ADT and Xfinity, two of the most elite players in the field of home security, are alike in many ways. ADT has been in the game much longer than Xfinity and is known in the industry as a leader in home security systems, innovations, and products. Xfinity, on the other hand, is well-versed with saving you money and offers plans that bundle their home security systems with other services (like cable TV and broadband internet).
Deciding which company to choose for your specific needs can be a daunting challenge and there can be a lot of pressure in selecting the right one. So, to help you out (and because we care), we’ve stepped in and tested each system over several days to ease your decision-making process.
ADT Home Security Equipment
We found that both companies offer reliable services and both have maintained a reputation for quality products over the years. That said, you’ll need to base your decision on which features are most important to you and which company offers the best services that still meet your family’s budget. So let’s dive right in to our ADT vs. Xfinity comparison!
Similarities Between ADT and Xfinity
After using both systems, we were surprised to find a good amount of overlap when it comes to features and tech. Both ADT and Xfinity offer quality systems at a reasonable monthly price. With that said, each system features complex devices and equipment and must be installed by a company professional. This might be a win for some, but a possible annoyance for others (we sympathize DIYers).
We really liked that both systems included many of the same features such as multiple window and door sensors, touchscreen control panels, motion sensors, and the option to add on devices from other companies like doorbell cameras and outlet controllers.
ADT Indoor Camera
Did You Know? Both ADT and Xfinity offer services starting at around $29-$39 per month.
Differences Between ADT and Xfinity
No two home security systems are ever the same and we found this to ring true for these top dogs as well. Although both companies are reliable for the level of home security they offer, ADT is better known in the industry. Xfinity, by comparison, is more known in the market for its cable and internet services, but many are unaware of their other bundling options that can help save you money.
One of the key differences we found between ADT and Xfinity is their customer service reputation (which can be a game changer in stressful situations). ADT is known for having excellent customer support, while Xfinity is a bit lackluster in this area, having become infamous for its poor customer service and satisfaction ratings. All right, truthfully, Xfinity has really cleaned up their act lately. But if you were to base your decision solely on service, we think ADT would be the obvious choice.
To learn more about ADT, check out our hands-on ADT review. And if you’re curious about Xfinity and their fast-growing home security offerings, have a look at our review of Xfinity.
Standout Features and Tech of ADT and Xfinity
Personally, we feel that you should always consider the features of a system when making your ultimate decision so that you can personalize your setup based on your needs. Both ADT and Xfinity systems offer must-haves like home automation services and, due to their complexity, professional installation. Each also requires you to sign a long-term contract which, albeit annoying, isn’t a deal breaker for us.
Here are a few of the top features offered by both ADT and Xfinity Home Security.
ADT Features
With ADT’s advanced equipment, you can customize your package to meet your family’s specific security needs. Most packages include the following:
- Digital Panel: Easy-to-navigate digital panel makes operating your home security system a simple task.
- Remote Key Fob: Activate your alarms or call for help with this convenient key fob that can be carried around with your house keys.
- Entry Sensors: Get an alert any time your doors or windows are opened unexpectedly.
- Motion Sensors: Find out when there is unusual activity occurring outside your home and alert the authorities.
- Environmental Detection: Get alerts when smoke sensors detect smoke or when CO sensors detect dangerous levels of gasses.
- Home Automation: ADT is a leading brand when it comes to smart home security. Use smart lights, smart locks, smart thermostats, and more to control your home wherever you go.
Did You Know? You can add loads of equipment to your ADT system. Some options include a panic button and carbon monoxide detectors. You can also add indoor and outdoor cameras, as well as video doorbell viewers featuring two-way communication.
Xfinity Features
Here are the top features included with Xfinity’s home security system:
- Touchscreen Controls: Navigate your system’s settings easily by using this simple touchscreen display.
- Multiple Door and Window Sensors: Know when a door or window is open on any level of your home with multiple sensors included.
- Motion Sensors: Be alerted when there is unusual activity or movement outside your home with these quality motion sensors.
- Smart Home System: ADT offers lots of smart products and smart integrations so that you can automate your lights, thermostat, cameras, door locks, etc.
- Optional Zen Thermostat: Save energy and keep your home at the optimal temperature when adding a Zen Thermostat to your system.
