When it comes to securing your home, Abode Home Security stands out in a crowded market with its blend of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design. Known for its commitment to providing customizable, DIY-friendly security solutions, Abode offers something truly unique—a system that adapts to your needs without locking you into a long-term contract.
It’s no surprise that Abode is a strong contender in our list of the best home security companies. We conducted thorough research, analyzing user reviews, expert ratings and hands-on testing to deliver an unbiased verdict. Our team also walked through the customer journey, from installation to daily use, to ensure that Abode delivers on its promises and to help you decide if it’s the right choice.
Pros
- Affordable and with no contract requirements
- DIY-friendly installation
- Native HomeKit integration
Cons
- Mixed user reviews
- One-year warranty only
- Camera performance has limitations
Table of Contents
- Abode at a Glance
- Abode Security System Components
- Abode Smart Home Integration
- Abode Plans and Pricing
- Monitoring Plans
- Abode App and Add-ons
- Installing Abode
- What We Like About Abode
- What We Didn’t Like About Abode
- How Abode Stacks Up
- What Are People Saying About Abode
- Is Abode The Right Home Security System for You?
- Methodology – How We Selected the Best Home Security Companies
Abode at a Glance
Abode is a home security company that has been offering solutions since 2014. It’s particularly well-known for its native compatibility with Apple’s HomeKit, a rare feature in the security market. This makes Abode a top choice for homeowners who want to manage all their devices seamlessly within Apple’s ecosystem.
The company offers several home security kits, including a home security hub to manage smart devices, a key fob and a small door/window sensor. These kits range from $159 to $379, depending on the hub’s features. Additionally, you can purchase add-ons like extra sensors and smart locks separately or as part of a bundle that includes the security kits.
With Abode, you can self-monitor your home for free or pay for 24/7 professional monitoring through a yearly subscription.
Overall, Abode is a solid choice if you’re looking for an affordable, DIY-friendly system with the option for professional installation at $99. Its ability to natively connect with HomeKit further sets it apart in the home security market.
Featured Partners
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Vivint
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$21.99
Abode Security System Components
Abode’s security systems involve the following components:
Security Kits
Abode offers three primary security kits, each tailored to different needs.
Abode Security Kit
The Abode Security Kit covers the basics, making it suitable for various home sizes. It includes:
- 1 Abode Security Hub
- 1 Mini Door/Window Sensor
- 1 Keyfob
This easy-to-setup kit is compatible with smart home devices and offers flexible monitoring options, either self-monitoring or professional monitoring via subscription. It’s priced at $159.99.
Smart Security Kit
Building on the basics, the Smart Security Kit adds more advanced features for enhanced control and visibility. It includes:
- 1 Smart Security Hub
- 1 Mini Door/Window Sensor
- 1 Motion Sensor
- 1 Keyfob
Ideal for those seeking more comprehensive security, this kit is simple to install and integrates with various smart home systems. It also offers flexible monitoring options, priced at $279.99.
Iota All-In-One Security Kit
The Iota All-In-One Security Kit is an advanced version of the Abode Security Kit, featuring the Iota Hub, which includes a built-in HD camera, night vision, motion detection and a 93-decibel siren. The kit includes:
- 1 Iota Hub
- 1 Mini Door/Window Sensor
- 1 Keyfob
This kit is easy to install, integrates with smart home systems and offers both self-monitoring and professional monitoring options, priced at $379.99.
Security Hubs
Abode’s security hubs are the central control points for your home security system, connecting devices like cameras, sensors and alarms. These hubs integrate easily with smart home setups and ensure seamless communication between all security components, offering flexible monitoring options to keep your home secure. Each kit’s hub differs in capabilities, catering to different security needs.
Indoor/Outdoor and Doorbell Cameras
Abode provides two versatile camera options for comprehensive home monitoring:
- Wireless Video Doorbell: Offers a clear view of your front door and allows remote communication with visitors.
- Abode Cam 2: A compact, weatherproof camera suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, providing 24/7 monitoring with high-quality video.
Both cameras are easy to install and integrate smoothly with your Abode security system, enhancing your ability to monitor your home from anywhere.
Abode Locks
The Abode Lock allows remote control of door locks via the Abode app. You can create custom access codes for family members, guests, or service providers and receive alerts when the lock is used.
