Home security systems are quickly becoming essential; one of the core components of your system is your security cameras. If you've decided to purchase or upgrade your home security, it's no surprise that you've come across these two security providers.
eufy was founded in 2016 to offer affordable home security equipment, including smart home equipment. eufy has excellent customer ratings and is best known for offering quality floodlights and alarm systems.
Abode and eufy have some similarities, but they are very different. Abode was launched in 2014 by an ex-ADT executive aiming to bring affordable, reliable security equipment to the market. Let's take a look at what they can offer you.
Abode vs eufy: What do they have in common?
- Video resolution: Most cameras are available in 1080p HD resolution.
- Voice control: You can control some of the equipment with voice control, thanks to compatibility with Amazon Alexa.
- Two-way audio: Most cameras support two-way talk, a convenient way to communicate with delivery people or make it seem like you're home, even when you're not.
- Outdoor cameras: Each provider offers weatherproof outdoor cameras.
- Night vision: Your cameras may have color night vision, a great way to keep your home safe at night.
- Advanced motion detection: eufy and Abode offer advanced motion detection, including AI motion sensors.
- Warranty: Each provider offers a 12-month warranty.
- Storage options: You'll have similar storage options for each provider, including local (MicroSD card) and cloud storage.
- Mobile app: Each provider offers a mobile app (on iOS and Android) that'll send you motion-activated notifications and allow you to oversee your security system.
Abode vs eufy: What are the differences?
- Field of view: Abode has a great field of view, but eufy can't be beaten as some eufy cameras have a 360-degree field of view.
- Pricing: Both systems are affordable, but eufy is cheaper.
- Professional monitoring: Abode offers professional monitoring, but eufy doesn't.
- Professional installation: eufy doesn't offer professional installation.
eufy security: What you need to know
eufy is a modern provider specializing in smart video doorbells and other equipment without requiring strict contracts and subscription plans. eufy was launched in 2016 and offers you an innovative app with live streaming and playback without charging you extra. eufy is an impressive self-monitoring system. Let's break down what they have to offer.
Installation
The eufy app is available on Android and iPhone and offers notifications and impressive functionality; one of the best features is that it'll walk you through the simple step-by-step installation. Installation is DIY only, but it's very simple. If you require assistance, customer service is easy to reach.
Equipment
eufy offers a large amount of security equipment and home appliances in partnership with its parent company, Anker. The offerings available include:
- Video doorbells
- Floodlight cams
- Smart lighting
- Smart scales
- Entry sensors
- Robotic vacuums
You'll need a eufy home base for most cameras, except the video doorbell. Most eufy cameras have Wi-Fi/2.4ghz connectivity.
Home automation
The eufy system is compatible with some If This Then That (IFTTT) equipment, including Apple Homekit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. Anker offers several dedicated options, such as smart locks, lights, and sensors. There aren't many dedicated offerings, but there are enough to start a smart home ecosystem.
Costs
Some popular eufy products include:
- eufycam 2 Pro: $239
- eufy Floodlight Cam: $279
eufy's cheapest camera option is less than $40, and the home base includes 16GB of storage (including motion-activated footage). For a more comprehensive deal (offering coverage for ten cameras), you'll pay a $10 monthly fee. You'll need a cloud storage plan at $3 per month if you want continuous recording.
Nerd pros
- User friendly: You'll be walked through setup, so getting everything up and running is not difficult.
- AI motion detection: Advanced motion sensors can recognize the difference between a dog, a human, etc. Reducing the risk of false alarms.
- Motion zones: You can customize your motion zones.
Nerd cons
- Battery life: eufy offers battery-powered cameras; some models have better battery life than others. You should consider this carefully and check the reviews before purchasing.
- No professional installation: You'll need to be comfortable monitoring your DIY home security system; there's no professional monitoring plan or professional installation.
Abode: What you need to know
Abode is a reliable, affordable home security provider, and they offer compatibility with Z-wave equipment, including Google Assistant, Amazon's Alexa, and more. Abode also offers professional installation (subject to availability) and professional monitoring. You can also buy advanced sensors and other extras from Abode.
Installation
In most areas, your Abode system can be installed for you. You'll likely be able to install your Abode system without help; everything you need will come with your equipment, and setup takes under an hour. But if you're purchasing a more extensive or wired system, your Abode security system may need professional installation.
Equipment
Abode has affordable, accessible packages, but you can also purchase extras on an a la carte basis. 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 a decent selection of smart home devices, including safety devices such as all-in-one environment sensors and smoke detectors. You can also purchase a smart thermostat. Abode additionally offers compatibility with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Nest, and other equipment.
Costs
- Equipment costs: You'll need to purchase a starter kit; the Abode Iota is a popular option and costs $229. All in all, you won't spend more than $250 on most security kits.
- Monthly costs: You won't need monthly fees unless you require extras. Professional monitoring costs $20 per month, and you can buy a cellular backup plan for $8.
Nerd pros
- Flexibility: You'll have total flexibility; you can choose whether to have professional installation, monitoring, etc. There are no long-term contracts.
- 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.
- Cellular backup: Your system remains secure in the event of an outage or connectivity issue thanks to reliable cellular backup.
- Camera quality: 1080p HD quality is excellent, especially at a low price.
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.
Abode or eufy?
Abode and eufy have many similarities, including reliable video storage, crisp video resolution, and reliable customer service, but key differences too. Abode offers a better overall security system, with professional monitoring and installation, plus extra features such as cellular backup. But if you're looking for a cheaper self-monitored system, eufy is a great runner-up.
This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.
Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team.