When you add ADT security cameras to your alarm system, you’re getting a family of smart home devices that work together as a team. After installation, your installer can help you set up your equipment with preferences that work as “if, then” statements to give you the maximum benefit from your cameras and system. 

For example, you can set it so if the kitchen door opens when the system is armed, the kitchen camera starts recording. Or, say, if motion is detected at the front door doorbell camera, the camera over the garage door starts recording as well. Basically, your cameras become your eyes to start watching your home in case something unusual happens there.

Because ADT equipment is “smart,” you can also add in devices with Z-Wave technology like smart door locks, lights, and plugs to work with your alarm system for even more protection. For example, if an outdoor camera detects motion outside the laundry room, you can have lights inside the laundry room turn on. It’s a great way to scare off potential intruders. 

All ADT cameras are IP cameras, which means they store all of their footage in the cloud, rather than on a local DVR. And good news, your ADT subscription comes with 30 days of unlimited cloud storage. 

When one of your ADT cameras detects motion, it will record a 30-second clip and upload it to the cloud for you to review later through the mobile app or web portal. You can use the web portal to download your ADT video clips to your computer for long-term storage if needed. Best of all, unlike other camera storage, there’s no limit on the number of clips you can keep in the cloud each month.

Keep in mind that ADT isn’t the only security company with integrated camera systems. If you’re looking for systems with DIY installation, Frontpoint made the top of our Best Security Systems list, and it has recently announced contract-free options. This puts it in line with two more of our top picks, Vivint and SimpliSafe. All three companies have solid surveillance cameras.