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Best Smoke Alarms for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: February 1st, 2024

🔥Let's be honest—choosing the right smoke alarm can be a bit overwhelming. But it's super important for your home safety. We did the legwork by diving into heaps of reviews to bring you the best smoke alarms for 2024.

From high-tech gadgets to budget-friendly options, we've got something for every home and budget. Keep reading to find the perfect pick for you.

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Overall Best: Nest Protect Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm, 3-Pack

The Nest Protect Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm, 3-Pack, is our top pick for 2024, thanks to its sophisticated features and dependable performance. This smart smoke alarm offers dual protection by detecting both smoke and carbon monoxide, sending real-time alerts straight to your smartphone, even when you're not at home. Its split-spectrum sensor is optimized to detect both fast-burning and smoldering fires, providing comprehensive safety. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, making it a valuable addition to any smart home. Voice alerts clearly state the nature and location of the danger, enhancing user convenience and peace of mind. With the option to purchase a 3-pack, you can ensure thorough coverage for your entire home.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$420.10 at Home Depot

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Runner-up: First Alert Hardwired Smoke Detector

First Alert SMI105-AC, Interconnect Hardwire Smoke Alarm with 10-Year Battery Backu...

The First Alert Hardwired Smoke Detector earns the runner-up spot with its consistent reliability and valuable features. Designed to be hardwired into your home’s electrical system, it also includes a backup battery to ensure functionality during power outages. Users praise its loud and clear audible alarm, which effectively alerts you to any smoke or fire. Additionally, this model comes with a 10-year limited warranty, underscoring its long-term dependability. It's a straightforward, no-nonsense smoke detector that homeowners trust for reliable protection.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$26.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: First Alert Battery Operated Combination Smoke Alarm

For those on a tight budget, the First Alert Battery Operated Combination Smoke Alarm offers exceptional value without compromising safety. This dual-function device detects both smoke and carbon monoxide, providing comprehensive protection at an affordable price. Battery-operated and requiring no wiring, it allows for easy installation in any room or location. When triggered, the alarm emits a loud, clear sound to ensure you're promptly alerted to potential hazards. Its compact design and reliable performance make it a pragmatic choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best Set: X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector with Base Station

X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector with Voice Alerts and 17 Locations, Wi-Fi Smoke Alarm with SBS50 Base Station, Test from APP, Wireless Interconnected Fire Alarm, Model XS0B-MR61 With Base Station 6 Smoke Detectors

The X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector with Base Station is an excellent all-in-one solution for new homeowners wanting extensive coverage. This set includes three interconnected smoke detectors and a base station that ensures seamless communication between units. For an extra layer of security, users can subscribe to 24/7 professional monitoring and emergency dispatch services. Installation is straightforward, and the user-friendly app has earned high marks for its simplicity and efficiency. Although it doesn’t integrate with other smart home systems like Google Home or Apple HomeKit, its reliability and ease of use still make it a standout option.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$139.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector Pack? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 smoke detectors be tested remotely through the app?

You can manage the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 smoke detectors using the X-Sense Home Security App, which offers lots of handy features. That said, it doesn't work directly with [Amazon Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Damazon%2Balexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). This mix-up sometimes happens because of an X-Sense Alexa skill out there, but our research shows that this particular model doesn't have that direct compatibility. If connecting with Alexa is a must for you, you might want to look at other models that clearly offer Alexa support. Even without Alexa, these detectors are pretty smart via their own app. With the X-Sense Home Security App, you can test your smoke alarms right from your phone, get notified instantly if smoke is detected, and even share device access with family. These detectors can connect with each other too, so if one alarm goes off, all linked alarms do too. The app also offers voice alerts that tell you where the alert is happening—based on the names you’ve set up. It adds some peace of mind in managing potential hazards. Some people, like those we found in our research, find the app easy to use and a breeze to set up. So, if you really need that Alexa integration as part of your smart home, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re okay with a reliable smoke detection system that's easy to manage through a smartphone app, the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 could be a good choice.

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Is the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 smoke detector system compatible with Alexa?

So, if you're wondering about the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 smoke detector system working with [Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dalexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), it seems that's not an option. Our research didn't find any indication that it connects directly with Alexa for control or integration. The focus with this system is more on its smart features through its own app, where you can monitor and manage the system remotely. One cool feature is how the detectors are interconnected—they talk to each other. If one detects smoke, all of them will alert you, which is pretty handy for safety. Plus, there are voice alerts to help you figure out which detector has been triggered. A little downside is that the base station doesn't have a battery backup. So, if the power goes out, its operation is affected. That's something to keep in mind, especially if power cuts are common where you live. But, on the bright side, the individual detectors use CR123A batteries that last around five years, according to what the manufacturer says, so they're good to go even if the base station is down for a bit. If you're set on using Alexa and want voice-activated controls or alerts, this might not be the right pick. But, if you like the idea of using its app and can handle not having a power backup with some extra planning, it could be a solid choice to boost your home's safety.

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How does the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 smoke detector announce the location of detected smoke?

The X-Sense XS0B-MR61 smoke detector is pretty handy when it comes to announcing where the smoke is coming from. Instead of just blasting a loud alarm sound, it uses a built-in voice alert system to tell you the specific location—like saying, "Warning! Smoke detected in Dining Room! Evacuate!" This feature can really make a difference, especially in larger homes or for families where knowing the exact location fast is crucial. According to the manufacturer, there are 17 pre-set location options for these voice alerts, which is pretty neat. Keep in mind, though, that this smoke detector doesn’t integrate directly with [Alexa](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dalexa%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or other smart home systems, even though it’s a smart device. This is a point of disappointment for some people who expected it to fit seamlessly into their smart home setup. While it doesn’t connect with Alexa, you can still manage it through its mobile app, which lets you test and silence the alarm remotely. Our research shows people generally find this feature quite handy, though some wish it had more customizable options. Overall, even if the X-Sense XS0B-MR61 doesn't tick every box for smart home integration, its voice alert system and app features still make it a solid choice for improving your home's safety.

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Best for Hardwired Installation: Kidde Hardwire Smoke Alarm

Kidde Smoke Detector, Hardwired Smoke Alarm with Battery Backup, Test-Silence Button

The Kidde Hardwire Smoke Alarm is ideal for those seeking a hardwired solution to their home safety needs. This model connects directly to your home's electrical system for continuous, reliable protection and includes a backup battery to keep it operational during power outages. It excels at quickly detecting both smoke and flames, providing prompt alerts to any potential dangers. Easy to install and lauded for its consistent performance, it's a top choice for homeowners preferring the reliability of a hardwired smoke alarm setup.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$17.99 at Amazon

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