The best smart smoke detectors for 2021

Old smoke detectors can still do their jobs, but they belong to a past generation of technology. With infamous battery beeps, false alarms, and clunky designs in the older models, it’s no surprise that today’s smart devices have stepped in with a new kind of smoke detector that’s connected, capable, and much less annoying. Upgrading is easy with our list of the best smart smoke detectors currently available, beginning with the all-around excellent Nest Protect.

Note: Check your state regulations for smoke detectors before buying and installing. States may have requirements for what kind of smoke detectors need to be in existing dwellings, and even where smoke detectors need to be located. Some devices offer both battery and hardwired versions because of this. You can find out more here. 

Nest Protect 2nd gen

The Protect is part of Google’s Nest family, which means it can easily work alongside other Nest products, and it’s guaranteed to be compatible with Google’s Home app. It also works really well, with a “split-spectrum” sensor that can self-test itself for accuracy, double-check readings, and generally make sure there’s really an emergency before it goes off. It also has motion sensors, and it can light up a “Pathlight” as a nightlight when you have to grab a midnight snack. Alerts go right to your phone, and you can use the app to quiet the alarm instead of climbing up to the detector itself. Other information, like low battery warnings, is handled by the app, too. It’s exactly what today’s smart smoke detector should be, making Nest Protect 2nd gen an easy top recommendation.

First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound

The First Alert model is, in some ways, like the Nest Protect. It has customizable nightlights, app controls and alerts, a great low battery notification, and other similar features. However, this detector is a better fit for those outside Google’s ecosystem: Specifically, it comes with a built-in Alexa and speaker, which allows you to ask the detector questions or even have it play music. You don’t even need an Echo device. It’s also compatible with HomeKit, and you can use voice alerts instead of just beeps to provide the house with more specific information.

First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound is hardwired, which makes it a good choice for new developments, as most states require hardwired smoke detectors for all new construction.

 

Kidde Wireless Interconnect Smoke Alarm

If affordability is your priority, this Kidde detector has you covered. It doesn’t have app control and smartphone notifications like our other picks, but it still has plenty of clever features to make operation easier. It boasts wireless connectivity with other detectors and lights in the Kidde family, a test button to make sure the unit is working correctly, and a clear low battery indicator. There’s also a hush mode to keep unnecessary alarms quiet. With its twist-off mounting, Kidde Wireless Interconnect Smoke Alarm is designed to be placed within arm’s reach, but it also has a locking pin to prevent unwanted messing around by kids or others.

Roost Smart Battery 2nd gen

What if you like your current smoke detector just fine, but wish it was a bit smarter, especially when it comes to alerts? There’s a solution for that thanks to the Roost Smart Battery 2nd gen. It’s designed for the average smoke detector, but the battery can also connect to your Wi-Fi system and provide the features of a full smart detector. That includes notifications on your phone for alarms and reminders when the battery is running low. One battery is able to last 3 to 5 years.

Minut Smart Home Sensor

This sensor is a home security hub designed to take care of general security needs. It’s a great pick for an entryway or apartment, but it can also help you detect potential fires.

First, the basics: The sensor monitors motion detection, potential break-in noises, humidity, and even mold particles. It can also serve as a nightlight. It uses a battery and is designed to be installed wirelessly in a central location (the battery needs to be recharged about every six months or so by USB).

All of those features are convenient if you don’t have a smart security system in place. But, Minut Smart Home Sensor has a bonus feature of sensing fires. Its sensor will detect your traditional smoke detector alarm, then send you a notification to your smartphone, regardless of whether you’re home or not. The sensor can also detect temperature and transitions in temperature, then send you a message. The alert will help you determine what caused the temperature change, like a door opening or a fire occurring.

First Alert Onelink Dual Sensor

This product is an all-in-one smoke and carbon monoxide detector with support from smart technology such as phone notifications, voice alerts, and details regarding what the product is picking up. There’s no need to download a new app unless you really want to. That’s because this product is compatible with Alexa, the Home app, and the Apple HomeKit app, which is similar to our other First Alert Pick. The sensor will also sound a shrill 85-decibel alarm to alert everyone inside in the event of any problems in the house.

The First Alert Onelink Dual Sensor’s battery compartment has an easy slide-off door that makes for an effortless battery replacement (plus a five-year version with purchase). You can also obtain a hardwired model if your community requires that version.