When you’re choosing between Vivint, a smart home security provider that merged with NRG Energy to focus on integrated energy and security solutions and ADT, the long-standing monitored alarm company with decades of experience in home security, you’re not just picking a brand—you’re picking a whole way your home stays protected. Vivint leans hard into automation, solar-powered gear, and app control, while ADT sticks with professional installation, 24/7 monitoring, and traditional alarm systems. Neither is outdated, but they serve very different needs.
One big difference? Contracts, long-term agreements that lock you in for 3 to 5 years with early termination fees. ADT still pushes 36-month contracts with fees that can hit $500 if you cancel early. Vivint doesn’t offer 5-year deals anymore, but its equipment is often financed over 2-3 years, making it feel just as binding. If you move often or hate being tied down, both can trap you—unless you know how to legally get out, which we’ve covered in detail in posts like How to Get Out of an ADT Contract Early. Then there’s the tech. Vivint’s systems include smart thermostats, door locks, and lighting that talk to each other. ADT mostly sticks to cameras, motion sensors, and panic buttons. If you want a full smart home, Vivint gives you more out of the box. But if you just want a reliable alarm that calls the police when triggered, ADT’s monitoring network is still one of the most responsive in the U.S.
And what about the cost? Vivint’s upfront equipment fees are higher, but they often include free installation. ADT charges for installation unless you catch a promo, and their monthly fees are usually lower—but you’re paying for the monitoring, not the gear. Both charge extra for video storage and cellular backup. Neither is cheap, but Vivint’s all-in-one approach might save you money long-term if you use all the features. ADT’s strength? Simplicity. If you don’t care about controlling your lights from your phone, ADT’s no-frills system might be the better fit.
Here’s the thing: neither company is perfect. Vivint’s app can glitch, and their customer service gets mixed reviews. ADT’s equipment feels dated next to newer brands like SimpliSafe or Ring. But both still dominate the monitored alarm space because they offer something most DIY systems don’t: guaranteed emergency response. If your alarm goes off, someone’s calling the cops—no waiting, no guesswork. That’s why so many homeowners still choose them, even with newer options around.
Below, you’ll find real-world breakdowns of what these systems actually do, how they perform in practice, and which one gives you the most value for your money. Whether you’re trying to cancel ADT, wondering if Vivint’s still around, or just want to know what’s worth paying for, the posts here cut through the marketing and show you what matters.
Vivint isn't failing - it's being bought by NRG Energy. Learn why its financial struggles led to a $5.2B acquisition, how it compares to ADT and Alarm.com, and whether you should stick with your system in 2025.
