I Tried Two Extraordinary Security Gadgets Made for Spots Other Tech Can’t Reach

Two new security sensors from Abode have recently hit the market, targeting specific spots within the home that traditional security systems often overlook. These sensors offer innovative ways to monitor the home, with the first entirely new sensors in years being made for parts of the home that security systems usually don’t watch.

One of the new products is a sensor designed to monitor garage door access, priced at $35. The other is an outdoor access sensor, priced at $50, designed for gates, sheds, barns, and any door open to the elements. Both sensors were tested around the reviewer's home and found to be particularly effective and easy to set up.

The garage door sensor uses internal gyroscope technology to detect orientation and was found to be simple to set up. It sticks onto the inside of the garage door using adhesive strips and begins accurately detecting open/closed states immediately in the Abode app. The sensor can also detect unexpected garage door movement when no one is at home.

The outdoor access sensor is bulkier and more complicated to install than the garage sensor, with a weather-resistant housing and screw-in backplate. However, it works well once set up, accurately alerting the user whenever the monitored access point is opened or closed. The sensor also performed well in stormy conditions.

Abode's system connects to Wi-Fi via an Ethernet connection, which can be a challenge for users with limited outlets. However, the sensors themselves are easy to install and set up, and are compatible with a range of third-party smart home gadgets. The sensors offer peace of mind by ensuring that specific parts of the home are being monitored, providing an additional layer of security.