Abode Home Security Review 2023 (2023)

At a Glance

Founded in 2014, Abode is a newer company in the DIY home security industry. They offer DIY security systems through their main starter kits and optional add-ons. Abode lets homeowners connect up to 160 security devices, prioritizing easy-to-install equipment and plans that make it ideal for renters.

Abode systems connect to an app that lets homeowners check video feeds from any connected cameras and integrate and control smart home systems, including Alexa, Google and Apple HomeKit. The system uses geofencing, app control or a physical keyfob to disarm and arm the system, granting greater control and flexibility.

Like other DIY home security solutions, Abode doesn’t require a monthly contract if you choose to self-monitor your devices. However, depending on your preferred features, it offers a professional monitoring service for low monthly prices.

Fine Print

Abode Home Security offers a one-year limited warranty on most hardware, excluding items that have been misused, altered, or abused. The one-year warranty extends to all customers, including those under the Basic Plan. For customers enrolled in the Pro security plan, Abode provides a warranty that covers most products for the contract’s life.

In addition, Abode Home Security offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all products if you’re unsatisfied with the system. However, you are responsible for the cost of shipping. In addition, if you’re canceling a purchased plan, you’ll incur a $35 cancellation fee.

Plan Pricing

Abode offers a DIY home security system that requires no contract and can be self-monitored for free. However, they also have two professional monitoring plans from which homeowners can choose:

• Standard Plan ($0.20 per day) includes self-monitoring with access to home automation and video storage capabilities. Homeowners can set up unlimited cameras with live and recorded video, receive notifications, in-app alarms and person detection notifications.
• Pro Plan ($0.66 per day): Includes 24/7 Professional monitoring services, cellular connectivity, and the option to contact the proper authorities. It also includes integration with home automation and smart devices and gives members access to exclusive deals and discounts.

A unique feature is that Abode offers on-demand professional monitoring services, which cost $8 for three days and $15 for seven days. This feature allows Standard Plan members to enjoy 24/7 professional monitoring services.

Installation

Abode doesn’t require professional installation, and homeowners can choose to do a complete DIY installation. However, there’s the option to get specific products, such as door locks and thermostats, professionally installed. Depending on the systems that require installation, it starts at $99 for security kits and $25 for each additional device.

Add-Ons and Upgrades

Abode offers complete home security starter kits starting at $279. Alternatively, you can build your own system by choosing the equipment yourself.

Here’s an overview of Abode security device add-ons pricing:

• Door/window sensor: $22 to $29
• Slim strip sensor: $29
• Glass break sensor: $28 to $39
• Abode camera: $139
• Wide-angle motion camera: $99
• Multi-sensor: $39
• Keypad: $79
• Key fob: $19
• Water leak sensor: $49
• Smoke alarm monitor: $29
• Indoor siren: $49
• System status indicator: $29
• Panic button: $25

Video Storage

With Abode, the self-monitoring option doesn’t include video storage options. However, the Standard and Pro plan both offer video storage. You can view and download captured videos for up to 10 days. Note that we received feedback from writers stating that in their experience, without paying fees, a user has less visibility into the “health status” of their system and instead receives a notification that an event has occurred in the Abode System without understanding what exactly the event is. We were informed that this was a new development—as recent as October 2022.

Smartphone Controls and Smart Home Installation

Abode offers extensive smart home integrations and functionality. Abode offers a smart outlet and a smart multi-function sensor. All smart home products are compatible with other smart-home devices and can be controlled through the Abode mobile app. All home security kits are compatible with:

• Nest
• Google Home
• Amazon Alexa
• Apple HomeKit
• Philips Hue
• Ecobee
• LIFX
• YAle
• Z-Wave devices
• ZigBee devices

With Abode home security systems, you can also create custom rules from the app to automate various features. You can automate features like turning on lights, sending notifications, arming your systems, or even taking photos.

How Abode Home Security Stacks Up

Here’s how Abode Home Security features stack up against other popular home security companies.

Company	companylogo	Customer Reviews	Contract Required	Learn More CTA text	Learn more CTA below text	Learn More	Lowest Monthly Monitoring Price
Abode		Great	No	Buy Now			$6
Xfinity		Great	No	Buy Now			$10
Eufy		Great	No	Buy Now			$4.99

One of the biggest differentiators of Abode Home Security is that you can build your unique security system. While Abode offers system packages, you can also find alarm systems, security cameras and other sensors to adapt the system to your home. This gives you the flexibility to expand your system as needed.

In addition, Abode is incredibly friendly when it comes to third-party device compatibility. Abode systems connect to smart lights, appliances, Google Home, Alexa, HomeKit Security System, Sonos and more. You can also integrate with solutions like IFTTT and over 100 more integrations to create custom automation from the Abode mobile app.

Is Abode the Right Home Security Company for You?

We rated Abode Home Security a 4.2 out of 5 and considered it a great home security company for renters and small house homeowners looking for DIY solutions. Abode doesn’t require long-term contracts or monthly monitoring, and it also offers the option to build-your-own security packaged based on the features and devices you need.

If you are looking for a home security solution that integrates with third-party devices, Abode might be the right company for you. However, if you have a large house, Abode requires purchasing many add-ons to secure your home effectively. In this case, Abode might not be your most affordable option.