established customer support. Consider your budget, contract preferences, monitoring needs, and desired features to find the best fit for your home security needs.

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