Friday, July 31, 2020

Best Nanny Cams of 2020

Best Overall
wyze cam pan product imageWyze Cam Pan
  • 360-degree field of vision
  • Under $40
  • 360-degree field of vision
  • Under $40
Best for Hiding
Blink Indoor CameraBlink
  • Wire-free
  • Under 3 in. tall
  • Wire-free
  • Under 3 in. tall
Best Livestreaming
Nest Indoor CameraGoogle Nest Cam
  • 24/7 livestreaming directly to your phone
  • Clear, detailed picture
  • 24/7 livestreaming directly to your phone
  • Clear, detailed picture

Bottom Line: The Wyze Cam Pan sees it all 

Whether you’re keeping an eye on the kids or their caretakers, nanny cams are a great home security tool.

Nanny cameras can sit in the open or hide on bookshelves, in clocks, and even in teddy bears. We tested a few of our favorites to get a better idea of video quality, two-way intercom features, app navigation, and more. 

Overall, Wyze takes the prize with its quality picture, low price, and easy app. It has impressive pan, tilt, and zoom features thanks to its swiveling base and moving camera eye.

The other top spots go to Blink and Google’s Nest Cam: small, lightweight cameras with motion detection, video playback, and more.

Compare the best nanny cameras

Price
Resolution
Field of Vision
Night Vision Distance
Size
Power Source
Pan/Tilt/Zoom
Learn More
Best Overall
Best for Hiding
Best for Livestreaming
Best Extras
Best Night Vision
Wyze Cam Pan Blink Google Nest Cam Arlo Baby Swann Pan and Tilt
wyze cam pan product image blink camera product image Nest Indoor Camera Arlo Baby camera Swann Cam product image
$37.98 $79.99 $129.99 $199.99 $72.38
1080p 1080p 1080p 1080p 1080p
360 degrees 110 degrees 130 degrees 130 degrees 80 degrees
Up to 30 ft. Up to 30 ft. Up to 20 ft. Up to 15 ft. Up to 50 ft.
2.36 x 2.36 x 5.02 in. 2.8 x 1.2 x 2.8 in. 2.9 x 4.5 x 2.9 in. 4.3 x 2.6 x 2.5 in. 4.6 x 3.8 x 3.8 in.
Wired Batteries Wired Wired Wired
Yes
No
X
No
X
No
X
Yes
View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Kohl's View on Arlo View on Amazon

Amazon.com and other List Prices as of 07/31/2020 11:13 p.m. MST. See full disclaimer.

Our approach

For this review, we tested the Nest Cam, Blink, and Wyze Pan Cam in-house. For the most authentic experience, we set up each camera and proceeded with our day as usual. When we got alerts from each camera, we used the apps to check the footage, speak through the cameras, and share footage.

We selected the other two cameras, the Arlo Baby and Swann Pan and Tilt, based on top user reviews and product specs that fit our standards for quality nanny cams. Learn more about how we test and research by reading our full methodology.

Reviews: best nanny cams

Wyze Cam Pan: Best overall

Best Overall
wyze cam pan product image

The subtle Wyze Cam Pan fits in almost anywhere in your home.

It has smooth pan, tilt, and zoom action, so you can easily look around the room to see your kids and their nanny. The picture is 1080p full HD, and the six infrared LED lights let you see up to 30 feet in the dark.

Setup is easy with Wyze too. Simply plug in the camera and download the Wyze app onto your smart device. Connecting is a snap, but there are step-by-step videos if you need help along the way.

From the app, you can watch past videos, adjust settings, and use the two-way audio to talk to anyone on the other side.

Once you’ve set the camera to your preferences, you’re good to go. Overall, we’d recommend the Wyze Cam Pan to anyone curious about nanny cams. And, at under $40, the Wyze Cam Pan is the cheapest on our list.

Read our full Wyze Cam Pan review for all the details.

Pros

  • Affordable price tag
  • Night vision up to 30 feet
  • 360-degree field of view

Cons

  • Not compatible with Google Home
  • Not wire-free
Best for Hiding
blink camera product image

Without wires to hold it back, the Blink camera can hide in spaces like planters and on shelves. If you’re looking for a hidden nanny cam, this battery-powered beauty can slide into a range of covert spots.

