Best Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms of 2026

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are essential safety devices for any home. These alarms can detect the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide, which are both dangerous and potentially deadly. Smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke from fires, while carbon monoxide alarms can detect the presence of this odorless, colorless gas that can build up from faulty appliances or heating systems. Both types of alarms can provide early warning of a dangerous situation, giving residents time to evacuate the home and call for help. It is important to have these alarms installed in every bedroom and on every level of the home to ensure maximum safety.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

X-Sense 10-Year Battery Smoke CO Detector with LCD Display Cover #TOP 1
X-Sense 10-Year Battery Smoke CO Detector with LCD Display
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Kidde 10-Year Smoke & CO Detector Cover #TOP 2
Kidde 10-Year Smoke & CO Detector
ftb score rating icon 9.8
First Alert SMICO100-AC Alarm Cover #TOP 3
First Alert SMICO100-AC Alarm
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

X-Sense 10-Year Battery Smoke CO Detector with LCD Display

SC07
White
1-Pack
X-Sense 10-Year Battery Smoke CO Detector with LCD Display Cover
X-Sense 10-Year Battery Combination Smoke Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector with Large LCD Display (Standalone Model)

The X-Sense 10-Year Battery Combination Smoke Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector with Large LCD Display provides 2-in-1 protection by detecting both smoke and carbon monoxide using a photoelectric smoke sensor and an electrochemical CO sensor. It comes with a 10-year sealed lithium battery and an informative LCD that displays real-time CO levels and battery status. The installation is simple and requires no rewiring.

What We Like
Interconnected alarms for safety
10-year built-in battery
Easy installation process
High-quality and substantial build
No subscription required
What We Don't Like
Cannot send notifications
#TOP 2

Kidde 10-Year Smoke & CO Detector

30CUD10
White
4 Pack
Kidde 10-Year Smoke & CO Detector Cover
Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, 10-Year Battery Powered, LED Warning Light Indicators, 4 Pack

The Kidde Smoke & CO Detector offers dual protection against smoke and carbon monoxide with a single device, ensuring your safety in one cost-effective solution. You’ll appreciate the 10-year battery life, which eliminates the hassle of frequent battery changes and low-battery alerts, saving you time and money. Enhanced sensing technology minimizes false alarms, especially from cooking, providing peace of mind. Additionally, the self-testing feature guarantees that the alarm is always functioning properly, allowing you to easily verify its operation with a simple button test each week.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective smoke and CO detection
Long lifespan (about 10 years)
No frequent battery changes
Clear alarm response
What We Don't Like
Activation can be confusing
No continuous indicator light
#TOP 3

First Alert SMICO100-AC Alarm

SMICO100-AC
White
1-Pack
First Alert SMICO100-AC Alarm Cover
First Alert SMICO100-AC Interconnect Hardwire Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Battery Backup, 1-Pack

The First Alert Alarm is designed with advanced sensing technology to minimize false alarms caused by cooking while ensuring you receive early alerts in case of a fire. Its interconnect feature allows all compatible alarms to sound simultaneously, providing comprehensive safety coverage throughout your home. Installation is a breeze with the Quick Connect Plug, eliminating the need for complicated rewiring. Plus, the battery backup guarantees that your home remains protected even during power outages, giving you peace of mind no matter the circumstances.

What We Like
Easy installation
Direct replacement for SC9120B
Compatible wiring and connectors
Includes battery backup
Cost-effective safety solution
What We Don't Like
Requires minor bracket modification
Price increase noted
#TOP 4

First Alert SMCO210 Smoke & CO Alarm

SMCO210
White
First Alert SMCO210 Smoke & CO Alarm Cover
First Alert SMCO210, 10-Year Sealed Battery Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Slim Profile Design, 1-Pack

The First Alert Smoke & CO Alarm offers advanced safety for your home with its innovative Precision Detection technology. This feature helps minimize false alarms from cooking, while still providing early alerts in case of a fire. You’ll appreciate the dual protection against smoke and carbon monoxide, ensuring your family is safe from both threats. The 10-year sealed battery means you won’t have to worry about changing batteries or dealing with annoying low battery alerts. Plus, the end-of-life warning will let you know when it’s time for a replacement, keeping your home secure without the hassle.

