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ADT Home Security System Review: How Does This Trusted Brand Measure Up?

ADT Home Security System Review: How Does This Trusted Brand Measure Up?

This provider offers advanced technology and add-on options for residential home protection and commercial surveillance. With ADT Home Security integrations, mobile app, and a variety of hardwired and wireless products, this 145-year-old enterprise serves millions of properties each year.

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This provider offers advanced technology and add-on options for residential home protection and commercial surveillance. With ADT Home Security integrations, mobile app, and a variety of hardwired and wireless products, this 145-year-old enterprise serves millions of properties each year.

Total Score 9.0/10

Features

9.5/10



Equipment

9.0/10



Price

8.5/10



Ease of Use

8.0/10



Trust Score

8.0/10




  • Mobile access
  • Competitive rates
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Long contracts

Basic Information about the Business

This home security provider is well-known across the bigger part of North America for an extensive range of products, reliable software and hardware, and up-to-date safety solutions. Over around 150 years of their history, they have established a reputation as a company that is constantly developing to meet all the evolving needs of customers.

Major features

Video surveillance solutions from this company are characterized by an innovative approach, ease-of-use, and reliability. Here are the key pros of their security systems:

  • full automation
  • wired and wireless devices
  • highly-qualified tech specialists
  • protection from intruders
  • emergency monitoring

About the History of the Provider

The history of this company goes back to the end of the 19th century. They appeared on the market about 150 years ago.

Speaking about its today’s name ― ADT, it stands for the American District Telegraph, which was the initial name of this corporation.

As of now, they serve about 8 million of security systems in Canada and the US. About 25% of homeowners have entrusted the safety of their properties to this provider. They have installed 6 central surveillance stations throughout the USA. Also, one should note that they offer both home and commercial safety solutions.

Major Features of Security Systems from this Brand

Many customers highlight that solutions from this company use multiple innovative technologies, such as automation or remote management via an app. Here are the key features that are worth mentioning in the first place.

Cellular and landline backup connections

Today, the overwhelming majority of customers give preference to wireless devices, but such technologies cannot work in case of a failure of an electrical supply network. So, this provider backs up systems with cellular and landline connections. Also, that allows extending the rural area coverage. 

Convenient home automation

A customer can set up the security system to activate and deactivate it at certain times. Such automation involves varied components of a system, including motion detectors, door sensors, and lights. But, if a user needs this feature, they should check whether it is included in the selected plan.

24/7 pro surveillance centers

Some qualified specialists monitor customers’ properties on an around-the-clock basis. In case of an emergency, they get in contact with the corresponding police or fire department; and that service is included in all the monitoring plans.

A certificate that provides a discount on insurance

After the security system is installed and activated, each customer receives a certificate that can be brought to an insurance company to get a discount of up to 20%.

Fire, water, and gas leak detection

In addition to protection against intruders, their security systems detect other dangers, like smoke, fire, water (floods), gas.

Video monitoring

It is available within certain plans only, but it makes a security system much more effective. Videos from cameras can be accessed via a smartphone or other mobile device.

No false alarms thanks to pet-friendly sensors

Movement sensors offered by this company send alerts only when the detected subject weighs more than 50 pounds. So, there is no need to worry that you will get a false alarm every time your cat or dog passes by one of the sensors.

A high-tech mobile app

Using it, a customer can check on the security of their home at any moment and from any place. It is compatible with both Android and iOS gadgets. It can also be connected to Amazon Alexa. The application is included in advanced plans only.

Indoor and outdoor cameras

Clients can choose from indoor cams, outdoor models, and video doorbells. There are both wired and wireless options. Devices on offer provide HD videos.

Wired security systems

In the first place, this provider is known for hardwired safety systems. Millions of clients have given preference to this kind of system. Their equipment is installed by highly-qualified tech specialists, so it performs flawlessly.

Special health protection for senior clients

Such consumers are provided with bracelets and necklaces that can be used to call for emergency help. To send an alarm, one needs just to press the button. More to the point, these accessories can be tracked via GPS. Also, they are water-resistant.

Available Safety Devices

Each security system from this brand includes all the hardware needed to ensure the safety and security of your property. Let us discuss the basic items.

