Switchful Logo

Alder home security alternatives

Alder brand
Staff rating
3.5
Installation: DIYMonitoring: $35/mo.+Equipment: $99+Contract: 12–60 months
We're committed to rigorous research, first-hand experience, and transparency in our rating methodology. We don't accept sponsored placements or allow partner compensation to impact our ratings. Learn more about how we rate providers.

Headshot of Donna Pittman
Researched by
Donna PittmanContributing Writer
Headshot of Eric Paulsen
Reviewed by
Eric PaulsenContent Manager
Updated 6/24/24

We’re committed to transparency. We may earn money when you follow our recommendations, but compensation doesn’t affect our ratings. Learn more.

Alternatives to Alder: Which is better?

In a crowded market, it’s tough to know which home security brand is best for your needs. Alder’s competitors include Vivint, Cove, and Xfinity Home. Let’s take a look at how Alder stacks up against these other brands.

Alder vs. Vivint: Vivint’s systems and equipment are highly regarded in the industry, and its proprietary products are some of the highest-priced on the market. While Alder has a self-installation option, Vivint requires professional installation. Both companies generally require contracts, and neither offers transparent pricing.

Alder vs. Cove: Another brand Alder competes against is Cove—which, incidentally, is a business arm of Alder. As such, Alder and Cove have some similarities, but some stark differences, too. Cove is a budget-friendly, DIY option—whereas Alder operates as a full-service system with a DIY installation option. Cove’s items are extremely easy to install as the components arrive already paired with the panel. You can build an entire Cove system for around $300, which is typically less than the overall cost of an Alder system.

Alder vs. Xfinity Home: Whereas Alder has a DIY feel at a high-end cost, Xfinity Home has a high-end feel at a DIY cost. Xfinity requires professional installation, but doesn’t require contracts and offers a self-monitoring option—neither of which applies to Alder. Both manufacture their own proprietary equipment and are easy to customize to the size of your home.

Alternative providers

Vivint
Vivint brand logo
Staff rating
4.1

  • Installation: Pro
  • Monitoring: $29.99–$49.99/mo.+
  • Equipment: $600+
  • Contract: 0–60 months

Click below for all current Vivint deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Cove
Cove brand logo
Staff rating
4.0

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $17.99/mo.+
  • Equipment: $249+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Cove deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Xfinity
Xfinity brand
Staff rating
4.0
Customer rating
4.2

  • Installation: Pro
  • Monitoring: $30/mo.
  • Equipment: $360+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Xfinity deals

Disclaimer: Availability and pricing are subject to location. Conditions apply. For offer details, visit the provider's website.

Abode
Abode brand
Staff rating
3.5

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $21.99/mo.
  • Equipment: $159+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Abode deals

Details: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Arlo
Arlo brand logo
Staff rating
3.9

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $19.99/mo.
  • Equipment: $199+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Arlo deals

Details: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Frontpoint
Frontpoint brand logo
Staff rating
3.9

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $49.99/mo.
  • Equipment: $99+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Frontpoint deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe brand logo
Staff rating
4.1

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $17.99–$27.99/mo.
  • Equipment: $199+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current SimpliSafe deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Ring
Ring brand logo
Staff rating
3.9

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $3.99–$20/mo.
  • Equipment: $199.99+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Ring deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.