ADT security systems require professional installation, and ADT installation typically starts at $99. Frontpoint security systems are designed to be self-installed, and there is no installation fee.
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.
Best for Industry Experience
ADT Home Security
- 140+ years in business
- 6-month money back guarantee
- $500 Theft Protection guarantee
Best for Customer Service
Frontpoint Security
- Month-to-month contract
- Renter-friendly services and equipment
- Good customer service
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 6-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.
Industry Experience
Winner: ADT
ADT security takes the win as the provider with the most industry experience. Protecting customers for over 140 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: Frontpoint
Frontpoint no longer requires you to sign a contract for their 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 for their service.
Cheaper Base Package
Winner: ADT
ADT’s Traditional Package is actually cheaper than Frontpoint’s Safe Home Starter Package. The ADT Traditional Package costs $99, while the Safe Home Starter Package costs $255.96. If you’re on a budget, we’d recommend ADT’s base package as you’ll get everything you need for essential intrusion detection.
No Installation Fee
Winner: Frontpoint
With Frontpoint Security, there is no installation fee, and this allows you to save some extra money when purchasing a security system. ADT installation usually starts at $99. Frontpoint claims that their security systems can be installed in as little as 30 minutes.
Mobile App Access
Tie: ADT & Frontpoint
Both 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 either the Control or Video Package to access. With Frontpoint, you’ll automatically get access to the mobile app no matter your package or monitoring plan.
Professional Monitoring
Tie: ADT and Frontpoint
You’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.
Summary: ADT vs. Frontpoint
Both ADT and Frontpoint are great home security solutions to consider. If you’re looking for a more cost effective solution, we’d recommend ADT as Frontpoint equipment and monitoring can be more expensive depending on your selections. If, however, you’d like to avoid an installation fee and don’t want to be tied down to a contract, we’d recommend Frontpoint.
Research ADT Research Frontpoint| Professional monitoring starts at | $44.99/mo. | $35.99/mo. |
| Contract length | No contract | 3 years |
| Installation type | DIY | Professional |
| BBB Rating | A+ | A+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about ADT and Frontpoint
Do ADT and Frontpoint provide professional installation?
Do ADT and Frontpoint require long-term contracts?
ADT requires a 36-month contract, but Frontpoint does not require a contract.
What features do ADT and Frontpoint offer in their packages?
ADT has several security packages you can choose from: the Traditional Package, Control Package and the Video Package. The Traditional 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.
How much does professional monitoring cost for ADT and Frontpoint?
The price of professional monitoring varies for both providers depending on your equipment. Professional monitoring for ADT costs between $35.99/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.
