What Works with Abode? Compatible Devices

Abode doesn't rank highly on our list of the best home security systems, but we like that it's compatible with a ton of equipment. With so many equipment options available, you can customize your Abode system with everything you want in a security system.

Let's dig into Abode's equipment and explore what smart home brands work with this little-known security system.

If you're looking for our thoughts on Abode as a whole, we recommend heading over to our Abode review to learn more about its monitoring plans, customer service, and how it compares to similar systems.

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One thing that sets Abode apart from other DIY security systems is that it offers two different base stations: the Gateway and the Iota.

The Abode Gateway controls the system and connects it to the monitoring center, similar to what you see from competitors like SimpliSafe and Blue by ADT.

In contrast, the Abode Iota is an all-in-one system with a built-in security camera and motion sensor. These features mean it needs fewer sensors, making it ideal for small apartments. It still does everything the Gateway can do, but the higher price is worth it if you're already eyeing a security camera for your Abode system.

As far as we can tell, there isn't a way to buy Abode's base stations outside of a starter kit. But this isn't a problem since most folks will want a few sensors to go with their system. The starter kits include the basics of home security: a motion sensor and an entry sensor. There's also a key fob to help you quickly disarm your system when you come home from work.

Abode's sensor selection is one of the most comprehensive we've seen on a DIY security system, thanks to its offering multiple entry, motion, and glass break sensors.

We like the different entry sensors' styles, with the recessed and slim models offering more attractive (or hidden) options than typical door and window sensors.

Aside from the standard motion sensor, Abode sells a Multi Sensor that also monitors light levels, temperature, and humidity—making it a great way to expand the system's smart home functionality.

The vibration glass break sensor is intriguing since most other brands rely on acoustic sensors to detect breaking glass. While the vibration sensor isn't as useful for monitoring multiple windows, it's a great addition to glass on or near doors, where an intruder might break a window for easy entry.

You can also buy a smoke alarm monitor that listens for the sounds of smoke detectors (it also works with carbon monoxide alarms). This handy sensor saves you from buying expensive, new smoke detectors that work with your Abode system.

Lastly, there's a water leak detector to help you spot leaky pipes before they turn into a house-damaging deluge.

Accessories don't detect hazards like sensors do, but they can expand your system to do more than activate an alarm. These devices make you feel like a smart home mastermind since they simplify the system and add extra security layers to help you respond faster in an emergency.

Abode sells two siren models, including the only outdoor siren we've seen in a security system in the US. By putting a siren outdoors, you can alert neighbors to trouble and more easily discourage burglars from staying long enough to swipe your loot.

The key fob and keypad simplify how you arm and disarm your system, so you don't always need a smartphone app to control the system. The panic button can instantly activate the alarm and request help from the professional monitoring center in an emergency.

There's even a color light bulb that you can use to set a mood or to enhance an alarm when your system spots an intruder. If you want to control lamps or appliances, you can buy the smart plug, a handy smart device for every home.

Abode doesn't offer many camera options compared brands like Arlo and Ring. But the $60 Abode Cam 2 is a worthy adversary to cheaper security cameras like the Wyze Cam v3 and Blink Mini.

While the Iota also has a built-in camera, Abode no longer sells the Outdoor Smart Camera. Abode recently updated the camera software of the Iota and Outdoor Smart Camera with person detection notifications. These allow you to react to uninvited guests while ignoring the neighborhood cat.

The company recently announced a wireless video doorbell that will cost around $90, but it's unreleased as of this update.

Check out our full Abode Cam 2 review and our Abode Cameras Review for more information.

Abode works with a healthy collection of smart home products:

You link your Abode system to Alexa using one of two skills: Abode Smart Home or Abode Home Security. You can control your Abode security system and smart home gear with Alexa voice controls, Echo smart speakers, Echo Show smart displays, and the Alexa app. Now you can check that you armed Abode from your comfy bed by asking Alexa.

Read our Alexa guide to learn more.

Apple HomeKit compatibility gives you control over your Abode equipment using Siri voice commands or the Apple Home app.

Read our Apple HomeKit guide to learn more.

The Google Assistant^* smart home platform enables Abode voice commands, plus you can control the system with the Google Home app and Google smart speakers.

Read our Google Assistant guide to learn more.

You can use your Abode system to control Ecobee smart thermostats.

IFTTT is a service that allows you to set up conditional automations that control your Abode system and other IFTTT-connected devices.

It's a great way to link smart home products that are normally incompatible with each other. For example, this opens up the possibility of Abode working with even more smart devices:

• Wemo smart plugs
• Honeywell thermostats
• Nest thermostat
• Arlo security cameras
• Blink cameras
• Noonlight app for personal safety
• MyQ garage door controller
• August smart door locks

You can even use IFTTT to automatically make phone calls, send text messages, send emails, or log data into a Google sheet when your Abode alarm goes off. 

Abode doesn't automatically work with every device connected to the IFTTT platform. For example, you can't connect Abode to a Ring doorbell cam, even though Ring works with IFTTT. 

You can control LIFX and Philips Hue smart light bulbs in the Abode app or integrate them directly into Abode CUE automations.

Abode works with dozens of Z-Wave and Zigbee devices like sensors, smart bulbs, smart light switches, smart plugs, smart locks, and various security sensors.

While Abode should work with any compatible product using the same technology, you'll get better results by choosing a device from its official list of supported Z-Wave and Zigbee devices.

These are just a few of the popular options: 

• Yale Keyfree Touchscreen Deadbolt
• Enbrighten Plug-in Dimmer Switch
• First Alert 2-in-1 Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

• Abode Home Security Review
• Abode FAQ
• Abode vs Ring: Which Security System is Better?
• Abode vs. SimpliSafe
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• Best Home Security Systems for Renters
• Best Smart Home Security Systems