Vector Security is a privately-held, professional-install security provider headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA. Founded in 1969, they serve residential and commercial customers across the eastern United States. ADT is the 150-year-old industry giant with 6+ million customers and nationwide coverage.
Both are traditional alarm companies with professional installation and monitoring contracts. Here’s how they actually compare in 2026 — and why most homeowners should consider a different approach entirely.
Quick Comparison: Vector Security vs ADT
| Feature | Vector Security | ADT Professional | ADT Self Setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1969 (57 years) | 1874 (152 years) | |
| Coverage | ~20 states (East Coast) | All 50 states | |
| Installation | Professional only | Professional | DIY |
| Contract | 36–60 months | 36 months | None |
| Monitoring | ~$35–$55/mo (varies) | $28.99–$59.99/mo | $28.99/mo |
| Equipment | Honeywell/Alarm.com panels | ADT branded | ADT + Google Nest |
| App | Alarm.com | ADT+ | ADT+ |
| Own Monitoring Center | ✅ Yes (Pittsburgh) | ✅ Yes (9 centers) | ✅ Yes |
| HomeKit | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Rating | 2.5/5 | 3/5 | 3.5/5 |
Vector Security: What You Need to Know
Company Profile
| Detail | Vector Security |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Pittsburgh, PA |
| Founded | 1969 |
| Ownership | Privately held (Philadelphia Contributionship — insurance company) |
| Employees | ~2,500 |
| Monitoring Center | Own UL-listed center in Warrendale, PA |
| Coverage | ~20 states, primarily East Coast |
| Commercial | Strong — fire, access control, video |
| Platform | Alarm.com (residential) |
Vector Security Strengths
| Strength | Detail | Caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Own monitoring center | UL-listed Warrendale, PA facility | Single center = less redundancy than ADT’s 9 |
| Alarm.com platform | Better app than ADT+, strong smart home | You pay Vector’s markup on Alarm.com service |
| Insurance company owner | Philadelphia Contributionship = stable funding | Insurance companies optimize for profit, not innovation |
| Commercial expertise | Strong fire, access control, video | Residential is secondary focus |
| Local presence | Regional offices, in-person service | Limited to ~20 states |
Vector Security Problems
| Problem | Impact | Modern Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| 36–60 month contracts | 3–5 years locked in with ETF | Abode: no contract ever |
| Professional install only | $99–$199 install fee, scheduling hassle | DIY installs in 30 minutes |
| ~20 states only | Can’t take it if you move out of region | National DIY systems work anywhere |
| Opaque pricing | No prices on website — requires consultation | Transparent online pricing |
| $35–$55/mo monitoring | $1,260–$1,980 over 3 years in monitoring alone | Abode: $0–$20/mo |
| Dealer markup on equipment | Honeywell/Alarm.com hardware at inflated prices | Buy direct, save 30–50% |
| No self-monitoring option | Must pay monthly or no service | Abode/Ring: free self-monitoring tier |
ADT: Two Completely Different Products
ADT now offers two separate paths that are essentially different products:
| Feature | ADT Professional Install | ADT Self Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Professional ($199+ fee) | DIY |
| Contract | 36 months | None — month-to-month |
| Equipment | $599–$1,400+ upfront | $199 starter kit |
| Cameras | ADT branded | Google Nest |
| ETF | 75% of remaining contract | None |
| Monitoring | $28.99–$59.99/mo | $28.99/mo |
Key insight: If comparing to Vector, ADT Self Setup is the relevant product — it’s no-contract, cheaper, and DIY. ADT Professional Install is the same legacy model as Vector.
3-Year Cost Comparison
| System | Equipment | Monthly | 3-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vector Security | $199–$599 | $35–$55 | $1,459–$2,579 |
| ADT Professional | $599–$1,400 | $28.99–$59.99 | $1,643–$3,560 |
| ADT Self Setup | $199 | $28.99 | $1,243 |
| Ring Alarm | $199 | $20 | $919 |
| SimpliSafe | $249 | $17.99–$27.99 | $897–$1,257 |
| Abode (Self Monitor) | $199 | $0 | $199 |
| Abode (Pro Monitor) | $199 | $20 | $919 |
The math is brutal: Vector Security costs $540–$1,660 more than Abode over 3 years. Even ADT Self Setup saves you $216–$1,336 compared to Vector.
Head-to-Head: Vector vs ADT (10 Categories)
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 🏆 ADT (Self Setup) | $28.99/mo no-contract vs ~$35-55/mo with contract |
| Coverage | 🏆 ADT | Nationwide vs ~20 states |
| App Experience | 🏆 Vector | Alarm.com > ADT+ app |
| Smart Home | 🏆 Vector | Alarm.com’s Z-Wave ecosystem is broader |
| Cameras | 🏆 ADT | Google Nest lineup (Self Setup) |
| Contract Flexibility | 🏆 ADT | Self Setup = no contract; Vector = 36-60 months |
| Monitoring Redundancy | 🏆 ADT | 9 centers vs Vector’s 1 |
| Commercial | Tie | Both strong for commercial; Vector more focused |
| Local Service | 🏆 Vector | Regional offices, more personal service |
| Brand Trust | 🏆 ADT | 152 years, household name recognition |
Verdict: ADT wins 6/10 categories. ADT Self Setup is objectively better value than Vector Security for most homeowners. Vector’s only real advantages are the Alarm.com app and local service.
When Vector Security Makes Sense
| Scenario | Why Vector |
|---|---|
| Commercial/business security | Strong fire alarm, access control, video surveillance expertise |
| Want Alarm.com specifically | Better platform than ADT+ for Z-Wave automation |
| Prefer local, in-person service | Regional offices, technicians you can call |
| Insurance discount matters | Some insurers specifically recognize Vector |
When to Skip Both: Modern DIY Alternatives
Both Vector and ADT’s traditional model are increasingly obsolete. Here’s what’s replaced them:
| Feature | Vector | ADT Pro | Abode | Ring |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Self-Monitoring | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| No Contract | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| HomeKit | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Pro Monitoring | $35–$55/mo | $28.99–$59.99 | $20/mo | $20/mo |
| DIY Install | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 3-Year Cost | $1,459–$2,579 | $1,643–$3,560 | $199–$919 | $199–$919 |
| Move Easily | ❌ (regional) | Complex | ✅ | ✅ |
| Z-Wave + Zigbee | Z-Wave only | Z-Wave only | Both + Matter | Z-Wave |
Abode saves $540–$1,660 over Vector Security across 3 years while offering more smart home compatibility, no contracts, and the only HomeKit-native security system on the market.
Existing Vector Customer? Your Options
| Situation | Best Move |
|---|---|
| Contract ending soon | Switch to Abode or Ring — save $15–$35/mo immediately |
| Mid-contract, unhappy | Calculate ETF vs remaining payments — sometimes breaking contract is cheaper |
| Happy with service | Negotiate price at renewal — threaten to leave for DIY |
| Commercial customer | Vector is actually solid for commercial — keep it |
| Moving out of region | Must cancel regardless — switch to a national DIY system |
FAQ
Is Vector Security a good company?
Vector Security is a legitimate, well-established alarm company with its own monitoring center. However, their pricing model (long contracts, professional install, $35–$55/month) is outdated compared to modern DIY options that offer the same or better monitoring for $0–$20/month with no contracts.
Does Vector Security use Alarm.com?
Yes. Vector’s residential service runs on the Alarm.com platform, which means you get Alarm.com’s app, sensors, and smart home integrations. The downside: you’re paying Vector a markup for something you could get cheaper from other Alarm.com providers or skip entirely with Abode or Ring.
How do I cancel Vector Security?
Check your contract for the cancellation clause and early termination fee (ETF). Most Vector contracts require 30–60 days written notice before your contract end date. Missing the window often triggers auto-renewal for another 12–36 months. See our cancel contract guide for detailed steps.
Is ADT better than Vector Security?
ADT Self Setup is objectively better value — $28.99/month with no contract, Google Nest cameras, and nationwide coverage. Traditional ADT Professional Install is comparable to Vector but more expensive. For most homeowners, neither ADT nor Vector is the best choice in 2026.
What’s the best alternative to Vector Security?
Abode is the strongest alternative — $20/month for pro monitoring (or free self-monitoring), no contract, HomeKit/Alexa/Google support, Z-Wave + Zigbee + Matter compatibility. You’ll save $540–$1,660 over 3 years compared to Vector.
Does Vector Security offer home automation?
Yes, through the Alarm.com platform. You get Z-Wave smart locks, lights, thermostats, and garage control. However, you need the higher-tier plan ($45–$55/mo) for full automation features — making it significantly more expensive than Abode’s automation (included in the free plan).
Related Reading
- ADT Review 2026 — Full breakdown of ADT Self Setup vs Professional plans
- Abode Review 2026 — The best no-contract DIY alternative to both Vector and ADT
- SimpliSafe Review 2026 — Another strong DIY option for Vector customers looking to switch
- How to Cancel Your Security Contract — Step-by-step guide for Vector and ADT customers
- DIY Home Security Guide — Why self-install systems save $1,000+ over professional install
- Best Home Security Systems 2026 — Full rankings including regional providers like Vector
- Vivint vs ADT 2026 — Two premium pro-install brands compared
- Brinks vs ADT 2026 — Another legacy pro-install brand vs ADT
- No Monthly Fee Security — Skip contracts entirely with $0/month options
- Abode vs ADT 2026 — DIY at $6/mo vs legacy contracts at $45+/mo
- SimpliSafe vs ADT 2026 — Budget DIY vs legacy pro monitoring
- Frontpoint vs ADT 2026 — Alarm.com DIY vs Google Nest pro-install
- ADT vs Ring 2026 — Legacy pro-install vs Amazon DIY ecosystem
- Arlo vs ADT 2026 — Standalone cameras vs full alarm system
Last updated: March 2026
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Growing up with Law and Order and CSI shows taught Isabelle Landau one thing: if people back then had high-quality home security systems, those series would have been way shorter. In our modern world, technology helps us keep burglars away easily, and this is what Izzy studies and writes about: alarm systems, home security, protection systems, and more.
