Top Ten Best Smoke Detector Reviews For 2018: Smart Wireless Alarm System For All Locations
There are many ways to keep your home safe. From installing alarm systems to home surveillance cameras, a theft-free home is one with technology that keeps you aware of what’s going on.
What other dangers may exist in your home? If you’re remodeling your home or just moving in, you may be looking for ways to stay safe. An item that you will want to consider is a smart smoke detector. It will alert you to the possibility or reality of a fire.
Catching a fire when you’re awake and in your home may be easy, but what about when you’re sleeping? You want something to let you know if danger is present.
As one of the most important security items that you can invest in, you want to find a reliable one. With a variety of smoke detector types to choose from, how do you make a decision on one that you can depend on? After all, it’s potentially going to be something that saves your life.
Our smoke detector reviews will help you have different options to choose from and hopefully you’ll walk away with the best smoke detector for you. From fancy-looking options to traditional designs, there is something for any kind of homeowner.
If you choose to forego any kind of security item in your home, don’t make it the smoke detector. It will save your life at moments when you least expect danger.
Our Top 10 Best Smoke Detector Recommendations
| Product | Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|
#1 - Nest Protect
 | Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
| 5.0 stars out of 5 |
#2 - First Alert P1010
 | Longest Lifetime
| 4.5 stars out of 5 |
#3 - BRK Electronics SCO2B
 | Most Sensitive
| 4.0 stars out of 5 |
Table of Contents
- Our Top 10 Best Smoke Detector Recommendations
- 1. Nest Protect: Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
- 2. First Alert P1010: Longest Lifetime
- 3. BRK Electronics SCO2B: Most Sensitive
- 4. Kidde Pi9010: Great Value For Money
- 5. First Alert BRK 9120BFF: Cheapest Option
- 6. Universal Security Instruments: Easy Interconnection
- 7. Fire Sentry i9040E: The Simplest Option
- 8. Kidde RF-SM-DC: Great Wireless Option
- 9. University Security Instruments Electric 1204: For A Hardwired Option
- 10. First Alert SA305CN: Cheap But Not That Effective
- What Features You Need To Focus On
- Battery Placement/Life
- Design
- Wireless/Battery
- Sensor
- Dual Alarms/Alarm Sound or Style
- Conclusion
1. Nest Protect: Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
The dangers that can exist in your home go beyond just fire. From gas leaks to carbon monoxide poisoning, you want to be aware of more than just raging fires. The Nest Protect will keep your “nest” safe from hidden dangers by alerting you to them.
What makes the Nest Protect stand out from the rest is how it alerts you. Unlike traditional detectors, this one doesn’t loudly beep any time your toast is burnt.
Instead, the Nest Protect will speak to you relaying clear messages of what’s going on. Another attractive feature to this option is that it can connect to your phone, so you can even be alerted to danger when you’re away.
Nest also has technology that can connect with your other home devices. This is a special feature that isn’t found in other options, so if you have Nest appliances, this Nest detector is the perfect addition to the family.
When the battery runs low, the Nest Protect will let you know so you can always have it ready for anything. Make sure that it’s connected to your Wi-Fi. While it isn’t the cheapest option, it’s definitely one with highly attractive features.
Pros:
- It doesn’t alert in an annoying way
- It lets you know what is really going on
- It has an attractive design
- The sensitivity level doesn’t go overboard
- It’s easy to install
Cons:
- It gives false alarms every now and then
- It’s pricier than other options
2. First Alert P1010: Longest Lifetime
Gone are the days of bulky detectors that only work when you’ve fried a bit too much. Nowadays, you can have sleek-looking items such as the First Alert P1010. With a built-in batter, you can expect this baby to last for 10 years before you have to replace it.
With a photoelectric sensor, you don’t have to worry about false alarms. But, you can trust that the First Alert will let you know when there is actually a possibility of a fire. The 85-decibel alarm is loud enough to alert sleepers to possible danger.
With a SmartClip mounting system, you can install this anywhere you feel like. As a small and compact detector, you can put it anywhere without worrying about it drawing too much attention.
As a more affordable option with a long-lasting battery, it’s a dependable option for your home.
Pros:
- It’s small and unobtrusive
- It’s easy to install
- It doesn’t often sound false alarms
- The First Alert has a very long battery life
- It’s not expensive
Cons:
- The test button can be annoying at night
- If it’s deactivated, it cannot be used again
3. BRK Electronics SCO2B: Most Sensitive
The BRK has the traditional design that you’re familiar with, but it takes things a step further. It doesn’t only alert you when there’s smoke, but it also will let you know when the carbon monoxide levels are high.
With an electrochemical CO sensor, you can expect the BRK to be one of the most sensitive detectors around. Because it can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, you don’t have to invest in two alarms.
It has two a battery drawer lock and alarm base lock for added safety and when the battery has run out, the detector will let you know. It’s one of the more affordable options and also one with high sensitivity, making it a good deal.
