Both Ring Alarm (2nd Generation) and Blue by ADT are viable options for a DIY home security system. Ring Alarm offers more subscription flexibility and broader smart home integration, while Blue by ADT provides compatibility with both Alexa and Google Assistant and a potentially lower upfront cost. The choice depends on the user's specific needs and preferences regarding smart home ecosystem, budget, and desired level of professional monitoring.
| Attribute | Ring Alarm (2nd Generation) | Blue by ADT |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Monitoring Option | Available with Ring Protect Pro plan for $20/month, includes 24/7 emergency support. | Available with 24/7 monitoring by ADT. Provides emergency services dispatch and cellular backup. |
| Equipment Cost | Bundles start around $200. A 5-piece kit is around $244.95. | Requires purchasing equipment upfront. A basic system starts at $109.19, including a base, entry keypad, and mobile app. Equipment costs range from $199.15 to $346.34 depending on the equipment. |
| Monthly Subscription Cost | Ring Protect Free: Free, lacks professional monitoring and video storage. Ring Protect Basic: $3.99/month (or $39.99/year) for one camera, including video recording. Ring Protect Plus: $10/month (or $100/year) includes features of the Basic plan. Ring Protect Pro: $20/month (or $200/year) for professional monitoring, cellular backup, and other features. | Around $19.99 per month for professional monitoring. |
| Mobile App Features | Arm/disarm system, receive real-time notifications, monitor devices. | Allows users to arm/disarm the system, manage devices, create rules/alerts, access cameras, view saved media, and see event history. Provides custom push notifications and emails for events. |
| Smart Home Integration | Works with Amazon Alexa. Integrates with Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Bluetooth. | Works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control. Integrates with other smart devices via IFTTT applets and Z-Wave. |
| Battery Backup Duration | Base station: Up to 24 hours. | Smart Home Hub includes a 24-hour battery backup. The cellular gateway also has a battery that lasts up to 24 hours during a blackout. |
| Cellular Backup Option | Available with the Ring Protect Pro plan. | Yes, available. Ensures the system continues to operate during a power outage or network loss. |
| Installation Difficulty | Designed for DIY installation, easy setup via the Ring app, no tools required. | Designed for DIY installation. Considered easy to install. |
| Warranty Period | 1-year limited warranty. | Warranty terms may vary depending on the seller. Confirm warranty terms with the third-party Marketplace seller before purchase. |
| Number of Included Sensors | 5-piece kit: base station, keypad, one contact sensor, one motion detector, range extender. 8-piece kit: base station, keypad, four contact sensors, one motion detector, range extender. 14-piece kit: base station, keypad, eight contact sensors, one motion detector, range extender. | An 8-piece security system includes 1 Smart Hub, 4 Door/Window Sensors, and 1 Motion Sensor. |
| Expandability | Expandable with additional sensors and accessories, up to 100 sensors. | The system is expandable, allowing users to add more sensors and cameras. |
| Voice Control Compatibility | Compatible with Amazon Alexa. | Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. |
| Price | Bundles start around $200. A 5-piece kit is around $244.95. | Starting at $109.19 |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |