ADT vs Brinks: Comparison Information accurate as of April 2021 *J.D. Power’s 2020 Home Security Satisfaction Study. Based on a 1,000-point scale.
Why we chose it
ADT has been a leader in the security field for decades, and while its coverage isn’t the cheapest compared to other competitors, it offers 24/7 monitoring with advanced features. Pros:
24/7 monitoring$500 theft protection guaranteeEnvironmental monitoring
Cons:
More expensive than competitorsSix-month return policyCharges extra for wireless, cellular-based systems
Equipment available:
Flood, fire, and leak sensorsGlass break sensorsIndoor/outdoor camerasVideo cam doorbellAdditional add-on devices
Plans & pricing:
ADT Secure: $45.99/monthADT Smart: $49.99/monthADT Complete: $59.99/month
Why we chose it
Brinks offers cellular-based systems with DIY installation for a more affordable security solution that is backed by a 30-day return policy. Pros:
Affordable security24/7 monitoringFully wireless systemsHome automation
Cons:
30-day return policyVideo monitoring is not available in all packagesLimited features compared to ADT
Equipment available:
Additional sensorsHD indoor cameras with night visionSmoke detectorVideo doorbellOver 100 add-on smart home devices
Plans & pricing:
Brinks Essential: $29/monthBrinks Complete: $39/monthBrinks Ultimate: $39/month
Compare ADT and Brinks home security plans
Information accurate as of April 2021
ADT vs Brinks: Emergency connections
One of the main differences between Brinks vs ADT has to do with how the two companies handle their operating systems. Both companies are great choices for the best monitoring systems because they both offer 24/7 monitoring centers. However, they communicate much, much differently. ADT defaults to wired connections, using your landline to power the system. You have the option of Wi-Fi or cellular connections, but you will have to upgrade, and it will cost you more. Brinks skips landlines altogether instead of sticking strictly to Wi-Fi or cellular connections for its home security monitoring. Customers who live in rural areas may prefer ADT’s wired connection because stable internet service is often so spotty in these areas. However, people in metropolitan and suburban areas may prefer a wireless connection since many households don’t even subscribe to landlines anymore. When it comes to Brinks vs ADT for emergency monitoring, ADT is your pick if you need wired service. Otherwise, Brinks offers the best wireless systems with the Wi-Fi and cellular-based options that most households need to set up and maintain their home security systems. ADT vs Brinks: Installation There are also significant differences between the two providers when it comes to installation. When trying to decide between Brinks vs ADT, installation can be a major factor for busy households or frequent travelers who shudder at the thought of yet another appointment to coordinate. Brinks is among the best DIY home security systems because it gives the option for your security installation, offering either free DIY installation or professional installation for an extra fee. The DIY installation is a surprisingly easy process, holding up to Brinks’ promise of just 15 to 30 minutes from start to finish. This is mainly because its systems arrive pre-configured, taking out the more complicated tech stuff for more novice users. There’s also support if you run into any issues during installation. ADT doesn’t offer DIY installation for its systems, instead of requiring that all users schedule an appointment for professional installation. If you prefer not to handle the setup, this can be a great benefit for you, but be aware that it does come at an extra cost which is added to your bill.
ADT vs Brinks: Monitoring plans
There are a few things to consider in the battle of Brinks vs ADT when it comes to home security monitoring plans. They both offer multiple plans, but ADT is noticeably higher in cost. With Brinks, you have the option of adding video monitoring to your plan for an extra $10 a month. Brinks partners with Moni and Livewatch for its 24/7 professional security monitoring, so your home is never unprotected. If anything were ever to happen, trained professionals can act quickly and summon the right kind of help. ADT’s plans also include the option of video or no video, but there are other options, as well. The base plan only offers wired connections, requiring an immediate upgrade for using a cellular or wireless connection.
ADT vs Brinks: Smart home automation
Smart home automation has become the gold standard amongst homeowners today, so it is a feature that many users look for in a home security provider. Both ADT and Brinks deliver here, but you’ll find that the price tag is significantly different between the two. Brinks integrate with well over 115 security and smart home devices that all work with its systems, including smart door locks, home lighting, and garage doors. It comes standard with Brinks home monitoring plans, costing nothing to automate your home. ADT also offers these integrations, but plan upgrades are required if you want to take advantage of them in your home. When it comes to Brinks vs ADT for smart home automation, Brinks is the more affordable choice.
