ADT has been protecting homes for more than a century, and it shows. The company combines rock-solid equipment with one of the strongest professional monitoring networks in the country. Where it shines most is reliability—you know the response team will pick up, whether you’re dealing with a break-in or a fire alarm in the middle of the night.
ADT isn’t the cheapest home security company. Monthly monitoring runs higher than DIY rivals, and the long-term contracts likely won’t appeal to renters or anyone wanting flexibility. Still, for homeowners who want professional installation, proven gear and the reassurance of a household name, ADT remains hard to beat.
Pros
- Industry-leading professional monitoring network with U.S.-based agents
- Durable, high-quality equipment
- Strong smart home integrations, especially with Google Nest
Cons
- Higher monthly monitoring costs compared to DIY competitors
- Mandatory contracts for pro installations
- Contracts up to 36 months
Table of Contents
ADT Home Security: An Overview
ADT has been a household name in home protection for more than 150 years, and that history alone sets it apart in a market crowded with newer DIY players. Longevity doesn’t automatically equal quality, but in ADT’s case, the company has consistently adapted to shifting technology, from landline-based alarms decades ago to today’s wireless, app-driven systems. That kind of staying power matters.
At its core, ADT is best known for professional monitoring and installation. The company thrives by offering white-glove service, a vast monitoring network and partnerships with leading brands like Google Nest. It’s a company with homeowners in mind and best for people who want reliability, expert setup and responsive support rather than tinkering with every detail themselves.
That said, this isn’t the most budget-friendly or flexible system out there. ADT’s contracts, monitoring fees and reliance on professional plans make it a bigger commitment compared to lightweight DIY solutions. But for those who want a trusted name, robust monitoring and proven hardware, ADT remains a top home security company and one of the few in the space that blends old-school reliability with modern smart home compatibility.
Featured Partners
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Vivint
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ADT
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$29.99
ADT Security Systems and Equipment
ADT has evolved from being a one-size-fits-all service to offering a mix of starter kits, full-featured bundles and a la carte add-ons that let you build a setup around your household’s needs. The trade-off is cost; these aren’t the cheapest systems out there, but you’re paying for polished hardware and the backing of a professional monitoring network that’s among the most well-rounded in the industry.
Rather than overwhelming you with endless variations, ADT keeps its packages streamlined. That’s helpful for homeowners trying to decide between basic protection, video coverage or a fully loaded system with smart locks and hazard detection. Below are the key options that give you a real choice without drowning you in extras:
| SYSTEM | COMPONENTS | PRICE* |
|---|---|---|
| Security Starter | Base, 3 door/window sensors, 1 motion detector, yard sign, 4 window stickers | $349.00 |
| Life Safety | Base, 2 door/window sensors, 1 smoke/CO detector, yard sign, 4 window stickers | $404.00 |
| Video Essentials | Base, 3 door/window sensors, 1 motion detector, Google Nest Doorbell (battery), Google Nest Cam (indoor/outdoor, battery), yard sign, stickers | $708.98 |
| Front Door Protection | Base, 3 door/window sensors, 1 motion detector, Yale smart lock, Google Nest Doorbell (battery), yard sign, stickers | $738.98 |
| Outdoor Video | Base, 2 door/window sensors, Google Nest Doorbell (battery), Google Nest Cam (indoor/outdoor, battery), yard sign, stickers | $648.98 |
| Total Safety | Base, 3 door/window sensors, 1 motion detector, smoke/CO detector, multiple Google Nest Cams (indoor, outdoor, floodlight), Yale smart lock, sensors, yard sign, stickers | $1,593.95 |
Each of these requires a monitoring plan, which can run from $24.99 to $39.99 per month, depending on features and installation.
If the packages don’t fit perfectly, ADT also lets you build from scratch. This is where the system becomes more adaptable than it used to be. The lineup includes familiar Google Nest cameras alongside ADT’s own mix of sensors, alarms and smart locks.
