Abode vs Blink Cameras

If you want to upgrade your home security system, you should consider adding security cameras. There are plenty of security camera providers available, and some offer additional equipment to craft your very own smart home ecosystem. Two providers that have made an impact on the market are Abode and Blink.

Blink is an Amazon-owned home security provider that provides practical home security solutions.

An ex-ADT executive founded Abode to provide affordable security equipment. Abode is a great home security company offering smart home integration and peace of mind. Let's take a look at what they have to offer.

Abode vs Blink: What do they have in common?

• Weatherproof options: Abode and Blink offer weatherproof options, thanks to Abode's recent release of an outdoor security camera.
• Camera resolution: You can purchase 1080p HD cameras.
• Smart security: You can develop your own smart home ecosystem. Abode and Blink offer compatibility with various smart home devices and options, including IFTTT (If This Then That) technology such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
• Video storage: Abode and Blink offer a variety of cloud storage options, so you won't need to use a MicroSD card or a more complicated storage option.
• Motion detection: Blink and Abode offer motion detection.
• Warranty: Each provider offers a one-year warranty on all security equipment.
• Cellular backup: You'll have a backup in the case of Wi-Fi failure or outage.
• Video doorbell: Doorbell cameras are a popular way to protect your home; you can purchase one with either provider.
• Night vision: Keep your home safe day and night with high-quality night vision.

Abode vs Blink: What are the differences?

• Activity zones: Abode offers customizable activity zones. Blink doesn't.
• Advanced sensors: Abode offers advanced multi-sensors that can monitor climate, light, and occupancy.
• Flashdrive compatibility: Blink offers flash drive storage options.
• Professional installation: Abode offers professional installation in some areas, but Blink is always DIY only.
• Professional monitoring: Abode offers reliable, professional monitoring, but with Blink, you'll need to be comfortable self-monitoring.

Abode: What you need to know

Abode is an affordable provider set up by an ex-ADT representative to offer cheap security kits, and they offer flexibility and compatibility with various Z-wave technologies such as Apple Homekit, Amazon's Alexa, and Google Nest. Abode offers professional monitoring, too. You can buy environmental sensors and other extras from Abode.

Installation

You don't necessarily need assistance to install your Abode system, and you'll have everything you need with your order. Setup typically takes less than an hour, but for a more complicated wired system, you may want professional installation. Your Abode security system can be professionally installed in some areas.

Equipment

Abode has straightforward security kits and packages, but if you need additional items, you can buy those too. Equipment available includes:

• Gateway control panel (or Iota control panel for an extra $30)
• Contact sensors, including door and window sensors
• Motion detectors
• Keypad
• Glassbreak sensors
• Carbon monoxide sensors
• Temperature/light sensor
• Smoke alarm
• Wide-angle motion camera
• Abode indoor cameras
• Indoor and outdoor sirens
• Water leak detectors
• Power switch
• Occupancy sensor

Home automation

Abode offers plenty of smart home devices, including all-in-one environment sensors, smoke detectors, temperature sensors, smart thermostats, etc. But Abode also has compatibility with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Nest, and other equipment.

Costs

• Equipment cost: You'll need to purchase a starter security kit; the Abode Iota is the most popular, but regardless of your choice, you can anticipate spending less than $250.
• Monthly costs: Unless you want additional extras, you won't need to pay any fees. If you choose a professionally monitored alarm system, then you'll pay $20 per month; cellular backup can be purchased for $8 monthly.

Nerd pros

• Flexibility: You'll have total flexibility; you can choose whether to have professional installation, monitoring, etc. There are no long-term contracts.
• Camera quality: 1080p HD quality is excellent, especially at a low price.
• Warranty: All equipment comes with a 12-month warranty.
• Price: This is an ideal option for those wanting a full smart home security system without spending a fortune, and you won't be forced into expensive long-term contracts.
• Person detection: You can reduce the risk of false alarms thanks to Abode's advanced person detection.
• Voice control: Thanks to Amazon Alexa, you can control your system with voice control.

Nerd cons

• Online reviews: Some of the online reviews for the Abode app and system are less than perfect.
• Variety: Abode doesn't offer much variety, with only a few home security cameras.

Blink: What you need to know

Blink is a modern security provider that started recently with a successful Kickstarter campaign; after a great start offering indoor cameras and doorbells, Amazon acquired the brand and expanded its range to include top-notch storage options and smart security systems with vast functionalities.

Installation

You'll have a sync module alongside any cameras you purchase. There's no need for a complicated setup with wires, drilling, brackets, etc. Your sync module plugs into the wall and begins setup automatically within the Blink mobile app; it's as simple as following instructions.

Equipment

Blink is a cheap provider, offering various equipment, including cameras with in-built motion sensors and more:

• Indoor cameras
• Battery-powered cameras
• Blink outdoor cameras

Blink's equipment includes the Sync Module 2 base and 2-5 cameras; the costs vary from $139.99 to $379.99; you can purchase add-on cameras for under $40.

Many Blink cameras provide excellent video quality, flash drive compatibility, and advanced features, including two-way audio, motion detection, and more. The Sync Module 2 base includes a 4G cellular backup.

Home automation

There aren't many smart home options unique to Blink, such as dedicated smart locks and thermostats, but several third-party automation such as If This Then That (IFTTT) technology will work for your Blink security system. With Amazon Alexa, Google Home, etc., you have plenty to build a decent base of smart home functions.

Pricing

They're not as cheap as some providers, but they're cheaper than Abode, with more straightforward pricing. Individual cameras start at $35, and packages at $139.99. No monitoring services exist, but you can purchase additional cloud storage for $3 per month.

Nerd pros

• Price: Blink is much cheaper than some competitors.
• Battery life: The battery-powered cameras are rechargeable and offer up to two years per charge.
• Flashdrive compatibility: Blink provides additional local storage options, including a flash drive.
• Mobile app: The mobile app is generally well-rated.

Nerd cons

• DIY: You'll also need to be comfortable monitoring and installing your own security system.
• Smart home options: Blink doesn't provide many smart home integrations, though it does provide temperature monitoring.

Abode or Blink?

Abode and Blink have many similarities, such as valuable apps that send you motion-activated push notifications, IFTTT compatibility, and good customer service. If you're looking for the cheapest provider and don't mind a DIY home security system, Blink will probably save you some money. But if you're looking for professional installation and monitoring, you should take a closer look at Abode.