Pros:
- It’s affordable
- It has double sensors
- It will let alert you when you need a new one
- It is highly sensitive
- It’s easy to install
Cons:
- It has an old-fashioned, clunky design
- It’s sensitivity level makes it go off without reason
4. Kidde Pi9010: Great Value For Money
A simple design, the Kidde isn’t anything fancy, but if you want an affordable and effective detector, it’s a good choice. It has a Hush feature that shuts off annoying false alarms. The alarm also comes with a back up 1 9V battery.
It’s ideal for small spaces, such as campervans or motorhomes. If you’re worried about not waking up with your smoke alarm, this one is loud enough to wake your neighbors. It has a good sensitivity level without being too much where false alarms happen too frequently.
It meets UL requirements and is safe for use. It’s easy to install and won’t cost you much. While it doesn’t do more than alert you when there’s a fire or smoke, if this is all you’re looking for, this is a good bet.
Pros:
- It’s affordable
- It works well
- It can be used in homes or RVs
- It meets safety standards
- It’s loud enough to wake sleeping people
Cons:
- The Hush button isn’t very reliable
- False alarms start happening after a few months of use
5. First Alert BRK 9120BFF: Cheapest Option
The First Alert won’t cost you much. If you want something that is relatively reliable for a cheap price, it’s a good option. It has a tamper-resistant lock and it’s 85 dB alarm is loud enough for you to wake up with.
It has 120-Volt AC power and includes a 9-Volt battery for backup. This means if there’s a power outage, it will keep working. It is easy to install with an open mounting design. The side-load battery compartment makes it easy to replace batteries.
Its traditional design isn’t the prettiest, but when you’re spending such little money, do looks matter? It doesn’t come with an adapter to be used with connectors. But, you’ll like the fact that it comes with a plastic covering to keep it clean from dust.
Pros:
- It’s cheap
- It’s dependable in power outages
- It’s easy to install
- Batteries can be replaced without dismounting it
- Instructions are easy-to-understand
Cons:
- It doesn’t include a wire adapter kit
- It frequently sounds false alarms
6. Universal Security Instruments: Easy Interconnection
It’s not the cheapest nor the prettiest, but it’s top-of-the-game for its interconnection ability. It doesn’t require wiring, so the Universal Security Instruments detector is easy to install.
It has a 9-volt battery that keeps working even when there are power outages. It isn’t big or bulky and while it isn’t pretty, it gets the job done. It’s made from durable materials and won’t break easily.
The USI detector has a good level of sensitivity that will respond to smoke but won’t easily sound false alarms. This may not be the most modern-looking option nor the most affordable, but it is reliable and works well with different set-ups.
Pros:
- It’s easy to install
- It works with different connections
- It has decent sensitivity
- It works when there is no power
- It works well as a replacement
Cons:
- It isn’t as durable as other options
- It isn’t always reliable
7. Fire Sentry i9040E: The Simplest Option
It’s simple, minimalistic, and affordable. The Fire Sentry may not have all the frills that others do, but it works for what you need it for. It’s very easy to install and won’t take you long to set it up.
The Fire Sentry i9040E has ionization sensor technology which means that you can rely on its sensitivity. Because it is powered by a 9V battery, you can depend on it when the power goes out. This is especially important when storms hit.
If you want to test out your new detector before depending on it, the Fire Sentry has a test button. With an 85-decibel alarm, you can trust that you’ll hear it, no matter what. It also has a hush feature that’s convenient should the alarm go off without reason.
Pros:
- It’s easy to install
- It works with different connections
- It has decent sensitivity
- It works when there is no power
- It works well as a replacement
Cons:
- It isn’t as durable as other options
- It isn’t always reliable
8. Kidde RF-SM-DC: Great Wireless Option
The Kidde RF-SM-DC is a reliable option that doesn’t require wiring. It is a battery-operated option that allows you to interconnect your alarms without extra effort needed. This also means that you can use it in your home’s shed, if need be.
As many people have experienced, sometimes alarms go off for no reason. This is why the smart touch button on the Kidde is a highly-attractive feature. It can silent a false alarm immediately. The Kidde will let you know when its battery is low.
It meets UL requirements, so you can trust that it’s safe for use. It uses radio frequency to allow you to use the device with others. It has a sleek design that allows it to blend in, in your home or office. It’s offered at a decent price and works well for people who want wireless smoke detectors.
Pros:
- It’s the ideal interconnecting option
- It doesn’t cost an arm and a leg
- It has an attractive design
- It’s easy to install
- It has a loud alarm
Cons:
- It’s difficult to change the battery
- The radio frequency can cause issues
9. University Security Instruments Electric 1204: For A Hardwired Option
This USI option does require wiring, but while it requires a bit of effort to install, it functions well. It responds to ionization smoke and fire, and will alarm even with flash fires. The red LED light will alert you if smoke is detected. A green light will be present when there is no danger and the USI is powered.