Abode Smart Home Integration
Abode systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of smart home devices, allowing you to connect your security setup with the technology you already use. Abode supports the following smart home platforms:
- 2GIG
- Aeotec
- Amazon Alexa
- Apple HomeKit
- Bose
- Dome
- EcoBee
- Enerwave
- Fibaro
- First Alert
- Google Assistant
- Google Nest
- Jasco
- GoControl
- Hey Google
- Helton
- Hue
- Kaadas
- KeyWe
- Kwikset
- Leviton
- Lifx
- Linear
- Schlage
- Sensative
- Sonos
- Yale
- Z-Wave
- Zigbee
However, Abode’s compatibility can vary by product within these brands. To ensure smooth integration, check Abode’s website to confirm your specific devices are supported before purchasing any Abode products.
Abode Plans and Pricing
Abode offers flexible home security solutions designed to meet various needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a basic self-monitoring system or comprehensive professional monitoring, Abode provides a range of plans that can be paired with its customizable hardware options.
From no-cost plans that leverage DIY setups to more robust packages offering around-the-clock professional surveillance, Abode ensures that homeowners can find a solution that fits their security requirements and financial considerations.
Each plan varies in the level of service and features, making it easy for users to choose the one that best suits their needs.
Build Your Own Custom Home Security
Abode offers three Security Kits and various bundles that act as packaged solutions. Each bundle contains a security kit and a set amount of additional devices to place around your house, such as a keypad and extra Mini Door/Window Sensors to detect when your doors/windows are open.
However, you can also get a Security Kit and individual add-ons to complete the set. Here’s an example of a custom home security kit that could work on a small home or apartment.
| COMPONENT | FUNCTION | COST |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Security Kit | Security Hub, Door/Window Sensor and Keyfob | $159.99 |
| Extra Mini Door/Window Sensor | Door/Window Sensor | $29.99 |
| Abode Cam 2 | Indoor/Outdoor Camera | $59.99 |
| Wireless Video Doorbell | Doorbell Camera | $99.99 |
Monitoring Plans
Abode offers a range of plans to fit different security needs and budgets. Each plan provides varying service levels, from basic self-monitoring to professional monitoring with additional features. Here’s a breakdown of the available plans.
| PLAN NAME | DESCRIPTION/FEATURES | INSTALLATION | UPFRONT COST | YEARLY COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | Basic self-monitoring plan. | DIY or $99 for professional installation | $159.99 to $379.99, depending on the security kit you get. | $0 |
| Standard Plan | Self-monitoring plan with better notifications, event timelines, smart AI detection and insurance policy discounts. | DIY or $99 for professional installation | $159.99 to $379.99, depending on the security kit you get. | $69.99 |
| Pro Plan | Professional 24/7 monitoring, longer timelines and Cellular Backup feature for retaining functions without a home internet connection. | DIY or $99 for professional installation | $159.99 to $379.99, depending on the security kit you get. | $229.99 ($149.00 on the first year) |
It’s also worth mentioning that you can opt to pay for these monitoring plans on a month-to-month basis. Each plan offers a free one-month trial, after that the Standard Plan will cost $6.99 per month and the Pro Plan will cost $24.99 per month.
Free – Perfect Home Security Starter Package
The Free Plan is perfect for those new to home security or those who prefer a DIY approach. It includes basic self-monitoring, allowing users to receive notifications and access the Abode app without monthly fees. This plan provides fundamental security features, making it an excellent starting point for those who want to keep an eye on their home with minimal investment.
Standard – Basic Control
The Standard Plan offers additional tools for homeowners seeking enhanced features while still allowing self-monitoring. It includes:
- Rich Notifications: Receive instant, detailed security alerts.
- Event Timeline: Access a 10-day history of system activity for easy reference.
- AI Smart Detection: Advanced AI capabilities to identify people, packages and pets, reducing false alarms.
- Insurance Discounts: Potential eligibility for home insurance discounts due to enhanced security measures.
When purchasing any Abode Security Hub, customers receive one month of the Standard Plan for free, offering a cost-effective way to experience upgraded security features.
Pro Plan – Full Control with Outstanding Protection
The Pro Plan is tailored for those who want the highest level of security, featuring 24/7 professional monitoring. This plan ensures that your home is constantly monitored by experts, providing peace of mind that help is always at hand. Key features include:
- 24/7 Professional Monitoring: Continuous monitoring by security professionals.
- 30-Day Event Timeline: Extended access to a detailed history of security events.
- Premium Customer Support: Priority access to customer service for swift issue resolution.
- Cellular Backup: Keeps your system online even if your internet connection is lost, ensuring uninterrupted protection.
With the Pro Plan, Abode offers a comprehensive security solution that covers all bases, making it ideal for those who don’t want to compromise home safety.
Abode App and Add-ons
Like many home security companies, Abode functions primarily through an app.
Abode App
The Abode app is the command center for your entire home security system, offering intuitive control over your security hub and all connected devices. Users can easily manage, monitor and automate their home’s security settings through the app, making it an essential tool for basic and advanced system management.
