Home security has moved beyond expensive, professional contracts and into the hands of the homeowner. There are many companies, both new and proven, that have DIY security systems available. Abode Home Security is one of these self-installed professional-grade security systems, and it is often touted as being one of the best.
In this review, we compare Abode to other DIY security offerings to see how it stacks up.
What is the Abode Home Security System?
Abode offers professional-grade security systems and cameras that can easily integrate with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, as well as smart home devices from top brands.
There are three main hubs available with variations of included accessories via different bundles. Here, we are looking at the smart security kit, which includes one gateway, one mini door/window sensor, one remote key fob, and one motion sensor.
Product Specs
The Abode Home Security System is a comprehensive DIY security system that integrates modern connectivity technology, diverse configuration and component customization options, and flexible professional monitoring services. Here is a closer look at some of this product’s more impressive features.
Connectivity
Connectivity on the Abode Home Security System is forward-looking. The Gateway is a Z-wave- and Zigbee-enabled hub, and all sensors connect securely via wireless radio frequency.
It can also connect with smart home devices such as lights, locks, thermostats, security cameras, and more. Each hub can connect to up to 160 devices, which makes it essentially unlimited when you consider how many devices 160 truly is.
The Abode Home Security System can be monitored and controlled remotely via Apple iOS and Android apps. It connects with many other smart home ecosystems including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT, Zigbee, and Z-Wave.
It integrates with devices made by Aeon, Dome, Enerwave, FIBARO, Kwikset, and Leviton. It encrypts all communication between the hub and other devices.
Enhanced automation is made simple with the embedded CUE home automation platform, which allows you to create actions from triggers. It is an “if this, then that”-baased automation system which you can further customize with optional conditions.
In the current iterations, you can program your Abode Home Security System to respond to triggers regarding the change in security system mode, doors, and windows opening or closing, people leaving or entering the native geo-fencing area, scheduling triggers, time of day or environmental changes, and it also supports IFTTT synchronization.
Components Reviewed
Abode’s Smart Security Kit comes with one hub, one mini door/window sensor, one remote key fob, and one motion sensor. This is enough to get started, but most people like to add more components to customize their system. Thankfully, Abode has no shortage of additional devices. They offer everything from door sensors to locks, security cameras, environmental sensors, and more.
You don’t need to get your entire system built with your initial purchase, either. You can add additional devices at any time.
Gateway
The gateway is the hub of the system. It receives information from the sensors, cameras, and smart home devices and then uses that information to send alerts to your phone and a monitoring center*, depending on what plan level you have. It has a 93db siren built in, connects to the internet via Ethernet cable (the other two hub options connect via WiFi), and has cell* & battery backup for internet and power outages.
*requires Abode’s pro plan
Keypad 2
Abode’s Keypad 2 looks and feels like that of a conventional security system, but features premium features that elevate it. You can set and name up to forty unique PIN codes, which is useful if you want to know whether the person arming or disarming your system is the dog walker, the cleaning person, your partner, or your child. It runs off a rechargeable battery that lasts six months on a single charge. The back-lit interface only lights up when motion is detected to conserve battery power. The keypad also features motion-sensing capabilities that can trigger your alarm when armed.
Door/Window Sensors
Doors and windows are monitored using the battery-operated contact sensors that sit across from each other in a doorway or window and will alert the hub when any of these are opened and closed. The included batteries will last for over ten years, and the sensors come in several options with varying degrees of concealment. You can name these sensors, customize when you get notifications for openings and closings, and also customize which system mode(s) they are active in.
Included in the starter kit is the mini door/window sensor. You can also purchase a recessed or slim sensor for invisible installation options.
Door/Remote Key Fob
The Abode Home Security System can be operated via a remote key fob, much like the one you may use to lock and unlock your car doors. Arm or disarm your system with a click of a button or trigger a panic alarm. Like all other devices, you’ll be able to name your key fob in the app. This is helpful if you have more than one and need to assign one to each member of your household so you can see who armed and disarmed the system.
Indoor Motion Sensor
The indoor motion sensors on the Abode Home Security System are battery-operated like the rest of the system. Any time motion is detected within a range of the motion sensor, a notification will occur on your phone. You can also program the system to respond automatically to the motion by turning on lights or triggering another action you choose via the home automation platform CUE.
Other Optional Components (Not Included in Starter Kit)
Abode offers several other components that can be added as needed. There is a panic button, water leak sensor, smoke alarm monitor, door lock, smart light bulb, glass break sensor, security camera, video doorbell, and more. For a full list of devices, check their shop page.
Professional Monitoring
Self-monitoring with Abode is easy using the mobile app. However, 24/7 professional monitoring is also available via their Pro plan, and no contract is required. You can go month-to-month or commit to a full year for a discount. There is no cancellation fee, but you’ll not receive a prorated refund if you decide to cancel your service in the middle of your term so you might as well finish what you paid for and then cancel.
How It Compares
We picked a few similar products available on the market to see how they compare to the Abode Home Security System.
Abode Home Security System
Connectivity and Integration
Forward-looking, flexible, and easy is how we would describe Abode security – with connectivity and integrations being its biggest differentiators. Abode integrates with most, if not all, available smart home technologies and mobile devices natively. It is the only DIY security system widely available in North America with a direct integration with Apple HomeKit. If you’re an Apple HomeKit user, this is the security system for you.
Components
The included components work exactly as described and the battery life on the individual pieces lasts a while. Plus, the batteries re replaceable on almost all products. All accessories included in the kit come pre-paired to the hub and have dedicated setup instructions within the app, making setup a breeze.
Professional Monitoring Options
The professional monitoring options are flexible, which is important. Most people who choose a DIY home security system over a conventional security system appreciate having the ability to self-monitor. With contract-free monthly and yearly plan options, you can test the multiple plan options over a few months and commit to a full year once you find the one that works best for you.
Warranty
The Abode Home Security System comes with a 30-day trial period for components and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty on devices.
Pros
- Easy setup and connectivity
- Most advanced integrations on the market
- Only DIY system with Apple HomeKit compatibility
- Flexible, contract-free monitoring options
Cons
- Hardware costs can be a bit more expensive than competitors
- Full-time monitoring is more expensive than others
Where to Buy
William is a tech buff and former corporate security officer turned cybercrime analyst. Computers have few secrets left for him, but home security and alarm systems… Well, those have plenty of secrets for their users, which William is now uncovering and explaining. His articles on home security helped many people take the matter seriously, invest in highly performing systems, and avoid becoming victims of burglaries.
Last update on 2025-11-25 at 15:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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