ADT vs. Vector Security
Comparing two traditional home security providers
Partner Disclosures
Theft Protection Guarantee: Customer may receive reimbursement of up to five hundred dollars ($500) of Customer’s homeowner’s insurance deductible (if any) if, and only if, ALL requirements for Theft Protection Guarantee are met to ADT’s reasonable satisfaction. Requires purchase and continual monthly payment of professional monitoring from the time of original activation to be eligible. Customer must request reimbursement within 60 days of property loss. Request must be mailed to ADT and include: Theft Protection Guarantee certificate signed by Customer, a letter from Customer requesting reimbursement, a copy of the police report, and a copy of the accepted insurance claim. ADT reserves the right to reject any application for reimbursement that does not comply with all of the requirements.
ADT Money-Back Guarantee: Money-back guarantee only applies after ADT has made attempts to resolve a system-related issue and has not been able to resolve that issue within the first six (6) months of your original activation. Requires purchase and continual monthly payment of both QSP (Quality Service Plan, ADT’s extended limited warranty) and professional monitoring from the time of original activation. ADT Money-Back Guarantee is not transferable. Equipment must be returned before a refund will be processed. Conditions preventing normal system operation cannot be caused by the customer.
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ADT and Vector Security are both professionally installed home security providers. The best fit depends on your region and contract preferences.
ADT is best for homeowners who want reliable monitoring and don't mind signing a long contract.
Jump to insightVector Security is best for homeowners who value personalized service and professional installation and are comfortable with custom pricing.
Jump to insightADT vs. Vector Security: Quick comparison
 |  | |
| Coverage |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | ||
| Starting equipment cost | $599 | Custom quote |
| Starting monitoring fee | $28.99/month | $44.95/month |
| Contract terms | 36 months | 36 months |
| Trial period | 6 months | Not stated |
| Installation | Professional | Professional |
| Camera options | Indoor, outdoor and doorbell | Indoor, outdoor and doorbell |
| Home automation | | |
| Monitoring options | Professional | Professional |
| Availability | Nationwide | 18 states |
| iOS rating | 4.8 | 4.7 |
| Android rating | 4.6 | 3.7 |
ADT vs. Vector Security: What's the difference?
With more than 140 years in the industry, ADT is the kind of provider you hire and then forget about — a certified technician handles setup, and 24/7 monitoring runs in the background from there. Its Google Nest integration adds a layer of smart home capability, including facial recognition through compatible cameras and doorbells.
Vector Security is one of the largest independent home security companies in the U.S. It builds each system using the Alarm.com platform and relies on local technicians to design and install a setup tailored to your home. The sales process is consultative rather than catalog-based, so expect a custom quote rather than a published price list.
What we like about ADT
- Service reliability: ADT backs its service with guarantees, including theft protection and a six-month money-back guarantee.
- Smart integration: Its system connects with Google Nest cameras, doorbells and smart locks, unlocking features like facial recognition.
What to consider: The 36-month contract is the most significant trade-off. Equipment costs are also on the higher end, particularly when compared to self-install alternatives.
What we like about Vector Security
- Local presence: As an independent provider with an established footprint, Vector Security delivers hands-on customer support through local service teams across its coverage area.
- Tailored solutions: The consultative sales process means your system is designed around your home's specific layout and risk profile rather than a one-size-fits-all package.
What to consider: Pricing is not published online — you'll need to speak with a representative to get equipment and monitoring quotes. Professional installation is the only option, so there's no way to reduce upfront costs by going the DIY route.
ADT vs. Vector Security: System and installation
Both ADT and Vector Security require a certified technician to install your system. Here is a closer look at what each provider offers.
ADT system and installation
- System type: ADT's equipment is wireless and communicates over cellular networks. Every plan includes professional monitoring.
- Installation options: A certified ADT technician handles the full installation, with fees typically ranging from $99 to $199 — though these are often waived through promotional offers.
