Vivint vs ADT: Which Is Better?

When it comes to pricing, Vivint and ADT take different approaches. Vivint starts at $29.99/month for their Smart Security plan, which includes 24/7 professional monitoring, a smart hub, and door/window sensors. Their mid-tier Smart Security+ plan adds outdoor cameras and video storage. Most homeowners get $0 down equipment financing and free professional installation.

ADT, by contrast, starts at $45.99/month for their base plan — significantly more expensive for similar coverage. ADT also typically charges $99-$199 for installation, and most plans require a 36-month contract commitment. Early termination fees can apply if you cancel before the contract ends.

Over a 3-year period, the total cost difference can be substantial. With Vivint at $29.99/month ($1,079.64 over 3 years) versus ADT at $45.99/month plus a $149 installation fee ($1,804.64 over 3 years), Vivint saves you approximately $725 — while providing better technology and free installation.

This is where Vivint truly pulls ahead. Vivint's cameras feature Smart Sentry AI technology, which can distinguish between people, vehicles, animals, and packages. This means fewer false alerts and more useful notifications. ADT's cameras use standard motion detection, which triggers alerts for any movement — including wind-blown trees and passing cars.

Vivint's smart home ecosystem is also more tightly integrated. The Vivint Smart Hub acts as the central control panel with a built-in voice assistant, touchscreen interface, and two-way communication. It connects seamlessly with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, smart locks, thermostats, and garage door controllers.

ADT has improved their smart home offerings in recent years with the ADT+ platform, but it still lags behind Vivint in terms of device ecosystem depth, AI capabilities, and app experience. Vivint's mobile app is consistently rated higher in both the App Store and Google Play.

Both Vivint and ADT offer professional installation, but the experience differs significantly. Vivint sends a certified Smart Home Pro to your home at no cost. The technician handles everything: mounting cameras, installing sensors, configuring the smart hub, connecting your app, and walking you through the entire system. Most installations take 2-4 hours and are completed within 24-48 hours of booking.

ADT installation varies depending on whether you use an ADT Authorized Dealer or ADT directly. Installation fees range from $99 to $199, and scheduling can sometimes take longer. The quality of installation can also vary between different authorized dealers.

In terms of customer support, both companies offer 24/7 monitoring and phone support. However, Vivint's app-based support and in-app chat have earned higher satisfaction ratings. Vivint also offers easier system relocation if you move — they'll send a tech to uninstall and reinstall at your new home.

Contract terms are an important consideration. ADT typically requires a 36-month (3-year) contract for their professional monitoring plans. If you need to cancel early, you may face early termination fees that can be several hundred dollars. This lock-in period is one of the most common complaints from ADT customers.

Vivint offers more flexible options. While longer-term agreements may come with better equipment pricing and promotions, Vivint also offers month-to-month options in many cases. The ability to choose your commitment level gives homeowners more control. If your circumstances change — you move, your budget tightens, or you simply want to switch — Vivint provides more flexibility.

Both companies will work with you if you move to a new home. Vivint's relocation process is generally considered smoother, with dedicated moving specialists who coordinate the uninstall and reinstall at no additional charge.