Frontpoint vs. ADT Blu

Frontpoint vs. ADT Blu: What's the difference?

Frontpoint is a major DIY security provider that pairs high-quality hardware with the Alarm.com platform, delivering smart home integration and professional-grade performance without requiring a technician to show up at your door.

ADT Blu is ADT's affordable DIY product line, offering customizable wireless packages managed through the well-reviewed ADT+ app. It supports both self-monitoring and professional monitoring with no long-term commitment required.

What we like about Frontpoint

• Alarm.com technology: Frontpoint delivers the professional-grade features and reliability typically associated with high-end installer-based systems, but at DIY prices.
• Preconfigured equipment: Sensors and the hub ship already programmed to your account, so setup is fast and doesn't require technical expertise.
• Price lock guarantee: Your monthly monitoring rate won't increase for the duration of your agreement.
• Cellular backup included: Every professional monitoring tier includes cellular backup, keeping your system active even if your internet or power goes down.

What to consider: Frontpoint's monthly fees run higher than most budget DIY competitors like Ring and SimpliSafe. It also doesn't offer professional installation — you handle setup yourself, though the preconfigured equipment makes the process straightforward.

What we like about ADT Blu

• Hands-on security: ADT Blu lets you build your own package, install the system yourself and choose between self-monitoring or 24/7 professional ADT monitoring.
• Month-to-month contract: There's no long-term commitment. Cancel your recurring payments at any time to end your subscription.

What to consider: Because ADT Blu is a relatively new product line, its equipment selection is more limited than other ADT offerings. Existing ADT equipment is not compatible with the ADT Blu system.

Frontpoint vs. ADT Blu: System and installation

Neither system requires a professional installer. Frontpoint is built on the Alarm.com platform and includes crash-and-smash protection, while ADT Blu connects all devices through the ADT Base and is managed via the ADT+ app.

Frontpoint system and installation

• System type: Frontpoint uses wireless sensors paired with a central hub and keypad, all powered by the Alarm.com platform. The system includes crash-and-smash protection and geo-services for added reliability.
• Installation options: DIY only. Equipment arrives preconfigured for your account and setup is guided through the app. Professional installation is not available.

Frontpoint equipment costs

Starter packages typically run from $69 to $419 depending on current promotions and whether cameras are included. All equipment is purchased outright, and individual sensors are competitively priced. Frequent sales can significantly reduce the cost.

ADT Blu system and installation

• System type: ADT Blu uses wireless equipment connected through the ADT Base. The system is controlled and monitored through the ADT+ app.
• Installation options: DIY only. Setup is simple and a 24/7 help line is available if you need assistance.

ADT Blu equipment costs

Bundles range from $199 to $699 and are fully customizable. Individual a la carte items are also available for purchase.

Frontpoint vs. ADT Blu: Monitoring plan costs

Frontpoint's professional monitoring is bundled into its higher-tier monthly plans, while ADT Blu offers both self-monitoring and professional monitoring options at lower starting price points, all on month-to-month terms.

Frontpoint monitoring plans

• Ultimate Monitoring: Approximately $50 per month. Covers 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, crash-and-smash protection, full mobile app access for video streaming and home automation, environmental monitoring for fire and flood, and smart home control.
• Video-Only (self-monitoring): Approximately $15 per month. Lets you record and view video footage but does not include professional dispatch.

Contract commitment: A 36-month agreement is standard when you take advantage of the lowest upfront equipment pricing or use financing. A month-to-month option is often available if you purchase the hub and sensors outright.

ADT Blu monitoring plans

• Video Connect: $9.99/month. Includes unlimited devices, smart notifications and access to the ADT+ app.
• Self-Protect: $14.99/month. Includes everything in Video Connect, plus the ability to arm and disarm remotely and locally.
• Pro-Protect (without cameras): $24.99/month. Includes Self-Protect features, plus emergency phrase, Alarm Messenger, MySafety and cellular backup.
• Pro-Protect (with cameras): $34.99/month. Includes all Pro-Protect features, plus video verification. Life safety professional monitoring can be added to this tier for an extra $3/month.

Contract commitment: ADT Blu has no long-term contracts. All monitoring plans renew on a month-to-month basis and can be canceled at any time.

» COMPARE: Frontpoint vs. ADT

Frontpoint vs. ADT Blu: Equipment and technology

Frontpoint's Alarm.com platform brings advanced automation and geo-services to the DIY space, while ADT Blu offers customizable wireless packages managed through the well-reviewed ADT+ app.

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

Bottom line: Frontpoint or ADT Blu?

Choose Frontpoint if you want a DIY system backed by the Alarm.com platform and don't mind paying a higher monthly fee for advanced automation, a price lock guarantee and cellular backup included at every professional monitoring tier.

Choose ADT Blu if you want a customizable wireless system with transparent pricing, no long-term contract and the flexibility to switch between self-monitoring and professional monitoring — just keep in mind that existing ADT equipment won't work with the ADT Blu line.

» MORE: Ring vs. ADT Blu