The Customize Your System option starts at $269.00 and includes:
- 1 base
- 1 door/window sensor
- 1 yard sign
- 4-pack of window stickers
From there, you will be able to pick and choose which components you feel are most important for your home. ADT has a wide range of products to choose from, but here are a few notable ones.
| COMPONENT | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Indoor Camera (Google Nest) | $99.99 |
| Outdoor Camera (Google Nest) | $179.99 |
| Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) | $179.99 |
| Google Nest Cam with Floodlight | $279.99 |
| Door/Window Sensors | $20 – $40 each |
| Motion Sensor | $40 each |
| Glass Break Sensor | $50 each |
| Smoke/CO Detector (Combo) | $115 |
| Water/Temperature Sensor | $60.00 each |
| Yale Smart Lock | $209.99+ |
| Keychain Remote | $20.00 |
For many households, the Build Your Own option ends up being the best home security system to choose. It starts small and leaves room to expand without paying for a pre-bundled kit that includes devices you may not need. That kind of flexibility is something ADT didn’t offer in its old contract-heavy days, and it’s a clear nod to the DIY competitors that have been reshaping the market.
ADT Smart Home Compatibility
ADT has built out a connected home experience, largely through its partnership with Google Nest. The company’s smart home lineup includes Yale smart locks, Nest thermostats, smart lights and plugs and even Wi-Fi extenders to keep everything running smoothly. The real benefit here is convenience: you can lock the front door, adjust the temperature and check a live camera feed without juggling multiple apps or devices.
The compatibility story isn’t perfect, however. ADT leans heavily on Google, which works great if you’re already invested in Nest products but may feel limiting if you’re an Apple HomeKit household or prefer more open-ended smart home setups.
The ADT+ app is the central hub for control, and while it’s streamlined, you’ll need to be comfortable committing to ADT’s chosen partners. For most homeowners, though, the trade-off is worth it as you’re getting a system that prioritizes reliability and integration over endless tinkering.
ADT Home Security Monitoring Options
ADT gives you three core monitoring tiers, each designed to match how connected, or how hands-off, you want your system to be:
- Secure Monitoring: The entry-level plan that covers the basics. It delivers 24/7 professional intrusion, fire and emergency monitoring, along with app-based system control. It’s the foundation for anyone who just wants reliable alarm response without smart home extras.
- Smart Monitoring: Adds automation features on top of the basics. This plan connects your ADT system with compatible smart locks, lights and thermostats so you can manage security and home controls together inside the ADT+ app.
- Complete Monitoring: The all-inclusive option. Along with intrusion detection and automation, it layers in video verification, 30 days of cloud storage through Nest Aware, and Trusted Neighbor, which lets you securely grant temporary access to family, friends or sitters.
When it comes to cost, things get a little less clear. On paper, ADT’s monitoring ranges from $24.99 to $39.99 per month depending on the plan and whether you choose DIY or professional installation. But the reality is that many promotional packages and professional installations lock you into a 36-month contract at $49.99 per month, and some plans may cost even more.
In our research, ADT wasn’t as upfront about these pricing quirks as some competitors, so it takes careful fine print reading to know what you’ll actually pay over time. That lack of transparency can be a drawback, but the quality of ADT’s nationwide monitoring network and features like video verification keep it competitive for homeowners who want top-tier safety. We recommend reaching out to the company directly to get the most up-to-date information for your unique preferences and reading all fine print.
ADT Installation Options
ADT has long been known for its professional, white-glove installation service, the kind where a technician walks through your home, spots weak points you hadn’t even considered and gets everything set up in a single day. For homeowners who’d rather not climb ladders or troubleshoot sensor placement, it remains the smoothest path ADT offers to a fully protected house. The downside is cost and commitment: Professional installation typically runs around $99 to $150, and choosing this route usually ties you into a 36-month monitoring contract.
