Blue by ADT vs. Vivint

Compare Blue by ADT vs. Vivint

• Equipment

  Winner: Vivint

  Vivint is best known for its innovative home automation and security equipment. The cutting-edge equipment lineup includes the Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro with package and person detection. The outdoor camera has Smart Deter to draw attention to lurking thieves using a siren and LED light. Vivint also offers Smart Drive to store up to 30 days of continuous video recordings and playback using your smartphone. You’ll also find an extensive lineup of smart home equipment, including smart locks, garage door openers and smart thermostats. Vivint’s systems are equipped to work with most Z-wave devices, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

  On the other hand, Blue by ADT has a collection of smart cameras with features including two-way audio, facial recognition and custom motion zones with alerts. You’ll also have mobile control of your traditional security system with sensors and motion detection. The Blue by ADT control panel also doubles as a smart home hub to connect Z-wave devices. Even though both providers have great equipment choices, we recommend Vivint for its more extensive selection.

• Cost

  Winner: Blue by ADT

  Overall, Blue by ADT is cheaper than Vivint. You’ll have contract-free professional monitoring and cloud storage starting at $20 per month. Equipment starts at $180, and smart cameras cost $200 each. On the other hand, Vivint’s smart home and security equipment ranges from $50 up to $400. Vivint’s professional monitoring starts at $40 per month. It’s also important to note that Vivint offers 42- or 60-month financing options to give you a lower monthly payment. Blue by ADT’s equipment must be purchased upfront but still provides quality equipment and service at a lower cost.

• Installation

  Tie: Blue by ADT and Vivint

  Vivint and Blue by ADT have different installation options. Vivint only offers professional installation, while Blue by ADT only offers a DIY setup. Vivint installation costs depend on your equipment. Discounts or deals may be available to lower the price. On the other hand, you must install Blue by ADT equipment yourself. However, technicians are available via phone to help assist with installation and any questions you may have. Blue by ADT also has step-by-step videos to help you set up your system correctly. Your installation preference will depend on your personal preference, so the providers tie in this category.

• Home Automation

  Winner: Vivint

  Vivint shines when it comes to home automation and smart technology. The company’s equipment integrates with Amazon Echo, Google Home, Nest Thermostat and other popular smart home devices. Vivint also offers the Kwikset Smart Lock, garage door controller and more in its equipment lineup. Best of all, Vivint’s control panel doubles as a smart hub to control your home’s automation and security using one device.

  Blue by ADT’s control panel does the same. The big difference is that smart home equipment is not included in Blue by ADT’s equipment lineup. You’ll be able to add your own Z-wave devices and control them using voice assistants. But if you’re looking for a provider that offers both smart home and security, Vivint is the best choice.

• Monitoring

  Winner: Vivint

  We love that many providers, like Blue by ADT, give customers many options in services such as monitoring. Blue by ADT customers can choose between self- and professional monitoring depending on their preference. Professional monitoring is $20 a month and you can cancel anytime. Best of all, Blue by ADT uses ADT’s professional monitoring centers for their trusted, reliable response and service.

  But Vivint doesn’t offer that same flexibility when it comes to monitoring. Customers are required to have professional monitoring with Vivint’s equipment. You can expect to pay at least $40 per month over a 42- or 60-month contract. If you’re on the fence about monitoring services, we recommend Blue by ADT to give you more flexibility and a lower monitoring fee.

• Contracts

  Winner: Blue by ADT

  Vivint requires a contract, but Blue by ADT does not. Vivint’s contract accounts for professional monitoring, equipment financing and warranties. But Blue by ADT offers affordable equipment without a contract. We believe that the more flexibility, the better. If you need to move or pause service, you can pay month-to-month and cancel anytime. Remember that even though Blue by ADT doesn’t require a contract, you’ll still have to pay for equipment upfront.

• The Winner: Blue by ADT

  Blue by ADT gives consumers complete control over how much to spend on equipment and monitoring, all while providing innovative technology, a range of home automation integrations, and simple setup. It's a complete package that will satisfy a lot of homeowners and renters. However, Vivint remains a suitable option for consumers who find peace of mind in professional installation and plan to invest in their home’s security and automation in the future.