Blue by ADT and CPI Security are home security providers with advanced solutions. This guide will dive into what each provider offers and weigh the pros and cons.
Blue by ADT offers DIY home security surveillance backed by ADT, and CPI Security provides a full suite of home monitoring in the Southeast. As two home providers with different services and feature, they’re interesting to compare. Overall, Blue by ADT offers great DIY home security cameras that are perfect for renters and homeowners, whereas CPI Security is ideal for homeowners in the Southeast who want the full range of options including a whole-home system, surveillance, professional monitoring and installation. Let’s compare the two to see which works best for you.
The average CPI system costs at least $499 for CPI equipment. You can pay upfront or enter a 39- to 60-month contract to finance it over time. On the other hand, Blue by ADT cameras must be purchased upfront. Each camera costs $199.99 and the Blue Extender + Chime costs $49.99 to extend your Wi-Fi range. With cheaper equipment and a build-your-own-system model, Blue is more affordable.
Blue by ADT doesn't require a contract, so you can cancel service on a month-to-month basis. You can self-monitor your cameras or get professional monitoring for $19.99/mo. for a month-to-month service plan. You’ll also get your first month free. CPI doesn't require a long-term contract either, but it requires a 39- to 60-month monitoring contract if you're financing your equipment.
CPI Security only has a three-day return window after you receive your equipment. On the other hand, Blue by ADT gives you the first 30 days of professional monitoring and cloud storage for free with their 24/7 professional monitoring plan. You’ll also get a 30-day money-back guarantee on your equipment. Both provide give you a limited one-year warranty, but CPI does offer a more robust warranty program for purchase as well with their Service Plus Program. With this program, you’ll get free replacements and installation on normal wear-and-tear on equipment. Because of Blue by ADT's more generous trial period and gives you more for your money and satisfaction they win this category.
Blue by ADT's equipment is geared toward renters and designed to be DIY-friendly to install on your time using the camera’s kit and your smartphone. Simply remove the cameras from the box and plug them into outlets. Or, you can have them run on their built-in rechargeable batteries. CPI Security, on the other hand only offers professional installation for their equipment. Since both options depend on your preference, and one isn’t better than the other this round is a tie.
CPI's HD indoor camera features night vision, motion detection and built-in AI technology. The camera recognizes people, vehicles and animals for smart notifications and no false alarms. Blue by ADT also sells AI-enabled cameras with facial recognition, two-way talk and motion detection. The Blue by ADT Indoor Camera even senses for smoke and carbon monoxide detector for your home’s safety and security It also offers motion detectors, door sensors and sensors for environmental monitoring. Since both cameras offer great features that are easy to control using your smartphone this round is a tie.
This category is too close to call. Blue by ADT provides nationwide coverage, whereas CPI only covers the Southeast. CPI has a No False Alarms Guarantee and its award-winning monitoring center is UL-listed facility. Blue by ADT is backed by three ADT-owned monitoring centers. It gives you two backup connections, including cellular signal and cellular text, to ensure connectivity with the call center if you lose Wi-Fi Both providers offer monitoring for fire, carbon monoxide and flooding. Since this round is too close to call it’s a tie between the two.
CPI gives residents in the Southeast region a full suite of video surveillance and home automation, whereas Blue by ADT gives nationwide renters and homeowners affordable DIY security that doesn’t require a contract. Blue by ADT has a slight edge over CPI for providing more coverage and greater flexibility in terms of choosing your equipment and self-monitoring. We also like the smart features and a longer return window.
Please note that BBB ratings, plans, pricing, and other details can change without our knowledge. Details accurate as of May 26, 2020.
CPI offers three equipment packages, which each offer mobile app access for remote system control. The two higher-tier packages include video surveillance equipment. Blue by ADT does not offer equipment packages, but you pick and choose which equipment works best for you.
Blue by ADT offers professional monitoring with home automation included, all for just $19.99 per month. CPI Security’s professional monitoring starts at $29.99 per month and goes up based on your equipment.
CPI Security requires professional monitoring, but Blue by ADT lets you self-monitor. Optional professional monitoring is available.
Blue by ADT is a good choice for renters interested in DIY or professional camera surveillance monitoring. The equipment is easy to self-install and doesn’t require any wiring or drilling. It’s the perfect option for renters. since the equipment is designed to move around easily and the service is contract-free. CPI equipment is wireless and can be moved, but it’s probably only a good choice for renters who buy their equipment upfront and avoid a long-term contract. You may also have to factor in installation since CPI requires a professional for setup.