These days, though, ADT also gives customers the option to go DIY. Equipment ships directly to your door, and the ADT+ app guides you through setup step by step. Some products are even designed to peel, stick and sync without heavy tools, and if something doesn’t click, Remote Assistance can walk you through fixes over video chat. This approach trims upfront fees, avoids mandatory long contracts and makes it easier to take your system with you if you move.
However, your choice will likely come down to priorities. If you value expert placement and don’t mind a long-term contract, professional install delivers the most polished experience. If flexibility and lower costs matter more, DIY puts you in control without sacrificing ADT’s core monitoring. Either way, the company now makes it easier to match your installation style to your budget and lifestyle.
ADT Home Security Fine Print
The real value of a home security system isn’t just in the sensors or cameras; it’s in the terms you’re signing up for. ADT has some of the clearest strengths here, but there are also strings attached you’ll want to weigh before committing.
- Contract length: Most professionally installed systems require a 36-month monitoring contract (24 months in California). DIY packages only require one month of monitoring, which you can cancel afterward.
- Cancellation policy: ADT offers a six-month money-back guarantee if it can’t resolve a system issue. Canceling early outside that window can mean hefty fees, often up to 75% of the remaining contract balance.
- Warranty and repairs: New systems come with a limited warranty and access to ADT’s Quality Service Plan (QSP), which covers parts and service but adds a monthly fee. Without it, repair costs can fall on you.
- Activation and installation fees: Professional installs usually include a $99 activation fee plus installation charges that can run $150 or more, depending on the setup. DIY systems ship free and avoid installation fees.
- Return policy: Unlike some competitors with 30-day returns, ADT leans on its money-back guarantee instead. That’s more generous if the system truly isn’t working, but less flexible if you simply change your mind.
- Moving policy: ADT will let you transfer service when you move, but in many cases, you’ll need a new starter kit at the next address. Renters may find this frustrating since the pro-installed hardware isn’t portable.
ADT Customer Survey Results
Our survey reinforces what we’ve seen in our research: ADT’s reputation is its biggest selling point. Nearly half of respondents (47%) chose the brand for its name recognition and track record, showing just how much weight legacy still carries in this market.
Monthly monitoring feedback echoed ADT’s published ranges: 34% of customers reported paying $21 to $40 per month, while 35% came in higher at $41 to $60. This is consistent with the gap between ADT’s lower-cost DIY monitoring and its pricier, pro-installed packages.
What’s striking is how satisfied those customers are, even with the extra spend. 84% rated ADT at least a seven out of 10 for value, and 86% said they’d recommend it to friends and family, with reliability earning the same high marks (86%). The takeaway is clear: ADT may not be the cheapest option, but customers feel the stability and peace of mind justify the premium.
Forbes Home Take: Living With ADT
When we bought our home, ADT was already part of the picture. The previous owners had a system, and not long after closing, a rep came by to see if we wanted to keep it going. I expected a sales pitch, but instead we got a conversation. He asked about our concerns, pointed out a few weak spots we hadn’t even considered and walked us through three different package options.
The technician who came after our initial meeting sealed the deal for me. He spent time walking the property, explaining every sensor and detector in detail and never once made me feel rushed. As a mom, I peppered him with questions about fire safety and emergency response (especially around the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors), and he had clear answers for all of it. We landed on the middle package, with a couple of extra window sensors and a few extra CO/smoke detectors that are tied directly to emergency services.
Since then, ADT has become part of our daily routine. The professional monitoring gives us peace of mind whether we’re home or halfway across the country. The app has been a lifesaver, too. We can arm and disarm the system, check in on the dogs and let our dog sitter inside with just a tap if we are away on vacation.
My favorite part, though, is the outdoor camera over our driveway. The video is crystal clear, and it’s smart enough to tell whether it’s a car, a person or just an animal wandering by. That means I only get alerts when it matters, and there’s even a subtle audio cue when someone comes into view — a small but powerful reminder to anyone outside that they’re being recorded. For us, we appreciate the feeling that our home is looked after even when we’re not there.