Blink comes with a small hub that links your Wi-Fi, smartphone, and camera together. Once that’s set up, you can place it anywhere in your home. As Blink picks up motion and passersby, you’ll be able to look over notable events, replay, save, and send any footage you capture.

Blink has a wide field of vision for such a small camera. We were able to see the entire room where we set up, plus part of the next one over. And while there was a slight lag in the audio and video, we got consistent motion alerts whenever it sensed activity.

Read our full review on Blink and Blink XL for more details.

The new Blink Mini

The Blink camera has a new baby brother. The Blink Mini camera is a small indoor camera with a pint-sized price (around $30).

It shoots in sharp 1080p, has motion detection, and two-way communication so you can speak to anyone on the other side from the Blink app. Unlike the standard Blink camera, the Blink Mini needs to stay plugged in.

So while it’s not as portable, it’s still small enough to fit in a shelf or mount on a nursery wall.

Pros

  • Ultra-portable design
  • Cloud storage
  • Motion alerts
  • Silent mode

Cons

  • Slight video and audio lag
  • No two-way audio

Check Your State's Surveillance Laws

If you hide your nanny cam, we recommend muting the audio. Only some states allow hidden cameras with video and audio, but it’s legal in all 50 states to record without sound. If you catch an incident on camera, video-only evidence is valid in court no matter where you live in the US. If you want audio, check your state’s laws to make sure.

Google Nest Cam: Best livestreaming

Best Livestreaming
Nest Indoor Camera

The Nest Cam delivers 130 degrees of live picture. Set it up to watch live feeds of the playroom from your desk at work or from the next room over. The livestream feature saves up to 30 days of continuous video footage, allowing you to review everything at your convenience.

Nest Cam can be trained to recognize familiar faces too. This makes searching and tagging videos featuring your nanny, kids, or other members of the household easy to access.

All these features come at a steep price (nearly $200 per camera), but Nest can be a nanny cam, security cam, or video baby monitor for little ones.

Learn more about the entire family of Google Nest Cameras for indoors and out

Pros

  • Easy setup
  • 24/7 livestream
  • Facial recognition

Cons

  • Not wire-free
  • Expensive

Arlo Baby: Best for baby

Best for Baby
Arlo Baby camera

The Arlo Baby is the only nanny cam that made us say “aww.” Dressed as a bunny, puppy, or kitty, the Arlo Baby is more than just cute.

Its unique talents include a smart music player for lullabies, an air sensor to monitor room temperature and humidity, a baby crying alert, and a smart night light. Using the Arlo app, you and your nanny can work together to keep your kiddos safe and happy all day.

Perfect for nights in the nursery, the Arlo Baby can see up to 15 feet in the dark and sense motion up to 50 feet away.

And while the Arlo model is expensive, you can use it for years—first as a video baby monitor, then as a nanny cam for your little one’s room.

We reviewed Arlo’s security cameras too. Read our full review to learn more.

Pros

  • Eye-catchingly adorable
  • Extras for kids like lullabies and air quality sensor

Cons

  • Limited night vision

Swann Pan and Tilt: Best night vision

Best Night Vision
Swann Cam product image

The Swann Pan and Tilt camera has the most impressive night vision capabilities in our lineup. Its powerful infrared LED lights can catch footage up to 50 feet in the dark.

This camera can also pan, tilt, and zoom just like the Wyze Cam. Instead of uploading data to the cloud, your footage can be stored on an SD card up to 64 GB—about the same amount of storage as a smartphone.

Like our other nanny cams, this Swann model links to your phone through an app, allowing you to control it, change settings, and monitor footage.

It’s charged by a cable, so it isn’t as portable as other cameras like Blink, but you get high quality and a wide field of view to watch your children and their caretaker.

Pros

  • 50-ft night vision
  • Pan, tilt, zoom capabilities

Cons

  • Not as portable

Things to consider before you buy a nanny camera

While there are plenty of hidden nanny cams on the market, we looked into the more conspicuous options.

