ADT Vs. Ring Alarm: Which One Is Better?

When it comes to home security an Alarm system plays a vital role. You cannot go for any alarm as it is a matter of your home and family security The two most renowned Alarm systems in the market are ADT and Ring Alarm. If you are confused to choose one of them we have a solution for you. We have done a detailed comparison between the two to help you select matching your need. So, let’s start.

Our Verdict

ADT Vs. Ring Alarm: Comparison Chart

Differences

1. Hub To Router Connection

This is the first difference when comparing both the products. It is important to ensure that the security systems are connected to the router to send and receive data. ADT however, is able to connect to the gateway via Ethernet. Ring Alarm supports both Ethernet and Wireless technology. The disadvantage with ADT is that it severely limits options for hub placement. This is because it only has Ethernet connection. Thus its connectivity will be limited to a smaller area. Ring Alarm can be placed anywhere in the wireless network. This makes it easier to place it in a more centralized location to ensure your home’s safety. It would also be very convenient and of use during emergencies.

2. Hub Battery Backup

During the absence of power, both hubs include an emergency battery that will kick in. The difference is that Ring Alarm battery has a runtime of 24 hours. On the other hand, ADT’s battery runs only for 12 hours. This extra battery backup provided by Ring Alarm makes a world of difference.

3. Two Way Audio On Main Panel

The Two Way Audio on the Main Panel is one of the major advantages that ADT offers its customers. It adds as an important safety feature along with acting as an intercom. A panic button gets activated when the home alarm system is triggered. A two-way audio link with the ADT monitoring system will switch on. You can now directly communicate with an ADT professional through the panel. In the event, your life is in danger and you aren’t able to communicate with the professional, the following steps are taken:

1. The security professional will be able to listen in,
2. He will determine the status of your emergency,
3. He will immediately take the necessary steps in order to help you.

A similar feature is unfortunately absent in the Ring Alarm System. This definitely reduces its utility which otherwise could have been of great help.

4. Siren

Another major aspect of a security system is its siren. Both the products handle the sirens in a different way. The Ring Alarm has a siren which is built-in to its main hub and keypad.  You will also have the option to purchase add-on sirens.ADT on the other hand, does not have gateway sirens. However, they do have a siren on the main panel. You will also be able to purchase add-on sirens. This makes the Ring Alarm slightly more advantageous compared to ADT.

5. Keypad

The ADT and Ring Alarm have differences in how they handle their keypads as well. It is important to have a keypad in a centralized location so that it is easy to access. Both products offer flexibility when it comes to keypad placement. But this flexibility comes by default with Ring while it needs to be purchased for ADT. ADT’s keypad is tied to its control panel. This means it is very limited when it comes to placement. They offer the ability to buy additional keypads to place them where you require. But it is an added investment. As the initial investment is already significant, this is a major setback for the product. The Ring Alarm keypad is separate and wireless. It is portable and rechargeable. You can place it where ever you please as it is not tied anywhere. You also have the option of adding extra keypads at different locations in your home. The Ring Alarm definitely has the edge over ADT when it comes to keypads.

6. Key Fobs

One of the few shortcomings of the Ring Alarm is the lack of key fobs. ADT has the edge here as it is equipped with key fobs to arm or disarms your system when your hands are full. It definitely comes in handy when you do not want to fumble with a phone or a keypad. Arming and disarming the Ring Alarm are limited to the phone and its keypad.

7. Subscriptions

Both the ADT and the Ring Alarm Alarm offer subscription packages. The only key difference is that ADT charges its customers for its most basic features. The Ring Alarm on the other hand, charges only a small fee each month to support the 24/7 professional monitoring. We’ve discussed below the three subscription packages offered by ADT. They all require a good upfront equipment fee to get things started. a) Traditional Package It is one of the most basic yet expensive options available. It charges $48.99 per month. The biggest draw of this plan is it provides access to 24/7 professional monitoring. It comes with four-door and window sensors. In addition, it offers fire, carbon monoxide, and flood monitoring services. b) Control Package This is a mid-tier subscription plan. It charges $52.99 per month. It adds support for home automation. This would give you more control over your home security system. It adds in e-mail and text notifications to alert you in the event of an emergency. c) Video Package The Video Package charges $58.99 per month. It adds support for ADT Pulse wireless cameras and video doorbells.   The Ring Alarm has a more straightforward subscription plan. It charges you a mere $10 per month for access to 24/7 monitoring. All the features are included with no extra fees. This way you will be able to use your security system for years without any ongoing costs. It is pretty clear that the Ring Alarm is significantly cheaper. It is also less restrictive as the plans are month-to-month. ADT’s subscription plans are both expensive and also require a long term contract.

8. Landline Connection

In the event your internet goes down, Ring Alarm offers the ability to add a landline connection. It charges a fee of $27.99 per month. Landline service with ADT is more expensive. Also, the technology used is more basic compared to cellular connections. Intruders can simply cut the lines making your system ineffective.

