Ready? Let’s jump into this motion sensor guide. Broadly speaking, motion detectors are easier to use than cameras because you don’t have to monitor them to see if anything’s going wrong. However, you can combine a motion detector and a camera for the ultimate security experience. Infrared light is usually invisible, so active infrared sensors can slip by unnoticed. Photoelectric sensors like these are extremely uncommon in home security (and outside of movies in general). Ultrasonic and tomographic sensors are similar to microwave sensors, but they use high-frequency sound waves and radio waves instead of electromagnetic waves.⁴ Motion sensors aren’t necessarily a requirement, but if you’re going back and forth on whether the expense is worth it, here are a few situations in which you probably do want sensors. In those cases, the users usually only arm the motion detectors when they’re out of the house. You can also use a motion detector in a gun closet, a liquor cabinet, or the front room that your kid and your cat aren’t allowed in. In these cases, you generally want to put the sensors in most rooms to track movement throughout the house. If you order a motion sensor from a company that does professional installation (ADT comes to mind), a technician will usually install it. Otherwise, it’s all you. Installing a motion sensor generally goes something like the following: You can get the convenience of a voice assistant for some, but not all, motion sensors. We’ve put together a list of compatibility for some of the most popular motion detector brands.
SimpliSafe sensors Frontpoint sensors Link Interactive sensors Ring sensors ADT sensors ADT Self Setup sensors Google Nest sensors Cove sensors Scout sensors Abode sensors
Motion sensors that work with Google Assistant*:
SimpliSafe sensors Frontpoint sensors Link Interactive sensors Abode sensors Ring sensors ADT sensors Self Setup sensors Google Nest sensors Cove sensors Scout sensors
Motion sensors that work with Apple HomeKit*:
SimpliSafe sensors Abode sensors
Determine whether you need a motion sensor: It makes more sense for some people to buy a motion sensor than others. If you need to keep an eye on certain parts of your house, or you have security concerns, a motion detector is probably a good fit. Choose a sensor: You can select either a standalone sensor or a sensor associated with a home security system. Install your sensor: Some sensors are professionally installed, while others are DIY. In today’s world, most DIY sensors are relatively easy to install. Connect the sensor to your smart home: If you want a fully automated home, take advantage of your sensor compatibility to link it up to some other equipment.
