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.
Our managing editor, Rob Gabriele, had a complete ADT system installed in his home to evaluate
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, an easy-to-use app, motion sensors, and the option to add on devices from other companies like doorbell cameras and outlet controllers.
Our ADT tech installed a Google Nest Cam on our plant stand so it could monitor our full living room
Did You Know? For monitoring, ADT actually costs less than Xfinity with rates starting at $49.99 per month compared to $55 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:
- Base Station: The base station connects all of your equipment, featuring a keypad on top for controlling your system and a 24-hour backup battery.
- 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 in 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: With its Google partnership, ADT offers innovative home automation features and equipment that leads in smart home security.
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 cameras 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: The Xfinity Gateway works as a smart home hub, so you can control your smart devices alongside your security system through the Xfinity app.
- 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
Instead of breaking things up into packages, ADT builds a custom system to fit your home and budget. A technician walks you through your home’s vulnerabilities and then recommends equipment to address those gaps. Pricing starts at $599, which is relatively high for the industry, but we still felt like we got our money’s worth as ADT’s equipment is also a step above industry averages.
As for monitoring, ADT’s rates start at $49.99 per month. These are also custom plans to fit your system and needs. For instance, ADT will bundle in a Google Home Premium subscription to your monitoring fee if your system has Google Nest Cams. Head over to our ADT price guide for a breakdown of all the factors that impact this pricing.
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 $65 per month.
Comcast Xfinity Home Security Mobile App
If you choose to bundle your security system with another service, it will cost $55 a month for the first year, then goes up to $65. There may also be hidden fees along with your activation fee (something to look out for). Xfinity also offers a self-monitoring smart home plan for $10 per month. However, this only gets you access to Xfinity’s cameras and smart home products, not their full security system.
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 offers pre-made security systems for a flat rate. Prices start at $360 for a basic system that only includes a control panel, three entry sensors and a motion sensor. Systems with cameras start at $480. You can also add cameras to any home security package.
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. ADT’s monitoring starts at $49.99 per month, whereas Xfinity starts at $55 per month. That’s not a big difference.
Given that they both charge similar rates, but ADT’s equipment and services are overall superior, we recommend ADT hands down. The only exception would be if you can get a deal on your Xfinity security system due to a local discount. Otherwise, ADT offers better value.
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.
