Abode Home Security Review

Abode is a DIY security system which can be self-monitored, or professionally monitored.  With self monitoring, the system has integration with Google, Alexa, and Homekit, but with as little as $6/month Abode can be integrated into other home automation systems such as Home Assistant.  The real value comes in when going to the Pro monitoring.  The closest competitor with similar features is Simplisafe, but ultimately I went with Abode for the integration and I haven't had any issues.

Highlights

DIY - inexpensive
Integrated with Smart Home Systems including Google Home, Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa, and more
Pricing was Comparable to Simplisafe, with an option for price matching
Option to self monitor vs. professional monitoring
Month-to-month contracts, professional monitoring plans
Control the security system and receive alerts through the mobile App

Features

• 24/7 Monitoring available
• Cost per month: $6-$20
• Contract length: Month-to-Month
• Motion Detection
• Smart Home Compatibility: Home Assistant
• Video Surveillance
• Video Streaming
• Mobile App access and notifications
• Connected devices: Up to 160
• Automation routines:  Local processing - CUE automations
  
  

Overview

Automation

Since this blog focuses more on Automation, we'll start with this. Abode runs on CUE (Custom Engine).  Processing automations is performed on the abode hub itself.  The system can be integrated with various Home Automation services and device networks: Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple Homekit, Z-wave, and Zigbee.  It is not compatible with SmartThings.

Frequency of feature, system updates, and new products: 

17 in 2022

Matter compatibility

Not yet - plans unknown.

Home Assistant connectivity

Connection type: Cloud push
Home Assistant Support:  Abode Security Cameras, Key Fob, Key Pads, Door/window open Sensors, Glass break sensors

CUE hub automation

The hub is able to run preprogrammed routines with some of the basic necessary programming logic.  When this happens (trigger), then perform this action, and only if this condition is true.

At the time when I was setting up the Abode system up, SmartThings was the central home automation hub that I was working with and there was no integration.  Although it can be used as a smart home hub, there are more robust systems available.

DIY Installation

Self installation I found to be fairly quick and simple. Pairing is usually performed in the App and pressing a button the the device.  Professional installation is offered for an additional fee.

Devices

Security cameras: Abode Cam 2, Wireless Video Doorbell

Window/Door sensors: Mini Window/Door sensor, Motion sensor, Multi Sensor, Glass break sensors

Security Accessories: Keypad 2

Other Smart devices: Color bulb, Smart Home Power Switch

Security - How does it work?

With Abode’s security system, you can either self-monitor or pay for professional monitoring.  With Self monitoring, the system is able to be controlled from the app, receive notifications of alerts and triggers, and to watch live video feeds. Automations are not included in the self-monitoring package.  In the for professional monitoring packages a team is monitoring the system and devices 24/7 for any alerts.  When your system is armed, the professional monitoring team will receive an alert such as a burglary, panic, duress, fire, smoke, CO2, or medical situation. The team can visually verify the situation with captured images or video clips during the event, and send Emergency Response.  The team will contact the people on the list to also verify if the dispatch is necessary.  More about the procedures here.  Other Smart Home notifications will be pushed through the App, Email, or text.  In the event of Wifi connection issues there is a 4G backup for communication with their servers.  

Pricing

The pricing for the system is comparable to Simplisafe, another DIY home security option.  Breaking it down to the features, I think this is where Abode comes through. Abode also has a Price Match program for the similar equipment with a different system. The are two main costs that come with a security system are the cost of the equipment, and the cost of the monitoring service.

Hubs

Abode’s Security Kit starts at $159, Smart Security hub starts at $199, and its Iota Security Kit starts at $279. The cost of the company’s Build-Your-Own Kit depends on the specific security devices a homeowner chooses to purchase.

Monitoring

Monitoring can be broken down into Self Monitoring or Paid Monitoring.  With Paid Monitoring you are not required to sign and commit to year long contracts - only Month-to-Month.

Self Monitoring

With self monitoring you get immediate notifications and app control.  You can use cameras for live streaming but no recordings are available. Integrations, but no Cue Automations are available.  If there is an event that happens, it will be up to the homeowner to call for emergency dispatch.

Standard Plan

$6.99/month ($83.88 yearly)
$69.99/year

Unlimited Cameras, Live & Recorded videos, App control, App & Email notifications, Home Automation, Premium Support.

Pro Plan

$22.99/month ($275.88 yearly)
$149.99/year 1st year, $219.99/year 2nd year on

In addition to the Standard Plan features includes 24/7 Professional monitoring, cellular backup free shipping for the hardware, and home insurance discounts.

Conclusion

Overall I had a great experience with the Abode security hubs.  They are a great home security system, and is works great with other home automation systems. 

Good luck with your home security needs and leave a comment below on your journey. 

FAQs