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Compare Ackerman vs. ADT Home Security Home Security Systems

What’s the difference between Ackerman Home Security and ADT Smart Home Security? See how our editors compare the two companies below.
Last Updated: December 19, 2024
Ackerman Home Security
2.8 / 5 - Average
no_rank
ADT Smart Home Security
4.9 / 5 - Excellent
#2 in Home Security Systems
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Key Facts

  • Guaranteed response time
  • No long-term contracts required
  • U.L. and CSAA 5-diamond certified monitoring
  • "No-Theft" Guarantee: Ackerman will double the cost of your loss in a theft.
  • Residential and commercial systems

🏅Best Monitoring & Equipment

Get ADT Security starting at $29.99*

  • Google Nest Cams¹, Doorbells, Sensors & more
  • A Leader in Home Security for 150 Years
  • 24/7 Monitoring & Video Surveillance
  • Possible Savings on Homeowner's Insurance²

Click here to get a free quote from ADT

² Some insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner’s insurance. Please consult your insurance company.


Comparing home security companies involves first thinking about your precise needs and budget; and then looking at a variety of different features in order to determine which company can best meet your requirements.

The easiest way to get a concrete answer about how company X or company Z can fulfill the things on your list is to obtain quotes from each, with accurate information about your home, the access points you want protected, and what (if any) extra devices you’d like to include in your system.

Before taking that step, however, it’s best to do some preliminary research, where some weight should be given to each company’s reputation, their financial stability, any certifications they may have, their monitoring and customer service, and of course, their equipment and prices.

Decide whether you’re okay with signing a contract (the industry standard is 36 months), and whether you want professional monitoring or are okay with doing it yourself.

Figuring these things out can help you narrow down which companies to consider for your home security.

In the specific case of ADT vs Ackerman Security, both companies have very similar features across monitoring and equipment, but vary significantly in their pricing and their technological integrations.

It’s also essential to note that Ackerman only services consumers in Virginia, Washington D.C., Georgia, and Maryland.

For more details, read on.

OVERALL RATINGS

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Equipment 3.0/5 5.0/5
Monitoring Options and Technology 3.0/5 5.0/5
Value 0.0/5 5.0/5
Contract/Subscription Flexibility 2.5/5 4.5/5

Home Security Basics

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Installation
Professional
Professional
Equipment Manufacturer
Gemini, GE Security, Z Wave, Yale, Honeywell, DSC Security, Napco, AlarmNet, Linear, FIrst Alert, Telguard, 2GIG, concord, Kwikset
Ademco, DSC, Honeywell, Interlogix
Ability to Reallocate System
Wireless Sensors
Control Panel
Event Triggered Siren/ Alarm

ADT and Ackerman Security offer very comparable basic coverage—both companies require professional installation ($125 for Ackerman, between $99 and $199 for ADT, depending on the selected package).

Likewise, both companies make it feasible for customers to reallocate their system in case of a move, which Ackerman reinstalls at zero cost to the customer (it’s unclear whether ADT offers the same service).

For their part, ADT packages come with a $100 Visa® Reward Card, which can take some of the sting out of the installation cost—as well as the fact that the equipment packages they send are valued at $850.

Both companies’ hardware features a control panel, to which wireless sensors are connected, as well as event-triggered alarms.

However, where ADT equipment is only manufactured by Honeywell, GE, and DSC; Ackerman’s offers a multitude of devices built by other companies as well, including Gemini, Napco, AlarmNet, First Alert, Telguard, Z-Wave, 2GIG, concord, and Kwikset.

This makes sense when you consider that Ackerman offers a good amount of technological integrations, whereas ADT sticks to straightforward security monitoring services.

Neither company provides just monitoring services, as both sell packages which include both the equipment and the monitoring.

 


Sensor & Device Comparison

The type of sensors you put in your home, and where they’re placed, can make a considerable difference in your safety.

Though most companies always include the standard entry door/window sensors and motion sensors, homeowners may also want to invest in garage door sensors for out of the way or badly lit areas, recessed door sensors for aesthetic reasons and subtler security, and crash & smash protection in case an intruder decides to destroy the central control panel.

