Wyze vs ADT Cameras

There are many ways to keep your home safe; one of the most efficient parts of a home security system is your security cameras. Home security cameras provide an excellent deterrence. In addition to preventing an incident, they can provide valuable video evidence.

Choosing a security system can be difficult, with various providers on the market. ADT and Wyze each represent two great options.

Wyze is a cut-price provider created by coworkers who met while working at Amazon; they're modern and offer innovative and reliable products at low prices. ADT is a trusted traditional security company, best known for providing some of the best home security systems in the industry.

Let's take a look at what they can offer you.

Wyze vs ADT: What do they have in common?

• Video quality: Wyze and ADT cameras are available in 1080p HD quality.
• Professional monitoring service: You can purchase professional monitoring from each provider.
• Smart motion detection: Wyze and ADT offer advanced motion sensors to keep your home safe.
• Service areas: Wyze and ADT are available throughout the USA.
• Camera features: Wyze and ADT cameras share many of the same features, including pan-tilt-zoom and two-way audio.
• Z-wave compatibility: You can use your new alarm system with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and other Z-wave compatible technology.
• Mobile app: You can manage your security system, receive notifications and disarm your system from a handy mobile app.

Wyze vs ADT: What are the differences?

• Loss guarantee: ADT offers protection against any losses; if you suffer a loss while your security system is armed, they'll cover your deductible.
• Flexibility: Wyze is a DIY provider with flexibility in mind, and ADT is a less flexible traditional security provider. You'll need a three-year contract with ADT.
• Reputation: ADT has decades of experience, but Wyze is a newer provider.
• Cellular backup: ADT offers cellular backup, but Wyze doesn't. This leaves you open to power cuts and other issues.
• Field of view: Most ADT cameras support a 180-degree field of view; Wyze's cameras offer up to 150 degrees.
• Pricing: Wyze is much cheaper than ADT. You can buy an entire security system with Wyze for a tenth of ADT's cost.

Wyze: What you need to know

Wyze was started by coworkers who met while working at Amazon; they provide competitively priced cameras (starting at under $30) with an array of excellent features, including adjustable motion sensitivity. Let's take an in-depth look at what Wyze can offer you.

Installation

Wyze offers simplified installation, particularly for the Wi-Fi cameras. You can engage your own tradesperson, but there's no dedicated professional installation. You won't usually need it as installing the cameras is simple, only requiring you to connect your camera to an outlet and wait a few seconds, then hold the setup button. From there, voice prompts will walk you through the setup.

Equipment

Wyze offers indoor cameras alongside a video doorbell, plus other equipment. Examples include:

• Gun safes
• Robotic vacuums
• Garage door controllers
• Smart locks
• Smart light bulbs

If you're buying home security equipment, you should consider one of their bundles.

The Wyze home monitoring starter kit costs just $60 and is one of the cheapest. The $60 kit includes:

• Keypad
• Basestation
• Three entry sensors

Home automation

Wyze offers decent smart home integration, the Wyze app is helpful as a part of a home monitoring system, but you can enjoy additional smart home devices. Wyze cams are compatible with If This Then That (IFTTT) equipment such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Homekit. In addition, you can purchase from Wyze's dedicated range, including smart thermostats, locks, vacuums, and more.

Pricing

• Monthly fees: Wyze offers professional monitoring for $5 a month via Noonlight.
• Equipment: Equipment pricing varies depending on what you're after, but Wyze is one of the cheapest. Wyze cameras start from $20.

Nerd pros

• Pricing: Wyze cameras are feature-packed and a fraction of the cost of competitors.
• Free cloud storage: Wyze provides vast free storage and live streaming via the app, allowing you to monitor your home security closely.
• Smart home products: You can slot it into an incredible smart home ecosystem. You can control your system with voice commands with the help of Amazon Alexa.
• Professional monitoring: Basic professional monitoring is provided for Wyze customers that purchase an equipment package, but it's optional. Wyze is a great DIY home security system.
• Customizable motion sensors: Your motion zones and sensitivity are customizable.

Nerd cons

• Mobile app: The mobile app has some bugs and reported issues.
• Reputation: Wyze doesn’t have the same kind of longevity as ADT does.

ADT: What you need to know

ADT has millions of customers worldwide, offering some of the industry's best response times, six months warranty, several monitoring plans, and cutting-edge tech. Let's break down what ADT can provide you with.

Installation

You can't install an ADT system by yourself; you'll need installation. Professional installation costs $99+. ADT will send a representative to your residence to complete an in-person consultation and install your system. You'll have a complimentary walkthrough of your system, and you'll be able to ask any questions.

Equipment

ADT offers an array of equipment, but the core system consists of:

• Keypad
• Motion sensors
• Decals
• Yard signs
• Alarm
• Keypad

You can buy extra add-ons such as security cameras. Other add-ons available include:

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

Home automation

Like Wyze, ADT offers a dedicated line of smart home automation equipment, such as garage door controls, smart lights, plugs, and more. ADT is also compatible with Z-wave technology, which allows you to use a range of smart home options.

Costs

When purchasing your ADT system, you'll have to pay several costs. The costs to consider include:

• Equipment costs: Equipment costs aren't linear, as you don't pay upfront. Equipment costs are worked into your monthly fees, but the value of the cheapest system is around $850.
• Installation costs: Discounts may occasionally be offered on installation, but depending on the complexity, they may vary from $99-$299. Depending on the complexity of the installation, prices range from $99-$299.
• Monthly costs: You'll incur a monthly monitoring fee, ranging from $35.99 to $57.99.

Nerd pros

• Reputation: ADT has one of the best reputations and is one of the oldest security companies in the world. You know you can trust ADT.
• Professional installation: If you're not great at DIY, not to worry. You won't have to think about the installation; an ADT representative will visit and help you understand your needs before completing a professional installation.

Nerd cons

• Customer service inconsistencies: ADT established a reputation by providing excellent customer service, but third-party companies operating under the ADT brand can harm the brand if customer support is inconsistent.
• Add-on extras: The main packages are affordable, but they can quickly become unaffordable if you purchase several add-ons.
• Mobile app issues: Despite being the biggest name in home security, the mobile app glitches sometimes.

ADT or Wyze?

ADT and Wyze are two great providers, but they represent different markets. ADT is one of the oldest providers, with 7 million customers across North America and plenty of monitoring centers. Wyze offers excellent functionality for a low price, with optional self-monitoring options.

ADT is a traditional security provider - you'll spend at least $1300 with ADT throughout a 3-year contract, but you'll receive a fully monitored security system with the fastest response time. You can purchase Wyze equipment on an a la carte basis from $20 without requiring any contracts. But you'll miss out on ADT's more stringent security offerings and professional installation.