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Abode is a DIY alarm system with a free tier that’s actually usable: no contract, no required plan, and no monthly bill for self-monitoring. That’s rare for an alarm system, and it’s why Abode keeps showing up on lists like this one.
“Free” has limits, though. Here’s what you get at $0, what costs extra, and two kits to start with.
| Pick | What’s Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Abode 4-Piece Smart Security System | Hub, motion sensor, key fob, door/window sensor | A starter alarm with no monthly fee |
| Abode 8-Piece Smart Security System | The same hub with more sensors | Covering a whole house |
What You Get for Free
With no plan at all, you get app control, arm and disarm from anywhere, push alerts, live video from connected cameras, and smart home integrations. Abode works natively with Apple Home, and also with Alexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, and Zigbee.
The hub has a 93dB siren and a backup battery, so it still sounds the alarm locally. And Abode doesn’t force a contract on any paid plan.
You’re also the monitor. If the alarm goes off, you get the alert, and you call 911 yourself. For many renters and DIYers, that’s a fair trade.
What Costs Extra
Abode says paid plans start at $7 a month. They add cloud video clips, AI detection for people and packages, cellular backup, and 24/7 professional monitoring. Professional monitoring costs more, with recent reviews quoting roughly $20 to $27 a month.
Continuous 24/7 recording is a separate $9.99 a month per camera, with 10 days of storage. Abode also sells on-demand pro monitoring. Reviewers list about $8 for three days or $15 for seven, which is handy for a vacation.
The catch with staying free is cellular backup. Abode’s own site says the free tier runs on Wi-Fi only, so an internet outage means no push alerts, even though the siren still sounds.
Recording Video Without Paying
Cloud recording needs a plan. Abode’s iota hub is the exception: it has a built-in camera and a microSD slot, and SafeHome’s review confirms it stores clips locally at no charge. The card is sold separately.
That’s the same local-storage idea behind our local vs. cloud storage guide. If recorded video without a subscription is your priority, look at the iota before you add a camera to one of these kits.
Our Picks
Abode 4-Piece Smart Security System — Best Starter
This is the kit most people should start with. It includes the central hub, a motion sensor, a key fob, and a mini door/window sensor. It’s certified for Apple Home and works with Alexa and Google Assistant too.
Prices vary a lot by retailer and sale, from roughly $160 to $280, so check the current one. Pair it with free self-monitoring and you have a working alarm system with no monthly bill.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hub, motion sensor, key fob, and door sensor included | No camera in the kit |
| 93dB siren and backup battery in the hub | Free tier is Wi-Fi only, with no cellular backup |
| Works with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google | DIY only, with no professional installation |
Best for: Renters and DIYers who want a free, self-monitored alarm they can expand over time.
Full details and current price: Abode 4-Piece Smart Security System on Amazon
Abode 8-Piece Smart Security System — Best for Whole-House Coverage
This bundle puts more sensors around the same hub, so most doors and rooms are covered from day one instead of one entry point. The hub still has the siren, backup battery, and Ethernet.
The exact mix of sensors differs between Abode’s bundle listings, so read yours before buying. Everything pairs wirelessly, and the system expands as you add more Abode devices.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Covers more doors and rooms out of the box | Bigger upfront spend than the 4-piece kit |
| Same hub, siren, and backup battery | Contents vary, so verify the sensor mix |
| Expandable with more Abode sensors later | Free tier is still Wi-Fi only |
Best for: Homeowners who want most doors and rooms covered without piecing a kit together.
Full details and current price: Abode 8-Piece Smart Security System on Amazon
Not sure an alarm system is the right fit? Our guide to alarm systems vs. cameras breaks it down. For another DIY option, see our SimpliSafe comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Abode require a subscription?
No. App control, live video, push alerts, and smart home integrations all work on the free tier. Paid plans add recording, cellular backup, and professional monitoring.
Can I record video without paying?
Yes, on Abode’s iota hub, which has a built-in camera and a microSD slot for local clips. Cloud recording requires a paid plan.
What happens if my internet goes down?
On the free tier, you lose push alerts because it runs on Wi-Fi only. The siren still sounds locally. Cellular backup comes with paid plans.
Can I add professional monitoring only when I travel?
Yes. Abode sells on-demand passes, which reviewers list at about $8 for three days and $15 for seven.
Does Abode work with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google?
Yes, all three. Abode is one of the few alarm systems with native Apple Home support, plus Z-Wave and Zigbee.
Final Verdict
| Pick | Best For |
|---|---|
| Abode 4-Piece Smart Security System | A starter alarm with no monthly fee |
| Abode 8-Piece Smart Security System | Covering a whole house |
Start with the 4-piece kit if you want an alarm at no monthly cost, and step up to the 8-piece if you want most of your house covered from day one. Just remember that “free” means you handle the alerts yourself.