Frontpoint vs. ADT Self Setup

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ADT Self Setup and Frontpoint
person setting up their frontpoint security system via phone app

What is the difference between Frontpoint and ADT Self Setup?

Frontpoint and ADT Self Setup are two recognizable names in the home security game, each with different offerings. Frontpoint's catalog of equipment runs the full gamut, including smart technology, cameras and a variety of sensors. ADT Self Setup has fewer equipment options but has more affordable monthly pricing and the option to self-monitor. Neither company requires a contract or professional installation to get started.

Installation and cost

frontpoint logoblue by adt logo
Installation typeDIYDIY
Installation feeNoneNone
Upfront cost$392.40 to $797.88 upfront; financing available$179.99 to $579.99
Trial period30-day risk-free guarantee30 days of free monitoring
Contract terms36 months (if financing)No-contract options
frontpoint logoDIYNone$392.40 to $797.88 upfront; financing available30-day risk-free guarantee36 months (if financing)
blue by adt logoDIYNone$179.99 to $579.9930 days of free monitoringNo-contract options

Monitoring plans and pricing

frontpoint logoblue by adt logo
Monitoring price range$50/month$24.99 to $34.99 per month
Monitoring optionsProfessionalProfessional or self-monitored
Self-monitoringNot offeredFree
Upgraded self-monitoringNot offeredNot offered
24/7 professional monitoring$50/month$24.99/month
Upgraded professional monitoringNot offeredNot offered
frontpoint logo$50/monthProfessionalNot offeredNot offered$50/monthNot offered
blue by adt logo$24.99 to $34.99 per monthProfessional or self-monitoredFreeNot offered$24.99/monthNot offered

Security equipment

frontpoint logoadt self setup logo
Wired or wireless?WirelessBoth
Camera optionsIndoor and outdoor camerasIndoor and outdoor cameras
Video doorbell
Control panel
Motion sensor
Entry sensor
Glass break sensor
Keychain remote
SirenNot listed
Panic buttonPanic pendant
Yard sign
frontpoint logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor camerasNot listedPanic pendant
adt self setup logoBothIndoor and outdoor cameras

Smart-home features

frontpoint logoadt self setup logo
Smart locks
Smart lights
Smart thermostatCompatible with Nest
Garage door controlNot listed
Temperature sensorNot listed
Water sensor
Smoke detector
CO detector
frontpoint logoNot listedNot listed
adt self setup logoCompatible with Nest

Technology

frontpoint logoadt self setup logo
Mobile app
Mobile app monitoring
iOS rating4.44.4
Android rating3.34.2
Notification/alert optionsEmail, text and pushPush notifications and email
Home automation capabilities
Voice integration
Amazon Alexa
Google Home
Other integrationsAmazon Alexa, Google, Siri, Z-WaveIFTTT
frontpoint logo4.43.3Email, text and pushAmazon Alexa, Google, Siri, Z-Wave
adt self setup logo4.44.2Push notifications and emailIFTTT

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

frontpoint logoadt self setup logo
Overall star rating3.63.0
Verified customer reviewsFrontpoint reviewsADT Self Setup
frontpoint logo3.6Frontpoint reviews
adt self setup logo3.0ADT Self Setup

All information accurate as of publishing date.

Quick and easy. Get matched with a Home Security partner.

    Frontpoint

    Frontpoint is a leading home security company with packages suitable for everything from small apartments to large smart homes. Its systems are simple to install, and you can use the system’s voice control feature or integrate it with systems like Alexa or Google Home.

    Products can be purchased online with financing options and free promotional equipment. Professional monitoring is available with all packages, and long-term contracts are not required if you purchase the equipment upfront.

    Frontpoint packages

    • The Fortress is Frontpoint’s most comprehensive package. It includes a hub, a keypad, two motion sensors, six door/window sensors, one indoor camera, one smoke and heat sensor, a yard sign and three window decals.
    • The Bunker includes a hub, a keypad, a motion sensor, three door/window sensors, an indoor camera, a smoke and heat sensor, a yard sign and three window decals.
    • The Safehouse comes with a hub, a keypad, a motion sensor, two door/window sensors, a yard sign and three window decals.
    • Build Your Own systems come with a hub and a keypad, and you can purchase additional devices separately.

    What Frontpoint customers say

    Frontpoint security systems enjoy many positive reviews on our site. Reviewers comment on the high quality of service and how simple the equipment was to set up themselves. Most customers were impressed with the product and felt like their concerns were addressed, but some had negative experiences and said certain equipment didn’t work correctly or that the billing and service representatives were not communicative.

    I've been a Frontpoint customer for years now. The installation was easy-shmeezy. You stick on the sensors where they're supposed to go, Frontpoint helps you to activate the system, and you're done. I feel safe having the system and it works well. I like the fact that I can control it with my phone.”

    Gerald of Marietta, GA

    ADT Self Setup

    ADT Self Setup is a simpler home security option that offers DIY installation and everything you should need to keep your home safe. While it's missing some of the more advanced smart-home devices, including smart locks and lighting, the company makes up for it with affordable pricing and a 30-day trial period. This lightweight system is ideal for DIYers and those on a budget.

    ADT Self Setup plans

    Once you have chosen a ADT Self Setup security system, you must pick a monitoring plan. ADT Self Setup currently offers two plans:

    • DIY monitoring: With the self-monitoring option, your system sends mobile alerts and notifications over your home's Wi-Fi network. This option is free, but authorities won't be alerted if there’s an emergency.
    • 24/7 professional monitoring: The professional monitoring plan costs $24.99 or $34.99 per month, with the first month free. This plan includes professional monitoring over Wi-Fi with cellular backup. If an emergency happens in your home, authorities will be alerted.

    What ADT Self Setup customers say

    ADT Self Setup reviews are generally positive. Happy customers frequently mention the company’s knowledgeable staff and quick notifications on monitoring. A few comments mention difficulty with self-installation, so you may have better luck with another system if you’re not comfortable with DIY setup.

    This system is the best out there, the customer is also AMAZING. I called with a question they were super helpful and solved my issue. I love their tech and security touchpad. It's also really nice that it communicates through ethernet on my network AND cellular backup.”

    Tony of San Diego, CA

    Bottom line: Frontpoint or ADT Self Setup?

    Frontpoint and ADT Self Setup offer many of the same home security devices, with a few differences between the two companies. Frontpoint has more smart-home options, such as smart locks and thermostats. Both systems involve DIY installation, but only ADT Self Setup offers the option of self-monitoring. Both offer a 30-day trial period to guarantee you're satisfied with your new system.

    • Frontpoint is best for those who don't mind paying a monthly cost for professional monitoring, especially if their home has smart-home capabilities.
    • ADT Self Setup is best for customers on a budget or those interested in DIY monitoring.
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