Lorex vs Abode Cameras

For your peace of mind, a good home security system is essential; one of the most critical parts is your security camera system. There are various providers available, including Lorex and Abode.

Abode is a modern provider offering extensive smart home equipment and professional monitoring for a low price. Lorex is a Canada-based provider of advanced security equipment, including large NVR (Network Video Recorder) and DVR (Digital Video Recorder) camera systems. Still, professional monitoring isn’t available, but a range of advanced features is a great offering.

Let’s take an in-depth look at what Lorex and Abode offer.

Lorex vs Abode: What do they have in common?

• Flexibility: You won’t be forced to sign a long-term contract. Each provider prides itself on flexibility.
• Video doorbells: Abode and Lorex offer doorbell cameras for you to choose from; video doorbells are a simple but effective security kit.
• Mobile apps: Lorex and Abode’s mobile apps offer similar functionality, and you can remotely manage your system and receive motion-activated push notifications.
• Professional installation: Lorex and Abode offer professional installation via recognized third-party installers.
• Warranty: Abode and Lorex cameras come with a 12-month warranty.
• Pay upfront: Since there are no contracts, you’ll pay upfront for all of your equipment.
• Smart home integration: Lorex and Abode offer integration with some similar features, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
• Outdoor security cameras: Abode recently began offering outdoor cameras, meaning each system can protect your entire property - not just indoors.

Lorex vs Abode: What are their differences?

• Video quality: Abode offers excellent 1080p HD camera quality, but nothing can top Lorex’s 4k resolution.
• Professional monitoring: Abode offers professional monitoring - Lorex doesn’t.
• Environmental sensors: Lorex doesn’t offer environmental sensors such as smoke detectors, flood detectors, etc. Abode does, potentially saving you thousands of dollars if an emergency occurs when you’re not home.
• Customer feedback: Lorex has better customer reviews than Abode; Abode is plagued with online complaints.
• Larger systems: Abode is designed for small, modest security systems. Lorex caters to everyone - from a single video doorbell to a 32-camera system that can protect your business.

Lorex - What you need to know

Lorex is an excellent security provider with more than 30 years of experience, offering single wireless cameras, 32-camera setups, and everything in between. Lorex cameras have excellent features such as color night vision, 4k camera resolution, and person detection. Lorex’s high-quality cameras are hard to beat.

Installation

DIY installation is offered with all equipment, but hardwired systems may require professional assistance. You can hire a tradesperson or arrange installation with the help of InstallerNet. Lorex offers Wi-Fi cameras, DVR, and POE (Power Over Ethernet) camera options.

Equipment

In addition to the basics, such as rechargeable batteries, cords, and related accessories, Lorex offers security equipment, including:

• Outdoor security cameras (including floodlight and spotlight cameras and smart security cameras with built-in motion detectors)
• NVR 4k systems with 8+ viewing channels
• Indoor security cameras
• Video doorbells
• Wire-free security system kits featuring IP cameras

Home automation

Unlike Abode, Lorex doesn’t offer its own smart home options such as smart locks, which is a shame. It is compatible with some third-party options, though. You can connect your system to Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa, and other third-party automation. However, you should consider another provider if you want a smart home ecosystem.

Costs

• Equipment costs: Prices will vary. A homeowner seeking an average security system will pay under $500 for the basics. Individual cameras start at $99, and NVR recorders start at around $1000.
• Monthly fees: Monthly costs are common with security systems, but Lorex doesn’t charge extra for video storage or professional monitoring, so there are no additional fees to consider.

Nerd pros

• Siren: Lorex sirens are manually activated and can deter a would-be burglar.
• Field of view: Some cameras offer 360 degrees views.
• Multiple options: Lorex offers an array of options so you can secure modest family homes, businesses, or large estates. All needs are met, from 32 camera CCTV systems to video doorbells.
• Customized motion detection: You can prevent false alarms by customizing sensitivity and motion activity zones.

Nerd cons

• Lack of home integration options: Though some integrations are offered via third parties, Lorex doesn’t have a dedicated range.
• Professional monitoring options: You’ll need to be comfortable monitoring your system; you can’t purchase professional monitoring from Lorex.

Abode: What you need to know

Abode is an affordable provider of smart home security systems, offering flexibility and various Z-wave home integrations such as Apple Homekit, Amazon’s Alexa, and Google Nest. You can purchase environmental sensors and smart locks from Abode. Abode offers professional monitoring alongside this.

Installation

You won’t need a professional to install your Abode system; everything you require comes with the equipment. Setup usually takes less than one hour. If you’re not inclined to DIY, you can choose professional installation in some areas, though the cost will vary.

Equipment

Abode’s packages are straightforward, but you can purchase equipment on an a la carte basis. The equipment you can purchase includes:

• Gateway control panel (or Iota control panel for an extra $30)
• Window sensors
• Door sensors
• Motion sensors
• Key fob
• Glass break sensors
• Keypad
• CO2 sensors
• Indoor and outdoor sirens
• Water leak detector
• Power switch
• Occupancy sensor
• Temperature/light sensor
• Smoke alarm
• Wide-angle motion camera
• Abode indoor camera

Home automation

Abode manufactures some smart home devices but also has third-party integrations such as the Apple Homekit, Alexa, Nest, and Google Home. Abode offers some safety equipment, such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors.

Costs

• Equipment cost: You'll need to purchase a starter kit, but they're reasonably priced. The Abode Iota is popular as an all-in-one security kit. You have to buy one of the two starter kits, but neither is particularly expensive. You can expect to pay less than $250.
• Monthly costs: If you’re self-monitoring, you’ll pay no fee unless you require cellular backup ($8 per month). Professional monitoring will cost $20 per month.

Nerd pros

• Flexibility: You have full control over your Abode system; you can select whatever you want - whether that's self-monitoring, professional monitoring, etc., it is up to you.
• Price: This is an ideal choice for customers on a budget, with competitive equipment costs, low upfront outlay, and no commitment.

Nerd cons

• Camera quality: While 1080p HD quality isn’t bad, it’s not as good as Lorex. Lorex cameras also enjoy a better frame rate.
• Online reviews: Some of the online reviews for the Abode app and system are less than perfect.

Abode or Lorex?

Abode and Lorex each have a lot to offer; Lorex, in particular, is one of the best home security systems if you’re looking for the best cameras. Abode’s cameras aren’t as good, but what they lack in camera resolution, they make up for in smart home integrations.

Abode’s smart home options are excellent, including a smart thermostat, locks, environmental sensors, and more. Lorex is a great DIY home security system, but Abode offers optional monitoring for a low fee. If you’re looking for the best cameras, Lorex is the best. If you want a complete alarm system with smart home options, Abode deserves a closer look.