ADT vs Protection 1 Security System Comparison

ADT and Protection 1 had an extensive market presence in the United States and Canada. Both brands offered high-quality components from leading manufacturers, and came with professional monitoring and smart home integration. Each company also worked with local installers and sales personnel. The majority of their packages work on cellular networks.

Before we get too deep into the details, though, there’s something important to understand about these two brands. In 2016 a company called Apollo Group Management acquired ADT and merged it with Protection One. This consolidation means they operate under the same corporate umbrella. However, Protection 1 systems are no longer available. Visiting the Protection 1 website redirects you to ADT’s site.

Which one was better? Below we look at what Protection 1 used to offer to see how it compares to ADT today. Let’s take a look.

Similarities

• Cellular transmission
• A+ Better Business Bureau rating
• High-quality equipment from trusted manufacturers
• Excellent customer service record
• Two-way voice

Differences

• ADT has a six-month refund on installation only. Protection 1 has no refund policy advertised
• Protection 1 uses landline only for the least expensive package
• Protection 1 offers Geo-fencing

Comparison Overview

Protection 1 and ADT have excellent home security products and monitoring services. ADT notably partnered with Google Nest to offer smart home capabilities including video doorbells and security cameras.

ADT and Protection 1 use independent dealers to install and service their systems. Both typically require 36-month monitoring contracts. ADT also offers DIY packages that don’t require any long-term commitments.

ADT and Protection 1 own and operate proprietary monitoring centers throughout North America. These centers maintain UL certification, employ trained security professionals around the clock, and feature redundant backup systems to ensure continuous monitoring even during power outages or natural disasters.

Both companies let you manage your system from iOS and Android apps. You can even integrate some Z-Wave products with either system.

Winner and Loser Categories

Company Reputation

Winner: Protection 1

ADT continues to suffer from a large number of complaints. Some of the most common include aggressive sales tactics, unclear pricing structures, and difficulties with contract cancellation. Though their satisfactory resolution rate is high, they usually have a high number of BBB complaints.

Protection 1 has fewer complaints registered against the company at the BBB and on user forums and home security sites.

Pricing

Winner: Protection 1

ADT’s installation costs start at $100 depending on the complexity of the system. Monthly monitoring fees for ADT start at $24.99 for basic plans. If you need security camera support, your only option is the top tier, which starts at $39.99 a month.

When you include the amount of equipment provided under the package terms, Protection 1 comes out ahead.

>> Learn More: See a more in-depth look at ADT’s pricing and costs

Contract

Winner: Tie

Both companies offer 36-month monitoring contracts. ADT does have month-to-month plans if you install the system yourself.

Packages and Contents

Winner: Protection 1

Protection 1 offers more equipment than ADT does with all its packages except for the basic one. Standard packages typically include a hub, door/window sensors, motion detectors, and yard signs. Other bundles add smart home features and security cameras.

Protection 1 also offers an image capture motion sensor, whereas ADT provides a motion sensor without image capture.

Ease of Installation

Winner: ADT

Both companies receive high marks overall from consumers for their installation and service teams. ADT’s extensive network of over 200 authorized dealers nationwide provides greater scheduling flexibility and faster installation times. We had our system professionally installed within 48 hours of signing up.

Equipment Quality and Technology

Winner: ADT

Both systems feature professional-grade equipment. ADT’s partnership with Google Nest has elevated their technology offerings significantly. The ADT+ app also makes it easy to integrate smart home devices. We also used it to access features like facial recognition and package detection.

Warranty

Winner: ADT

ADT advertises a six-month return policy, but only on installation. Protection 1 has no warranty advertised.

Service

Winner: Tie

ADT and Protection 1 provide service free of charge if there is a problem with your system. Both companies maintain average response times under 30 seconds for alarm events. You can also access 24/7 technical support through multiple channels.

Comparison Summary

ADT and Protection 1 both offer quality products and services. ADT edges ahead with its partnerships and wider service network. Protection 1, when it was available, offered great value for budget-conscious customers. Learn more in our ADT review.

You get slightly more product and a few more bells and whistles in the higher-end initial package offering with Protection 1.