Since early 2020, I’ve been using the abode as my primary security system, in two separate homes. It’s now 2026, and in the world of smart home technology, six years is usually an eternity. I keep getting emails asking if I’m still using it or if I’ve jumped on something. I wanted to take the opportunity to update my 2026 review, discuss how the hardware fared, and frankly give you a heads up on which hub you should buy for HomeKit.
HomeKit Weekly is a series focused on smart home accessories, automation tips and tricks, and everything related to Apple’s smart home framework.
Which headquarters?
Before we get into why I still love this abode for my home, I have to point out that Abode now sells several different starter kits that are unequaled in terms of smart home compatibility. There is an affordable safety kit that often sells for less than $100. Don’t buy this if you use HomeKit/Apple Home
To get native Apple Home integration, you have to stick around iota All-in-One or a smart home security gate. These are the only two that work as HomeKit bridges. If you buy a low-cost hub, you’ll stay in their app, isolated from the rest of your Apple Home. With that disclaimer out of the way, let’s talk about why right hub is still the best foundation for HomeKit security setup.
HomeKit support remains strong
Abode has done a good job of maintaining HomeKit integration over the years. In fact, it’s still the main reason I recommend it over other products like Ring or SimpliSafe. It’s not just about using HomeKit to change the alarm status to “Away” or “Night”. The primary reason I love it is that it exposes Apple Home’s door sensors, window sensors, and motion sensors.
Maybe you’re not the type to buy a dozen individual Eve door and window sensors for automation purposes, target if they’re already in HomeKit/Apple Home because of your security system, that’s a different story. That’s the “double duty” philosophy that I think every smart home should follow.
Aesthetic advantage: Hidden sensors
HomeKit door sensors are, in my opinion, one of the most underrated sensor categories for unlocking some fun and rewarding automations. However, the “wife acceptance factor” on big, square white plastic sensors stuck to nice wooden doors is usually very low. This is where I really like the thin strip sensor and the recessed door sensor.
Once installed, the recessed sensor is completely hidden inside the door frame (it requires a drill, but it’s worth it). You then have a HomeKit door sensor in your environment, which is invisible. You can create an automation like “turn on my lights” when the door is open after 5pm – which would mean you’re home from work. You can also create a sensor to turn on a HomeKit-enabled outdoor flood light when your door is open after sunset.
Professional monitoring and insurance
Six years on, I’m still signed up for professional home viewing. It gives me access to cellular backup (LTE) so if my internet goes out during a storm, my house is still protected. I just renewed it for another year. The maths still works out for me: the discount I get on my home insurance for a monitored fire alarm and EMS covers a significant part of the annual fee. In addition, Abode’s US-based center will provide 24/7 professional monitoring for burglary, fire and medical emergencies. I sleep better knowing that if the smoke detector above sounds an alarm while we’re on vacation, the fire department gets the call, not just my phone or an app notification.
Wrap
The Abode security system with HomeKit integration remains my preferred choice for home security in 2026. While the industry is slowly moving towards Matter, native HomeKit support on the iota and Smart Security Hub is rock solid and fast. The system’s ability to expose door sensors and Apple Home motion sensors makes it the brains of my automation setup, not just a watchdog.
You can buy the abode starter kit from Amazon or directly from abode. Remember: buy an iota or smart security gate if you want it to work with Apple Home/HomeKit
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