ADT vs Link Interactive

Link Interactive is a Utah-based home security provider that has been in the industry since 1952. Link is known for offering flexibility with month-to-month contracts. Link offers comparable pricing to some DIY companies but a more comprehensive service.

ADT is an international security company with an excellent long-running reputation. ADT is a traditional provider with long-term contracts, professional monitoring services, and installation. ADT has been in the security industry for more than 140 years.

ADT vs Link Interactive: What do they have in common?

• Security cameras: ADT and Link offers indoor and outdoor security cameras, including a doorbell camera.
• Cellular backup: Cellular backup is essential; without it, you're vulnerable in case of a power cut or loss of connection. Both ADT and Link offer cellular monitoring and backup.
• Mobile app: You can receive notifications and remotely arm, disarm and monitor your security system via a mobile app.
• Monitoring services: Professional monitoring services are available with both providers.
• Z-wave compatibility: You can integrate Z-wave technologies such as Apple TV, Nest thermostat, Amazon's Alexa, and others with both service providers.
• Availability: You can purchase ADT and Link services anywhere in the USA, unlike other providers with limited service areas.

ADT vs Link Interactive: What are the differences?

• DIY installation: Link's systems are only available on a DIY/self-install basis.
• Satisfaction guarantee: ADT offers a 6-month satisfaction guarantee.
• Contracts: Link Interactive offers long-term contracts for a discount, but you can purchase services on a month-to-month basis; with ADT, you have to take out a lengthy contract. A three-year contract is required.
• Price: Link is much cheaper than ADT, but they offer a substantially different product.
• Customization: Link goes to great lengths to offer enhanced customization and flexibility.
• Reputation: Though Link has been around for a while, it's hard to come close to ADT in terms of reputation. ADT has an unmatched reach.

Link Interactive - What you need to know

Link Interactive offers excellent perks, security cameras, and automation options on a DIY basis. You can purchase Link's dedicated smart home equipment and integrate it with Z-wave technology.

Installation

With an easy DIY installation method, you won't worry about installation costs. Still, if you need to call the customer service line, our SecurityNerd found them knowledgeable, happy to help, and responsive. Link runs off your home's wifi network, so there are no complex issues.

Equipment

You can buy a security package or individual extras on an a la carte basis; let's look at the basic package:

Security equipment:

• Smart panel
• Door sensors
• Window sensors
• Motion sensors
• Glass break sensors
• Gate and tilt sensors
• Garage sensors
• Siren
• Panic button
• Remote keypad

Life safety equipment:

• Freeze and heat sensors
• Smoke alarms
• Leak sensors

Cameras:

• Cameras include a doorbell camera and indoor and outdoor cameras.

Home automation equipment:

• Door locks
• Smart thermostat
• Smart plugs
• Smart lights

Add-ons:

• Yard lights
• Repeaters
• Window decals

Home automation

You'll have multiple options in this area. You can incorporate Z-wave technologies such as Nest, Amazon Echo, Google Assistant, etc. In addition, you can use the Link home automation range.

Costs

Link can save you a fortune, as you don't have to consider install or activation fees.

• Equipment cost: Link has a higher upfront cost, but you'll still only pay around $200 for a complete package. You can receive a discount if you choose a longer-term contract.
• Monthly costs: You can choose from three different monitoring plans ranging from basic monitoring to comprehensive monitoring with additional smart home options. Self-monitoring isn’t possible.
• Cancellation fees: Clarify what cancellation fees you'll pay before you sign a long-term contract.

Nerd Pros

• Hardware options: The equipment options offered by Link are pretty impressive; they stand alone against other DIY providers, and you can customize the system entirely, choosing whether or not to have a contract, and you can incorporate existing equipment in your package. You also have a 3-year warranty.
• Home automation options: Link has excellent smart home equipment options.

Nerd Cons

• Cancellation fees: If you're not careful, you could be asked to pay a cancellation fee for early termination.
• Confusing pricing: Although we think customization is a good thing, it can be challenging to work out precisely what you'll be paying for your package.

ADT: What you need to know

ADT has over 7 million customers and is recognizable throughout the world. The familiar blue logo can be seen everywhere. They have some of the fastest response times in the industry, multiple monitoring centers, and cutting-edge security equipment. ADT is also available nationwide.

Installation

It's not possible to DIY install an ADT system, but for $99-$299, an ADT agent will come to your home, complete an in-person consultation and then install your system for you. You'll be walked through how your system works, and you'll be allowed to ask any questions.

Equipment

You can choose from lots of equipment, but the basic system comprises:

• Motion detectors
• Key fob
• Window decals
• Yard signs
• Alarm
• Keypad

However, you can buy individual add-on equipment, such as security cameras, on an a la carte basis.

• Light control
• Smart thermostats
• Touchscreen control panel
• Outdoor security cameras
• Smart door locks
• Garage control
• Automated plugs
• Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
• Flood sensors
• Glass break sensors

Home automation

Like Link, ADT offers dedicated smart home automation options, including garage door controls, safety equipment, smart locks, thermostats, etc. ADT also provides Z-wave compatibility, allowing you to use a range of third-party automation.

Costs

If you decide to purchase an ADT security system, you'll need to pay several costs, including:

• Equipment costs: With ADT, you don't pay upfront. The equipment costs will be worked into your monthly fees, but the value of the cheapest system is $850.
• Installation costs: Depending on the complexity of the installation, prices vary from $99-$299.
• Monthly costs: Monthly monitoring fees range from $35.99 to $57.99 per month.

Nerd Pros:

• Reputation: ADT is one of the best security companies in the world, they have an excellent long-running reputation, and you know that you're in safe hands.
• Easy installation: If you're not good at DIY, don't worry! You don't have to even think about the installation; you'll have a home consultation to help you understand your security needs, followed by a professional installation.

Nerd Cons:

• Customer service inconsistencies: ADT has built a reputation based on excellent customer service, but third-party companies under the ADT have jeopardized this. Customer support can be variable.
• Add-on extras: The main packages are surprisingly affordable, but they can quickly become unaffordable if you purchase several add-ons.
• Mobile app issues: The app glitches occasionally, so it's not great. A company of this size should have a better app.

Link or ADT?

Comparing Link and ADT is a bit like comparing apples and oranges, but, If you're looking for a traditional home security system with long contracts, professional monitoring, and installation - and don't mind paying for it - then ADT is the best you can get. But if you're looking for a DIY provider with more basic equipment and service, Link is a great choice.