Best Motion Detectors of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Motion detectors are a popular and effective way to enhance home security. These devices use infrared technology to detect movement and trigger an alarm or notification to the homeowner. Motion detectors can be placed both indoors and outdoors, and can be programmed to ignore pets or other small animals to prevent false alarms. Some models also come with additional features such as night vision and two-way communication, allowing homeowners to see and speak with whoever is on their property. With a variety of options available on the market, motion detectors are an easy and affordable way to give homeowners peace of mind.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Wireless Driveway Alarm with Long Range Motion Sensor Cover #TOP 1
Wireless Driveway Alarm with Long Range Motion Sensor
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Ring Alarm Motion Detector (2nd Gen) Cover #TOP 2
Ring Alarm Motion Detector (2nd Gen)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SimpliSafe Gen 2 Motion Sensor Cover #TOP 3
SimpliSafe Gen 2 Motion Sensor
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Motion Detectors

Wireless Driveway Alarm with Long Range Motion Sensor

808A+2T808
Wireless Driveway Alarm with Long Range Motion Sensor Cover
Driveway Alarm- 1/2 Mile Long Range Wireless Driveway Alarm Outdoor Weather Resistant Motion Sensor&Detector-DIY Security Alert-Monitor&Protect Outdoor/Indoor Property - 1 Receiver and 2 Sensors

The 1/2 Mile Long Range Wireless Driveway Alarm is a weather-resistant motion sensor that can monitor your outdoor/indoor property and protect it from potential threats. With a 1/2 mile wireless transmission range and a 50-ft wide motion detection range, it is ideal for monitoring driveways, gates, pools, and garages. It is easy to install, and the system is fully expandable with up to 32 sensors and unlimited receivers. The unit also comes with a 2-year warranty.

What We Like
Easy setup process
Responsive customer support
Customizable sensor placement
Variety of alert tones
Durable and weather-resistant design
What We Don't Like
Occasional false alarms
Limited voice alert options
#TOP 2

Ring Alarm Motion Detector (2nd Gen)

53-023656
WHITE
Ring Alarm Motion Detector (2nd Gen) Cover
Ring Alarm Motion Detector | Pet-Friendly Security with Adjustable Settings | 90° Coverage & 25ft Range | Easy Installation | Base Station Required

The Ring Alarm Motion Detector (2nd Gen) is a motion sensor that sends instant mobile alerts when motion is detected. Its compact design enables it to be placed in various locations with easy installation and no tools required. It can be mounted on room corners and flat walls, using two AA batteries and requires the Ring Alarm Base Station. It is designed to ignore pets when mounted at seven and a half feet using the lowest sensitivity settings.

What We Like
Accurate motion detection
Easy installation and setup
Customizable sensitivity settings
Pet-friendly feature
Seamless integration with Ring system
What We Don't Like
Adhesive may loosen over time
#TOP 3

SimpliSafe Gen 2 Motion Sensor

CA001
White
SimpliSafe Gen 2 Motion Sensor Cover
SimpliSafe Motion Sensor - Compatible with Gen 2 Home Security System

The SimpliSafe Motion Sensor helps you keep your home safe by detecting movement up to 30 feet away. Its wide 90-degree view lets you cover large rooms effectively, especially when placed in a corner. If you have pets under 50 pounds, this sensor reduces false alarms by ignoring their movements, so you won’t be bothered unnecessarily. Setting it up is easy and hassle-free—you can simply peel and stick it where you want or use the included hardware. Then, just follow the steps in the SimpliSafe App to get started. This device works perfectly with the SimpliSafe Gen 2 home security system.

