Arlo vs. ADT: A Home Security System Comparison
What do Arlo and ADT have in common and how do they differ?
What do Arlo and ADT have in common and how do they differ?
Arlo and ADT are two well-known companies in the home security space. With so many products from both brands, how do you decide which one is the best for you and how do their security ecosystems compare? Let’s break them down side-by-side, so you can choose the right security system for your home.
Both ADT and Arlo provide DIY home security systems and offer great customer service. So, what sets them apart? While Arlo allows you to buy security devices without a subscription, ADT requires you to sign a monitoring contract. While Arlo offers detailed guides for DIY self-installation at no extra cost, ADT provides professional installation with costs ranging between $99 and $199.
Both home security companies offer Smart Home Integration. Arlo can connect seamlessly to Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings and doesn’t require a subscription.
ADT also offers Smart Home integration. Given their partnership with Google, ADT systems are primarily tailored to connect to Google Home. This includes smart home devices like Google Nest speakers, Google smart locks, and smart lights.
Yes, both companies offer subscription plans. With Arlo, you can purchase any smart security device separately. Then, you can choose to enhance their functionality with the Arlo Secure subscription plan. This includes features like 24/7 professional monitoring, one-tap emergency response, and 30-day cloud video storage. Pro tip: Arlo subscription plans are available month to month for customers who want a shorter term comment.
Additionally, Arlo now offers Arlo Total Security subscriptions. These include all hardware plus 24/7 Professional Monitoring with 0% APR financing and no upfront costs.
ADT requires you to sign a professional monitoring contract with any purchase, ranging from 24 to 36 months. This commitment provides access to support from ADT-owned monitoring centers located throughout the U.S. You can choose whether to pay for the security devices upfront or through monthly financing. For extended cloud storage for your security footage, you’ll need to additionally subscribe to Google Nest Aware.
We aim to provide a fair apples-to-apples comparison, so you can choose the best home security system for you. All comparisons were made based on available online information. Whenever possible, we compare equivalent products in the same price range from each main product category.
Arlo offers a wide range of security cameras to suit your needs and budget. This includes three cameras that match those offered by ADT: the Arlo 2nd Gen Essential Wireless Outdoor Camera, the 2nd Gen Essential Indoor Camera, and the Pro 3 Wireless Floodlight Camera. These models feature 2-Way Audio, Motion Detection, and Color Night Vision. While they don’t support HDR video, you can opt for 1080p or 2K models. The 2K models provide higher resolution than the Google Nest cameras.
Rather than manufacturing their own security cameras, ADT now exclusively offers Google Nest cameras. You can choose from the Outdoor Nest Camera, the Indoor Google Nest Cam, and the Outdoor Nest Cam with corresponding floodlights. These are high-quality security cameras with features such as 1080p HDR video capture, motion sensors, and night vision.
Whether you choose ADT or Arlo security cameras, both offer a live feed through their respective mobile apps. Google cameras provide up to 3 hours of free cloud storage for event video history. To extend cloud storage for up to 60 days, you’ll need to subscribe to Nest Aware.
Arlo cameras offer cloud storage through Arlo Secure plans, with free trial offered with purchase and monthly options starting at $4.99 per month. Subscribing to Arlo Secure provides you with 30-day cloud storage for video recordings. It also gives you additional features such as 24/7 professional monitoring and one-tap emergency response.
So, if both companies’ cameras offer similar features, what’s the main difference? Well, it comes down to pricing, as Arlo security cameras are considerably more affordable than ADT’s lineup.
For instance, consider the 2nd Gen Essential Security Camera, priced at $49.99. In contrast, the ADT Google Nest Cam is listed at $309.99. At that price, you could purchase six Arlo cameras with similar features.
