ADT vs. Vector Security

Can't decide? Customize your comparison

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    Written by Taylor Sansano
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    Edited by Justin Martino
    ADT and Vector Security

    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

    adt logovector security logo
    Installation typePro or DIYProfessional
    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$99 to $199
    Trial period6-month money-back guaranteeOne-year warranty on equipment
    Contract terms36 months (60 months if financing equipment)Varies
    adt logoPro or DIY$99 to $199 (may be included in package price)$599 to $1,049 upfront or $9.98 to $17.48 monthly for 60 months6-month money-back guarantee36 months (60 months if financing equipment)
    vector security logoProfessionalIncluded$99 to $199One-year warranty on equipmentVaries

    Monitoring plans and pricing

    adt logovector security logo
    Monitoring price range$34.99 to $57.99$46 to $64
    Monitoring optionsProfessionalProfessional
    Self-monitoring
    Upgraded self-monitoring
    24/7 professional monitoringStarting at $34.99Starting at $46
    Upgraded professional monitoring$57.99/month$64
    adt logo$34.99 to $57.99ProfessionalStarting at $34.99$57.99/month
    vector security logo$46 to $64ProfessionalStarting at $46$64

    Security equipment

    adt logovector security logo
    Wired or wireless?Wired and wirelessWireless
    Camera optionsIndoor & outdoor camerasIndoor and outdoor cameras
    Video doorbell
    Control panel
    Motion sensor
    Entry sensor
    Glass break sensor
    Keychain remote
    SirenNot listedNot listed
    Panic buttonNot listedMedical panic button
    Yard sign
    adt logoWired and wirelessIndoor & outdoor camerasNot listedNot listed
    vector security logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor camerasNot listedMedical panic button

    Smart-home features

    adt logovector security logo
    Smart locks
    Smart lights
    Smart thermostat
    Garage door control
    Temperature sensorNot listed
    Water sensor
    Smoke detector
    CO detector
    adt logo
    vector security logoNot listed

    Technology

    adt logovector security logo
    Mobile appMyADT Mobile App for account management; ADT Control for system management
    Mobile app monitoringYes, via ADT Control app
    iOS rating4.8 for MyADT; 4.8 for ADT Control4.7
    Android rating4.4 for MyADT; 4.8 for ADT Control3.9
    Notification/alert optionsApp, text and emailEmail, text and push
    Home automation capabilities
    Voice integration
    Amazon Alexa
    Google Home
    Other integrationsAlexa, Google Home and Samsung devicesAmazon Echo, Google Home and Apple Siri
    adt logoMyADT Mobile App for account management; ADT Control for system managementYes, via ADT Control app4.8 for MyADT; 4.8 for ADT Control4.4 for MyADT; 4.8 for ADT ControlApp, text and emailAlexa, Google Home and Samsung devices
    vector security logo4.73.9Email, text and pushAmazon Echo, Google Home and Apple Siri

    Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

    adt logovector security logo
    Overall star rating3.83.9
    Verified customer reviewsADT reviewsVector Security reviews
    adt logo3.8ADT reviews
    vector security logo3.9Vector Security reviews

    All information accurate as of publishing date.

    Looking to protect what matters most? Get matched with your best security system.

      ADT

      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 Google Nest 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.”

      Mary of Columbus, OH

      Vector Security

      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!!”

      Chris of Bridgeport, WV

      Bottom line: ADT or Vector Security?

      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.
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