What We Like
Easy installation
Strong motion detection
Pet-friendly design
Excellent tech support
Good camera performance
What We Don't Like
Limited signal range
Pet filter may need adjustment

KAIX Solar Motion Sensor Alarm Outdoor

N911N
KAIX Solar Motion Sensor Alarm Outdoor Cover
Solar Motion Sensor Alarm Outdoor,Dog Barking/Gunshoot,with Remote Control,Support Recording,130 Loud Noise Maker,±Volume,6LED Strobe Lights and USB,Say Goodbye to Intruders,for Villa,Yard,Farm,Barn

The KAIX Solar Alarm is designed to keep your property safe by detecting motion within 10 to 20 feet and immediately triggering a loud alarm and flashing lights. This helps you stay aware of any movement around your home or yard, whether from people or animals. You can customize the alarm sound by recording your own message and adjust the volume up to 130 decibels, ensuring it’s loud enough to scare off intruders. Plus, it offers three different alarm modes to fit your security needs throughout the day and night. With a durable, weatherproof design and solar power with USB backup, this alarm stays active in almost any condition, giving you reliable protection all year.

What We Like
Adjustable high-volume alarm
Custom sound recording
Solar powered with USB backup
Weatherproof IP55 rating
Multiple alarm modes

1byone Driveway Alarm with Wide Range of Use

6-O00QH-0499
White
1byone Driveway Alarm with Wide Range of Use Cover
1byone Driveway Alarm, Home Security Alert System with 36 Melodies, 1 Plug-in Receiver and 2 Weatherproof PIR Motion Detector, 1000ft Wireless Transmission Range and 24ft PIR Detection Range

The 1byone Driveway Alarm is a wireless home security alert system that detects motion using Passive Infrared sensors. With a communication range of up to 1000ft/300M, this system is great for homes, businesses, and offices. The system also offers 3 alert options, 36 chimes to choose from, and is easy to install and expand.

What We Like
Reliable animal detection
Easy installation
Good value
Wide alert sound selection
Strong signal range
What We Don't Like
No sensitivity adjustment
Not suitable for UK voltage
#TOP 6

eMACROS Long Range Solar Wireless Driveway Alarm

HS002-1T1
Normal
eMACROS Long Range Solar Wireless Driveway Alarm Cover
eMACROS Solar Wireless Driveway Alarm — 1/2 Mile Long Range Motion Sensor for Long Driveways, Homes & Large Properties, Outdoor Weatherproof Security Alert System, Plug‑in Receiver

The eMACROS Long Range Solar Wireless Driveway Alarm is a reliable and easy-to-install motion detector alert system that monitors and protects your outdoor property. The wireless solar driveway alarm detects movement from humans, cars, and large animals within a 1500FT wireless range. The sensor is powered by a solar panel and also has a DC5V power adapter option. You can expand the system up to 4 sensors and unlimited receivers to ensure complete coverage of your perimeter. The device includes 4 unique chimes to differentiate where motion is being detected and minimize false alarms.

What We Like
Long range coverage
Easy installation and setup
Reliable motion detection
Customizable alert options
Good customer support
What We Don't Like
Sensor compatibility issues
Limited weather resistance

HTZSAFE Driveway Alarm

HB-807A+HB-T504
HTZSAFE Driveway Alarm Cover
Driveway Alarm- HTZSAFE 1/2 Mile Long Range Outdoor Weatherproof Solar Wireless Motion Sensor&Detector-Portable Receiver Has Long Last Backup Battery- DIY Security Alert System for Home&Property

The HTZSAFE Driveway Alarm is a solar-powered wireless motion sensor and detector system that provides a DIY security alert solution for your home and property. With no need to replace batteries, the motion detector is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery that is charged by solar panels, even on rainy days. The system is fully expandable, allowing you to add up to 4 motion sensors and unlimited receivers for complete coverage of your property. The plug-in receiver has a built-in rechargeable battery, ensuring it continues to work even if AC power goes out. With a 1/2 mile wireless range and a 70-ft motion detection range, this alarm system is ideal for driveways, yards, garages, and more. It is super easy to install, ready to work right out of the box, and can be set up in just a few minutes.