Hidden nanny cams and spy cams can fall under hazy legal territory, so we feel it’s best to be open with your nanny or any in-home caretaker about your monitoring system. This helps build a trusting relationship and makes better use of the camera itself.

For example, your babysitter can reach you through the nanny cam’s two-way audio when needed or help you find important clips in case of an emergency.

Before you get a nanny cam, you should hire a nanny you can trust to watch your children. Nanny cameras make sense if you have a reason to suspect something’s wrong, but they aren’t usually necessary when you have a trustworthy child care provider.

Hidden camera laws in your state

Different rules apply to hidden and exposed nanny cams. Hidden nanny cams can be cleverly disguised in devices like alarm clocks and picture frames to monitor your nanny without their consent.

It’s legal in all 50 states to record video-only footage in your home from a hidden camera as long as it isn’t set up in a private space.1 That said, there are 11 states that require “two-party consent” for video and audio footage in public or private spaces.2

  • California
  • Connecticut
  • Florida
  • Illinois
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Montana
  • New Hampshire
  • Pennsylvania
  • Washington
  • Hawaii

Even if you don’t live in one of these states, we recommend getting consent from your nanny before recording audio, video, or both. Their consent can also help you avoid prosecution and loss of evidence.3

In other words, without their permission, you could be sued, and your footage won’t be admissible in court.

Nanny camera FAQ

What is good picture quality for a nanny cam?

Picture resolution is simply a pixel count on your camera. Numbers like 1080p refer to the vertical lines of pixels lined up across your camera’s view. Generally, the more pixels create a sharper picture, but this can change based on how closely you zoom or the size of the screen you watch a video on.

Most smartphones screens are 1080p and up, so it’s best to find a nanny cam with a similar resolution for a clear picture.

How do nanny cams store memory?

It varies from camera to camera, but most nanny cams use a separate SD memory card or send videos to a cloud that you can access online. Both can be uploaded and shared to different devices.

Where can I hide my nanny cam?

Battery-powered nanny cams can hide almost anywhere. Spots like potted plants, bookshelves, stuffed animals, kitchen cabinets, and out in the open can all give you a good view of your home and anyone inside.

Nanny cameras powered by cables are more restricted because they need to stay plugged in to work. Cables can also give away your hiding spot if they aren’t concealed properly.

How can I use a hidden nanny cam legally?

All 50 states allow silent video recording within your own home. But we still think it’s best to tell your nanny that you’re recording. If they consent to be filmed and recorded, you can use audio in addition to your video. You don’t have to tell them where you’ve hidden the camera, but if you want audio, most states require their permission.

Sources:
1. Upcounsel, “Video Surveillance Laws by State: Everything You Need to Know,” Published June 2020. Accessed July 31, 2020. 
2. Digital Media Law Project,“Recording Phone Calls and Conversations,” Accessed July 31, 2020.
3. United States Department of Justice, “1050. Scope of 18 U.S.C. § 2511 Prohibitions,” Published January 2020. Accessed, July 31, 2020. 

Disclaimer

Amazon.com list price as of 07/31/20 11:13 p.m. MST. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.

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Thursday, July 30, 2020

5 Smart Devices Perfect for People Who Live Alone

Smart products can play a huge role in your safety and security while living alone—and they can make everyday tasks more convenient and fun.

If you live by yourself, take a look at these smart home technologies. We’ve found five great gadgets that let you do everything from turn off your appliances to feed your pets—all from your connected device.

1. SkyBell Smart Video Doorbell

Seeing who is at your front door before you open it can give you valuable peace of mind, particularly when you live alone. The SkyBell is a smart doorbell that lets you see, hear, and talk with your visitor via your smartphone — whether you are at home or away. It is motion activated, so even if someone doesn’t ring the doorbell you’ll know they are there. SkyBell is equipped with color night video and comes with free video recording, and multiple users can connect to it and receive doorbell alerts.

List price: $149.99

Find it on Amazon

2. Belkin WeMo Light Switch

When connected to the WeMo app, the WeMo Light Switch allows you to use your smartphone to manage your home’s lighting. Among other benefits, this means you can turn on lights remotely so you don’t come home to a dark house, create the illusion that someone is home with you, or make it seem as though your home is occupied when you’re away.