What We Like
Slim profile
10-year battery life
Dual smoke and CO detection
Easy to mount
Excellent customer service
What We Don't Like
Random false alarms
Quality control issues
#TOP 5

Kidde 2-in-1 Smoke & CO Detector

30CUDR
White
2 Pack
Kidde 2-in-1 Smoke & CO Detector Cover
Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Powered, LED Warning Light Indicators, 2 Pack

The Kidde Smoke & CO Detector is a versatile safety device that alerts you to both smoke and carbon monoxide with just one unit. Its advanced sensing technology helps minimize false alarms, particularly those triggered by cooking, ensuring you only receive genuine alerts. You’ll appreciate the hassle-free installation, as it operates on included AA batteries, requiring no wiring. The self-testing feature ensures the alarm is functioning properly, giving you peace of mind that your home is protected. Remember to perform a manual test weekly to ensure optimal operation.

What We Like
Affordable quality
Easy installation
Functional test button
Sleek design
Safety assurance
What We Don't Like
Green light not constant
Test instructions needed
#TOP 6

X-Sense SC01 Smoke and CO Detector

SC01
1-Pack
X-Sense SC01 Smoke and CO Detector Cover
X-Sense Smoke Detector Carbon Monoxide Detector Combo, 10-Year Battery Smoke Detector with Display, Standalone Model SC01, Single Pack

The X-Sense SC01 Detector is a reliable solution for keeping your home safe from smoke and carbon monoxide. With its 10-year sealed battery, you won’t have to worry about changing batteries frequently, ensuring long-term protection. This standalone unit is easy to install anywhere in your home without the need for wiring, making it convenient for anyone. Its loud 85 dB alarm quickly alerts you to danger, while the advanced sensors help reduce false alarms, giving you peace of mind. The durable material ensures it withstands heat and corrosion, making it a smart investment for your family's safety.

What We Like
Easy installation
Reliable performance
Interconnectivity feature
10-year battery life
Loud alarm
What We Don't Like
Concerns about battery longevity
Need for remote testing option
#TOP 7

Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

900-CUDR
White
1 Pack
Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Cover
Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Powered, LED Warning Light Indicators, 1 Pack

Kidde Detector is equipped with 24/7 self-testing components to ensure continuous operation. Its easy installation with a mounting bracket allows flexibility. The photoelectric sensor detects slow, smoldering fires, while the electrochemical sensor identifies carbon monoxide. With an 85-decibel alarm and LED indicators showing different statuses, you can stay informed. This battery-operated detector ensures reliable detection, even during power outages, providing peace of mind.

What We Like
Dependable brand
Good price point
UL certified
Easy installation
Attractive design
What We Don't Like
Frequent battery replacement needed
Chirping issues reported
#TOP 8

Kidde Hardwired Smoke & CO Detector

30CUAR
White
2 Pack
Kidde Hardwired Smoke & CO Detector Cover
Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Backup Smoke Alarm, Interconnectable, LED Warning Light Indicators, 2 Pack

The Kidde Smoke & CO Alarm is designed to keep you safe with its dual detection capabilities, alerting you to both smoke and carbon monoxide. Its hardwired feature ensures reliable operation, while the included AA battery backup means you’re protected even during power outages. Enhanced sensing technology minimizes false alarms, especially those triggered by cooking, giving you peace of mind. Additionally, the interconnect feature allows multiple alarms to sound simultaneously, helping you evacuate quickly if danger arises.

What We Like
Easy installation
Battery backup feature
Connected alarms for safety
Good customer service
Compatible with existing wiring
What We Don't Like
Plug compatibility issues
Forced replacement after 8 years
#TOP 9

Kidde Smoke & CO Detector

30CUA10-V
White
1 Pack
Kidde Smoke & CO Detector Cover
Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, 10-Year Battery Backup, Voice Alerts, Interconnectable LED Warning Light Indicators

The Kidde Detector is a dual-function device that alerts you to both smoke and carbon monoxide, providing vital safety in your home. With hardwired power and a 10-year battery backup, you won't need to worry about changing batteries for a decade, saving you time and money. Its advanced sensing technology minimizes false alarms, particularly those triggered by cooking, ensuring you only receive genuine alerts. You’ll benefit from clear voice alerts that quickly inform you whether there’s smoke or carbon monoxide, allowing you to react swiftly in emergencies.

