While you get DIY installation either way, Abode and SimpliSafe do have different features. If you love smart home stuff and already have your house decked out with smart lights and smart outlets (or if you want to start getting those things), then we recommend Abode for its superior smart home support. As for equipment, Abode has some things we haven’t seen from other home security companies. It offers two different hub options that act as command centers for your system. One is a traditional, tower-style hub while the other (called the iota) has a built-in indoor camera so you can keep an eye on your mischievous cocker spaniel. Abode also has motion sensors with built-in cameras, and a little outdoor camera that you can hardwire into your doorbell port. (It doesn’t have a button for visitors to push, but it can still trigger your doorbell chime. Wild, eh?) SimpliSafe also offers its own indoor camera, doorbell camera, and smart lock. Best of all, the smart lock retrofits your existing deadbolt. No need to rip out your existing lock and start from scratch—SimpliSafe’s smart lock works with what you’ve already got. Cellular backup protects your security system in case your internet connection goes down. Without it, a regular ol’ blackout will take down your entire alarm system, and it will be useless until the power—and your internet connection—comes back on. Luckily, the base plan with cellular backup is pretty cheap at $8 per month. Cellular backup protects your security system in case your internet connection goes down. Without it, a regular ol’ blackout will take down your entire alarm system, and it will be useless until the power—and your internet connection—comes back on. Luckily, the base plan with cellular backup is pretty cheap at $8 per month.
Abode review SimpliSafe review Ring Alarm vs. SimpliSafe SimpliSafe vs. ADT Best Smart Home Security Systems