ADT equipment costs
ADT packages start at $599 and can exceed $1,500 depending on the size and complexity of your setup. If the upfront cost is a concern, you can spread equipment costs across your contract term through financing.
Vector Security system and installation
- System type: Vector Security runs on the Alarm.com platform and offers wireless equipment, including high-definition cameras and energy management tools.
- Installation options: Professional installation is required. A local Vector Security technician visits your home to custom-design and install the system.
Vector Security equipment costs
Vector Security prices equipment through custom quotes following an in-home consultation, so no standardized pricing is listed online. You can pay for equipment outright or finance it, typically with a smaller initial payment and the remaining balance folded into your monthly fees.
ADT vs. Vector Security: Monitoring plan costs
Both ADT and Vector Security back their systems with around-the-clock professional monitoring.
| | |
| Coverage | | |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | ||
| Monitoring price range | $28.99 to $59.99/month | $44.95 to $69.95/month |
| Monitoring options | Professional | Professional |
| Self-monitoring | | |
| Upgraded self-monitoring | Not offered | Not offered |
| 24/7 professional monitoring | $28.99/month | $44.95/month |
| Upgraded professional monitoring | $59.99/month | $69.95/month |
ADT monitoring plans
- Secure Plan: Starts at $28.99 to $34.99 per month. Covers burglary, fire and carbon monoxide monitoring.
- Smart Plan: Starts at $39.99 to $44.99 per month. Adds remote app control and smart home automation.
- Complete Plan: Starts at $49.99 to $59.99 per month. Includes cloud video storage, video verification for cameras and doorbells and Google Nest-powered smart home automation.
Contract commitment: ADT requires a 36-month agreement in most states, with a 24-month option available to California residents. Early cancellation triggers a fee equal to 75% of the remaining contract balance.
Vector Security monitoring plans
- Essential Security: Starts at $44.95 per month. Covers basic intrusion monitoring and includes professional installation.
- Home Automation: Starts at $59.95 per month. Adds remote app control and integration with smart devices like lights and locks.
- Connected Home: Starts at $69.95 per month. Includes video monitoring and full smart home capabilities through the Alarm.com mobile app.
Contract commitment: Vector Security requires a 36-month contract and runs a credit check during the signup process. If you cancel before the term ends, early termination fees apply.
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ADT vs. Vector Security: Equipment and technology
ADT brings a broad equipment catalog to the table, while Vector Security pairs its hardware with the proven Alarm.com platform.
| | |
| Coverage | | |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | ||
| Wired or wireless? | Wireless | Wireless |
| Camera options | Indoor, outdoor and doorbell | Indoor, outdoor and doorbell |
| Video doorbell | | |
| Control panel | | |
| Motion sensor | | |
| Entry sensor | | |
| Glass break sensor | | |
| Keychain remote | | |
| Siren | | |
| Panic button | | |
| Yard sign | | |
| Smart locks | | |
| Smart lights | | |
| Smart thermostat | | |
| Garage door control | | |
| Temperature sensor | | |
| Water sensor | | |
| Smoke detector | | |
| CO detector | | |
| Mobile app | | |
| Mobile app monitoring | | |
| iOS rating | 4.8 | 4.7 |
| Android rating | 4.6 | 3.7 |
| Notification/alert options | Email, text and push | Email, text and push |
| Home automation capabilities | | |
| Voice integration | | |
| Amazon Alexa | | |
| Google Home | | |
Reputation on ConsumerAffairs
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
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?
Choose ADT if you want a hands-off security experience backed by a long operating history and don't mind locking in a multi-year contract. The cost is higher than DIY alternatives, but you're paying for well-established monitoring infrastructure and Google Nest compatibility.
Choose Vector Security if you want a system professionally designed for your specific home and are comfortable getting a custom quote before committing. If upfront pricing and shorter terms matter more to you, look at providers that publish their rates online.
» MORE: Vector Security vs. Frontpoint
