ADT vs AT&T: Our Verdict
ADT and AT&T Connected Life represent two very different approaches to professional home security. ADT is the industry's oldest and largest dedicated security company, offering professionally installed systems with 36-month contracts and monitoring starting at $24.99/month with a deep network of 9 monitoring centers. AT&T Connected Life is a newer entrant powered by Google Home, monitored by Abode, and backed by AT&T's cellular network — with DIY installation, no contracts, and monitoring starting at $10.99/month. AT&T's partnership with Google and Abode creates a modern smart home-focused product at a lower price point; ADT offers deeper security infrastructure and the peace of mind of a 150-year legacy.
Our Pick
ADT
Recommendation
ADT is the better choice for traditional whole-home security with professional installation, a deep alarm monitoring infrastructure, and comprehensive sensor coverage. AT&T Connected Life is the right pick if you are already in the Google or AT&T ecosystem, want a simple DIY camera-forward system with no contract, and are comfortable with self-monitoring or basic professional coverage at a lower monthly cost.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | ADT | AT&T |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $24.99/mo | $10.99/mo |
| Max Internet Speed | — | 5000 Mbps |
| Available Plans | 3 plans | 13 plans |
| Internet | ||
| Mobile | ||
| Home Security | ||
| View ADT Plans | View AT&T Plans |
Featured Plans
ADT
ADT Smart
AT&T
AT&T Internet 300
AT&T Fiber Internet 1000
AT&T Premium 2.0
Frequently Asked Questions
How does AT&T Connected Life compare to ADT on monitoring?
ADT's monitoring infrastructure is significantly more established. ADT operates 9 UL-listed monitoring centers with redundant systems, averaging over 35 million alarm signals processed annually. AT&T Connected Life's professional monitoring is handled by Abode, a well-regarded security monitoring company, at $21.99/month — but Abode's monitoring center footprint is smaller than ADT's. For customers who want the deepest investment in professional monitoring infrastructure, ADT is the category leader. AT&T Connected Life is more appropriate for those who want a hybrid self-monitoring and professionally monitored option at a lower cost.
Does AT&T Connected Life require a contract?
No — AT&T Connected Life is completely month-to-month with no annual contracts and no cancellation fees. ADT requires a 36-month monitoring contract on most plans, with early termination fees reaching up to 75% of your remaining balance. For renters, frequent movers, or anyone who wants flexibility, AT&T Connected Life's no-commitment model is a significant advantage over ADT's traditional contract structure.
Which is easier to install, ADT or AT&T Connected Life?
AT&T Connected Life is a fully DIY system that installs in approximately 30 minutes without any tools or technicians. The system uses wireless sensors and a central hub that connects to the AT&T cellular network automatically. ADT requires scheduling a professional installation visit, which typically takes 2-4 hours and involves proper sensor placement, control panel installation, and a system walkthrough with the technician. AT&T's DIY approach saves time and avoids appointment scheduling, while ADT's professional install ensures expert placement.
Is AT&T Connected Life cheaper than ADT?
AT&T Connected Life is cheaper on monthly monitoring — $10.99/month for self-monitoring versus ADT's $24.99/month entry-level plan. However, AT&T's equipment costs are substantial: the Starter Kit is $399 and the Advanced Kit is $699, compared to ADT's equipment packages that start lower. Over 36 months, ADT's total cost including professional monitoring and equipment often runs $2,000-$3,000, while AT&T Connected Life over the same period at the Professional plan ($21.99/mo) plus equipment runs approximately $1,200-$1,500 — making AT&T genuinely cheaper overall.
Does AT&T Connected Life work with Google Home and Alexa?
AT&T Connected Life is natively powered by Google Home, making it one of the most deeply integrated Google smart home security systems available. Google Nest cameras and the Google Home app are central to the experience, and voice control through Google Assistant is built in. ADT's systems offer some smart home integrations including Amazon Alexa and Z-Wave device support, but the integration is less seamless than AT&T's native Google Home platform. For Google ecosystem households, AT&T Connected Life offers a noticeably more cohesive experience.