One of the app’s standout features is CUE, Abode’s powerful automation engine. CUE allows you to create customized actions—such as automatically triggering an alarm if the backdoor opens between midnight and 5 a.m.
This feature supports a guided setup process, enabling users to control how much automation they want. You can set certain features to activate while you’re away and others when you’re at home, providing both security and convenience tailored to your lifestyle.
Additional features of the Abode app include:
- Main Dashboard: View and control every device connected to your security hub using a user-friendly interface.
- Favorites: Save frequently used devices to the dashboard for quick access.
- Device Groups: Organize related devices (e.g., all living room devices) into groups that can be filtered by category. Each group is displayed as a card with unique graphics and colors, which can also be added to your dashboard for easy management.
Add-Ons
Abode offers a range of add-ons that allow you to customize your security system to fit your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance coverage with additional sensors or add convenience with smart devices, these add-ons make it easy to expand your system as needed. Here’s a list of available add-ons:
- Abode Cam 2: $59.99
- Wireless video doorbell: $99.99
- Mini door and window sensor: $29.99
- Slim strip sensor: $39.99
- Recessed door and window sensor: $29.99
- Vibration glass break sensor: $39.99
- Acoustic glass break sensor: $49.99
- Motion sensor: $39.99
- Multi-sensor: $59.99
- Keypad: $89.99
- Key fob: $19.99
- Water leak sensor: $49.99
- Smoke alarm monitor: $49.99
- Indoor siren: $59.99
- Outdoor siren: $69.99
- Panic button: $21.99
These add-ons provide flexibility, allowing you to enhance your Abode system’s functionality and tailor it to your home’s needs. Whether you’re aiming for extra protection with additional sensors or seeking convenience through smart integration, Abode’s extensive add-on options ensure your security setup can grow with you.
Installing Abode
Installing an Abode system is quick and straightforward, in line with the brand’s DIY-friendly and affordable approach. Most setups can be completed in under an hour—often in less than 30 minutes.
For this review, we tested the Iota All-In-One Security Kit, which includes an Iota Hub, a Mini Door/Window Sensor and a Keyfob. Since we installed it in a small apartment, the kit’s components were more than sufficient for our needs.
The Website
When you open the website, you can start shopping or click Build a System.
Getting started on Abode’s website is user-friendly. You can browse products directly or use the Build a System feature, which guides you through selecting the right combination of security kits and add-ons.
This process involves answering questions about your home’s layout (e.g., number of doors and windows), primary security concerns, preference for professional monitoring and the smart home systems you plan to integrate.
After completing the quiz, you’ll proceed to checkout, where you can adjust your selections before finalizing your purchase.
The Installation
Once you receive your Abode system, setup is incredibly fast and easy. Start by unpacking the components and placing the security hub (in our case, the Iota Hub, which includes a built-in camera) near your internet router. Connect it via an ethernet cable for optimal performance.
Next, download the Abode app and update the hub’s firmware if necessary. The app will guide you through the remainder of the setup, step by step. After configuring the hub, the final task was to peel and stick the Mini Door/Window Sensor onto the front door.
And that’s it—the entire process took us less than 30 minutes. If your setup includes more sensors or additional equipment like Recessed Sensors or a smart lock, installation might take a bit longer. However, the setup should be quick and hassle-free for a small home with one or two entry points.
What We Like About Abode
Abode stands out as a top choice for home security due to several key strengths:
- Affordability and DIY-Friendly Setup: Abode offers affordable home security solutions that are easy to install, making them accessible to a broad range of users.
- Quick and User-Friendly Installation: Setting up an Abode system is straightforward and typically takes less than 30 minutes, minimizing hassle.
- Comprehensive Mobile App: The all-in-one Abode app allows you to manage every aspect of your home security system from a single platform, enhancing convenience and control.
- Native HomeKit Integration: Abode’s seamless compatibility with Apple HomeKit is a significant advantage for users within the Apple ecosystem.
- Extensive Third-Party Integrations: Abode’s wide range of integrations with over 20 third-party companies, including Apple and Google, allows for a highly customizable home security experience.
- Versatile Bundles and Add-Ons: Abode offers multiple bundle packages and a broad selection of add-ons, enabling users to tailor their security system to their specific needs.
What We Didn’t Like About Abode
While Abode has many strengths, there are a few areas where it falls short:
- Limited Warranty: Abode’s one-year warranty is shorter than some competitors’, which may be a drawback for those seeking long-term security.
- Additional Cost for Professional Installation: While the system is DIY-friendly, professional installation comes at an extra cost of $99, which may be a consideration for some users.
