ADT vs. Xfinity Home Security

ADT has been around forever, and Xfinity Home is a relatively new player in the home security game (less than 10 years), but are they really that different?

We’ll come right out and say it: if you want standalone home security, go with ADT. If you’re looking to get all your home services in one fell swoop, get Xfinity Home. If you’re just starting out with your first security system, you may want to check out our Best Home Security Providers post.

^{* Xfinity prices vary by location.}

^{† Smart home functions not supported by all monitoring plans.}

^{‡ Mobile app control not available with all monitoring plans.}

What we like about ADT

ADT’s the go-to name in home security. The blue octagon itself is enough to stop some thieves and vandals in their tracks.

We also have major heart eyes for ADT’s six-month money-back guarantee. You have a whole six months to test your system before things become permanent.

What we like about Xfinity

Internet, cable, phone, security . . . home services really add up. With Xfinity Home, you can get it all in a single, price-effective bundle.

Most of Xfinity’s equipment is pretty standard: the Basic Home System package comes with the Xfinity Home app, a touchscreen controller, three door or window sensors, a motion sensor, and a yard sign. But the company also has some neat features. The controller is handheld and portable, and there’s a proprietary Zen thermostat that can be added to a package for some home automation magic.

What we don’t like about ADT

ADT monitoring and security equipment are expensive. It doesn’t offer its own equipment or the most cutting-edge tech, and you don’t get the app with every plan tier. Basically, you’re paying premium prices for ADT’s shiny reputation.

ADT also lags behind when it comes to transparency. It doesn’t provide equipment price breakdowns on its website, making it hard to shop around. And ADT authorized dealer websites don’t offer e-commerce, either. While some brands, including Xfinity, let users buy online, ADT makes you get on the phone.

What we don’t like about Xfinity

Three words: Comcast customer service. Xfinity Home Security’s customer service is no better than what Xfinity/Comcast usually offers. That means you’re likely in for frustrating exchanges, obtuse responses, and even billing problems.

Also, Xfinity security monitoring prices are hard to pin down. In some areas, an Xfinity bundle is a huge money-saver. In others, it’s a bad deal. You won’t know for sure without entering your ZIP code on the Xfinity website.

Finally, Xfinity’s one of the few home alarm systems we’ve reviewed that’s not compatible with either Alexa or Google Assistant. Its home automation compatibility is extremely cherry-picked, with a few devices from various well-known smart home brands.

Which one should you choose?

If you live in an area with lower Xfinity prices, especially if you’re already an Xfinity customer, we recommend an Xfinity service bundle. But if you’re looking for home security alone, aren’t a current Xfinity customer, and live in a higher-priced Xfinity area, ADT’s where it’s at.

Want to learn more?

Feeling lukewarm about these systems? Try these other reviews.

• ADT Home Security review
• Xfinity Home Security review
• Best Home Security Systems of 2020 review
• Best Cheap Security Systems 2020 review
• Best Smart Home Security Systems review