Renee H. says
I dont think its necessarily Vector that is duping everyone. Vector uses smaller companies to be authorized dealers, just like ADT. Its those smaller companies that give you the worst customer service! They are the ones responsible for screwing everyone over. Pay attention to the name of the company, the actual authorized dealer. Those are the idiots doing the bad practices.
Daniel P Nordeste says
I had a Vector Security agent show up at my home offering a cheaper monthly service than ADT. I, stupidly, invited the agent in and spoke with him for a few about them verses ADT and it “sounded” basically the same but cheaper. He offered to upgrade my entire home, but I declined and just got required patch-panel for near the entry way. (I think it was like a $400 panel, or something close to.) During this interaction I made it clear to the agent that I was in the market for selling my home in a year or two and wanted to make sure that I could either pay for the panel up front, or pay it off when I cancel services. Low and behold a little over a year later when I sell my home and go to cancel services they tell me I owe them almost $2,000 because “I’m cancelling early”. I asked about the panel near the door, and apparently I was tricked into a 5 year contract when I was talking with the agent about selling in a year or two… ridiculous and manipulative. Stay away from these people, they lie and just want your hard earned money. Never used them once and now they want damn near 2 grande for nothing. Horrible.
Karen Lomax says
I am so sorry I ever signed up with this company. Average is a compliment. If anything ever goes wrong or if you need assistance from customer service, they are horrible. Customer service takes DAYS to respond and then you are placed in a loop when you call back that ends up in voicemail.
There is no option for buying out or early termination. I am stuck for another 18 months on this 3 year contract, which, by the way, I took out with the company they bought after I signed. There are so many options – don’t pick this one!!
Michael Steinberg says
Horrible company and business practices. They will charge you for up to a full year of service even after you cancel. There are much more ethical companies out there.
Andrew Hamilton says
Vector is a rip off company. Distroyed my ac then told me after I complained they cancelled my contract sent me a 3000 bill.
Carey Blake says
Do yourself a favor and go with another company. $49.99 for 3 years then they kindly drop the price to 39.99. What a joke. Go with simply safe or some other company.
April Hall says
Does anybody know if vector just offers the survelliance camera portion only?
Alarm Reviews says
In most areas they offer full home security. If you are a small business perhaps this is what they quoted you but they should offer everything as they are not a standalone surveillance company.
Cate Sturn says
I live in the Northern Virginia area and Vector Security is as you described. Very basic. For the starter price of $100, I am fine with that. However, for a $25-30 monthly cost you don’t really get any of the bells and whistles that other Security System provide. If you’re looking for a low cost security system, you get what you pay for.
Aaron Taylor says
Most alarm company if you don’t contact them 30 days before your contract ends will automatically renew
Bill says
I felt like this was a good company so I went with them. The experience has been, well, less than desirable. Vector Security felt like a scam if I am being totally honest. I was not aware there was no 24/7 support so when I was having issues at 1AM, no one was available to help me. This went on for weeks until I was forced to break out of my contract.
Bryan M. says
Why didn’t you call them in the morning? I had the same issue and soon as I called them the following morning, it was fixed. I don’t understand how you can complain about them not being there at 1AM and not trying another time of the day.
Molly says
I was actually out of their range in terms of credit scores but they worked with me to get something set up. I wasn’t that far off I guess. I feel like Vector Security has been great overall for my family. We had a few issues with the hardware and billing but it was sorted out. We were even offered a discount because of the few inconveniences we had. Over all, I am pleased. Don’t let the con list full ya! You pay for what you get!
terrell hughes says
I cancelled and the new owner said they were going to take over the account and I gave Vector the number for the new owner. Well 6 months later I get a collections call from a RUDE lady saying I owed money plus collections fees. They sent one letter to my old address and made one phone call I don’t remember getting. I called to get pay Vector directly and they hung up twice and transferred me a few other times. I paid the full original amount and I am glad to be done with this scam of a company. 2 1/2 years of on time payments and never once needed their service and this is how they treat me.
