Both Blue by ADT and Ring Alarm Security Kit (3rd Gen) are viable options for home security, offering DIY installation, smart home integration, and both professional and self-monitoring. Ring Alarm stands out for its transparent contract terms and varied battery life across components. Blue by ADT offers a wider range of sensor options and integrates with IFTTT, but has some concerns about contract length and false alarms.
| Attribute | Blue by ADT | Ring Alarm Security Kit (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Professional monitoring option | Available with 24/7 monitoring. ADT provides the monitoring services in-house. | Available with a Ring Home Standard or Premium subscription, and adding Alarm Professional Monitoring. |
| Self-monitoring option | Yes, users can self-monitor using the mobile app. | Yes, you can self-monitor with the Ring app. |
| Equipment cost | Costs vary depending on the package and equipment selected. A basic system can start at around $109.19. Starter systems can range from $199.99 to $299.99. | 5-piece kit starts around $199. 8-piece kits are around $249-$304.92. 10-piece kits are around $279-$554.90. 14-piece kits are around $329. |
| Monthly subscription cost | For professional monitoring, the cost is around $19.99 - $24.98 per month. | Ring Home subscription starts at $4.99 per month. Professional monitoring is an additional $10 per month on top of a Ring Home plan. Ring Protect Pro plan, which includes professional monitoring, cellular backup, and other features, is $20 per month or $200 per year. |
| Contract length | Blue by ADT/ADT Self Setup advertises month-to-month contracts. However, some customers have reported being locked into longer contracts. | No long-term contracts are required. |
| Mobile app features | Arming and disarming the system, Creating rules and alerts, Managing users, Accessing cameras, saved media, and event history, Receiving push notifications and emails for various events, Live video streaming, Controlling smart home devices. | Arm and disarm the system, receive real-time alerts, and monitor sensors. |
| Smart home integration compatibility (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave devices, IFTTT applets. | Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave devices, and some smart locks. |
| Types of sensors included (e.g., door/window, motion) | Door/window sensors, motion sensors, flood sensors. Other sensors, like glass break and temperature sensors, may be available. | Door/window contact sensors and motion detectors. |
| Installation difficulty | Designed for DIY installation. | Easy DIY installation. The Ring app provides step-by-step instructions. |
| Battery backup duration | The Smart Home Hub has a 24-hour battery backup. The cellular gateway also has a battery that lasts up to 24 hours. | Base station has an internal rechargeable battery that lasts up to 24 hours. Keypad battery lasts up to 7 months. Range extender battery lasts up to 22 hours. Motion detector battery may last up to 3 years. |
| Cellular backup option | Yes, it is available. A cellular backup bridge can provide a cellular connection during internet outages. | Available with the Ring Protect Pro plan. |
| Warranty period | Blue by ADT equipment is backed by a one-year limited warranty. | 1 year for parts and labor. |