Families with infirm or elderly members can also benefit from safety devices such as panic buttons and medical alerts.

For an extra level of safety, environmental sensors that connect to monitors for carbon monoxide, flood, temperature changes, and smoke can mean the difference between a fire engulfing your home and being caught in time while you’re away.

Finally, surveillance devices should also be taken into consideration, as they can be of incalculable help to law enforcement in the case of an actual break-in.

Both ADT and Ackerman offer all of the above options.

However, the difference lies in the specifics of how they build out their equipment bundles. We will discuss pricing further on.

Intrusion Protection

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • Door & Window Sensors
  • Garage Door Sensors
  • Glass Break Protection
  • Motion Sensors
  • Recessed Door Sensors
  • Crash & Smash Protection
  • Door & Window Sensors
  • Garage Door Sensors
  • Glass Break Protection
  • Motion Sensors
  • Recessed Door Sensors
  • Crash & Smash Protection

Environmental Protection

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • Carbon Monoxide
  • Flood
  • Temperature Change
  • Smoke
  • Carbon Monoxide
  • Flood
  • Temperature Change
  • Smoke

Surveillance

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • Indoor Cameras
  • Outdoor Cameras
  • Doorbell Cameras
  • Tilt & Pan Cameras
  • Live Surveillance
  • Event-triggered Surveillance
  • Indoor Cameras
  • Outdoor Cameras
  • Doorbell Cameras
  • Tilt & Pan Cameras
  • Live Surveillance
  • Event-triggered Surveillance

Life Safety

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • Panic Button
  • Medical Alert
  • Panic Button
  • Medical Alert

How do their monitoring services compare?

The way a home security company handles threats or potentially dangerous situations is one of the most important elements in choosing a company.

After all, the difference between a 3-minute response time and a 30-minute one is much more than just a zero.

On paper, comparing ADT vs Ackerman Security’s monitoring services is fairly straightforward, as they both require professional monitoring of their equipment, (available over cellular, broadband, or a landline), and can contact a number of emergency responders, including the police, fire department, or medical services.

ADT’s devices also offer two-way intercom which allows customers to speak directly with professionals in the monitoring center, however, and it owns six centers across the U.S. to Ackerman’s one.

This may seem like a small detail, but it also means that there aren’t any backup monitoring available, should Ackerman’s single center suffer a long power outage or other incapacitating damage.

We cannot stress enough that Ackerman’s service is only available to residents of Georgia, the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maryland; though it does claim to be the only security company in America with a guaranteed response time.

While this sort of geographical limitations is not uncommon in home security, industry leaders generally have a nationwide presence.

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Monitoring Options
Professional Monitoring
Professional Monitoring
Monitoring Technology
Cellular
Broadband
Landline
Cellular
Broadband
Landline
Number of Monitoring Centers
1
6
Monitoring Center Type
Owned
Owned
Professional Monitoring Services
24/7 Professional Monitoring
Police Dispatch
Fire Department Dispatch
Medical Dispatch
24/7 Professional Monitoring
2-Way Intercom
Police Dispatch
Fire Department Dispatch
Medical Dispatch

Pricing & Cost Comparison

Ackerman only releases price points and device pack information to customers who are negotiating a contract, so it can be hard to find accurate descriptions.

A quick review of customer testimonials and complaints, however, led us to an approximate monthly fee of $20 as the least expensive Ackerman option, while adding landline and mobile can up the cost to $29 and $35 a month, respectively.

ADT, on the other hand, is much more upfront about its packages. Its Traditional plan includes 24/7/365 monitoring for approximately $29 a month, and its Control option is $37 a month, with some home automation features.

Finally, customers can also add video for a total monthly cost of $56. ADT also offers a six-month money-back guarantee on all equipment costs.

Their cancellation policy differentiates them as well.

ADT requires the industry standard 36-month contract, whereas Ackerman’s claims of allowing customers to cancel their own 36-month contract anytime is negated by complaints specifically regarding cancellation attempts, and automatic renewals.

Since ADT is a national company, it can offer monitoring even in the case of a move, and will remove and reinstall your system at no additional cost. For its offerings, ADT hs very competitive pricing.

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Monthly Fee (min)
$19.95
$29.99
Installation/ Activation Fee
$0.00
Contract Required
Minimum Contract Length
0 months
36 months
Cancellation Policy
Cancel anytime
ADT's cancellation policy requires a minimum 36-month contract, with early termination fees applicable if you cancel before the end of the term. To cancel, you need to contact ADT customer service directly, either by phone or in writing, to initiate the cancellation process. ADT may also offer a six-month money-back guarantee if they are unable to resolve system-related issues within the first six months of service. Be sure to review your contract for specific terms and any potential charges associated with early termination. To cancel, customers must call by phone, at (800) ADT-ASAP or (800) 773-1391. Online cancellations are not available.
Warranty
We disclaim most warranties and provide the Service “As Is”.
90 Days on Equipment + Labor; Extended Warranty w/ Subscription

Contract & Price Fine Print

Ackerman focuses on delivering customized home security systems. Quotes for equipment and monitoring services are provided on an individual basis, but the base monitoring monthly rate is $19.95.
Disclaimers: A 36-month monitoring contract is required (24 months in California). Service and installation charges vary depending on system configuration, equipment, and services selected. Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Local permit fees may be required. Prices and offers are subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit is required. A security deposit may be required. **ADT Money-Back Guarantee: Money-back guarantee only applies after ADT has made attempts to resolve a system-related issue and has not been able to resolve that issue within the first six (6) months of your original activation. Requires purchase and continual monthly payment of both QSP (Quality Service Plan, ADT’s extended limited warranty) and professional monitoring from the time of original activation. ADT Money-Back Guarantee is not transferable. Equipment must be returned before a refund will be processed. Conditions preventing normal system operation cannot be caused by the customer.

What technology integrations are available?

Home automation technology is increasingly becoming more and more popular, as the internet of things has become a catchphrase of the moment.

Features like remotely locking and unlocking your doors, controlling your thermostat or lighting, and even switching appliances on and off are no longer restricted to the realm of sci-fi, but a real possibility for everyday Americans who can afford it—smart home features are usually not standard and do require somewhat of a larger investment than basic security packages.

While home automation may seem like just a lot of unnecessary bells and whistles, there are a lot of very real practical benefits to be had.

There’s also a middle ground between a fully smart home and some automation technology.

For instance, many security systems are able to integrate with computer and mobile devices, still giving a good amount of flexibility and control both when you’re in the home and out.

ADT doesn’t offer automation services with any of its three standard packages, preferring to fold it into an upgrade called ADT Pulse®.

Premium protection with Pulse® begins at $52.99 a month, expanding its pre-chosen plans to include home automation devices.

The upgrade allows homeowners to remotely activate and deactivate their system, sends text and email alerts, and can include any home automation devices. It’s able to connect to Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Nest Thermostat.

Ackerman, on the other hand, builds out its packages together with its customers, taking a customizable approach which can include home automation features.

The cost for these smart home features, therefore, isn’t readily available. However, the company’s website does mention that it can handle integrations with Google Home and Z-Wave technology.

Compatibility

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Google Assistant
Amazon Alexa
Google Home
IFTTT
Z-Wave
ZigBee
Z-Wave Plus

Mobile Access & Alerts

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • iPhone App
  • Android App
  • Email & Text Alerts
  • Live Surveillance Feed
  • Remote Arm/Disarm
  • iPhone App
  • Android App
  • Email & Text Alerts
  • Live Surveillance Feed
  • Remote Arm/Disarm
  • Geo-location Services

Home Automation

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • Lighting Control
  • Thermostat Control
  • Electronic Door Locks
  • Event-triggered Automation
  • History Log
  • Unique User Codes
  • Lighting Control
  • Thermostat Control
  • Appliance Control
  • Electronic Door Locks

How do their reputations compare?

Reputations comprise a lot more than just financial strength and time in business.

They can also include customer service elements, such as how well the company answers questions, communicates important information, troubleshoots any issues, handles complaints, and even how good the purchase experience was.

While complaints are also a factor, of course, it’s important to consider how a company’s negative feedback stacks up against the median number of reports for a business of its size and age.

