Abode Security Review

Abode, which launched in 2014, is a relative newcomer to the do-it-yourself (DIY) security world. It specializes in flexible, high-quality systems perfect for renters. Its smart home security system supports over 160 devices, allowing you to easily scale your setup. Our review details Abode security services, including available kits, pricing, and more, to help you decide if it’s the best home security system for your needs.

Our Take on Abode Home Security

We picked Abode Home Warranty as the best for renters. It doesn’t require a long-term contract or monthly monitoring, offers a build-your-own home security package, and has an A+ rating from the BBB.

Pros

• Doesn’t require a long-term contract
• Abode Cue integration connects and controls smart-home devices
• On-demand professional monitoring available

Cons

• Limited devices included in starter kits
• 4G cellular backup only available with Pro Plan

Abode Packages & Equipment

Abode Home Security gives customers the choice between two prepackaged security kits, providing baseline security coverage at an affordable price. Abode also allows you to customize your own system through their “Build My System” questionnaire, which recommends devices based on device preferences and the area you’re protecting.

Abode Package Comparison

Here’s more detail about each of the packages:

• Smart Security Kit Complete Package: This is Abode’s least expensive package and comes with a Gen 2 Gateway With 1 Mini Door/Window Sensor, 1 Key Fob, 1 Motion Sensor, 2 Abode Cam 2s, and 1 Sticker.
• Smart Security Kit Plus Package: This is the second-least expensive package and comes with Abode’s Gen 2 Gateway, 3 door/window sensors, 1 keypad, 1 key fob, 1 motion sensor, and 1 sticker.
• Smart Security Kit Elite Package: This package comes with the Gen 2 Gateway, 4 mini door/window sensors, 1 keypad, 1 key fob, 2 motion sensors, and 1 sticker.
• iota Kit Elite Package: This package comes with Abode’s All-In-One Gateway, 4 mini door/window sensors, 1 keypad, 1 key fob, and 1 motion sensor.

Here’s a breakdown of the similarities and differences between the two types of gateways:

• iota All-In-One Gateway: This is a smart-home hub that’s compatible with smart-home devices. The iota is unique because, unlike the Gen 2, it has a built-in motion detector, it’s Wi-Fi enabled, and it has a built-in streaming camera that captures video when the alarm is triggered or you turn it on.
• Gen 2 Gateway: The Gen 2 is also a smart-home hub that’s compatible with smart-home devices. However, it does not have a built-in streaming camera, it’s not Wi-Fi enabled, and it does not have a built-in motion detector.

Abode Custom Packages

Abode customers have the option of building their own home security system through Abode’s online questionnaire. Based on the area you’re securing, the number of windows and doors on your ground floor, and your monitoring preferences, Abode recommends the type and number of devices you need to secure your home.

For example, if you wanted to secure a one-bedroom apartment with only one window and door on the ground level, Abode recommends the Smart Security Kit with an additional mini window and door sensor and one motion sensor.

Here’s what could be included in your Build Your Own System Kit:

• iota All-In-One Security Kit
• Smart Security Kit
• Mini door and window sensor
• Motion sensor
• Wide angle motion camera
• Abode cam
• Key fob
• Keypad 2.0

Regardless of selection, all security kits are compatible with your various Z-Wave, Zigbee, or Wi-Fi compatible third-party devices and are designed for simple DIY installation. All kits can be controlled remotely through the Abode mobile app, local key fob or remote, or by using voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Abode Security Pricing

The DIY security kits from Abode are relatively affordable compared to other DIY home security systems, with the Smart Security Kit priced at $199 and the iota All-In-One Security kit at $229, both following the industry standard for prepackaged systems.

While affordable, Abode’s home security kits are designed to lay the foundation for your security system and cover the basics like motion detection and video monitoring. Abode’s system only becomes more comprehensive through the purchase of additional devices like water leak sensors or vibration glass break detectors.

Package Pricing

Here’s an overview of Abode’s package pricing:

• Smart Security Complete Package: $290.97
• Smart Security Plus Package: $385.99
• Smart Security Kit Elite Package: $441.99
• iota Kit Plus Package: $438.99
• Iota Kit Elite Package: $502.99

Abode Monitoring Plans

Abode is a DIY security system from installation to monitoring. However, Abode offers professional monitoring and a collection of special features through its home security plans.

Here’s the pricing of Abode’s monitoring plans:

• Standard Plan ($0.20 per day): Self-monitoring and home automation
• Pro Plan ($0.66 per day): Professional monitoring and cellular connectivity

While you’re able to self-monitor at no additional cost, opting into a professional plan gives you access to features like home automation and video storage. With the Pro plan, customers receive 24/7 professional monitoring and can get peace of mind that the proper authorities will take quick action in handling any problem within their homes.

Abode gives Standard Plan customers access to on-demand professional monitoring, which costs $8 for three days and $15 for seven days. This unique feature allows customers who don’t have 24/7 professional monitoring to receive it for short periods, like long weekends or holidays.

