What is the difference between ADT vs. Vector Security?
ADT and Vector Security are both known for their straightforward security packages and plans that are on the more expensive side in the industry. The ways in which the companies approach payments differ, though. Vector Security bundles the cost of installation, monitoring and equipment into one monthly payment, while ADT requires each to be paid separately. Because of this flexibility, many customers will find one of these companies to be a good solution for their security needs.
Installation and cost
Installation type
Professional
Professional
Installation fee
$99 to $199 (may be included in package price)
Included
Upfront cost
$599 to $1,049 upfront OR $9.98 to $17.48 monthly for 60 months
$0 to $149+ (more if you elect custom package upgrades)
Trial period
Six-month money-back guarantee
One-year warranty on equipment
Contract terms
36 months (60 months if financing equipment)
Varies
Professional
$99 to $199 (may be included in package price)
$599 to $1,049 upfront OR $9.98 to $17.48 monthly for 60 months
Six-month money-back guarantee
36 months (60 months if financing equipment)
Professional
Included
$0 to $149+ (more if you elect custom package upgrades)
One-year warranty on equipment
Varies
Monitoring plans and pricing
Monitoring price range
$28.99 to $57.99
$44.95 to $69.95
Monitoring options
Professional
Professional
Self-monitoring
Not offered
Not offered
Upgraded self-monitoring
Not offered
Not offered
24/7 professional monitoring
Starting at $45.99
Starting at $44.95
Upgraded professional monitoring
$57.99/month
$69.95
$28.99 to $57.99
Professional
Not offered
Not offered
Starting at $45.99
$57.99/month
$44.95 to $69.95
Professional
Not offered
Not offered
Starting at $44.95
$69.95
Security equipment
Wired or wireless?
Both
Wireless
Camera options
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Video doorbell
Control panel
Motion sensor
Entry sensor
Glass break sensor
Keychain remote
Siren
—
—
Panic button
—
Medical panic button
Yard sign
Both
Indoor and outdoor cameras
—
—
Wireless
Indoor and outdoor cameras
—
Medical panic button
Smart-home features
Smart locks
Smart lights
Smart thermostat
Garage door control
Temperature sensor
—
Water sensor
—
Smoke detector
CO2 detector
—
—
Technology
Mobile app
MyADT Mobile App for account management; ADT Control for system management
Mobile app monitoring
Yes, via ADT Control app
iOS rating
4.8 for MyADT; 4.8 for ADT Control
4.7
Android rating
4.4 for MyADT; 4.8 for ADT Control
3.9
Notification/alert options
App, text and email
Email, text and push
Home automation capabilities
Voice integration
Amazon Alexa
Google Home
Other integrations
SmartThings
Smart plugs
MyADT Mobile App for account management; ADT Control for system management
ADT sells professionally installed security systems across the United States. Customers have the option to choose from one of its three packages or buy one-off equipment as needed. Packages include a six-month guarantee on products and a 30-day trial period. When customers work with ADT, they gain access to its long list of smart-home automation and app integration options.
ADT packages
Secure Package: The Secure Package is the basic home security package. It offers a control panel, three door/window alarms and a motion detector. This package starts at $599 for customers who want to pay upfront. For financing, customers can sign a 60-month contract and pay $9.98 per month.
Smart Package: The Smart Package is ADT’s smart-home option, which includes the security equipment from the Secure Package as well as additional smart-home equipment, including a smart plug and a smart door lock. This package starts at $919, or $15.32 monthly for 60 months.
Complete Package: As ADT’s most well-rounded package, the Complete Package includes a vast array of products, including everything in the Secure and the Starter Packages and an HD indoor camera and video doorbell camera. This package lets customers view live footage of their door from anywhere in the world. Pricing starts at $1,049, or $17.48 per month for 60 months.
What ADT customers say
Overall, reviewers on our site like ADT. Customers frequently mention positive customer service experiences, especially at the time of system installation. Customers also like how the system works and the features offered. Those who have had issues with the company mention feeling frustrated that issues took multiple tries to properly resolve. Overall, we see customers mostly satisfied with the system, which many described as easy to use.
The sales representative at ADT was the best. He's very professional, he knew what he was doing, he took time to explain how to work the system and the equipment and explained all the different packages they had. He was very well-versed. I love all the features that I got. It's user-friendly. That makes it even better because I'm 65.”
Vector Security sells three home security packages that include monitoring and installation in the cost. This streamlined payment structure can be handy for many individuals. The website is a bit difficult to use, which makes it hard to see specifics about most products, but for the most part it looks like the packages offered have more products than other companies. Vector is limited geographically, however. Information about contracts is unclear on the site, but it seems like they’re usually required.
Vector Security packages
Essential Security: The Essential Security package includes a wireless control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector and a SecurityCare Plus warranty plan. This plan starts at $44.95 and includes monitoring and installation. There’s no upfront payment required with this option.
Home Automation: The Home Automation package offers the same security solutions from the Essential package, plus additional smart-home products, including access to the mobile app and a video camera. This plan starts at $59.95 per month and requires a $99 down payment.
Connected Home: For a full approach to automation and security, the Connected Home package is available. This package includes a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, a video camera, a smart thermostat, a door lock and mobile support. This package starts at $69.95 per month and requires $149 down.
What Vector Security customers say
Vector has positive customer feedback on ConsumerAffairs. Many verified reviewers hail the customer service team, the service technicians’ attention to detail and an overall knowledgeable and pleasant team to do business with. Some customers did cite issues with the cancellation and contract transferring process, but overall we found the service was satisfactory to most reviewers.
I have been with Vector for years and I trust them. My interactions have all been great. Kevin arrived early and was [courteous] and professional. He was thorough and made sure that everything was done right and wanted me to be completely happy. I would highly recommend him!!”
When it comes to prices, ADT and Vector Security are pretty similar, although the benefit of combining monitoring with the monthly cost puts Vector ahead by just a bit. However, ADT has more industry experience and more clear information about the product it sells. Plus, customers note Vector Security’s complicated cancellation policy and lack of upfront information about contracts, which might turn some individuals off.
The best way to choose which one makes the most sense for you between these two companies might be to talk to a representative from each to learn more. This may require a bit more work, but it will likely result in your making a more confident decision.
ADT is best for someone looking for a professional security solution who might move in the future.
Vector Security is best for someone who doesn’t want to worry about multiple payment options and plans on staying in the Eastern U.S.
