A comparison guide for ADT and Vector Security home security systems, covering everything from equipment included in different packages to services.

A happy family using ADT. You may be a busy person who often travels away from home. Or you might have a family and safety is your primary concern. If you want to install home security alarm equipment, then you should investigate ADT and Vector Security service, prices and components.

alarm system

ADT is an established home security provider, with over 80 years of experience in the industry. Vector Security has been in business for 40 years.

ADT is the nation's biggest home security company worldwide. In 2010, its customer base expanded even more when it purchased Brink's Home Security. Vector Security is also highly rated by home system security reviews.

Using proven industry leaders has an obvious benefit. Many companies offer a little more than stock packages with preselected components for customers to choose from. Yet both ADT and Vector uphold the philosophy that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for home security, that each customer is unique.

Here are some service comparisons:

  • ADT and Vector use local dealers who sell and service the company's equipment.
  • Both send a technician to your home in order to perform an evaluation and to discuss your security needs.
  • ADT and Vector offer professional installation only for home alarm systems. ADT dealers can often arrange for same-day installation.

Both of these companies are proponents of customization and offer a tremendous variety of equipment and services. Vector's products are manufactured by Radionics, while ADT uses components from Honeywell or GE.

Basic equipment from both companies includes:

  • Control panels.motion sensors
  • Wireless keypads.
  • Wireless keychain remote.
  • Infrared motion sensors.
  • Entry magnets for doors, windows and other access points.
  • Glass breakage detectors.
  • Inside alarm.
  • Uninterruptable power supply (Vector only).

A disadvantage about Vector is that it isn't so upfront with its prices, which vary per customer based on his or her need for personalization of security systems. Each dealer offers varying warranty policies and cost of installation.

Many home security system reviews note that Vector's prices tend to be slightly higher than those of other companies. ADT's monthly monitoring packages are based on the method used for monitoring, be it phone, cellular or both.

For instance:

  • The Essential package is basic and hardwired to a phone line.
  • The Premium package is hardwired to a phone line and adds the convenience of a two-way voice system.
  • The Cellular package does not need a phone line since it uses a cellular connection. This is really the best way to go if you're trying to decide between it and the above two packages.
  • Total Protection uses a phone line as the primary monitoring method and a cellular connection as a backup.
  • ADT has a lifetime warranty for its equipment.

Both of these companies offer comparable services, customization and equipment. However, Vector's policies and prices are not fixed. The best way to make a choice between these two services is to read home security system reviews for your local Vector dealer in order to see how it compares with ADT.

The Better Business Bureau can also give insight into people's experiences. Considering ADT and Vector Security's prices can help make a difference when you want to install home security alarm systems.

QualitySmith can provide further information about many of the top home security companies in the country. Read additional articles by us (request/article/), or fill out a 30-second QualitySmith form to immediately receive quotes from licensed professionals in your area.