- Optional Outlet Controllers: You can add outlet controllers for your lights and other electronics inside your home and control it all using your smartphone. These outlet controllers do not have to be installed by a professional.
Did You Know? Like ADT, Xfinity also offers sensors and other devices that monitor environmental issues such as fire, water, freezing temperatures, or flooding. Some devices will even detect carbon monoxide or smoke in the home. The environmental monitors will send out alerts whenever they are triggered by moisture or an extreme temperature drop.
ADT vs. Xfinity: Cost and Fees
When you’re looking for a new home security system, you usually want to get the best security level at the right price (so do we!). Here are the costs and fees associated with both ADT and Xfinity to help narrow down your decision.
ADT Pricing
A $99 installation fee is charged up front for all systems. ADT offers four home security packages:
- Basic Plan: $28 per month
- Basic + Wireless Connect: $49 per month
- Pulse + Video Plan: $59 per month
- ADT Pulse + Smart Home Connect: $60 per month
Note that ADT does require customers to agree to a three-year contract. Here’s our latest roundup of ADT’s pricing, plans, and packages.
FYI: ADT has a professional monitoring service center that can alert the local authorities (if needed) when your system is triggered in the event of a break-in. Additional notifications can be sent to anyone listed on your contact list.
Xfinity Pricing
Although you’re not required to have other Xfinity Comcast services in order to use their home security service, you can benefit from bundling discounts if you do. If you do not have other services through Comcast, such as cable or internet, the home security system starts at $39.99 per month.
Comcast Xfinity Home Security Mobile App
If you choose to bundle your security system with another service, it will cost $29.99 a month for the first year, then goes up to $39.99. There may also be hidden fees along with your activation fee (something to look out for). Comcast also charges customers an additional $9.99 per month per camera if you choose 24/7 home surveillance (with up to 10 days of video storage).
Xfinity’s home security equipment may be high-quality, but it is still not as advanced as ADT’s. When the equipment is working correctly though, it does offer excellent protection using the fully automated home system.
FYI: Xfinity’s home security equipment prices are standard. Prices start at $350 for a basic system that only includes one video camera. If you would like to purchase multiple cameras, you will be charged an additional fee.
If you reside in an area that offers lower Xfinity prices for all their services, and if you are currently an Xfinity customer, it would be worth looking into adding home security to your Xfinity bundle. However, if you’re just interested in a new home security plan and you aren’t a Comcast customer, we think ADT would be the way to go.
Here’s our latest on Xfinity home security plans and pricing.
Xfinity Complete Home Security System
Which Is Better: ADT or Xfinity?
Choosing between ADT and Xfinity can be a difficult decision, especially if you’re trying to save money. Both companies utilize high-quality equipment that operates on the latest tech and they also each require you to sign a three-year contract (afraid there’s no getting out of that with these two).
If you’re looking for a company that has been around for many years and knows the ins and outs of home security, ADT is the best option. They’ve been in the industry for over a century and are qualified experts in keeping families safe.
On the other hand, Xfinity has only offered home security packages for the past 10 years and, although they seem to have a good security system overall, they may not be as knowledgeable about the business.
Did You Know? Xfinity requires a three-year contract to be signed before activating the service. If you decide you don’t like the system, you will still have to pay for the three-year service (we did not appreciate this provision in the slightest, especially given that ADT has a six-month guarantee).
When it comes to price, there isn’t that much of a difference between the two. Both ADT and Xfinity offer services starting around $39 per month. However, if you decide to bundle your Xfinity cable, phone, or internet services with your plan, you’ll only pay $29.99 per month for the first year. Not bad.
So, with both companies offering similar features, the same price, and the same contract agreement term, how do you decide which is right for you? Here’s our advice: If you’re in the market for a new cable or internet provider, Xfinity would probably be your best bet financially as you’ll have the added benefit of saving $10 per month on your home security setup the first year. That being said, you should make sure that the second year prices are within your budget.
However, if you’re looking for an established home security company that has been around for a very long time (almost 150 years!), and one that is known for its superior customer service and support, ADT is the top contender.
Not loving either option? Not to worry. Check out our rundown of the best home security systems in the industry. We think you’ll like your options.
