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Vector Security vs. ADT Self Setup

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    Vector Security and Blue by ADT (now ADT Self Setup)

    What is the difference between Vector Security and ADT Self Setup?

    Vector Security and ADT Self Setup both offer a wide range of products and services for homeowners. Vector has a more limited availability area compared to ADT, which is one of the most well-known and most used security companies in America. However, Vector’s payment plans can be a big selling point for many individuals who can’t put down as much money upfront.

    Installation and cost

    vector security logoadt self setup logo
    Installation typeProfessionalDIY
    Installation feeIncludedNone
    Upfront cost$99 to $199$179.99 to $579.99
    Trial periodOne-year warranty on equipment30 days of free monitoring
    Contract termsVariesNo-contract options
    vector security logoProfessionalIncluded$99 to $199One-year warranty on equipmentVaries
    adt self setup logoDIYNone$179.99 to $579.9930 days of free monitoringNo-contract options

    Monitoring plans and pricing

    vector security logoadt self setup logo
    Monitoring price range$46 to $64$24.99 to $34.99 per month
    Monitoring optionsProfessionalProfessional or self-monitored
    Self-monitoringFree
    Upgraded self-monitoringNot offered
    24/7 professional monitoringStarting at $46$24.99/month
    Upgraded professional monitoring$64Not offered
    vector security logo$46 to $64ProfessionalStarting at $46$64
    adt self setup logo$24.99 to $34.99 per monthProfessional or self-monitoredFreeNot offered$24.99/monthNot offered

    Security equipment

    vector security 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 buttonMedical panic button
    Yard sign
    vector security logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor camerasNot listedMedical panic button
    adt self setup logoBothIndoor and outdoor cameras

    Smart-home features

    vector security logoadt self setup logo
    Smart locks
    Smart lights
    Smart thermostatCompatible with Nest
    Garage door control
    Temperature sensorNot listed
    Water sensor
    Smoke detector
    CO detector
    vector security logoNot listed
    adt self setup logoCompatible with Nest

    Technology

    vector security logoadt self setup logo
    Mobile app
    Mobile app monitoring
    iOS rating4.74.4
    Android rating3.94.2
    Notification/alert optionsEmail, text and pushPush notifications and email
    Home automation capabilities
    Voice integration
    Amazon Alexa
    Google Home
    Other integrationsSmart plugsIFTTT
    vector security logo4.73.9Email, text and pushSmart plugs
    adt self setup logo4.44.2Push notifications and emailIFTTT

    Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

    vector security logoadt self setup logo
    Overall star rating4.43.4
    Verified customer reviewsVector Security reviewsADT Self Setup reviews
    vector security logo4.4Vector Security reviews
    adt self setup logo3.4ADT Self Setup reviews

    All information accurate as of publishing date.

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      Vector Security

      Vector Security offers home security packages in the Eastern United States. Its packages are priced at a monthly rate, and monitoring and installation are wrapped into the cost. With Vector, you get access to more products per package than with some competitors, but its smart-home offerings are pretty limited.

      You have the option to choose between a few different types of contracts, including ones where you pay for your system upfront to reduce your overall monthly cost. This flexibility is a good additional benefit. All three packages include the company’s SecurityCare Plus warranty plan, which includes free inspections, battery replacements and move services.

      Vector Security packages

      • Essential Security: The Essential Security package comes with a wireless control panel, three door/window sensors and a motion detector. Customers also receive yard signs and window decals. This plan starts at $44.95 and does not require an upfront payment.
      • Home Automation: The Home Automation package includes the equipment from the Essential package plus a video camera and access to the mobile app for mobile monitoring. Customers must pay a $99 down payment with this option, and the monthly payment starts at $59.95.
      • Connected Home: The Connected Home 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 with a $149 upfront payment.

      What Vector Security customers say

      Vector Security reviews on ConsumerAffairs show mostly positive feedback from customers. Common themes in reviews include compliments to the service technicians and company representatives, and many people note the attention to detail shown by employees. Some reviewers mentioned issues with troubleshooting the system and canceling their contract.

      Vector Security has a great reputation. Our technician [Aaron] did the security system in both of our homes. He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and arrived on time. Explained everything to us in detail. We were very pleased with the quality of his work.”

      Catherine of Medford, NJ

      ADT Self Setup

      When it comes to experience and expertise in the industry, it’s hard to beat the reputation of ADT. ADT Self Setup offers DIY installation, and the company does not require you to sign a contract. You can build your own security system package or choose from one of its preset packages.

      ADT Self Setup plans

      • Build Your Own: Starting at $179.99, the Build Your Own system offers the base station and the mobile app. From there, you can add your own equipment. This flexibility can be great for some customers. It’s $24.99 or $34.99 per month to add monitoring.
      • Starter System: For $379.99, you can get the Starter System, which includes the base station and two window/door sensors. This package also includes ADT stickers and yard signs. Monitoring is $24.99 or $34.99 per month.
      • Premium System: The Starter Plus System is $579.98 and includes the base station, four window/door sensors, two motion sensors, four window stickers and a yard sign. Like the other packages, monitoring is $24.99 or $34.99 per month.

      What ADT Self Setup customers say

      ADT Self Setup customers leave mostly positive feedback on ConsumerAffairs, with happy customers commenting on a knowledgeable staff, competitive prices and quick notifications with the monitoring service. Some customers commented about being billed for early contract termination and said they didn’t find the DIY system user-friendly.

      [Technical] support staff [is] very knowledgeable. Great turnaround time with scheduling services and really good prices on security systems. I have had other systems but ADT is by far the best I had so far.”

      Paula of Phenix City, AL

      Bottom line: Vector Security or ADT Self Setup?

      ADT Self Setup doesn’t require contracts but does have pricy upfront equipment costs. Vector Security has a limited range of smart-home automation capabilities but includes an above-average warranty with each package.

      • Vector Security is best for customers who aren’t able to put any money down at the beginning of their service.
      • ADT Self Setup is best for someone who wants a DIY system with the flexibility of not signing a contract.
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