So you’re looking to purchase a home security system, but you have no idea where to start. You’ve heard about the two biggest names in the industry—Ring and ADT—but how do you know which one is right for you? When choosing a home security company, there are many features to consider. We have researched both ADT and Ring home security products to help you make a great choice based on your households needs. Outlined below is our home security system review, where we look at the key features such as price, installation, monitoring options, equipment, smart home capabilities and many more.
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ADT vs Ring: Difference between Ring and ADT home security systems
You may be asking yourself, what are the difference between one home security system from another? ADT’s system is renowned for being one of the reliable security professionals, whereas Ring makes affordable DIY installation products. We have researched the key differences between Ring and ADT and reviewed them for you below.
The features of each system
Unlike many home security systems that force you to choose one or two options for protection, both Ring and ADT have a range of packages from which you can choose based on your needs. One of those packages is called Ring Protect. This comes with a smoke detector, flood detector, indoor camera, battery backup, 2-way voice communication and cellular backup. Another one is called ADT Pulse. This includes an outdoor camera, motion sensor and video doorbell. Like all other comparison articles between these two companies, each system has its own pros and cons that users need to be aware of before choosing any package. However not all packages are created equal so you really need to see what each package offers before deciding which one suits your needs best.
Costs – Ring has equipment ranging from $99 upwards, whereas you have no equipment costs with ADT.
The monthly monitoring fees for ADT systems are higher as you are locked into a contract. However, they have multiple options that range from $27.99 up to $62.99.
As you have the ability to monitor Ring yourself, the price point ranges from $0 – $20. The highest plan offers 24 7 professional monitoring.
Ease of installation – You must have ADT’s system professionally installed. Professional installation is good for those homeowners that dislike DIY.
Ring offers a DIY home security system. The DIY setup is easy, and it means you can remove the equipment and take it with you if you move home. This makes it perfect for renters as well.
Contracts – ADT requires you to sign a contract for three years. Ring’s service offers month to month contracts which allows more flexibility.
Contracts aren’t necessarily a negative thing, though. As you have to sign a contract with ADT, there are no upfront costs for equipment. However, you would have to pay a fee to get out of the contract early, and that can be up to 75% of what you still owe.
Hardwired/Wireless/Solar Power – Both Ring and ADT offer wired and wireless equipment. Ring also offer solar-powered systems that ADT do not at this time.
Camera quality – ADT cameras offer 720p video quality, whereas Ring offers 1080p.
ADT vs Ring Overview
You are not strictly comparing apples to apples when you look at these two security systems. ADT is a trustworthy name in home security that offers professional services and protection at higher pricing. Ring is a DIY set-up with no installation fees that carry the equipment’s initial cost. The two companies have brilliant technology for protecting your home. The below reviews will help you decide which is best for your home.
ADT System Overview
Our Take
With over 100 years of experience, ADT is a more traditional security company. However, ADT has the added benefit of connecting to both Alexa, Google Assistant, and any Z wave device for smart home devices. In addition, the equipment will be installed professionally for an installation fee, meaning you have peace of mind.
You have a varied choice of equipment from security cameras with motion detection, door and window sensors, a yard sign, video bell, touch screen alarm panel and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
ADT’s technology and service are reliable and offer true homeowner comfort.
Best Features
Two-way talk
Home automation features
Multiple monitoring centers
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
24 7 monitoring
ADT pulse touchscreen
Lifetime theft protection
6 months money-back guarantee
Ring Home Security System Overview
Our Take
The Ring security systems are undeniably one of the most affordable DIY installation security systems. This Amazon brand means you can seamlessly integrate with Amazon Alexa. The Ring video doorbell is incredibly popular with homeowners. All of the products from Ring are easily installed. Ring Alarm offers a complete home security experience for an extremely cheap price point.
All of the equipment is customizable, and it comes with a choice of Ring Alarm, Ring cameras, the brilliant Ring app, and outdoor contact sensors and motion sensors.
The security cameras you get send motion-activated notifications you can customize on your phone through the Ring App.
Best Features
Night vision cameras
The Ring Alarm
Ability to view real-time video
Easy DIY installation
Ring’s doorbell camera from as low as $99
No long term contracts
Option of professional monitoring from $10 per monthly payment
Two way talk feature
ADT and Ring Packages
ADT Packages
The ADT alarm package comes in 3 different specs. In addition, they provide a tool on their website to quote depending on the size of your home.
The base-level package includes:
- ADT bell box with flashing light
- ADT pulse touch panel screen with pin pad
- Wireless door contact x1
- PIR motion sensor x2
- ADT smart app
There are add ons with additional features such as:
- Glass break sensors
- Smart lock
- Key fob
- Flood detectors
- Doorbell
The smart home capability is endless with ADT as it connects to Alexa, Google Assitant and any Z-Wave device.
