ADT and Frontpoint are two popular security providers, but each serves a different segment of customers. Both companies offer home security packages with professional monitoring in addition to smart home equipment and security camera options. While ADT stands out for its longevity in the industry, Frontpoint is well-known for its great customer service. Learn more by checking out this category-by-category comparison.
Compare ADT vs. Frontpoint
ADT is perhaps the most widely recognized name in home security, with over a century of experience and a diverse lineup of products, services, and optional add-ons — not to mention a six-month money-back guarantee and $500 theft protection guarantee. Nevertheless, Frontpoint is also a leading provider, offering customizable packages, do-it-yourself installation, and a 30-day risk-free trial.
Professional monitoring
Tie: ADT & FrontpointYou’ll get 24/7 professional monitoring from both providers. Depending on the monitoring plan that you choose, the cost will vary. Professional monitoring means that you won’t have to keep tabs on your own security, and there is a dedicated team of professionals ready to help in the event of an emergency.
Industry experience
Winner: ADTADT takes the win as the provider with the most industry experience. Protecting customers for over 145 years, ADT is trusted by over 7 million customers for security services and home automation products. Frontpoint is newer in the industry but still garners recognition for its excellent customer service.
No contract
Winner: FrontpointFrontpoint no longer requires you to sign a contract for its service. You now pay a monitoring fee month-to-month and can cancel at any time. ADT requires you to enter into a 36-month contract to get its monitoring service at the best available price.
Cheaper base package
Winner: ADTADT packages include the cost of equipment, so you will essentially be paying for those products in your monthly fee. However, you’re locked into those devices in a long-term contract. Frontpoint allows you to customize your security set-up, but you’re paying for that equipment upfront. ADT makes payments more manageable, but you may end up paying more over time.
No installation fee
Winner: FrontpointWith Frontpoint Security, there is no installation fee, which allows you to save some extra money when purchasing a security system. ADT professional installation usually starts at $99. Frontpoint claims that its security systems can be installed in as little as 30 minutes.
Professional Monitoring
Tie: ADT & FrontpointYou’ll get 24/7 professional monitoring from both providers. Depending on the monitoring plan that you choose, the cost will vary. Professional monitoring means that you won’t have to keep tabs on your own security, and there is a dedicated team of professionals ready to help in the event of an emergency.
Mobile app access
Winner: FrontpointBoth ADT and Frontpoint help you stay connected through their mobile apps that you can download on your smartphone. You can arm or disarm your system as well as have access to home automation products. With ADT, you’ll need to purchase the Premium Protection with ADT Pulse for access, which costs $52.99 per month. With Frontpoint, you’ll automatically get access to the mobile app no matter your package or monitoring plan.
Summary: ADT vs. Frontpoint
Professional monitoring starts at | $36.99/mo. | $34.99/mo. |
|---|---|---|
Contract length | 36 months | No contract |
Installation type | Professional | DIY |
BBB Rating | A+ | A+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about ADT and Frontpoint
ADT security systems require professional installation, and ADT home security installation typically starts at $99. Frontpoint security systems are designed to be self-installed, and there is no installation fee.
ADT requires a 12-month contract, but Frontpoint does not require a contract.
ADT security has several security packages you can choose from: the Protection Plus Package, Smart Protection Package, Video Lite Package and the Complete Package. The Protection Plus Package provides access to 24/7 professional monitoring, sensors, signage and more. Frontpoint offers five packages, and these include: Safe Home Starter, Safe Home Everyday, Safe Home Plus, Safe Home Select, and the Safe Home Preferred packages.
The price of professional monitoring varies for both providers depending on your equipment. Professional monitoring for ADT costs between $45.99/mo. – $57.99/mo. Monitoring for Frontpoint services costs between $44.99/mo. – $49.99/mo. With both providers, you’ll also get essential equipment with every package like the control panel, keypad, door/window sensors, motion sensors, and signage.