Components

Regardless of the plan chosen, every consumer receives a basic kit of hardware:

  • a control panel
  • a movement sensor
  • sensors for windows
  • a wireless remote control
  • a backup battery
  • an outdoor sign

Controls

The provider offers compact remote controls for distant managing. One more option available ― touch screen control panels, but they are provided for extra $299:

  • a compact remote control
  • a control panel with a touch screen

Detectors

Consumers can select from an extensive range of sensors of varied purpose:

  • infrared motion detectors
  • glass break sensors
  • carbon monoxide sensors
  • flood and water leak detection devices
  • sensors for controlling doors and windows
  • entry devices for garage doors

Security cameras and automation

There are cameras for indoor and outdoor monitoring. Also, clients can take advantage of home automation and set up the system according to their individual needs:

  • cameras for indoor video monitoring
  • keypad locks for doors

Installation Details

This provider insists that its safety systems be installed by professionals. That guarantees that all the components will work flawlessly. But for some customers, it may be inconvenient to let a stranger into the home.

As for the installation process itself, a technician comes on the date scheduled and sets up a control panel. Then he examines the home and provides expert recommendations about which extra safety equipment is needed.

Safety Packages and Pricing

The cost of using surveillance services from this provider depends on the kit chosen and on the city of residence. By the way, there are customizable solutions available. Also, every client should pay a fee of $99-$199 for installation.

Comparing available equipment kits

INFO

TRADITIONAL

CONTROL

VIDEO

Minimal monthly payment

$28.95

$36.99

$52.99

Automation

-

+

+

CO detector

+

+

+

Email/text notifications

-

+

+

Fire/water leakage detector

+

+

+

Pro installation

+

+

+

Video live streams

-

-

+

Application

-

+

+

24/7 pro surveillance

+

+

+

Number of cams

1

1+

1+

Number of detectors

4

4+

4+

Traditional

Although this kit is considered to be basic, it is extensive enough. Clients get 24/7 pro surveillance and a full range of sensors for protecting a home from intruders, fires, floods, and CO leakages. If needed, extra devices can be added.

Control

Choosing this kit, clients get fully automated systems. It includes all the items from the previous package, but it also provides an opportunity to manage a safety system with the help of remote control or a mobile application and to schedule alarms and other functions.

Video

This is the most advanced kit on offer: it is complemented with broad-view security cams that provide top-quality live streams via an app. Also, clients can save video recordings.

Monitoring plans

To meet the needs and preferences of each client, the company offers a wide selection of surveillance plans. Basic devices are included in all of them. Fees for pro installation are identical ― $99.

Comparing available pro surveillance plans

INFO

Basic

Basic + Wireless

Pulse + Video

Pulse + Smart Home Connect

Monthly Cost

$27.99

$48.99

$58.99

$59.99

Digital control panel

+

+

+

+

Lifetime guarantee

-

+

+

+

Emergency bracelet

+

+

+

+

App

-

-

+

+

Surveillance

Landline

Cellular

Cellular

Cellular

Smoke/CO sensor

+

+

+

+

Video

-

-

+

+

Number of cams

0

1

1+

1+

Number of sensors

1

1

2+

2+

Basic

This plan is a perfect choice for the clients searching for a budget-friendly option: at an attractive and affordable price, one can get all the essentials needed. But there is no camera.

Pros:

  • a low price
  • a standard set of devices
  • reliability

Cons:

  • no cams

Basic + Wireless Connect

In addition to standard features from the previous kit, this one includes wireless movement detectors and a security camera. An app is unavailable.

Pros:

  • a cellular connection
  • a security camera
  • 24/7 pro monitoring

Cons:

  • no access to an app

Pulse + Video

Subscribing to the plan, consumers receive all the basic safety features from the previous plans plus an indoor cam. Also, users can select between a wireless camera and a video doorbell. Access to the brand mobile app is also provided.

Pros:

  • a full range of standard features
  • an application
  • video monitoring options

Cons:

  • costly

Pulse + Smart Home Connect

The price of this plan is just $1 higher than that of the previous one, but it is extended with home automation features.

Pros:

  • an automated system
  • distant control over equipment
  • access to videos

Cons:

  • a high price

Usability

Speaking about prices, this provider offers packages and plans to fit the budget. Installation services are provided for an extra fee that is not so low, but a qualified technician will make sure that the system works faultlessly. Also, consumers get 24/7 pro surveillance. As for high-tech features, like an app or automation, they are easy-to-use.

