Abode Security Kit Review

Abode is having quite a year. After recently launching the new Abode Wireless Video Doorbell, the company recently took the wraps off of a more comprehensive system—the Abode Security Kit (available at Amazon) .

The Abode Security Kit is a cost-effective base for your home security system, from which you can build a larger system as needed, or stick with the products that come in the box.

With configurations starting at $99.99, it makes a compelling case for itself. But can this DIY security system prove itself at that low price?

About the Abode Security Kit

• Price: Starts at $99.99
• Color: Black
• Connectivity: Ethernet, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, 4G
• Smart assistant support: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Dimensions: 5.75-inch L x 5.75-inch W x 1.65-inch H

The Abode Security Kit comes with a relatively basic selection of accessories like key fobs, mini door/window sensors, and motion sensors, depending on the bundle you get. The key fob is used to arm and disarm your system. It has a built-in 93dB siren.

You can add more devices from there—and most of Abode’s products work with the kit. But, of course, that will add to the cost depending on which ones you buy.

What we like

It is easy to set up and use

The biggest advantage to including relatively few devices in the box is that the Abode Security Kit is simple to install. The Abode app walks you through the setup instructions, and I got the system up and running in only a few minutes.

Start by setting up the base station, which will involve plugging it into your internet router. Then, connect your door/window sensor and key fob. It's that simple.

The overall basic use of the system is relatively straightforward, too. The system is responsive and updates quickly after changes to the door/window sensor and key fob.

That said, I did find that the key fob is a little bulky. Not overly so, but I like as little weight to my keys as possible, and it didn’t help much.

It offers solid smart home integration

Despite the low price, and the lack of radios that other Abode systems have like Z-Wave and Zigbee, the Abode Security Kit offers decent support for various smart home ecosystems.

One of the newest integrations Abode offers is with Google Nest products.

Now, you can sync your Nest devices with Abode and see them in the Abode app, adding them to your in-app automations.

Apart from that, Abode works with Google Assistant, Alexa, Sonos, and Bose.

Of course, the security kit supports Abode’s CUE automations system. The impressive system offers more control over automations than apps like Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home.

The price is low

The low price is the biggest advantage of the Abode Security Kit. The system starts at $99.99, which includes a key fob, security base, and a window/door sensor. There aren’t many devices included, but for the money, you can get a basic security setup without paying much.

What we don’t like

The Abode Security Kit includes a very basic device selection

The same thing that makes this system cheap and easy to set up is what makes it a little too basic, at least for a large portion of potential users. The security kit is for anyone who wants to mix and match additional devices.

If you live alone in a small apartment, you might do fine with only the devices in the Abode Security Kit, with the door sensor on the main front door. But if someone else lives with you, and you want to track multiple points of entry, you need additional devices.

There's no support for HomeKit or Matter

While this smart security kit has decent smart home compatibility, it’s missing support for Apple HomeKit and Matter. Early Abode products were known for supporting Apple’s ecosystem, so this is a bummer.

Without Matter, you won't be able to add the security kit to your Apple setup. Hopefully, future Abode products support the universal smart home standard.

A subscription is required for certain devices

A paid subscription plan is necessary to take full advantage of the Abode Security Kit

Without a subscription, you won't be able to access features like the 4G cellular backup, which may come in handy if your system loses connection during a power or Wi-Fi outage.

You also won’t have access to professional monitoring. However, unless you plan to add additional smart home devices, like security cameras and video doorbells, you probably don’t need professional monitoring.

Should you buy it?

Yes, if you want basic security at a low price

The Abode Security Kit is a great way to access basic home security without paying for a higher-end kit. This DIY security kit is very basic as-is—and those with larger homes or multiple people will likely want to upgrade it with additional devices.

For something with more bells and whistles, we recommend the more expensive Ring Alarm Pro, our No. 1 pick for the best DIY home security kit. But if you want the basics, Abode’s home security solution may be for you.

Abode Security Kit

Basic essential security at a low cost.

Buy at Amazon