What We Like
Easy installation and setup
Solar-powered, maintenance-free
Long wireless range
Multiple tone options
Discreet, decorative design
What We Don't Like
Loses settings when powered off
Limited battery status indication
#TOP 8

Aqara Motion Sensor P1

MS-S02
White
Aqara Motion Sensor P1 Cover
Aqara Zigbee Motion Sensor P1, Smart Motion Detector, Requires AQARA HUB, 5-Year Battery Life, Configurable Detection Timeout, for Alert System and Automations, Compatible with HomeKit, Alexa, IFTTT

The Aqara Motion Sensor is designed to enhance your smart home experience with its impressive features. It offers a remarkable five-year battery life, ensuring reliable performance without frequent replacements. You can easily customize the detection timeout from 1 to 200 seconds, allowing you to save energy or respond quickly to movement. With a wide viewing angle of 170° and adjustable sensitivity settings, this sensor detects motion effectively within various distances. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with your existing smart home systems, enabling you to set up alerts and automate tasks, such as turning on lights or controlling devices effortlessly.

What We Like
Fast motion detection
Easy integration with smart hubs
Compact and discreet design
Accurate sensors
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Battery life may vary
Mounting adhesive could be improved

1byone Wireless Motion Sensor Alarm

Driveway Alarm Wireless Outside - 1byone
White
1byone Wireless Motion Sensor Alarm Cover
Driveway Alarm Wireless Outside, 1 BY ONE Motion Sensor Alarm 1000 FT Range Extra Loud Chimes Home Security Alarm System with 1 Receiver 2 Weatherproof Infrared Sensors Protect Indoor/Outdoor Property

The 1byone Wireless Motion Sensor Alarm provides an added level of security to your property and loved ones. With a reliable range of up to 1000 feet, it can detect motion in driveways, gates, sheds, and other areas. It offers three alert options: alarm ring/door ring, LED flashlight, and alarm ring/door ring+LED flashlight. The installation is super easy and DIY, and the sensors are expandable up to 5 sensors. The product is backed with a 90-day return and an industry-leading 2-year warranty.

What We Like
Loud alert sound
Easy setup
Works in cold weather
Reliable battery life
Good motion detection range
What We Don't Like
Volume not adjustable
Plastic cover may degrade
#TOP 10

Aqara Presence Sensor FP2

PS-S02E
White
Aqara Presence Sensor FP2 Cover
Aqara Presence Sensor FP2, mmWave Radar Wired Smart Motion Sensor, Zone Positioning, Multi-Person & Fall Detection, Supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Required

The Aqara FP2 Sensor offers advanced motion detection using millimeter-wave radar technology, covering up to 430 square feet with customizable zones. This means you can set specific areas like your sofa or desk for tailored automation, making your smart home more responsive to your lifestyle. It can detect up to five people simultaneously and includes a fall detection feature when ceiling-mounted, providing extra safety for your household. The sensor is highly precise and respects your privacy, as it doesn't use cameras and can filter out pets or other non-human movements. Plus, it works seamlessly with popular smart home systems like HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home without needing an extra hub.

What We Like
Multiple zones and automations
No battery required
Fast and accurate motion detection
Easy setup and installation
Magnetic, USB-C mount design
What We Don't Like
Occasional detection misses
Lacks direct alert system
Buying Guide Image

Buyer's Guide: Best Motion Detectors

This is why we want to offer you our guide to buy the best motion detector in the market, with some practical and simple guidelines to know what you should look for.

Detection capability

The first point by which any comparison of motion detectors is distributed is the detection capability. It is not the same as a product designed for a small bathroom from one public place to another for a large store or similar. Therefore the capacities must be adjusted to what you need, more considering that this point is key when establishing the difference between how much a detector or other.

When talking about detection we have two main elements: distance and angle. On the side of the distance, this is the separation in meters at which the detector can detect the movement. 

Generally, this part of the 3 meters, although in the most advanced models it can reach 15 meters. Obviously, they are not cheap models, so do not overdo the search. Regarding the angle, this is the area in which the detector searches for what it has to detect. 