Clients’ experience

Since this safety company collaborates with a range of other providers, the quality of service and pricing may vary. Many clients check the information about the costs on the official website of the corporation to learn whether the authorized dealer chosen offers identical prices.

Usage terms and warranties

One should keep in mind that the corporation cannot fully control the operation of third-party dealers. As for the safety of private information, customers are required to provide their social security numbers, but that data is treated in strict compliance with the law. Clients can get their money back in case there are no improvements in the security of their home or commercial properties within the next 6 months after the installation. And that refund comprises all the payments made: monthly surveillance fees, installation fees, equipment costs. Consumers can receive protection of an identity for a $9.99 monthly fee. To use the services of this company, one is required to sign a 2- or 3-year contract.

Users’ Support

Since call centers are operated by different businesses, waiting periods can vary. The basic support service number is 800-521-1734. Schedules of phone centers can differ, but emergency specialists are available 24/7. Most users are satisfied with the quality of support services.

Clients’ score

This company can boast a positive reputation. It has managed to get A+ from BBB, as well as 4.4 stars out of 5 at Trustpilot. Those are great results.

Many clients say that they are quite satisfied with the quality of service, as well as the competence of support specialists and their treatment. Many consumers use monitoring services from this provider for many years.

Security systems from this brand are easy to use and reliable. Besides, the company sends informative newsletters regularly, so that clients can learn about key trends and innovations in the sphere of home safety.

As for drawbacks, the brand application is not available within affordable basic plans. Also, basic kits are not provided with lifetime warranties and include a very limited range of features.

FAQs

What does a security system from this brand include?

The contents depend on the kit, but all of them include all the standard pieces, like a control board, a keypad, and movement sensors that can be installed on doors or windows. Advanced packages are extended with automation and integration options, an app, and video features.

Are their prices reasonable?

Most clients claim they are. Prices of their kits and plans are similar to those set by other brands. One should note that basic solutions from this provider lack certain standard products, for example, some sensors, but they include other beneficial features, like 24/7 pro surveillance.

Do they provide video recordings?

Yes, but only to those clients who subscribe to Pulse plans. Users can get access to recordings from both indoor and outdoor cameras. Also, a system can be set to start recording after a motion sensor is triggered.

Can a client use their cameras without subscribing to a plan?

That will depend on the type of system. If it is connected to a cloud, then it can be quite problematic. But, in case a client chooses a wired system, they are likely to preserve access to it after the contract is expired.

How much does surveillance from this provider cost?

On average, one needs to pay about $60 per month to get video features. Also, one has to make a one-time payment of $99-$199 for installation services. Many customers consider that it is worth the price.

Can clients keep equipment after a contract is over?

In most cases, users buy a system, so, they can freely keep or use it after a subscription is over or canceled. But in some cases, clients lease devices instead of purchasing, and then they are required to return them.

Major Pros and Cons of the Provider

Speaking about their pricing policy, it is similar to those of most other companies. The contents of basic packages are similar as well. But they offer an up-to-date application for smartphones, which can be used both to watch videos and to control a safety system. Also, homeowners can get a discount on insurance services.

As for drawbacks, one should note that, in some cases, their authorized partners fail to offer the satisfying quality of services. Besides, it is advisable to pay special attention to the contents of a package chosen, some of them lack crucial features.

Pros:

  • reasonable prices
  • indoor and outdoor monitoring
  • a mobile app
  • full refunds
  • both wireless and wired systems are available

Cons:

  • lengthy contracts
  • third-party authorized providers

The Summary

In general, ADT (or the American District Telegraph) provides a full range of products needed for ensuring the security of a home at reasonable prices, as well as satisfying users’ support. One more significant advantage is their reliability; they have been working on the market for about 150 years and have managed to preserve a solid reputation over such a lengthy period. So, their offers are worth considering.
Best Inclusive Home Security

Total Score 9.0/10


Features

9.5/10



Equipment

9.0/10



Price

8.5/10



Ease of Use

8.0/10



Trust Score

8.0/10



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About the author 

Crystal Nelson

Crystal Nelson served as a police officer for 10 years and knows every intricate turn security issues can take. Being an adviser to various security platforms, Crystal also uses her knowledge and skills to write reviews on security technologies and their application. Crystal is a regular contributor to Espysecurity.


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