With a 120-volt, it can work in a home, motorhome, or office. It also has a silencer button which helps to keep you from going crazy with false alarms. It has a smart interconnect, so you can easily connect it to up to 18 different units.
The USI is relatively affordable and is more reliable than many options. It’s easy to install and can easily be used as a replacement using existing ceiling mounts.
Pros:
- It’s a reliable option
- It doesn’t cost much
- It can be used in a variety of places
- It can be interconnected
- It has a backup battery
Cons:
- It starts chirping after a few months
- The battery is challenging to change
10. First Alert SA305CN: Cheap But Not That Effective
The First Alert SA305N won’t cost you much, and can work well as a back-up. It runs on a lithium battery and also has a side battery drawer for easy replacement. If the battery gets low, the First Alert detector will let you know. The 9-volt lithium battery is meant to last for 10 years.
It is tamper-resistant and with an 85-decibel alarm, you can trust that it will be heard, no matter what. It also has a silence button for those times when a false alarm goes off. While it does have reliable sensitivity, it isn’t too sensitive that it goes off every time you’re cooking.
While it isn’t the best one on the market, it provides fair use for an affordable price.
Pros:
- It’s easy to install
- The battery door placement is convenient
- It is inconspicuous
- It’s affordable
- The battery doesn’t have to be changed too often
Cons:
- The battery door is flimsy
- The battery tends to wear out before 10 years
What Features You Need To Focus On
The above detectors can help to keep you safe should a fire happen. Of course, what works well for one person may not be the best for your needs or preferences. A smoke detector is meant to give you peace of mind. It’s created to warn you of impending danger and it’s important that you can rely on the one that you choose.
To help you determine which smoke detector is the ideal fit, consider the following features:
Battery Placement/Life
Two things should be considered when considering batteries. The first thing you want to check is where the battery/batteries are placed. The second is how long they are meant to last. You don’t want to uninstall your unit just to change the batteries, so look for options that have the battery door in an easily accessible area.
In the same vein, you don’t want to have to go about changing the battery regularly, so consider investing in options that promise a long-lasting battery. Also, check for features that let you know when the battery is low.
Design
While most people could care less, if you’re special about the décor and setup in your home, you may hate some old-fashioned designs. Look for more modern-looking ones that blend in easily with your décor.
Small detectors aren’t as noticeable and newer designs tend to fit in different places more easily. Of course, design isn’t as important as functionality. But, if you want go have the best of both worlds, look for one that won’t be an eyesore for you.
Wireless/Battery
If you want an option that doesn’t need wiring to work, look for a wireless one. You’ll also want to check if it can connect with other devices easily. You should also consider if a wired option has a backup battery for power outages.
Keep in mind that some that depend on radio frequency for connecting with other devices may be faulty. More than any other feature, look for the kind of battery that will keep your system working, even when the power goes out.
For example, a storm can cause your electricity to go out. It can also cause your electrical system to short circuit causing potential fires. You want to be warned of a possible fire and a battery backup will ensure that you’re alerted to danger, should one break out.
Sensor
Sensitivity is important in your fire alarm. At least, the right amount of sensitivity is. You want to do your research and find out how often users have dealt with false alarms on the one that you want.
If the detector seems to have great functions and features yet has had false alarms, look for the kind that have a button to silence it. Yet, always realize that a more sensitive sensor is better than one that won’t pick up smoke from a fire in your home.
Dual Alarms/Alarm Sound or Style
Over time, the traditional detectors have made room for more modern designs. These newer options also include some great features that didn’t exist before. If you are concerned about carbon monoxide or gas leaks in your home, you’ll want to consider investing in one that can alert you to the presence of gas, carbon monoxide, and fire in your home.
In the past, detectors only had a beeping sound to let you know there was smoke. This can be annoying, especially if it’s only a false alarm (which they usually are). To avoid being irritated every time you burn your toast, consider newer styles that describe what’s going on instead of sounding a loud alarm. While they may be more expensive, it can save you from the drama of waiting for an irritating alarm to turn off.
Conclusion
Your home is our haven. While the world may be going crazy, you want to be safe at home. To ensure your safety at all times, one of the units above can help you.
You may want one with the latest technology and multiple benefits found in the Nest Protect. It’s a good, reliable choice, but it’s also quite costly. It isn’t for everyone.
If you want a more traditional option and spend less on it, go for the First Alert BRK 9120BFF. It will work even when the power goes out and you won’t have to spend a lot on it.
When shopping, do consider what other users have found and keep safety as your priority. While affordability is attractive, a dependable smoke detector is really what you need. From the first option to the last one, there is enough variety for you to choose from.
Each detector offers something unique, so look for the features that matter the most for your needs. Your safety and your family’s safety are worth the time and money invested in the perfect detectors for your home.