Just as a camera has a certain capacity or angle to take a picture, the same thing happens to the detector. Again, it is our needs that have to guide us, although placing the detector correctly on the passage areas is something that helps improve detection, even with a detector cheaper than expected.

Electrical capacity

The second aspect we are going to consider regarding the detector has to do with electrical capacity. In practice, what the detector does is give the order to turn on any equipment, usually lights, but it can also be a fan, air conditioning, screen, etc. Therefore, the power or ignition capacity of the detector must be in line with what we need.

In this regard, we will make two sections. In the first, we talk about lighting. The detectors usually have different levels of power or capacity depending on the type of lamps used. So it is usually normal to find a power for energy-saving lamps and another for conventional incandescent lamps. Keep the levels in mind to see that they really adapt to your specific needs.

In case we use the product for the activation of electrical equipment, the capacity of the product must be adapted to the need for a power supply of these. If it is true that the capacity saved high-cost equipment, it will not be high, but generally enough for these uses. Keep this in mind, if you are going to use them for this purpose, the restrictions are higher.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a motion detector do?

A motion detector is an electronic device that uses sensors to detect nearby movement. It is an important component of security systems and sends alerts to your security system or mobile phone when motion is detected.

2. What are the two types of motion detectors?

There are two types of motion detectors: passive and active. Passive systems wait for changes to occur, while active systems measure the presence of objects by sending and receiving signals.

3. What is the difference between a motion detector and a presence detector?

A motion detector is less sensitive and designed to detect larger movements, like an arm. It is suitable for high traffic areas. A presence detector is more sensitive and can detect finer movements, like a hand.

4. Do motion detectors need wifi?

Motion detectors can use Wi-Fi or cellular networks for communication in wireless systems. Wired systems may use landlines or ethernet cables.

5. What triggers a motion detector?

Motion detectors detect changes in infrared energy, which humans and animals emit as heat. When someone approaches the sensor or walks within its range, an increase in infrared energy is detected and an alarm is triggered.

6. What is the most common motion detector?

The most common motion detector is the passive infrared (PIR) sensor. It detects body heat by looking for changes in temperature and is widely used in home security systems.

7. What can trigger a motion sensor?

Outdoor motion detection lights can be triggered by passing cars, approaching visitors, rustling leaves, or even bugs or spiders crawling across the sensor.

8. What are the three types of motion detectors?

The three main types of motion detectors are active, passive infrared (PIR), and combined. Each type has its own role in different security or safety situations.

9. Do motion sensor cameras record all the time?

Most home security cameras do not record continuously. They use motion detection to start recording when motion is detected, which helps save storage and avoids uploading large files to the cloud.

10. What are the disadvantages of motion detectors?

Some disadvantages of motion detectors include potential harm from high-power radio frequency (for active type), limited penetration of radio frequency in microwave range (for active type), and passive sensors not operating above certain temperatures.

Editor's Notes

During our motion detector research, we found 24 motion detector products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 245,810 customer reviews through our big data system to write the motion detectors list. We found that most customers choose motion detectors with an average price of $32.62.

The motion detectors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of motion detectors, including HTZSAFE, Ring, SimpliSafe, KAIX, 1byone. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 794 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Motion Detectors Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand HTZSAFE Ring SimpliSafe KAIX 1byone eMACROS HTZSAFE Aqara 1byone Aqara
Power Source Battery Powered - Battery Powered Solar Powered Battery Powered Solar Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered DC
Maximum Range 0.5 Miles - 35 Feet 26 Feet 24 Feet 2640 Feet 70 Feet 7 Meters 300 Feet 8 Meters
Color 1 Receiver+ 2 Sensor - White - White 1 receiver and 1 sensor 1 Receiver + 1 Sensor White White White
Item Weight 1.11 Pounds - 0.01 Pounds - - 0.93 Pounds 0.44 Kilograms 2.1 Ounces 13.4 Ounces 2.72 ounces
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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