With the WeMo Light Switch you can also create customized schedules that turn your lights on and off at specified times, or set them to respond to the sunrise and sunset. The light switch also works with If This Then That (IFTTT) technology. Using IFTTT, you can write “recipes” that connect the WeMo Light Switch with various apps and devices to perform a variety of custom tasks.

List price: $49.99

Find it on Amazon

 

3. Feed and Go

Pets can be wonderful companions, but ensuring they get fed on time can be tricky when you live by yourself. Fortunately, there’s Feed and Go — a smart pet feeder that dispenses everything from food and treats to medicine. With Feed and Go you can use your smartphone to schedule your pet’s feedings in advance and receive a text message when they’re about to be fed or have just finished their food. What’s more, Feed and Go comes equipped with a webcam and allows you to record a personalized voice message for your pet.

List price: $249

Find it on Amazon

4. Insteon On/Off Outlet

Leaving the house and forgetting to turn an appliance off wastes energy — and it’s potentially dangerous. If you live by yourself, there’s no household member to correct the problem, which is one reason to consider getting the Insteon On/Off Outlet. It’s a remote control electoral outlet that allows you to control small appliances via your smartphone or tablet, from an Insteon keypad or remote, or even from an Apple Watch. With the Insteon On/Off Outlet you can do things like create schedules for your small appliances and receive alerts about outlet use. For added convenience, you can manage the upper and lower outlets independently — controlling two appliances with just one smart outlet.

List price: $49.99

Find it on Amazon

5. Belkin Crock-Pot Smart Slow Cooker

Cooking for one can be a hassle, but not with the Belkin Crock-Pot Smart Slow Cooker. This state-of-the-art slow cooker syncs with the WeMo app and prepares an amazing meal while you’re at work. Using your smartphone, you can monitor cooking time, adjust the slow cooker’s temperature, and turn it on or off. When your food is cooked, the Crock-Pot sends you a notification and automatically switches to the warm setting to keep your meal at serving temperature until you get home.

List price: $129.99

Find it on Amazon

Living alone can be safer, more convenient, and more fun when you integrate one or more of these smart devices into your home. For additional security, consider getting a monitored home security system.

Related Pages on SafeWise

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ADT Home Security Review

Overall Rating

3.9/5
  • Strong reputation
  • Cellular and landline plans
  • Monitoring starts at $27.99

ADT Home Security: How it stacks up

ADT’s reputation makes it one of the most trusted names in the industry. Add in the company’s six monitoring centers—more than any other home security brand—and it’s no surprise ADT is a household name.

Protection 24/7 no matter where you live

Plus, ADT offers both landline and cellular monitoring, so it’s easy to get 24/7 professional monitoring whether you live in the city or out in the boondocks.

Professional installation

You also get professional installation, a rarity in an industry that’s embraced boxed DIY security systems. Pro installation comes with extra fees and the need for an appointment, but you also get the benefit of professional expertise.

Each installation starts with a home security assessment that highlights your home’s vulnerabilities and offers the best solutions.

The bottom line

Depending on the package you choose, ADT’s perks come with a higher price tag—and no matter what, you’ll be locked into a 36-month contract.

ADT is definitely high-end full-service home security, but the monthly fees and long-term contract can be a turn-off for some.

See how ADT matches up against Frontpoint, our top home security pick.

Compare ADT prices and packages

Package
Monthly Cost
Best For
Monitoring Type
Remote Access
Live Video
Smart Home Integration
Top Pick
Budget Pick
Video Pick
Landline Pick
On-the-Go Pick
Starter Pick
ADT Command Tier III Video Security & Home Automation Basic Security + Wireless Connect ADT Command Tier II Video Security Complete Monitoring Bundle ADT Command Tier I Remote Access Essential
$62.99 $44.99 $58.99 $36.99 $52.99 $27.99
Smart homes Budget security Basic surveillance Rural homes Busy families Starter security
Cellular Cellular Cellular Landline Cellular Landline
Yes

No
X
Yes

No
X
Yes

No
X
Yes

No
X
Yes

No
X

No
X

No
X
Yes
No
X
No
X
No
X
No
X
No
X
View Packages View Packages View Packages View Packages View Packages View Packages

Data effective 07/30/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.