Penny says
I had a similar experience. Funny thing is, this was recommended to me from someone at work who has them. I was shocked! I told him too what they did and he couldn’t believe it. I am not sure what happened with this company but it is not one I recommend risking. I see too many complaints. I wish I researched it before I went through this mess.
Val Ledovsky says
Yes, as usual, Vector promised me they would come and fix the bugs in my system once and for all. They are either not going to show or will show very late. In any case they didn’t call to let me know why they are not here yet.
This has been ongoing issue for 6 months. They have sent “service agents” three times to fix the issues. I am guessing these are subcontractors who show up at your home, do little or nothing to provide a permanent fix and bill Vector who in turn bills you for the service call.
I still get false alarms, haywire incidents of keypad bedlam, and the problem still exists. They have no problems at all however, with their billing.dept. and their main office is quick to hang up and tell you to call their “service dept.”
This is the worst security provider I have ever used. I will sue them if they attempt to stop me from cancelling this contract.
Erik says
I have been a customer of Vector for more than one year. Recently we have to move from Georgia to Florida. However, before we move to our new place we contacted Vector to ask if they have service in our new location. We provide Vector our new address and they told us that our new location was under their service area. A couple week before we moved their representative Billy Kelly stop by our house and told us that Vector was going to transfer our system to our new location. Also, Billy Kelly told us that he was going to stop by the following week to drop off the new equipment for our new location. We left state and Billy Kelly never came back to our house, we call him several times and he never answered the phone. We are being calling since August and the information provide is the same since day one. We arrive to our new location and contacted Vector to arrange an installation day and we find out that the do not cover our area. In top off that today I received an invoice from Vector Security charging us $1,900.23 dollars for cancellation. I really don’t understand how they want to charge me that amount, since the beginning they told me that they will going to transfer the system to our new location. Second, after we have arrived to our location and contact them to schedule an installation, they come back to us that they do not service the area.
Tammy says
Plan and simple, a security system should have 24/7 customer service. Nothing special with this company. Wish I would have gone with someone else!
Dana says
The prices are affordable but I don’t want to compromise my security to any third party company hired by Vector Security. I think I’ll go for ADT.
Darren Witlock says
Vector had a few hidden catches and clauses in their contract and I am glad I read over them. If you don’t cancel by month 35 you are automatically signed up again for another 3 years. Good luck remembering to cancel at month 35 and within that exact time frame! Such a company should be ashamed of those bad business practices.
Britney Conley says
Thanks for pointing this out Darren, I never took notice. I am thinking of making a switch to Protect America. That would have meant another three years of not so great service.
Ana McMartin says
I would rather have few features that I WILL use and a lower cost than a higher cost per month and some features that I will NEVER use. Thanks!
Nathalia says
I chose vector over other security service providers because of their cellular advantage and pricing. I’ve tried their mobile app and I like it. It’s great and very nice. The whole a year and a half that we had used it, it’s worked really well. It’s very easy to install, fast and reliable. We’re happy with what it does for us. I’m having no issues with it.
Gaye Morrison says
We chose Vector after extensive research including advice from a security expert with his own company. The installation took 3 days and couldn’t have been less intrusive. The team was knowledgeable, available to answer questions, cleaned up after themselves and walked us through how to arm and disarm the system. Our local library uses Vector and I am one of the backup contacts when the alarm sounds and the library is closed. The Vector telephone operators are always efficient, professional, polite, and informative.
jerry s. says
Just got a visit from 2 gentlemen from the company where they advised me of all services they provide, install procedures, etc… Very helpful and friendly. I don’t understand why people are complaining…READ THE CONTRACT! Everything is described and explained on the yellow install order. Do your own research and read before you sign a contract. It’s very simple and common sense.
Val says
Vector is cool and my neighbor has it. If they weren’t locally based and charged cancellation for moving throughout the nation I would get with them. I just don’t want to get hit with that fine for moving outside of their service limits.
Val says
LOL, another wasted phone call waiting on hold now for their “customer service”
Andrea Martin says
It doesn’t seem to offer much compared to some of the top home security places, but I will say this, it seems to be a good home security system to start off with if you’re low on cash and can only afford this. It has much of what others have, but it’s just not as good. Still though, it is fairly cheap per month, so that to me is quite good.
Alberta Coles says
I was thinking the same thing. When we bought our home, there was a system in place already and we just recently upgraded it since that company was no longer available. We skipped this one and went with the popular ADT.
Geanie Roake says
This a reasonable price and if nothing’s really wrong with the company it sounds like a good option. I had to laugh when you mentioned people keeping old signs around. We did that for years after we’d left our security company. My thinking was that even though we didn’t have the system anymore, burglars would think we did when they saw the sign. When we found out the company had been out of business for years we sheepishly took the signs down. Like you said, to people in the know they were glaring advertisements that we did NOT have an alarm system.