Abode Equipment Prices

Here’s an overview of Abode security device pricing.

• Mini Door/Window Sensor: $22
• Door/Window Sensor: $23
• Recessed Door/Window Sensor: $29
• Slim Strip Sensor: $29
• Vibration Glass Break Sensor: $28
• Acoustic Glass Break Sensor: $39
• Abode Cam: $139
• Wide-Angle Motion Camera: $99
• Motion Sensor: $34
• Multi Sensor: $39
• Keypad: $79
• Key Fob: $19
• Water Leak Sensor: $49
• Smoke Alarm Monitor: $29
• Indoor Siren: $49
• Outdoor Siren: $65
• System Status Indicator: $29
• Panic Button: $25

Abode Installation

Professional installation is not required by Abode. However, if you choose to go with professional installation, it starts at $99 for security kits and will be $25 for additional devices. The installation process usually takes around 15 minutes to complete.

Abode’s installation process includes:

1. A technician from Abode’s partner, HelloTech, will arrive at the scheduled time.
2. The technician will install your system.
3. Your Abode system is ready to be used immediately.

Abode Smart Home

Abode offers smart-home functionality with its home security systems. The specific types of smart-home equipment that Abode offers include a smart outlet and a smart multi-function sensor. All packages are compatible with smart-home devices and can be controlled through the Abode mobile app.

Abode Warranties

Abode Home Security has a one-year limited warranty on most Abode hardware, excluding items that have been misused, abused, or altered. This one-year warranty extends to all customers, including those under the Basic and Standard security plans. For customers enrolled in the Pro security plan, Abode provides a warranty that covers most products for the life of their contract.

If you’re unsatisfied with your Abode system, you can return it for a refund within 30 days of the initial purchase but are responsible for the cost of shipping. If you’re returning a purchased plan, there will be a $35 cancellation fee.

Abode Security Reviews

Abode isn’t accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and holds an A+ rating. Since opening a BBB account in 2017, Abode has received 11 customer complaints, though most complaints have been addressed and resolved by the company.

Below is a sample of Abode home security reviews left by customers on the BBB:

“Don’t rely on their poor cell connection as a backup anyway. We get multiple errors from the device not connecting up to the internet each day. So even if your internet goes out, it’s probably a good chance that their cell network will be down too. Leaving you with no security system.” —KM

“I am a first-time home security user and purchaser. I spent many weeks researching options, speaking with companies and talking to friends with systems. I am very glad we went with Abode. It works just as advertised and is very quick and easy to install. I like that I do not have to sign a contract or pay for monthly monitoring but can turn that feature on if needed for just the period I need. We added many different types of sensors to our system and everything functions real well. I highly recommend Abode.” —Matthew M.

Our Conclusion

Abode Security doesn’t include a lot of devices in its starter kits to properly secure your home, but customers can affordably customize coverage to fit their home security needs.

If you’re not sure if Abode is right for you, compare it to other top-rated security companies in the industry.

Compare Home Security Companies

Other Resources:

• Vivint Home Security Review
• ADT Home Security Review
• SimpliSafe Home Security Review
• Frontpoint Home Security Review
• Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems

FAQs about Abode Security

How does Abode work?

After you select your prepackaged home security kit or build your own Abode security system, it’s shipped to your house to be installed by you or a professional. Your system can be self-monitored, or you can choose a home security monitoring plan through Abode, giving you access to 24/7 professional monitoring or video storage.

If you choose to self-monitor, you can control your system remotely through the Abode home security app. Customers can control smart-home devices alongside their security system through Abode CUE, which allows you to control your smart products and services through a system of automated scenarios. For instance, you can tell Abode CUE to turn on your back porch lights only if the back door opens and it’s dark outside.

Instead of forcing you into a long-term contract like other home security providers, Abode charges monthly fees for their home security plans or allows customers to commit to a year at a discounted price.

Can I use Abode without monitoring?

Yes. Abode allows you to self-monitor through their Basic Plan, which gives you access to on-demand professional monitoring and the ability to connect up to 160 devices.

Does Abode have a money-back guarantee?

If you’re unsatisfied with your product within 30 days of its fulfillment within the warehouse, you can return it for a refund at the cost of shipping. If you’re returning a purchased Abode home security plan, there’s a $35 cancellation fee. If you receive the wrong product, you can reach out to Abode within the first 30 days of receiving the product for a full refund at no cost to you.

How does Abode’s customer service operate?

Abode provides customer service through phone and online messenger 24 hours a day on weekdays and from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST on weekends. Abode also created a centralized help page that customers can go to for device support, troubleshooting, and setting up their system.

Our Rating Methodology

We back up our home security recommendations with a detailed rating methodology that we use to objectively score each provider. Our research includes analyzing product specifications, reviewing service and plan information, speaking with customer service representatives, and analyzing customer reviews. We then score the provider against our review standards for system options, special features, installation options, connectivity, smart-home automation features, pricing, contract terms, warranty, usability, availability of a trial period, and trustworthiness to arrive at a final score out of 100.