ADT Access Control: Review, Pricing, and Comparison

In this review, you’ll find an in-depth look at ADT Access Control, including key features, pricing, and reviews. With a side-by-side comparison of access control features, you’ll be able to evaluate your building’s needs and choose the right solution. 

For more reviews and comparisons, visit the guide to best access control systems.

Table of contents

• About ADT
• ADT Access Control Product Overview
• Key Features
• Pricing
• ADT Access Control Review
• ADT Access Control vs. Swiftlane Access Control

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About ADT

The origins of ADT (an acronym for American District Telegraph) date back to 1874. The company started by offering fire alarms and security alarms to home users. Now owned by Apollo Global Management, ADT Inc. is America’s largest security product and service provider, protecting more than 7 million residential and commercial customers. The company backs its security systems by providing monitoring and emergency response services through 12 interconnected monitoring centers. ADT is best-known for home security solutions, but their access control system, which is marketed by ADT Commercial, can fulfill the basic security needs of small businesses.

ADT’s product range includes different types of security sensors like door and window, glass break, motion, panic buttons, temperature and flood monitoring sensors; security cameras and video monitoring; business and home automation products; and access control systems. ADT equipment and services integrate with security and home automation products from DSC, Honeywell Access Control, and many others.

ADT Access Control Product Overview

ADT Access Control consists of mobile-operated smart locks, key card readers, and video intercom. It can work with other ADT products and systems such as video monitoring and surveillance, intrusion detection, and automation to create a well-rounded security solution.

Video surveillance and monitored sensor-based alarms are the main strengths of ADT security systems. As for access control, ADT primarily depends on card readers to authorize credentials and allow or restrict access. ADT devices can connect with ADT control centers through landlines, cellular, or broadband connection depending on the specific system you select. ADT does not, however, offer cloud management or browser dashboards for centralizing self-management.

Key Features

• Fully managed security solution serviced through ADT monitoring centers and regional offices
• Card and PIN-based access using ADT or compatible readers
• Two-way, single-door audio-only intercom for conversation between visitors and attendants
• Remote lock/unlock, video monitoring, and password management through ADT mobile app
• Remotely arm or disarm the system and receive mobile alerts
• Cloud storage, programmable event-based recording, and live monitoring of surveillance videos
• Security features include door, window, fire and flood sensors and alarms

Pricing

ADT doesn’t publicize its pricing. You’ll need to call their local dealer and call a technician to your place for a survey. The dealer will then send the survey to ADT Commercial, which will send a quote based on your requirements. Prices and plans can vary from dealer to dealer.

ADT Access Control Review

Advantages

• A strong customer base and an extensive industry experience
• A robust centrally monitored sensor-based alarm system
• Manned alarm monitoring and emergency response services
• Multiple contact points in case of emergencies

Disadvantages

• Customers need to contact ADT every time they need to issue, modify or revoke permissions
• Minimum three-year contract. ADT imposes high penalties for premature termination.
• Bluetooth and NFC-based unlock not available
• Limited integration for biometric readers, time and attendance software, and digital ID software such as G Suite, Azure, or Okta

ADT Access Control vs. Swiftlane Access Control

ADT is an established security system provider that has built a solid customer base by offering sensor, alarm, and video security to homeowners. Overall, it’s a cost-effective and convenient home security solution that is trusted by millions of homes and small businesses.

ADT Access Control, however, offers a solution that may not be able to fulfill the safety and user experience needs of a modern and dynamic facility. The system is built on a foundation of legacy technology that may be difficult to modernize. Lack of self-management via a cloud-based platform does not allow administrators the discretion or flexibility they need. Outdated access methods are also restrictive as mobile access grows in popularity and necessity.