Xfinity vs. ADT Blu

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

Xfinity Home is Comcast's security and smart home service built to work alongside its internet and cable offerings. It's designed for current Comcast subscribers who want a single bill and a professionally installed system.

ADT Blu is ADT's affordable DIY security line, offering both self- and professional monitoring with no long-term commitment. It uses customizable packages, the ADT+ mobile app and a straightforward setup process.

What we like about Xfinity

• Service integration: Xfinity Home lets customers manage security alongside other Comcast services on one bill, reducing administrative overhead.
• Widespread availability: Because it operates within Comcast's existing service footprint, Xfinity Home is accessible to millions of households across the country.

What to consider: Xfinity Home requires an active Xfinity Internet subscription, so it's not an option for non-Comcast customers. You'll also need to keep a minimum internet package active to maintain your security service.

What we like about ADT Blu

• Hands-on security: Customers can build their own package, handle installation and decide between self-monitoring and professional 24/7 ADT monitoring.
• Month-to-month contract: There's no long-term commitment — canceling is as simple as stopping your recurring monthly payment.

What to consider: Setup is entirely DIY, and the product lineup is relatively limited since ADT Blu is a newer offering. Other ADT products are not compatible with the ADT Blu system.

Xfinity vs. ADT Blu: System and installation

Xfinity Home runs on a wireless setup managed through the Xfinity Home app and xFi Gateway, while ADT Blu is a fully DIY wireless system controlled via the ADT Base and ADT+ app.

Xfinity system and installation

• System type: Xfinity Home uses wireless equipment with cellular backup included. Smart devices such as lights, locks and thermostats are managed through the Xfinity Home app, with automation handled by the xFi Gateway and touchscreen panel.
• Installation options: Professional installation by an Xfinity technician is required. Fees vary but are frequently waived or discounted as part of promotional offers.

Xfinity equipment costs

Starter kits range from $150 to $300 upfront. Equipment is sold in bundled packages and may require a down payment if financed.

ADT Blu system and installation

• System type: ADT Blu uses wireless equipment connected through the ADT Base hub. All controls and monitoring functions are accessible via the ADT+ app.
• Installation options: Setup is DIY only. The process is designed to be simple, and a 24/7 help line is available if you need assistance.

ADT Blu equipment costs

Bundles range from $199 to $699 and can be customized to fit your needs. Individual a la carte items are also available.

Xfinity vs. ADT Blu: Monitoring plan costs

Xfinity's Pro Protection plan typically requires a 24-month contract, while ADT Blu keeps things flexible with month-to-month billing for both self- and professional monitoring options.

Xfinity monitoring plans

• Self Protection: $10 per month. Covers up to five cameras with 24/7 continuous video recording but does not include police dispatch.
• Pro Protection / Home Security: $45 to $55 per month, depending on current promotions. Includes 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup and smart home automation.

Contract commitment: The Pro Protection plan generally requires a 24-month contract. The Self Protection plan at $10 per month is typically month-to-month with no contract required.

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 remotely and locally.
• Pro-Protect (without cameras): $24.99/month. Builds on Self-Protect with an emergency phrase, Alarm Messenger, MySafety and cellular backup.
• Pro-Protect (with cameras): $34.99/month. Adds video verification to the Pro-Protect tier. Life safety professional monitoring is also available at this tier for an additional $3/month.

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

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Xfinity vs. ADT Blu: Equipment and technology

Xfinity Home bundles app-controlled smart devices into its packages, while ADT Blu offers customizable wireless equipment managed through the ADT+ app.

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

What Xfinity customers say

Xfinity customers leave mixed feedback about the products and services in reviews on ConsumerAffairs. Comments from happy customers often include positive feedback about the cameras, mobile app and quality of the products, calling the equipment a good value. Other customers describe issues with dealing with customer service that influenced their overall opinion of the service.

Bottom line: Xfinity or ADT Blu?

Choose Xfinity if you're already a Comcast subscriber and want to roll security into your existing internet bill — just know it requires maintaining an active Xfinity Internet plan and typically locks you into a 24-month contract on the professional monitoring tier.

Choose ADT Blu if you want a wireless security system you can install yourself, customize to your needs and monitor without signing a long-term contract — but keep in mind that other ADT products are not compatible with the ADT Blu line.

» MORE: SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu