Best Home Security · head-to-head
ADT vs Abode
A sourced, side-by-side comparison for home security. Abode has the lower entry price. Every figure links to the vendor's own page and the date we captured it.
At a glance
- Price: ADT $19.99/mo vs Abode $0/mo — Abode is cheaper to start.
- Free tier: ADT No; Abode Yes.
- HIPAA: ADT —; Abode —.
Side by side
| ADT | Abode | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry price | $19.99/mo (Self Setup) | $0/mo (No Subscription) |
| Free tier | No | Yes |
| HIPAA (BAA) | — | — |
| SOC 2 | — | — |
| GDPR | — | — |
| Best for | Homeowners who want a nationally recognized brand with decades of monitoring history | Apple HomeKit / iOS households — the only major system with native HomeKit support |
Sources — ADT: safewise.com (verified 2026-06-14). Abode: goabode.com (verified 2026-06-14).
Key features
ADT: Six redundant ADT-owned monitoring centers across North America — 24/7 coverage; Exclusive Google Nest ecosystem integration (cameras, thermostats, doorbells); SMART Monitoring: simultaneous alerts to up to 10 contacts; Trusted Neighbor feature — grant controlled access to helpers via smart locks and cameras; Touchscreen control panel with 12-hour battery backup and two-way voice communication; Six-month money-back guarantee on professionally installed systems; ADT Self Setup DIY tier available with no contract at $19.99/mo
Abode: Only major DIY security system with native Apple HomeKit integration — arm/disarm via Siri and Apple Watch; Completely contract-free — all plans cancel anytime with no fees; No Subscription ($0) tier includes full app, live video, and all smart home integrations; On-Demand professional monitoring available without a recurring plan ($8 for 3 days, $15 for 7 days); AI smart detection (person, package, pet) on Standard and Pro plans; 4G cellular backup on Pro plan keeps system online during internet outages; Up to 30% home insurance discount with Pro monitoring plan; Wireless DIY setup — average under 15 minutes per device