SALE

ADT is currently offering a $100 Visa gift card with a new monitoring agreement. Terms and conditions apply.

LIMTED TIME OFFER

Pros

  • 140+ years of home security experience
  • Monitoring centers across the country
  • Landline and cellular monitoring
  • Professional installation and security consultation
  • Smart home control available

Cons

  • Long-term contracts
  • Pricey add-ons and upgrades
  • Installation fee

ADT plan similarities

All ADT monitored plans have a few things in common. They’re all professionally installed by trained technicians and come with an Essentials kit to lower upfront costs. You’ll also be committed to a 36-month contract with any of these plans.

The Essentials kit includes:

  • Keypad alarm with a backup battery
  • Contact sensor for doors or windows
  • Motion detector
  • Carbon monoxide detector (optional add-on)*
  • Smoke and heat detector (optional add-on)

*With $99 installation charge and new monitoring agreement. Early termination fee applies. See SafeStreets.com for full offer details, terms, and conditions.

ADT plan differences

Besides the Essentials kit, ADT monitored plans differ from tier to tier, each sweetening the deal with new features or equipment options.

The Essential Plan includes the basic Essentials kit and standard, landline monitoring. What’s missing is the Quality Service Plan that offers extended warranty protection and a deal on any service calls you may need during your contract. This plan also misses out on the 6-month money-back guarantee.

The Complete Monitoring Bundle is a basic landline-connected Essentials package plus the Quality Service Plan. If you live in a rural area or want to protect a vacation home in the country, this is an affordable option that comes with extra warranty and service protection.

The Premium Bundle II is the same, but with a cellular connection. This connection allows for some nice perks, like voice control with Amazon Alexa It also allows you to skip the wiring that comes with landline service. Hardwired systems take longer to install and can be clipped or damaged by intruders.

The ADT Command Tier I adds remote access into the mix through the ADT Control app. Remote access lets you monitor and control your system from your phone. Whether it’s an open window or a full-blown system alert, you’ll know. And for $6 more, you can add live video with the ADT Command Tier II.

Finally, the ADT Command Tier III comes with a steeper installation fee, but you’ll get smart home and automation features to make up for it. This system starts with the same equipment as the other plans—plus live video (when you add a security camera) and a lamp module to add smart lighting to your system. Turn on the light from your mobile app to make your home seem occupied or to keep your pets company while you’re away.

ADT contracts and warranties

When it comes to contract terms, ADT is sticking to a long-held home security tradition—tying people up for a minimum of 36 months. It’s contract-only approach can make ADT a no-go for renters and others who may need to move within one to three years.

We’d like to see more contract options available like the choices Link Interactive offers—12-month, 24-month, and 36-month contracts.

If you decide to cancel your service with ADT before the 36 months are over, you could be subject to a hefty cancellation fee. Generally, you can expect to shoulder 75% of the remaining contract if you decide to opt out of an ADT contract.

While ADT’s equipment and monitoring are high quality, we recommend reading the fine print before signing on with an ADT plan.

If you like ADT’s reputation but aren’t sure about a contract, check out Blue by ADT. This is a new DIY brand that comes with all the convenience of a boxed security system plus ADT’s 140+ years of home security experience. Read our full Blue by ADT review.

ADT's Customer-First Guarantees

We've always been fans of guarantees that put customers first, and ADT has two that stand out.

The Mover's Package Guarantee makes it affordable for you to take your ADT system with you if you move after being a customer for 24 months.

The 6-Month Service Guarantee offers you a full refund of all service fees paid if you are displeased with ADT's service (and they can't make it right) within the first 180 days of your contract.

Quality Service Plan

All of the ADT plans we reviewed (except the Essential plan) come with the Quality Service Plan (QSP) at no extra charge.

This is basically the company’s equipment warranty. With the QSP, you don’t have to worry about extra costs for service calls or paying to replace broken equipment.