9. Sensors

Both the products offer basic coverage for entry, motion, carbon monoxide, and water sensors. Both products do have their own advantages. But we feel overall the functionality of Ring Alarm is better. In addition, ADT supports door and window sensors and glass break sensors. This comes in handy when an intruder tries to break into your window. There are heat sensors to alert you during temperature swings. This could be useful if there are kids or pets at home. Ring includes the Alarm Smoke and CO Listener. This is a unique feature that allows you to keep your already existing smoke and CO alarms. By listening to the sound of the alarms, it alerts you when they go off. This is pretty neat as it makes proper use of the existing alarms. Additionally, both ADT and Ring Alarm support Z-Wave sensors. The support is however limited. They cannot be used for security purposes or to dispatch the police.

10. Remote Panic Button

Another let down for Ring Alarm is its lack of a remote panic button. During a crisis, it is crucial to have easy access to emergency services. It can often get difficult to get to the panel to press an alert button. This is especially true for the disabled and elderly. ADT addresses this issue with a wearable, remote panic button. It can be worn in the form of a pendant and is present on the key fob and panel. Separate buttons allow you to alert the police, fire, or medical aid. The panic button gives you immediate access to emergency services when time runs out. Sadly, the Ring Alarm is not equipped to deal with such a situation. You will need to press the two buttons on the keypad simultaneously. This is a real-life emergency might not quite be effective.

11. Smart Home Integration

Neither brand is especially impressive when it comes to smart home integration. However, ADT does have an edge over Ring Alarm with more support for third-party products. The security system works with an ADT-branded Garage Door controller, lights and switches, smart thermostat, and smart plugs. Additionally, it works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Ring Video Doorbell, Nest Thermostat, and the Kwikset Smart Lock. The Ring Alarm on the other hand only works with other Ring products. These include smart doorbells, security cameras, and the Schlage Connect Z-Wave.

12. Technology

ADT has definitely had an advantage over the Ring Alarm in terms of smart home integration. But this is not the case when it comes to using of technology. The Ring Alarm has the edge over ADT in this case. Ring Alarm not only has access to Wi-fi and Z-Wave but also to Zigbee and Bluetooth. This makes the potential for integration limitless. ADT however is only limited to “ADT approved” devices, which forms only a small number of products. With the resources of Amazon and the technology behind the Ring, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the future of technology.  This is definitely an advantage for Ring users in the long run.

13. Installation

There are some major differences regarding the installation of the two products. ADT comes with an installation fee of $99. The security system will be set up by a professional. This would be convenient if you consider DIY installations to be a hassle. The installation fee is also quite high and some would prefer the DIY installation instead. The Ring has an easy DIY solution. It is convenient and can be set up right out of the box. The equipment is portable. This is a big plus is for renters.

Similarities

1. 24/7 Professional Monitoring

The 24/7 professional monitoring services are available for both ADT and Ring Alarm Alarm. There is a team of professionals ready to respond in the event of an emergency. However, this feature comes with an additional fee. The professional monitoring system is one of the main reasons why homeowners purchase these security systems.

2. Cellular Backup

Both security systems run on Wi-Fi connectivity. When the internet is down the systems can be rendered practically useless. This is why both the products have the option to buy a backup cellular service. It comes in handy if the internet goes down.

3. Video Monitoring

Both Ring Alarm and ADT offer video monitoring services. This enhances the protection offered by the sensor systems. ADT makes use of its ADT Pulse Video Doorbell and wireless cameras. For wireless cameras, there are options for both indoor and outdoor models. The Doorbell comes with a 180-degree view and records in 720p HD. Its major drawback is that it does not include audio recordings in the videos. The Ring Alarm spoils you for choice with a wide range of smart cameras. It covers 720 and 1080p outside and inside cameras with a variety of features. The ring has an edge here as it also supports audio recording in the videos. We have listed below some of the major features of the two products. We have categorized them according to their pros and cons for your convenience.

Features Of ADT

Pros

• Wireless or hardwired
• Indoor cameras
• Indispensable features including Two-Way Audio on Main Panel, Key Fobs, And Remote Panic Button
• Home Automation
• Devices work at home and away
• Cellular connection

Cons

• Long term Contract
• Comparatively more expensive
• The installation process is charged and has to be set up by a professional.
• The option of a landline connection is basic in technology offered and expensive
• No audio recording in video monitoring

Features Of Ring Alarm

Pros

• Is overall less expensive, affordable monthly plans
• Comes with an easy DIY installation
• No contract needed
• Has more functional sensors
• Dual power options for most devices
• Video sharing
• Cellular and landline connections
• Has audio recording in video monitoring

Cons

• Does not have advanced security features
• Limited home automation
• No scheduling feature available for lights

Bottom Line

Both ADT and Ring Alarm are great choices for a home security system.  Ring offers an easy DIY installation process with affordable monthly costs. ADT offers many advanced security options. you should check out how Ring alarm contrasts Simplisafe. The brand is well trusted and reputed. ADT will make for a sophisticated home security option. It is more expensive and will require professionals to set it up. Ring on the other hand is easy to install on your own. It offers great technology yet at a low price. This is why this is our preferred choice with regard to a home security system. Also, do check out How the ring alarm system varies from the nest alarm system.