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ADT vs. Xfinity Home Security
The home security giant squares off against the largest cable provider in our home alarm comparison.
August 11, 2022
3 min read
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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.
ADT and Xfinity comparison
* Xfinity prices vary by location.
† Smart home functions not supported by all monitoring plans.
‡ Mobile app control not available with all monitoring plans.
Security system install
Both ADT and Xfinity have professional installation, which reduces customer hassle. Xfinity is starting to open up into the DIY space. ADT offers Blue by ADT which is the company's self-installation service that comes with no contract and offers monitoring that starts at $19.99.
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.
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.
Xfinity Home Security connection
Xfinity’s mobile app requires a connection through the XH router, which an Xfinity technician would verify. So you can use another internet provider, but you’ll still be using Xfinity equipment.
ADT vs. Xfinity pros comparison
ADT Pros
- Well-known name
- 6-month money-back guarantee
Xfinity Pros
- Service bundles
- Some innovative equipment
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 because the equipment prices are part of what you'll pay for installation, so it's hard to know what you'll pay upfront. And ADT-authorized dealer websites don’t offer e-commerce, either, so you'll have to buy directly through ADT's website for that. 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.
Xfinity Home Security systems equipment
Xfinity equipment prices are standard and start at $360 for a basic system. But you’re getting very basic equipment for that price, including just one security camera option.
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.
ADT vs. Xfinity cons comparison
ADT Cons
- Expensive professional monitoring
- Confusing pricing
Xfinity Cons
- Poorly rated customer service
- Location-dependent prices
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.
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