Depending on the ADT authorized dealer where you purchased your ADT equipment, there may be extra monthly fees charged for the QSP.

ADT tech and equipment

As noted earlier, each plan comes with an Essentials kit and different available add-ons.*

In the kit, you’ll get a touchscreen control panel, contact sensor, and motion sensor. And depending on the plan you go with, you’ll get an ADT camera or the option for a video doorbell, smart thermostat, or lighting.

ADT touchscreen panel

You’ll get the most out of the ADT touchscreen panel with a cellular connection and mobile compatibility. It connects with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, so you can control it with your voice to arm, disarm, or make adjustments in the sensors or your smart equipment.

The panel is multi-lingual and connects to your other smart home devices. We also like the 12 hours of battery backup that kick in when the power goes out, keeping your home safe during storms or other power outages.

Video monitoring

The top two plans offer video monitoring with ADT security cameras. The indoor camera shoots in 720p HD video, and you can watch your home live or check recordings in the backlog.

When the system’s sensors or cameras detect motion, you’ll get a notification so you can tune in and see what the camera sees. This way you can tell if it’s just your pooch prowling around the house or a real emergency.

Get all the details in our ADT security cameras guide.

*With $99 installation charge and new monitoring agreement. Early termination fee applies. See SafeStreets.com for full offer details, terms, and conditions.

adt command touchscreen panel

ADT Command touchscreen panel

adt motion sensor

Motion sensor

adt window and door sensor

Window and door sensor

adt key fob

Keyfob

ADT smart home features

You can tell your ADT home security system what to do when you add voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

With ADT’s cellular plans, you use Alexa or Google to arm and disarm your system, display your camera feed, change the thermostat temperature, or control lights.

ADT uses Z-Wave technology in all its smart security equipment. That means your ADT system can integrate with third-party smart home devices like a Nest Thermostat.

And ADT makes it really simple by offering compatible smart home devices along with its security equipment—so you can get all your smart security shopping done at once.

The downside is the price. You can’t get home automation with ADT’s basic security packages, so you’re looking at a base monthly monitoring rate of $62.99 per month.

But when you break it all down, that’s just over $2 per day for smart home automation and professional monitoring.

Smart home compatibility

Smart Home Feature
Third-Party Compatibility
Voice control Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Climate control

Nest, Z-Wave devices

Lighting control

Z-Wave devices

Smart home hub

Amazon Alexa, Google Home

ADT’s nine monitoring centers

Where ADT beats every other security company hands-down is its professional monitoring centers. ADT operates its own centers and it has more monitoring stations than any other security company.

This matters to you for two big reasons—well-trained operators and monitoring support redundancy.

ADT trains all of its operators and has total control over how your call for help is handled. And with nine monitoring centers, you’ll never be stranded without help when you need it.

If one center goes offline for any reason (think hurricanes, the polar vortex, etc.), monitoring will be automatically transferred to another center that’s still up and running.

ADT customer service

ADT gets mixed reviews when it comes to customer service and satisfaction.

The company excels with a long-standing reputation and customer-first guarantees, but those don’t always translate to the company’s authorized retailers—making customer service hit-or-miss depending on who you’re dealing with.

Here’s a look at current ADT reviews and ratings for customer service and satisfaction.*

*Ratings as of July 30, 2020.
† Rating for ADT authorized dealer SafeStreets.

There’s no denying that over 140 years of experience and the trust of more than six million customers is a solid endorsement of ADT’s home security systems.

But quality equipment and stellar monitoring services can be overshadowed by mishandling from third-party dealers. On the plus side, there are a few things you can count on from ADT’s customer service:

  • Calls that are answered quickly
  • Short hold times
  • 24/7 customer service hours
  • Same-day installation in most areas for no added cost

ADT installation

All ADT alarm systems come with professional installation, which means you don’t have to worry about the best place to install the control panel, window sensors, and other equipment.

It also means you have to let a stranger into your home and arrange a time to meet them, which could add up to a half-day off work. Last but not least, you’ll pay an installation fee, starting at $99—and that has to be paid up front.