Here is comparison table for reference:
| Outdoor Wireless Security Camera | Price |
|---|---|
| Arlo 2nd Gen Essential Wireless Security Camera | $49.99 (1080p) / $99.99 (2K) |
| Google Nest Cam (ADT) | $309.99 (1080p) |
| Google Nest Cam (Google Store) | $179.99 (1080p) |
| Indoor Wired Security Camera | Price |
| Arlo 2nd Gen Essential Indoor Wired Camera | $39.99 (1080p) / $79.99 (2K) |
| Indoor Google Nest Cam (ADT) | $199.99 (1080p) |
| Indoor Google Nest Cam (Google Store) | $99.99 (1080p) |
| Floodlight Security Camera | Price |
| Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera | $249.99 (2K) |
| Outdoor Nest Cam with floodlights (ADT) | $279.99 (1080p) |
| Outdoor Nest Cam with floodlights (Google Store) | $299.99 (1080p) |
Each company approaches alarm systems in a unique way. The ADT system relies on a touchpad and various sensors designed to detect different potential threats. This includes specific entry sensors, motion detectors, smoke detectors, and more. Also, ADT’s system does not include a traditional keypad for arming or disarming your security system.
On the other hand, the Arlo Home Security System features a keypad that doubles as the hub. Also, the Arlo system comes with 8 All-in-One sensors, each capable of detecting and monitoring eight different threats. Open and closed detection lets you take action when a door or window is opened, water leak detection prevents damage from leaky pipes, and smoke alarm listening offers emergency help when a smoke alarm is triggered.
Arlo All-in-One sensors are available for individual purchase at $29.99 each. ADT also provides individual sensors, but their prices vary. The options range from the basic door/window sensor priced at $30 to the smoke/carbon monoxide detector at $108. Arlo exclusively offers wireless sensors, while ADT has both wired and wireless options.
If monitoring a wide range of threats is a priority, the ADT system could potentially become more expensive. This is because you’ll need to install individual sensors for each potential threat. In contrast, the Arlo Home Security System can be a more budget-friendly option, as its sensors are both cheaper and more capable. Additionally, you have the flexibility to decide whether to use it with or without the Arlo Secure plan.
Since ADT offers security devices bundled with a monitoring contract, it’s best to compare it as a whole to the Arlo Total Security subscription. This new product includes 24/7 Professional Monitoring and all the necessary hardware, without any upfront costs.
Both ADT packages and the Arlo Total Security offer comprehensive home security solutions for a fixed monthly cost. However, they have different pricing structures.
For instance, take the ADT Smart Home package. It includes 1 touchscreen panel, 3 door/window sensors, 1 motion detector, and 1 Smart door lock, along with 24/7 professional monitoring. If you commit to a 36-month contract, the monthly cost will be $64.15.
Now, let’s look at the Arlo Total Security Starter Plus subscription. This package includes 1 sensor keypad, 10 All-in-One sensors capable of detecting eight different threats, 1 yard sign, and 1 Cellular & Battery Backup Box. Additionally, you’ll have access to 24/7 Professional Monitoring, escalated emergency alerts, and one-tap Emergency Response. With the same 36-month contract, this subscription will cost you just $19.99 per month.
Both Arlo and ADT offer plans that include security cameras. In addition to the previously mentioned devices, the ADT Video & Smart Home package includes 1 Nest Cam and 1 Google Nest Doorbell, totaling $85.11 per month. On the other hand, the Arlo Advanced with Video Subscription expands to include 3 Pro 5S 2K security cameras, 4 extra batteries, 1 dual charge station, 3 anti-theft mounts, and 1 extra yard sign, with a total cost of $49.99 per month.
In summary, Arlo Total Security subscription offers equally-featured security devices with professional monitoring at a significantly lower monthly cost, compared to ADT.
Both Arlo and ADT offer a wide range of home security solutions. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and security needs. To make the right decision, take a good look at the features, pricing, and what each system brings to the table. With Arlo, you can choose security cameras, video doorbells, alarm systems, and subscription plans made to fit your security needs. Plus, you’ll keep your home protected without breaking the bank.