And while on the subject of age, it’s also good to keep in mind that a company’s years in business aren’t necessarily an accurate indicator of financial strength or reliability.

While older businesses with a household name may offer a sense of stability thanks to their years of experience, newly-seeded companies may embrace technological advances more readily, offer a higher degree of flexibility, or even better terms, as they are striving to establish themselves as players in the industry.

Looking at Ackerman Security vs ADT, it’s quickly obvious that ADT is the longer established of the two companies, having been founded in 1874.

It’s also considerably larger than Ackerman, who only serves three states and the District of Columbia. ADT has simply had a much longer time to accumulate bad feedback, as evidenced by its 214 negative reviews on the Better Business Bureau.

However, it’s worth nothing that the company still has an A+ rating with the organization, despite the poor reviews. This is due to ADT’s good track record of dealing with complaints, and responding to these in a timely manner.

Both companies have comparable certifications with monitoring center organizations.

Ackerman, on the other hand, also holds an A+ rating with the BBB, with a much lower amount of negative reviews.

This may have to do with Ackerman’s just over fifty years in business, but it may also respond to the fact that the company is much smaller, and therefore less likely to have such a large customer base as a national company such as ADT.

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Trust Pilot Rating
7.4 out of 5
BBB Rating
A+
A+
Number of BBB Positive Reviews
6
Number of BBB Neutral Reviews
2
Number of BBB Negative Reviews
13
Date Collected
2018-08-03
2024-07-18
Year Founded
1967
1874

Certifications & Associations

Ackerman
vs
ADT Home Security
  • Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA)
  • Underwriter's Laboratory (UL)
  • Underwriter's Laboratory (UL)

Contact & Additional Information

  Ackerman ADT Home Security
Homepage URL
Company Phone
(800) 552-1111
(888) 238-2727
Headquarters Address
1346 Oakbrook Dr, #175, Norcross, GA, 30093
1501 Yamato Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431

Final Verdict

ADT Smart Home Security has a higher overall rating than Ackerman Home Security. ADT Home Security scores better than Ackerman across: Equipment, Monitoring Options and Technology, Reputation, Technology Integration, Value, and Contract/Subscription Flexibility.


Customer Comments & Reviews

kroll246
5/5/2022
ADT Smart Home Security review
ADT is a extortionist. sent me to collections one week after I paid in full and then canceled my account. ADT extorted $25.13 when I called them up they said there was nothing they could do once it went to collections they told me to talk to the collection agency, they then told me I have to talk to ADT. I think ADT owns that collections agency cuz it has the worst rating on it internet. This is all because they bill you one month after you cancel your account for some reason they have the right to bill you 30 days after you cancel your account. that's like making an extra car payment once you've paid it off it's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. I told him you might as well bill people for six months after they cancel, that way you can make more money. this company is a joke. whatever you do don't get anything from them.Please tell 10 people this story and have them tell 10 more people maybe we can put these extortionist out of business


A
Alex
8/19/2021
ADT Smart Home Security review
We got new windows and the window people ripped out our ADT devices. We consulted ADT about getting new equipment and they quoted us something like $2,000 for the whole house (granted this is a large house). Then we ended up going with another security monitoring company. I had to call ADT to cancel the service and they literally kept me on the phone for 15 minutes tying to get me to stay. Needless to say it was a very annoying experience.


J
John B
6/13/2017
Ackerman Home Security review
You get what you pay for with this company. No thrill home security survey by extremely professional and knowledgeable staff. Most of the site visit involved getting to know our lifestyle and concerns. The walk through of our residence provided how to achieve optimal goals without breaking the budget. Phone customer support needs additional improvement leading me to list score lower than outstanding.


F
Fran S
7/13/2015
Ackerman Home Security review
I was really happy with the prompt service I recieved when I called. Also the great price per month for our security of our home.


C
Cheri M
2/3/2015
ADT Smart Home Security review
Love it!


R
Regina N
1/25/2015
ADT Smart Home Security review
I RECOMMEND IT TO EVERYONE, GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND EFFECTIVE RESPONSE. SAVED MY MUM LIFE SO I RECOMMEND IT