6 Of The Best Smart Smoke Detectors For Your Home
If you need to replace your smoke detectors, you might want to consider smart options. Smoke detectors provide life-saving benefits, and thanks to ever-changing technology, you can now enjoy numerous advanced alarms that have countless features beyond the standard type. One of the greatest benefits of smart smoke detectors is that they use Wi-Fi to alert you if there's a fire in your home, even if you're 100 miles away. So how do you choose the best one for you? Well, homeowners who have purchased a smart smoke detector have provided their positive feedback online, with mentions of Google Nest Protect, First Alert, and X-Sense, among others.
Although smart smoke detectors typically cost more than a regular smoke alarm (some, a lot more), many buyers find the benefits worth the hefty price. These devices provide an extra layer of protection that gives homeowners more peace of mind when they're away from home. Some offer additional benefits like the ability to unlock doors when the alarm goes off and convenient app-based silencing and temporary disabling, eliminating the need to be physically near the device. Here are six smart smoke detectors that received the highest customer ratings from online shoppers.
X-Sense Wi-Fi Smart Smoke Detector XS01-WX
The X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector XS01-WX for just $19.99 uses Wi-Fi and the X-Sense Home Security app to generate real-time notifications of smoke alarms, a low battery, and device malfunctions. The app allows you to share these notifications with up to 12 other app users, increasing the odds of a human response if an alarm is triggered. More than 70% of Amazon shoppers gave the device a 5-star review, contributing to the overall 4.4-star average rating. Many praised the long battery life, functionality, and ease of installation.
Google Nest Protect
Hailing from a popular line of smart home products, the Nest Protect (available on Google Store for $149) is a hardwired alarm that detects both smoke and carbon monoxide. It sends alerts straight to your phone, including low-battery notifications. Simply download the Nest app and ensure the device is connected to your home's Wi-Fi. This detector also features nightly sensor testing of batteries and sensors. It earned an almost 5-star rating on Walmart with over 4,500 reviews, with most comments related to the ease of installation, motion-activated light, and app convenience.
Kidde Smart Hardwired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
Smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide aren't the only things that can create a hazard in your home; poor air quality can be dangerous, too. The Kidde smart home safety alarm is an UL Listed, hardwired, all-in-one device that protects against all three dangers. In addition to sending alerts for smoke and carbon monoxide via the Kidde app, it monitors indoor air quality. Customers highlight the app's accessibility and 10-year battery backup, though some complain about false alarms. It received a 3.8-star rating with over 150 submitted reviews on Home Depot ($65.90).
First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
The First Alert wireless alarm (sold by Ring for $39.99) sends warnings to your mobile device when it detects smoke or carbon monoxide in your home. With Z-Wave compatibility, the alarm functions with the Ring Alarm Security System and offers a straightforward in-app experience. Nearly 600 Best Buy purchasers shared their thoughts of the product on the electronics retailer's website, with 95% saying they'd recommend it to a friend. More than 80% gave it a 5-star review, coupled with kudos for the reasonable price, compatibility with the Ring, and trouble-free installation.
X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector with Voice Alerts and 17 Locations
Unlike other smart smoke alarms, this X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector provides voice alerts that pinpoint the fire's location in your home, with the option to preset up to 17 locations/rooms. This can be especially beneficial for children who may not know how to respond when hearing a traditional smoke alarm sound. It also provides audible updates regarding the device's status, including low battery and malfunctions. And, of course, it alerts you to smoke detection via your phone. You can purchase it for $27.99 from Amazon, where it received a 4.5-star rating.
SimpliSafe Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector
Have you ever had your smoke alarm go off while cooking? This SimpliSafe Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector eliminates that problem. It can distinguish between smoke from isolated, burning food and a growing fire, so it won't sound if you accidentally over fry the bacon. When used in conjunction with the SimpliSafe app, it also detects carbon monoxide and sends mobile alerts. As an added layer of protection, this detector offers 24/7 professional monitoring with the option of an emergency personnel response. It sells for $68.99 on Amazon, where it got 4.7-star rating.