Sensors in homes aren't new—home alarms have used them for over a century since electromagnetic systems first emerged.
With the rise of smart homes, sensors are now everywhere, offering diverse functions from security to automation.
With so many options, choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. At MakeUseOf, we've tested and curated the best to help you decide.
Here are six essential sensors for any smart home.
Motion sensors are synonymous with home security, triggering alarms for unauthorized movement.
Modern smart systems rely on them. Connect to smart lights for automatic illumination when entering rooms during set hours, or dimmed night modes.
Monitor high-risk areas like pools for kids or pets. A top pick is the Samsung SmartThings Motion Sensor at $39.99.
Flood damage costs U.S. insurers over $10 billion annually, often from leaks, bursts, or user error—not just natural disasters.
Avoid insurance hassles by investing in water sensors. Place them near appliances to catch leaks early.
The Fibaro Z-Wave Flood Sensor ($69.99) works with Apple HomeKit and Z-Wave. It alerts for leaks, tampering, and can shut off water supplies remotely for peace of mind. Budget option: Utilitech White Flood Sensor from Lowe's ($29.99, for Iris systems).
A doorbell sensor builds on motion detection, streaming live video when someone approaches—even before ringing.
Ideal for solo dwellers screening visitors at night or avoiding solicitors. Think of it as a 21st-century peephole. What Is a Smart Doorbell and Which Should You Buy? What Is a Smart Doorbell, and Which Should You Buy? Smart doorbells offer two-way audio, remote monitoring, and phone alerts. Read more.
High-quality systems include video; standalone like Ring offers two-way audio, motion detection, and night vision for $179.
Temperature sensors tell your smart devices about indoor/outdoor conditions for proactive automation.
Outdoor: Trigger garden sprinklers after 25°C days. Never Kill a Houseplant Again: 7 Gadgets to Make You a Gardening Pro Never Kill a Houseplant Again: 7 Gadgets to Make You a Gardening Pro Buying indoor plants intending a lush garden, only to fail? These devices can save you (and your plants)! Read more.
Indoor: Activate AC before you return home or preheat on cold mornings.
Recommendations: HomeSeer HSM200 or Elgato Eve Room.
Light sensors save energy and boost security by automating lights at dawn/dusk, preventing forgotten switches and simulating occupancy during vacations. Practical Uses for Home Surveillance Cameras Practical Uses for Home Surveillance Cameras Home security cameras grow popular as tech improves and prices drop. Here are practical uses, some surprising. Read more.
Beyond forecasts, weather sensors integrate with your smart home. Link to alarms for open-window alerts during rain, or bathroom mirrors for UV reminders.
Netatmo station measures temperature, humidity, air quality, and noise. Entry kit: $131 on Amazon.
Don't forget smoke and CO detectors. The future? Synthetic sensors—one plug-in unit with 10 integrated sensors monitoring sound, humidity, EM fields, and more, as prototyped at ACM CHI 2017. They'll make smart upgrades affordable.
These six are top picks for smart home enthusiasts. Agree? Using them already, or wary of synthetic sensors? Share in the comments.