What We Like
Easy installation
Compatible with existing units
Long-lasting battery life
Meets safety codes
Verbal alarms for clarity
What We Don't Like
Price is a little high
#TOP 10

First Alert SMICO105-AC Smoke and CO Alarm

SMICO105-AC
White
3-Pack
First Alert SMICO105-AC Smoke and CO Alarm Cover
First Alert SMICO105-AC, Interconnect Hardwire Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm with 10-Year Battery Backup, 3-Pack

The First Alert Smoke & CO Alarm offers advanced safety features to protect your home. Its precision detection technology minimizes false alarms caused by cooking, ensuring you receive timely alerts during emergencies. With a 10-year battery backup, you can rest easy knowing your home is safeguarded even during power outages. The interconnect feature allows multiple alarms to sound together, maximizing your awareness. Plus, the quick connect plug simplifies installation, making it easy to set up without complex rewiring. This combination of features makes it a reliable choice for any household.

What We Like
Easy installation
10-year rechargeable battery
Carbon monoxide detection
Compatible with older models
Clear instructions provided
What We Don't Like
Base size incompatibility
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work?

Combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are effective at detecting both carbon monoxide and different types of fires. However, it is recommended to use a combination of detectors for complete protection as not all combination detectors are equally effective at detecting all types of hazards.

2. Why is my smoke and carbon monoxide alarm beeping?

If your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is beeping intermittently, it means that the battery is low and needs to be replaced. It's important to change the battery promptly to ensure the alarm functions properly and to maintain safety.

3. Is it better to have a separate smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector?

Yes, it is better to have separate smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. While they may look similar, they are designed to detect different hazards. To ensure complete protection for your family, it is recommended to install both UL Listed smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

4. How do I get my carbon monoxide detector to stop beeping?

To stop the beeping of a carbon monoxide detector, make sure the battery is connected or the power is on. Look for a button labeled 'silence' or 'reset' and hold it down for 10 or more seconds. Release the button, and the LED lights should blink or turn back on.

5. Why did my fire alarm randomly go off and say carbon monoxide?

If your fire alarm randomly goes off and says carbon monoxide, it could be due to a fading battery or improper connection. Check the battery by removing the outer casing and ensure it is properly connected. If the issue persists, it is wise to replace the batteries for reliable functioning.

Editor's Notes

During our smoke & carbon monoxide alarm research, we found 24 smoke & carbon monoxide alarm products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 178,034 customer reviews through our big data system to write the smoke & carbon monoxide alarms list. We found that most customers choose smoke & carbon monoxide alarms with an average price of $50.31.

The smoke & carbon monoxide alarms are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of smoke & carbon monoxide alarms, including X-Sense, Kidde, FIRST ALERT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand X-Sense Kidde FIRST ALERT FIRST ALERT Kidde X-Sense Kidde Kidde Kidde FIRST ALERT
Style Standalone Model 9th Edition Precision Detection Precision Detection Modern Standalone Model 6th Edition Alarm 9th Edition Modern Smoke, CO
Sensor Type Photoelectric, Electrochemical Photoelectric, Electrochemical Ionization Photoelectric Photoelectric, Electrochemical electrochemical,photoelectric Photoelectric, Electrochemical Photoelectric, Electrochemical Photoelectric, Electrochemical Ionization
Power Source Battery Powered Battery Powered Corded Electric Battery Powered Battery Powered - Battery Powered Hardwired Hardwired Battery Powered
Color White White White White White - White White White White
Alarm Audible Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Smoke, CO Combination Alarm Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Audible Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector -
Item Weight 300 Grams 12.8 ounces 8.96 ounces 6.56 ounces 12.8 ounces - - 12.8 ounces 10.51 ounces 10.56 ounces
Operating Humidity - 10 to 95% relative humidity (RH), non-condensing - - 10 to 95% relative humidity (RH), non-condensing - 10%-95% 10 to 95% relative humidity (RH), non-condensing 10 to 95% relative humidity (RH), non-condensing -
Upper Temperature Rating - 100 Degrees Fahrenheit - - 100 Degrees Fahrenheit - 100 Degrees Fahrenheit 100 Degrees Fahrenheit 100 Degrees Fahrenheit -
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 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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