Ring Packages
Ring Alarm has three different levels of packages. In addition, they come in different sizes depending on how large your home is: small, medium and large. The main difference is the addition of sensors.
The base-level Ring Alarm includes:
- Small – Base Station, Keypad, Motion detector, Range extender and Contact sensor.
- Medium – Same as small with the addition of 1x motion detector and 1x contact sensor
- Large – Addition of 2x motion detectors and 2x contact sensors
The level up Ring Alarm includes:
- As above, with the addition of an indoor camera.
The top-level Ring Alarm includes:
- As above, with the addition of the Video doorbell.
You can also choose the following components to add on to Ring Alarm at an additional cost:
- Ring’s cameras for outdoor use
- Indoor cameras
- Smart lighting
The fantastic Amazon Alexa integration means you can connect all of your other smart home devices using the mobile app to provide full smart home automation. Equipment such as smart locks, indoor lighting and smart thermostat integrations can be made using Alexa as your hub.
ADT and Ring Prices
Below is our security system price comparison.
ADT Pricing
If you don’t mind signing up for a longer time, then ADT helps you spread the cost.
Products – With ADT, there are no upfront equipment costs. Add ons start at $125.
Monthly services – Ranges from $27.99 – $62.99 per month.
Installation – Installation fee from $99 – $199.
Contract – You will be signing up for a minimum of 36 months.
Ring Pricing
Ring products are the better option if you are on a budget.
Products – Ring offers equipment at prices ranging from $99 all the way up to $300+ for Ring Alarm packages. Subscription goes from $0 for self-monitoring up to $10 per month for professional monitoring.
Monthly services – Costs as little as $3 to ensure video storage for up to 30 days. If you subscribe to Protect Plus, you can add on to the basic free contract. It provides professional monitoring. The service for cellular backup is also only available with Ring Protect Plus.
Installation – Install yourself for free.
Contract – The Ring contract works on a month to month basis meaning you can avoid any long term contract fees.
Our Winner
If you are looking for a DIY system with a low cost, the Ring is a solid choice. It is easy to use and install the system. So if you are on a budget, then Ring will be a good option for you.
ADT are so sure of the quality of their smart home system they offer users a 6-month money-back guarantee. They also have reliable monitoring centers in an emergency. So if you hold reliability and high-end products important, then choose ADT.
Comparing these is tricky as they offer different things for different people and are both excellent providers. It comes down to budget for most people, and Ring’s free option makes it accessible to more customers.
FAQS: ADT and Ring Home Security Systems
Some commonly asked questions on the benefits, differences and options for home security systems.
What are the similarities between ADT and Ring home security systems?
Both companies have overlapping features, but neither is exactly the same. We have made a quick comparison to identify the fundamental similarities below:
Guarantee – ADT offers a 6-month money-back guarantee whilst Ring gives 30 days.
Videos – Video recording is available with both companies.
Monitoring – Each company provide professional monitoring for an additional fee per month.
Flexibility – Customers can choose from a variety of options depending on the size of their house.
How do ADT and Ring home security systems work?
Ring
The Ring Alarm system has a keypad, and you are required to choose a pin. You then arm or disarm the alarm using your pin.
You have the option of self-monitoring your home security, meaning there are no additional fees. Triggers to the Ring Alarm security system will notify you, and an alert will be sent to your mobile app.
Ring Protect Plus customers can check the alerts and decide if it is an emergency. Then, the Ring Protect Plus colleagues will contact the authorities on your behalf.
ADT
ADT works in a similar way. The touch screen allows you to enter a pin that arms and disarms your alarm.
You have the option of different monitoring plans:
- Keyholder – If the alarm is triggered, your home is called as the first port of call. If there is no answer, a nominated friend, neighbour or relative will be notified. If there are signs of an emergency or break-in, they will contact the police. Again, if there is no sign, they can reset the alarm.
- Police –Trigger received through monitoring, the homeowner is contacted. Suppose no response police are contacted. In this instance, if a panic alarm is initiated, then the police will attend immediately.
- Private security – As above, but instead of police, it is a private security officer who attends your home.
What are professional monitoring services?
It is a monitoring service where a monitoring center receives a notification if your security alarm is triggered. The staff at the monitoring company then ascertain if it is a false alarm and, if not, alert the correct authorities. This protects your house and keeps it secure from burglary or flood and fire, removing the worry from the user as it is managed by someone else.
Should I pay for professional installation?
If you are a novice at DIY and don’t mind paying a bit of money to ensure the job is done correctly, then the answer is yes, this is a good choice for you.
A more complex system may need installing by professionals to ensure it protects your home in the way it is designed. In addition, you can have some third party contractors that will come out the same day to secure your property.
What is the best home security system for the money?
It will depend on whether you have the funds upfront or you want to spread it out over a more extended period.
The price of ADT overall is more expensive, but you can pay monthly, whereas there are little or no fees regular fees with Ring, and the purchase costs are lower for the product.
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