- Camera Limitations: The cameras struggle to recognize facial features at distances beyond 15 feet, which could impact their effectiveness in larger spaces.
- Cellular Backup Restrictions: The Cellular Backup feature is only available with the Pro Plan, the most expensive monitoring option, limiting its accessibility to users on lower-tier plans.
How Abode Stacks Up
When evaluating home security options, it’s essential to compare Abode with other major players in the market, such as Ring and ADT. Below is a comparison of these companies across key categories.
Abode vs Ring
Initially known for its video doorbells, Ring expanded into a full home security provider after being acquired by Amazon. Here’s how Ring compares to Abode:
Monitoring Plans: Abode and Ring offer free self-monitoring after purchasing the equipment. Additionally, both companies provide paid subscriptions for 24/7 professional monitoring. Ring’s plans are generally more affordable and offer longer storage periods than Abode’s.
Security Kits: Both Abode and Ring provide comprehensive kits that include everything you need to secure your home.
Installation: Both Abode and Ring are DIY-friendly but offer professional installation services. Abode charges $99 for installation, while Ring’s professional installation starts at $109.99, provided by third-party installer OnTech. Ring also offers an OnTech+ membership for $199.99 per year, including free first installation service, unlimited smart support and a 10% discount on additional purchases and installations.
Learn more: Ring Home Security review
Abode vs ADT
ADT is a long-established leader in the home security industry, offering extensive services for homeowners and businesses. Here’s how ADT compares to Abode:
- Monitoring Plans: While Abode offers self-monitoring flexibility, ADT’s services are built around mandatory professional monitoring. This makes Abode a better choice if you prefer lower-cost or optional monitoring plans.
- Security Kits: Both companies offer comprehensive security kits with an extensive list of add-ons to customize your kit.
- Installation: Unlike Abode, ADT includes professional installation as part of the cost of equipment and monitoring plans, ensuring a hassle-free setup experience without additional fees.
Learn more: ADT Home Security review
What Are People Saying About Abode
While the company is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), it does hold an A+ rating on the platform. However, this high rating contrasts sharply with its user reviews on BBB, where Abode has an average score of 1 out of 5, indicating significant customer dissatisfaction.
A common complaint among negative reviews is the company’s customer support, which many customers describe as lacking in responsiveness and effectiveness in resolving issues. In addition, some users report that the software can be buggy, with certain features not functioning as intended, leading to frustration.
On the positive side, many users appreciate Abode’s native integration with Apple HomeKit, praising the system’s overall functionality and ease of installation. These positive aspects highlight Abode’s appeal to those within the Apple ecosystem and those seeking a DIY-friendly security solution.
Is Abode The Right Home Security System for You?
Abode can be an excellent choice for certain homeowners, particularly those seeking affordability, flexibility and seamless integration with smart home devices. Its relatively low prices, DIY-friendly setup and compatibility with over 20 third-party home security systems make it a strong contender in the market. The native integration with Apple HomeKit is a standout feature, appealing to deeply invested customers in the Apple ecosystem.
Abode is also a smart option for renters, as many of its products can be installed using double-sided tape instead of screws, allowing for easy setup and removal without damaging walls.
Whether you prefer to self-monitor your home or opt for 24/7 professional monitoring with the Pro Plan, Abode offers the flexibility to choose the level of security that best suits your needs.
Overall, Abode is a solid choice if you’re looking for an affordable, HomeKit-compatible security system that’s easy to install and customize to your preferences.
Methodology – How We Selected the Best Home Security Companies
To determine the best home security companies ranking, the Forbes Home editorial team analyzed 22 companies and 133 systems across 68 different attributes broken into categories represented in the below pie chart:
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home security companies in our detailed methodology page.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Abode a good home security system?
Abode home security kits range from $159.99 to $379.99, depending on the security hub included. Bundles, which offer additional equipment like door/window sensors and keypads, are priced between $400 and $800. Individual components such as cameras, sensors and door locks are also available for separate purchase.
How easy is Abode to install?
Abode is designed for easy installation. Most DIY setups take less than 30 minutes, typically involving system boot-up, any necessary firmware updates and following the guided steps on the mobile app. Installing basic components like window/door sensors is quick, though setting up additional equipment may require more time.
What does Abode include?
Abode home security kits generally include a security hub (the central device that manages your system), a keyfob and one window/door sensor. Depending on the package, bundles may feature extra equipment like additional sensors, keypads and cameras.
What is Abode rated?
Abode has received mixed ratings online. While many users appreciate its seamless integration with Apple HomeKit, others have noted concerns about the quality of customer support.
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