We researched and tested some of the top smoke detectors available online, evaluating safety features, battery life, and ease of installation. Home inspector Dave Mitchell, who has seen many incorrectly installed detectors, recommends having a professional take care of even simple installs if you are unsure. Our top pick, the First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, detects smoke and carbon monoxide (CO), uses a voice alert system, and is easy to set up. Here are the best smoke detectors. This dual-use detector features a voice alarm that tells you whether it detects smoke or carbon monoxide. This is important because it helps emergency responders know how to respond to the call and can also help you and your family egress safely. The detector is battery-powered, which makes it a breeze to install, although you will need to change out the batteries every six months. You can do this using the easy access point on the front. In addition to having both audible and visual alarms, the test/silence button is also helpful and is clearly labeled on the front of the unit. If you experience a false alarm that you know you can silence, just press the button. Hold it down to test the alarm, which should be done at least once every time you switch out the batteries. You can also use this button to silence the annoying low-battery chirp alarm for up to eight hours. Just make sure to go back and actually switch out the batteries. Price at time of publish: $73 You will get an alert when the battery is near the end of its 10-year life, and the whole unit will need replacing. Depending on how well you monitor this, it may catch you off guard. Also, keep in mind that it does not detect carbon monoxide, but for the budget-friendly price, you can add a separate CO detection unit at the most appropriate place. Price at time of publish: $23 This is a battery-operated unit, which has pros and cons. It is easy to install—if you are replacing another Kidde alarm, you might even be able to use the same base and simply click the new unit on. However, as with all battery-powered units, it does mean that the batteries need to be changed every six months. Price at time of publish: $45 Installation of hardwired detectors can be a bit more complicated, but Kidde systems use compatible bases. If you are replacing another Kidde product, you can likely use the same location to hardwire this detector and eliminate the need to touch up walls or paint. If you are installing a hardwired system for the first time, you will likely need to get the help of an electrician to run wires safely. This adds to the already high cost of these detectors. Buying in packs of two or more can save some money. Price at time of publish: $50 Installation is very easy, especially if you are replacing another Kidde unit, and it comes with one 9V battery to get you started. You will need to change it out periodically—most emergency response units recommend every six months. There is a corresponding CO detector that uses a similar setup and also uses a 9V battery for power. Fortunately, this unit is so affordable that you can purchase both this detector and the Kidde Code One CO detector for less than a pricier combo unit. Price at time of publish: $11 The Google Nest Protect is an expensive alarm, which isn’t surprising given its interconnectivity and extra convenience features. You can monitor the alarm while away from home via the app. It includes a night-light that activates if you walk under the light at night. You can purchase it in packs of one or three, and it is available in battery-powered and hardwired options. Price at time of publish: $119 This detector is a bit more expensive than other smoke-only detectors. But given its reliable detection of every type of fire that could threaten you or your home, it is well worth the cost. However, it does not detect carbon monoxide, so you will need to purchase a separate detection unit if needed. Price at time of publish: $58 This is an expensive smoke detector but well worth it for its convenience and many alerts. It is more affordable than some other smart detectors, although it doesn’t come with as many testing and monitoring features. It is hardwired, which requires professional installation, but does have an installed 10-year lithium battery. Price at time of publish: $80 “You should always have a professional check the installation of a new unit or system,” says home inspector Dave Mitchell. In his role, he has seen many smoke detectors that were installed in the wrong place or not connected to a power source. Not only is this dangerous for you and your home, but it can also cause problems with your insurance company or home sale. “It can raise red flags for me as a home inspector,” says Mitchell. “It’s not worth risking your safety.”
Sensor Type
Smoke detectors use one to two sensor mechanisms to monitor for smoke in the air: photoelectric or ionization. Both types of sensors detect any kind of smoke, but photoelectric sensors are faster at detecting smoldering, slow-burning fires than ionization sensors, which are better at detecting fast-burning fires. The most comprehensive smoke detectors have both sensors inside as well as additional safety monitoring, such as carbon monoxide detection.
Lifespan
Whether you have a hardwired or battery-operated model, you will eventually need to replace the unit itself. Most have a special alarm that sounds when the detector is at the end of its lifespan. Your user manual can tell you specific lifespan expectations, but most are between five and 10 years.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. When researching top smoke detectors, she considered superior performance, multiple sensors, and installation. Katie also consulted with home inspector Dave Mitchell to see what he recommends for installation and required placement. Use the test button after installing the new battery to ensure it’s correctly installed. If the test alarm doesn’t sound, your battery may be facing the wrong way. Mark the inside of the alarm with the date you changed the battery to remind yourself later on. You should also check your alarm’s battery at least twice a year to ensure maximum safety around your home.
