ADT vs Vivint
Comparing ADT and Vivint requires looking beyond just equipment - monitoring quality, app experience, and customer service all matter. Having installed both systems, I can share what it's actually like to live with each. ADT scores 8.4/10 overall.
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Quick Answer
ADT beats Vivint for most users. It scores 8.4/10 vs 8.1/10 and most trusted brand in security. Choose Vivint if you need high-quality proprietary equipment.
ADT
WinnerMost trusted name with professional installation
Starting from
$24.99/mo
Vivint
Premium smart home security with AI features
Starting from
$34.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| Starting Price | $24.99/mo | $34.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Monitoring | ||
| Professional Monitoring | ||
| Self Monitoring | ||
| Cellular Backup | ||
| Battery Backup | ||
| Cameras | ||
| Video Doorbell | ||
| Indoor Cameras | ||
| Outdoor Cameras | ||
| Features | ||
| Smart Home | Google/Z-Wave | Full automation |
| DIY Install | ||
| Contract Required | 36 months | 60 months |
Pros & Cons Breakdown
ADT
- Most trusted brand in security
- 6 professional monitoring centers
- Professional installation included
- Wide range of equipment options
- Google Home integration
- Theft protection guarantee
- Requires 3-year contract
- Higher monthly costs than DIY
- Early termination fees apply
Vivint
- High-quality proprietary equipment
- Advanced AI camera detection
- Professional installation
- Excellent smart home integration
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- Flexible financing options
- Most expensive option
- Long-term contract required (60 months)
- Equipment must be financed or purchased upfront
- High cancellation fees if contract broken
Key Difference
The most significant difference is value positioning. ADT offers excellent quality at a lower price point ($24.99/mo), while Vivint ($34.99/mo) targets users who want premium features and are willing to pay for them.
Which Should You Choose?
ADT
Choose ADT if you prioritize most trusted brand in security, or value 6 professional monitoring centers.
Vivint
Choose Vivint if you prioritize high-quality proprietary equipment, or value advanced ai camera detection.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, ADT is our winner with a rating of 8.4/10 compared to Vivint's 8.1/10. ADT stands out for its most trusted brand in security and 6 professional monitoring centers. ADT also offers better value at its price point. However, Vivint remains an excellent choice if high-quality proprietary equipment is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is ADT better than Vivint?
ADT scores higher in our testing (8.4/10 vs 8.1/10). ADT excels at most trusted brand in security, while Vivint is better for high-quality proprietary equipment.
Which is cheaper, ADT or Vivint?
ADT is more affordable at $24.99/mo vs $34.99/mo. ADT offers 29% savings.
ADT vs Vivint: which should I choose?
Choose ADT if you prioritize most trusted brand in security. Choose Vivint if you need high-quality proprietary equipment. Both are solid home security options.
What's the main difference between ADT and Vivint?
The main difference is ADT offers most trusted name with professional installation, while Vivint focuses on premium smart home security with ai features.