How ADT Home Security Stacks Up
ADT, Ring and SimpliSafe all serve the same purpose, protecting your home, but they go about it in very different ways. Ring keeps things casual and budget friendly. With plans starting as low as $4.99 for self-monitoring, no contracts and simple DIY setup, it’s a solid pick for renters or anyone who values flexibility over premium service. SimpliSafe sits somewhere in the middle, offering the ease of DIY with optional professional monitoring, plus short-term contracts that make it less of a commitment than ADT.
In short, ADT is the most comprehensive, but also the most demanding on your wallet and commitment. Ring is the most affordable and flexible. SimpliSafe splits the difference, balancing accessibility with a more traditional level of protection.
ADT’s Biggest Pros and Cons
Like any legacy security provider, ADT has strengths you won’t find in smaller DIY brands, but those come with trade-offs worth weighing. Here’s the real picture:
Pros
- Best-in-class monitoring network: ADT runs six U.S.-based monitoring centers, which means if one goes down, another takes over. That redundancy translates to faster, more reliable responses than many competitors who outsource to a single third-party center.
- Professional-grade equipment: Sensors and cameras are built to last and backed by partnerships with Google Nest and Yale. Homeowners who plan to stay put for years get long-term value from sturdier hardware compared to cheaper, more disposable DIY kits.
- Flexible installation options: Unlike some legacy players, ADT now lets you choose between professional installation and DIY. That’s a big shift from its old one-size-fits-all model and a win for homeowners who want more control.
- Strong safety extras: Features like video verification and Alarm Messenger (text-based alarm confirmation) cut down on false alarms and improve emergency response times, something many budget systems simply can’t match.
- Six-month money-back guarantee: One of the most generous return windows in the industry. If ADT can’t resolve a system issue, you’re not stuck.
Cons
- Rigid contracts with high exit fees: Pro-installed systems lock you into a three-year agreement, and early cancellation can mean paying up to 75% of what’s left. That lack of flexibility is a real drawback compared to no-contract rivals.
- Higher monthly costs: Monitoring ranges from $24.99 to $39.99 for DIY setups, but professional installs push you into $49.99 per month contracts. Over time, that adds up to one of the pricier options on the market.
- Installation fees add up: Expect a $99 activation fee plus at least $150 for pro installation. That upfront cost is easy to overlook when comparing against DIY systems that ship free.
- DIY still feels secondary: ADT offers self-install kits, but its app and onboarding process aren’t as seamless as true DIY-first brands like SimpliSafe or Ring. It’s better than before, but not the most intuitive experience for renters or tech novices.
- Smart home integration quirks: While ADT works with Google Nest and Alexa, deeper customization often means juggling multiple apps. For homeowners who want frictionless automation, other companies might do it better.
ADT Comparisons
Methodology – How We Selected Home Security Companies
To pick the best home security providers and determine our rankings, the Forbes Home editorial team compared 35 major home security companies across 75 different metrics, including monitoring options and costs, smart home compatibility and our user survey data.
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home security providers in our detailed methodology page.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it hard to cancel ADT?
ADT makes cancellation possible, but it’s not necessarily painless. If you’re under contract, expect to pay a hefty early termination fee , typically 75% of your remaining balance. That’s the trade-off for signing onto a professionally installed, long-term system.
How much does ADT cost per month?
Most customers fall into the $25 to $50 per month range for professional monitoring, depending on the plan and whether you went DIY or pro install. ADT doesn’t make its monitoring pricing especially transparent, so expect some variation based on your setup and promotions.
How is the ADT mobile app?
The ADT+ app scores well with users. On the App Store, it has a 4.8-star rating from over 25,000 reviews, and on the Google Play Store, it has a 4.7-star rating on over 6,000 reviews, so it’s not just us saying it works smoothly. You can arm, disarm and manage smart devices remotely, which makes it far more convenient than relying on the control panel alone.
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