ADT vs. Guardian Protection

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    ADT

    When it comes to home security, there are several well-known companies to choose from, including ADT and Guardian Protection. While both offer 24/7 monitoring, professional installation and mobile app access, the specifics of their plans differ.

    What is the difference between ADT and Guardian Protection?

    Both ADT and Guardian Protection sell professionally installed and monitored home security systems. These companies tend to be more expensive than some competitors, but their experienced technicians and professional installation make many people feel more secure.

    • ADT is best for someone who wants a full-service solution for home automation and protection.
    • Guardian Protection is best for someone who wants a hyper-customized solution and is able to cover the cost.
    CompanyOur pick forMonthly costInstallation costContract lengthSmart home compatibility
    ADT Full service $45.99 to $59.99 Varies depending on package customizations 36 months (24 months in California) Siri, Alexa, Google Home
    Guardian Protection Customizations Starts at $46.99 Included in cost 36-60 months; no annual contract option available Google Home, Alexa, Siri

    Our take on ADT

    Pros

    • Variety of products
    • Reliable service
    • Smart-home connectivity
    • Six-month money-back guarantee

    Cons

    • Limited video capabilities
    • Installation cost

    Bottom line: ADT offers customized alarm and security systems with smart-home automation features and 24/7 monitoring. With ADT Pulse, the system can be connected to Amazon Alexa and your smart-home devices. The company should be a strong candidate for anyone looking for a monitored home security system.

    » EXPLORE: ADT reviews

    Our take on Guardian Protection

    Pros

    • Installation included
    • Customizable plans
    • Smart home features

    Cons

    • Not available nationwide
    • Early cancellation fee

    Bottom line: Guardian Protection offers customized plans for single residents, families, travelers, pet owners and others. It requires an upfront fee starting at $149 and a monthly fee starting at $46.99 per month, with installation included. The company's wide variety of plans and customization options makes it a good fit if you want a home security system tailored to your needs.

    » EXPLORE: Guardian Protection reviews

    ADT vs. Guardian Protection Services plans

    ADT and Guardian Protection Services are popular home security companies with a range of plans to choose from. While ADT has been in the industry for longer, Guardian Protection Services has also established a reputable presence. Both companies offer similar services, such as 24/7 monitoring, professional installation and mobile app access. However, the specifics of their plans differ.

    For instance, ADT offers a wider variety of plans, including ones with home automation features, whereas Guardian Protection Services focuses more on home security. Additionally, the cost of each company's plans varies depending on factors such as equipment, installation and monitoring fees, making it important to compare your options carefully.

    Ultimately, the choice between ADT and Guardian Protection Services will depend on your needs and preferences.

    Number of packagesEquipment costMonthly costInstallation methodsConnectivityAppWarranty
    ADT 3 $599 to $1,387 $45.99 to $59.99 Professional installation Landline, cellular Yes 90 days
    Guardian Protection 9 Available upon request Starts at $46.99 Professional installation Wi-Fi Yes Not disclosed

    ADT packages

    ADT is a nationwide leader in home security that offers professional security packages and systems. While ADT does sell some pieces of equipment separately, most customers choose to purchase a package and finance it over the course of 60 months. ADT offers a wide variety of app options and smart-home integrations for a full home solution.

    If you choose a professionally installed systems, there are three options to choose from:

    • Secure Package: This package includes a control panel, three door/window alarms and a motion detector.
    • Smart Package: The Smart Package includes a digital control panel, three door/window alarms, a motion detector, a smart door lock and a smart plug. With the Smart Package, customers can also remotely arm and disarm their system.
    • Video and Smart Package: The Video and Smart Package is loaded with everything from the Secure and the Starter Package, plus an HD indoor camera, a Google Nest Doorbell with a camera and access to live footage.

    Guardian Protection packages

    Guardian Protection offers several options for home security and safety. The company is not available everywhere, and it’s not upfront about costs. Unlike many modern security companies, it requires wired installation for many items. You’ll also need a lengthy contract with no trial period.

    Guardian Protection has nine packages to choose from:

    • Bachelor(ette) Pad: This package comes with 24/7 monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a smoke detector, a motion detector and a video doorbell.
    • Burglar Buster: The Burglar Buster comes with 24/7 monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, a glass break detector, smart automated light modules, an indoor camera, an outdoor camera and a siren.
    • Family First: This equipment package includes 24/7 monitoring, a control panel, five door/window sensors, a motion detector, a smoke and heat detector, a carbon monoxide detector, a video doorbell, a smart door lock, an indoor camera and an outdoor camera.
    • Frequent Flyer: This package comes with 24/7 monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, a smoke and heat detector, a video doorbell, a smart door lock, a smart automated light module, a smart thermostat, a smart garage door opener and an indoor camera.
    • Healthy (Green) Home: This package has 24/7 monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, a smoke and heat detector, a carbon monoxide detector, a smart automated light module, a smart thermostat and a room temperature sensor.
    • Home Security Essentials: The Home Security Essentials package includes 24/7 professional monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector and a smoke and heat detector.
    • Pet Parent: This package comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, two smoke and heat detectors, a carbon monoxide detector, a smart door lock, smart automated light modules, a smart thermostat, an indoor camera and a room temperature sensor.
    • Protect My Parents: This package is designed for older adults and has 24/7 professional monitoring, a control panel, five door/window sensors, two motion detectors, a smoke and heat detector, a carbon monoxide detector and a medical pendant.
    • The Works: Guardian Protection’s most comprehensive equipment package includes 24/7 professional monitoring, a control panel, five door/window sensors, a motion detector, a smoke and heat detector, a carbon monoxide detector, a medical pendant, a video doorbell, a smart door lock, a smart automated light module, a smart thermostat, a smart garage door opener, a glass break detector, an indoor camera, an outdoor camera, room temperature sensors and a siren.

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      How people feel about Guardian Protection vs. ADT

      After analyzing customer reviews on ConsumerAffairs, it appears that ADT has received mostly positive feedback. Although there are some complaints about customer service and the cancellation process, many reviewers appreciate the quick service and respectful customer service, leading to an overall satisfaction with the system.

      Similarly, Guardian Protection also has a mostly positive reputation on the review site, with satisfied customers highlighting the positive experiences with the customer service and installation teams. Customers also express satisfaction with the monitoring service and remote access through the mobile app. However, some customers have expressed concern over contract terms and cancellation fees with Guardian Protection.

      Overall, both companies have received positive feedback from customers with some areas of improvement.

      ReviewsPositive mentions past 3 yearsNegative mentions past 3 years
      ADT customer service 1,515 (36%) 2,653 (64%)
      Guardian Protection customer service 55 (41%) 80 (59%)
      ADT technicians 716 (50%) 730 (50%)
      Guardian Protection technicians 34 (64%) 19 (36%)
      ADT installation and setup 1,260 (50%) 1,275 (50%)
      Guardian Protection installation and setup 27 (54%) 23 (46%)
      ADT ease of use 178 (88%) 24 (12%)
      Guardian Protection ease of use 6 (86%) 1 (14%)
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