AT&T offers a 21st century home security option with built-in home automation for those who are searching for a dependable all-in-one system.
There are multiple plans to choose from and pricing is transparent so you’ll know exactly how much your particular plan is going to cost. You can also combine home security with other services, like internet and phone.
Shopping Experience8.0/10
There is a lot of flexibility when shopping for an AT&T Digital Life home security plan. It starts with the fact that there are three different plans to choose from so you can choose one that fits your needs and your budget.
Systems can be purchased online. In some cases this might not be recommended because you may not know exactly what you’re getting, but in AT&T’s case, you know exactly what you’re in for because they outline all of the terms and costs associated with each plan so you can make an informed decision.
If you have any questions, or if you think you might want to add additional equipment to your plan, you can always call and speak to a customer service representative or chat with someone online. You might have to in order to find out if their home security system is available in your area. One great thing about AT&T Digital Life is the fact that they have physical locations across the U.S. so you may be able to inspect the system in the store before you commit.
Equipment & Setup8.0/10
Unlike other providers who focus on home security equipment and require you to add home automation to your plan, some of AT&T’s plans already include home automation equipment.
There are three different plans to choose from that include:
- Smart Security with 24/7 monitoring and home safety features
- Smart Security and Automation which includes the Camera Package and Door Package
- Premium Security and Automation which includes thermostat and lighting control, as well as water detection
These plans include a wide variety of equipment. Each plan includes different kinds of sensors and an indoor siren. More expensive plans include additional sensors and equipment.
You also have the opportunity to customize a program just for you. For example, you could choose the Smart Security plan and add thermostat and lighting control without having to pay for any other features.
Their app makes it easy to keep tabs on your home, even when you’re on the go. You can disarm your system, unlock doors, and get live video from your home security camera on your portable device. You can also set up email or text notifications when something happens at home.
Professional installation is required, but it doesn’t cost extra. Although a DIY option would be nice, a professional installation will ensure that everything is set up properly.
Cost & Value7.5/10
AT&T Digital Life is one of the most expensive home security systems available. The basic Smart Security system costs $39.99 per month while their most expensive system costs a whopping $64.99 per month. That doesn’t include equipment costs either. You’ll pay between $349.99 and $849.99 for the equipment, or maybe even more, if you want to add more equipment to one of their plans.
Another downside to the AT&T system is the fact that you must sign a lengthy contract. In most cases, that contract is a full 24 months. If you cancel before this time, you can expect hefty fees. If you decide to return their equipment, they’ll charge you a $99 restocking fee. Fortunately, they do have a 14-day trial period where you can cancel your service without incurring any penalties.
Another upside is the fact that you can combine other AT&T services with their home security systems, reducing the number of bills in your mailbox and possibly reducing the overall cost of service.
Monitoring & Reputation7.5/10
Unfortunately, AT&T isn’t known for their quality customer service. In general, AT&T doesn’t have very good customer ratings. As a matter of fact, they only have one star out of five on Trustpilot. On the plus side, Digital Life customers have their own phone support so you don’t have to worry about competing with phone or internet customers who are the ones doing the bulk of the complaining.
Of course, you’ll enjoy 24/7 professional monitoring, and a customer service representative will contact you if the alarm is sounded, in addition to notifying the authorities.
The Outstanding Stuff
- 14-day trial period
- Transparent pricing
- Home automation is included with a few plans
- Ability to purchase a plan online
- Professional installation doesn’t cost extra
Our Wish List
- DIY installation option
- Do away with the lengthy contract
- Work on building better trust among their existing customers
Our Final Thoughts
We hesitate to recommend too highly a company that receives such poor customer service ratings. However, AT&T does have some great equipment options, especially since you can choose a plan that includes home automation. It might be the right choice for you if you want an all-in-one system, or if you already use some of AT&T’s other services, but only if you do your research to make sure it’s the right system for you.
