Both ADT and Brinks are reputable home security companies, but ADT has more experience, more customization options, and more professional installation than Brinks. However, Brinks has lower monthly fees, longer warranty periods, and more DIY-friendly equipment than ADT. The best choice for you depends on your budget, preferences, and security needs.
ADT and Brinks are two of the most well-known names in the home security industry. They both offer a range of products and services to protect your home from burglary, fire, carbon monoxide, and other threats. They also provide 24/7 professional monitoring, mobile app control, smart home integration, and customer support.
However, there are also some significant differences between ADT and Brinks that you should consider before making a decision. Here are some of the key factors that set them apart:
Experience: ADT has been in the security business since 1874, making it one of the oldest and most established companies in the field. Brinks, on the other hand, started as a transportation company in 1859 and only entered the home security market in 1983. ADT has more than 8 million customers in North America, while Brinks has about 1 million.
Customization: ADT offers more flexibility and personalization than Brinks when it comes to choosing your equipment and plan. You can select from a variety of sensors, cameras, smart devices, and accessories to create a system that suits your home and lifestyle. You can also choose between landline, cellular, or broadband monitoring, and between contract or no-contract plans. Brinks, however, has a more limited selection of equipment and plans. You can only choose between two pre-packaged systems, and you have to sign a 36-month contract with cellular monitoring.
Installation: ADT requires professional installation for all its systems, which means you have to pay a one-time fee of $99 to $199, depending on your location and package. You also have to schedule an appointment with a technician, who will install and test your equipment and show you how to use it. Brinks, on the other hand, offers DIY installation for its systems, which means you can save money and time by setting up your equipment yourself. You can also opt for professional installation for an extra $199, if you prefer.
Pricing: Brinks has lower monthly fees than ADT, ranging from $29 to $39, depending on your system and features. ADT’s monthly fees start from $36.99 and can go up to $62.99, depending on your equipment and monitoring options. Both companies charge activation fees of $19.99, but Brinks waives this fee if you pay for your equipment upfront. Brinks also offers a price-match guarantee, which means it will match any lower offer from a comparable competitor.
Warranty: Brinks has a longer warranty period than ADT, offering a lifetime warranty on its equipment and a 30-day trial period on its service. ADT, on the other hand, only offers a 6-month warranty on its equipment and a 6-month trial period on its service. However, ADT also offers a theft protection guarantee, which means it will pay up to $500 of your insurance deductible if your home is burglarized while your system is armed.
The answer to this question depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some scenarios that might help you decide:
If you want a more experienced and trusted company, go with ADT. ADT has a long history and a large customer base in the home security industry, which means it has more expertise and credibility than Brinks. ADT also has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, while Brinks has a B+ rating.
If you want a more affordable and simple company, go with Brinks. Brinks has lower monthly fees and longer warranty periods than ADT, which means it can save you money and hassle in the long run. Brinks also has a more straightforward and user-friendly approach to its equipment and plans, which means you don’t have to worry about too many options and details.
If you want a more customizable and flexible company, go with ADT. ADT offers more choices and possibilities than Brinks when it comes to designing your system and selecting your monitoring and contract options. ADT also has more compatibility and integration with smart home devices and platforms, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, and IFTTT.
If you want a more DIY-friendly and convenient company, go with Brinks. Brinks offers DIY installation and cellular monitoring for its systems, which means you can set up and use your system without any hassle or extra fees. Brinks also has a more modern and sleek design for its equipment and app, which means you can enjoy a more aesthetic and intuitive experience.
ADT and Brinks are both reputable home security companies that offer a range of products and services to protect your home. However, they also have some significant differences that you should consider before making a decision. ADT has more experience, more customization options, and more professional installation than Brinks. Brinks has lower monthly fees, longer warranty periods, and more DIY-friendly equipment than ADT. The best choice for you depends on your budget, preferences, and security needs.