But we are talking about a high-end alarm system that you’re counting on to protect your home and family. When the stakes are that high, the time (and financial) commitment for a pro install is definitely justified.

The real cherry on top with an ADT installation is the comprehensive risk assessment.

All of ADT’s installers are highly-trained security advisers. Every installation includes a whole-home risk assessment that identifies the best security solutions for your home.

Security advisers evaluate both the inside and outside of your home, so they can make recommendations that address all of your home’s security vulnerabilities.

And they’re not supposed to recommend extra devices if you don’t need them—but they are obligated to point out all potential security risks so you can make the most informed decision.

We suggest being prepared in advance for a bit of a sales presentation along with the risk assessment. Just make sure you know what your budget is and stick to it.

FAQ

For more ADT-specific questions, visit our page devoted to ADT customers’ frequently asked questions.

 

Why is ADT more expensive than other home security companies?

Like most home security companies, there are a number of ADT monitoring packages to choose from.

In addition to monthly monitoring costs, you also need to consider:

  • Equipment costs
  • Activation fees
  • Installation costs
  • Upgrades you want (like cameras, medical alert, etc.)

Because ADT offers so many options and upgrades, it’s easy to end up with a customized ADT package that is more expensive than its competitors.

Just be sure to keep a tally as you work with an ADT security pro to put together the right package for your home. If budget constraints are a factor, let your representative know up front how much you can afford.

Is ADT worth the price?

ADT’s higher costs can be worth it if you’re looking for a security company with a long-standing reputation and track record. We consider ADT a luxury home security brand, but that’s not what everyone is looking for.

For people on a budget or those thinking of moving within the next three years, the cost can be prohibitive.

Does ADT home security work for renters?

Yes. ADT offers wireless home security equipment that makes it easy for renters because wireless security doesn’t require you to drill into walls.

The best way to set up security if you’re renting is to schedule an in-person consultation where an ADT representative can assess your needs and propose a package designed specifically for your space.

But be aware that ADT’s control panel is usually wired into the wall.

If that’s a deal-breaker for your landlord, you might want to look at other options like Link Interactive or SimpliSafe (or the new DIY Blue by ADT system) that are basically peel-and-stick.

Why does the number of monitoring centers matter?

Multiple monitoring centers means you get the benefit of “redundant monitoring.”

Redundant monitoring means that if one center goes down due to a power outage or an extreme weather event, the homes monitored by that center are automatically transferred to another center.

This means you’ll always have the protection of 24/7 monitoring even if something happens to take a monitoring center offline.

What happens if I cancel my contract early?

ADT requires a 36-month contract, and they do charge early termination fees if you cancel your service before the end of your term.

If you drop ADT in the middle of your contract, you’ll owe the company 75% of the remaining balance of your contract.

Do I own my ADT equipment?

ADT leases its equipment, but the company doesn’t require customers to return equipment at the end of a contract.

The price of equipment is included in your monthly payment; however, ADT is known to offer special deals that may eliminate the equipment cost when you sign a monitoring contract.

Talk to a representative to find out what deals are available when you set up your ADT home security system.

Compare the best home security systems

Brand
Lowest Monthly Monitoring Price
Starter Equipment Price
Contract Required
Installation
Smart Home Compatibility
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Best Overall Smart Home Pick No-Contract Pick Most Well-Known Techie Pick
$44.99 $29.99 $14.99 $27.99 $19.00
$0.00* $599.00 $229.00 $0.00** $399.99
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Data effective 07/30/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.
*$0 due up-front with consumer financing.
**With $99 installation charge and new monitoring agreement. Early termination fee applies. See SafeStreets.com for full offer details, terms, and conditions.
˄No-contract options available with outright equipment purchase.
† Professional monitoring provided by Brinks Home Security.
‡ Landline monitoring only. Some restrictions apply. (Full disclaimer)

Disclaimer

‡ ADT $27.99 Essential package: $99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($671.76) for California. Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The $27.99 Offer does not include the 6-month guarantee or the Quality Service Plan (QSP). Quality Service Plan (QSP) is ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty. Landline monitoring only.

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ADT Disclaimer

ADT $27.99 Essential package: $99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64...