Vivint vs. ADT Blu

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

Vivint is a full-service smart home security provider built around professionally installed, high-end hardware that works across its own ecosystem of smart devices. A Vivint system can include cameras, smart thermostats and voice assistant integration with Amazon Echo and Google Assistant.

ADT Blu is ADT's affordable do-it-yourself product line, offering both self-monitoring and professional monitoring options. It includes customizable packages, the well-reviewed ADT+ mobile app and no long-term contracts.

What we like about Vivint

• Proprietary technology: Vivint controls its entire technology stack, from its smart locks to outdoor cameras with intelligent person detection.
• Proactive security: The Smart Hub runs on-device analytics that can deter criminal activity — such as whistling at lurkers — before an alarm is triggered.
• Unified control: The Smart Hub serves as a single control point for security, lighting, locks and temperature across the home.

What to consider: The biggest hurdle is equipment cost — full systems can exceed $2,000. Vivint also requires financing contracts of up to 60 months, which is one of the longest commitments available in the industry.

What we like about ADT Blu

• Hands-on security: Customers can build their own package, handle installation and choose between self-monitoring or 24/7 professional ADT monitoring.
• Month-to-month contract: There's no long-term obligation. Cancel your monthly subscription at any time by simply stopping your recurring payments.

What to consider: Setup is entirely DIY, and the product selection may feel limited since the line is relatively new and is not compatible with other ADT products.

Vivint vs. ADT Blu: System and installation

Vivint requires a professional installer to set up its system around the Smart Hub panel, while ADT Blu is designed for self-installation using the ADT Base and the ADT+ app.

Vivint system and installation

• System type: Vivint uses wireless equipment built around the Vivint Smart Hub, a touchscreen control panel that serves as the system's core.
• Installation options: A Vivint Smart Home Pro handles all installations — self-installation is not an option. Fees typically run between $99 and $199, though they are often waived with promotional offers or higher-tier packages.

Vivint equipment costs

Starter packages begin around $599, and fully custom systems with multiple cameras can easily exceed $2,000. Equipment can be purchased outright or financed over 42- or 60-month terms.

ADT Blu system and installation

• System type: ADT Blu uses wireless equipment connected through the ADT Base hub. All controls and monitoring are handled through the ADT+ app.
• Installation options: DIY only. The setup process is straightforward, and a 24/7 help line is available if you run into issues.

ADT Blu equipment costs

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

Vivint vs. ADT Blu: Monitoring plan costs

Vivint bundles professional monitoring into multi-year financing contracts, while ADT Blu gives customers the choice between self-monitoring and professional monitoring on a flexible month-to-month basis.

Vivint monitoring plans

• Smart Security (sensors only): Starts at $24.99 per month for sensor-based professional monitoring with no camera component.
• Smart Home Video: Starts at around $44.99 per month, with an additional fee of approximately $5 per camera per month for cloud video storage.

Contract commitment: Customers who finance equipment — which is most buyers — sign a 42- or 60-month contract. Those who pay for all equipment upfront can opt for a month-to-month service agreement instead.

ADT Blu monitoring plans

• Video Connect: $9.99/month. Covers 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 the system remotely and locally.
• Pro-Protect (without cameras): $24.99/month. Adds an emergency phrase, Alarm Messenger, MySafety and cellular backup to the Self-Protect tier.
• Pro-Protect (with cameras): $34.99/month. Includes all Pro-Protect features plus video verification. Life safety professional monitoring is available as an add-on for an extra $3/month.

Contract commitment: ADT Blu does not require a long-term contract. All monitoring plans operate on a month-to-month basis.

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Vivint vs. ADT Blu: Equipment and technology

Vivint's premium, professionally installed hardware contrasts with ADT Blu's customizable DIY packages managed through the ADT+ app.

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

Bottom line: Vivint or ADT Blu?

Choose Vivint if you want a custom-designed system with cutting-edge technology and don't mind paying premium prices for white-glove service — just be prepared for long financing contracts if you don't pay upfront.

Choose ADT Blu if you want a highly customizable, DIY-installed system with no long-term contract and transparent pricing for both self-monitored and professionally monitored plans — but keep in mind that not all ADT products are compatible with the ADT Blu line.

» MORE: SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu