The best motion sensors
Motion Sensors – Buying and Comparison Guide in 2022
Having devices that are activated by motion detection can be very practical for the home and office. Nowadays, there are many devices that work with motion sensors for both domestic and professional use and if you don’t know which one to buy, we recommend the Cobiz 2 Pack model. It is a set of bulbs that you can place in, for example, corridors and stairs to illuminate the path at night. Another good option could be Sebson IR_OUT_A. This model allows you to convert your conventional lamps into lamps that are activated by motion detection.
Opinions on the best motion sensors
In the space that you will find below, you will be able to learn about some options of home appliances equipped with motion sensors or sensors themselves, so that you can transform an ordinary device into a dynamic one that is much more practical and easy to use.
motion sensor light
Cobiz 2 Pack
2 Pack a motion sensor light set that includes two units in total. Each lamp is round in shape and has dimensions of 8.6 x 8.6 x 1.8 centimeters and weighs just 59 grams, making it easy to handle and install.
Some indicate that it would be the best motion sensor today, since you can choose to use a magnet or a double-sided adhesive to place them where they are most useful, such as the closet, corridors, stairs, etc. Each lamp has a total of six LED bulbs with a color temperature of 4,000K and the sensor is sensitive from 3 to 6 meters away.
On the other hand, these motion sensor LED bulbs are equipped with an automatic system that will deactivate them after 25 seconds of inactivity to save batteries.
Cobiz’s product could be the best motion sensor of the moment and here are its pros and cons:
Pros
Design: They are round lamps that you can place practically anywhere you need thanks to their general design.
Practicality: Its practicality is due to the fact that you can use them to illuminate a corridor at night or your little one’s room.
Range: The motion sensor has a range of 120° to be able to react in time.
Useful life: According to the manufacturer, each lamp offers a useful life of approximately 50,000 hours.
Cons
Autonomy: Some users consider that the autonomy of the battery could be greater.
outdoor motion sensor
Sebson IR_OUT_A
The IR_OUT_A model is a sensor that you can integrate into your home’s lighting system so that it turns on automatically when the detector is activated. This outdoor motion sensor is IP44 certified which makes it suitable to withstand the elements of the weather.
On the other hand, some users consider that it could be one of the best motion sensors of 2022, thanks to the fact that it has a range of 12 meters and the range of vision is 40° vertical and 100° horizontal. In addition, the vertical range can be adjusted according to your needs.
Regarding its design, the sensor has dimensions of 7.9 x 5.5 x 6.7 centimeters so that you can easily handle it and install it comfortably. It also has a dimmer switch, so you can change the brightness according to the environment where the system is turned on. It has also been provided with a timer that you can adjust in scales of seconds or minutes depending on how long you need the lights on.
If you want to know a little more about this model, we invite you to know its summary characteristics:
Pros
Certificate: The IP44 certificate indicates that it can withstand sun, rain and snow so that you do not have problems when installing it outdoors.
Temperature: Its minimum temperature for use is -20 °C and the maximum is 40 °C.
Regulator: With the intensity regulator you can choose between a range of 3 LUX and 2,000 LUX.
Timer: The timer offers two levels: a minimum of between 3 and 10 seconds and a maximum of between 2 and 7 minutes.
Cons
Materials: The sensor housing is made of plastic, so it must be treated with care.
Arduino Motion Sensor
Neuftech HC-SR501
Neuftech offers you an arduino motion sensor that is among one of the cheapest products in this list. This model can be adapted to different systems that require or are compatible with a motion sensor, so it can be a good option for project design.
The device uses infrared radiation detection technology which, when disturbed, activates the sensor to start the automation process of the equipment in which it is installed.
Its dimensions are 3.2 x 2.4 centimeters and its weight is just 18.1 grams. This size and weight give you the possibility to mount it on a wide variety of devices, another advantage of this model.
It should also be noted that it works with a Raspberry Pi board, one of the most reliable to be used in electronic function components. It offers a voltage range of a minimum of 5V and a maximum of 20V, being sufficient for domestic installations.
Being one of the cheapest options, it is convenient to take into account its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
Design: This is a compact size and light weight Arduino model that is very easy to handle and incorporate into external systems.
Compatibility: It can work with various devices and installations so that you have freedom of use.
Technology: It uses infrared technology in its sensor to be reliable and easy to use.
Capacity: Its voltage capacity will allow you to work with it on equipment that has different requirements.
Cons
Installation: It is necessary to have knowledge of electronics and programming to be able to use this product, since it requires other components for its start-up.
Motion Sensor Light Bulbs
BRTLX LED E27
LED E27 is an option of the BRTLX brand of motion sensor light bulbs. It is a set of bulbs that includes a pair capable of offering a brightness of 6,000K in cold white, being useful for home and office.
The bulbs have a motion sensor that works through infrared to turn on the system when it detects that a person, object or animal passes within its range. The detection distance is between 4 and 7 meters and it has an angle of 120° to be able to cover a considerable space in the entrance of your house, for example.
Another aspect to highlight is that the pack of light bulbs has been categorized at level A+ on the energy efficiency scale, which is why it is guaranteed that they are economical to use and will not generate excessive spending on your home electricity bill.
This pack could include the best value for money motion sensor, so it is worth knowing its pros and cons:
Pros
Pack: LED 27 is a pack of two bulbs with motion sensors to turn on automatically if they are activated.
Installation: They are easy to install due to their design, since you only have to turn the bulb in the socket.
Light sensor: They also incorporate a light sensor to avoid turning on during the day.
Compatibility: The bulbs work with E27 sockets, one of the most common in homes.
Cons
Lighting: Some buyers indicate that the lighting is a bit low compared to others, but it works well.
motion sensor spotlight
Meikee 15390886
Meikee offers you a motion sensor spotlight capable of reaching a level of 1,000 lumens, being able to illuminate considerable spaces. This motion sensor LED spotlight is mainly designed for outdoor use, such as gardens, garages, driveways, etc. In addition, it can also be useful as a security measure.
The equipment has dimensions of 12.6 x 4.1 x 15.8 centimeters and its weight is 522 grams. It has a housing made of aluminum with a black finish and has an adjustable base, so you can change the lighting angle depending on where you install the device.
Among the settings it offers, the sensor can be configured to activate when it detects movement on a scale of between 1 and 12 meters, thus adapting it to the space where it is located. On the other hand, it is also resistant to weather elements to be suitable for outdoors.
Meikee could become the best brand of motion sensors, which is why we present the advantages and disadvantages of their product:
Pros
Focus: The focus of this sensor has a power of 10W for a brightness level of 1,000 lumens.
Materials: In addition to having an aluminum casing, the focus’s protective material is tempered glass to withstand impacts.
Certificate: It also has an IP66 certificate, which indicates that it is resistant to water and dust.
Efficiency: It has an A++ efficiency category, making it economical to use as it has good energy management.
Cons
Design: It may not be the most elegant model in our comparison, but it is considered simple and practical.
motion sensor lamp
Maclean MCE131
If you want a lamp with a motion sensor, we invite you to consider the MCE131 model. This equipment has a simple design, but modern and easy to combine with the decoration. It is a round lamp with dimensions of 7 x 30 x 30 centimeters and a weight of 739 grams, making it easy to install and place on the ceiling.
Another feature that could lead the MCE131 model to be the answer to which is the best motion sensor is the fact that it has a twilight detector that can change the intensity of the light according to the brightness of the environment for your comfort.
You will also be pleased to know that it is economical to use, since its position in the energy consumption category is included: A, one of the highest and most ecological in the list. Therefore, if you want to have a ceiling light with a motion sensor at home, this option could be the right one for you.
To get the most out of your investment, it is important to consider all possible aspects of this product before purchasing it:
Pros
Design: This lamp has a discreet white design to be suitable for different environments.
Detection: The detection angle is 360°, thus covering the entire space within the room.
Power off: It has an automatic power off system that deactivates the focus when the presence of the sensor is not detected.
Fast: Its action speed varies between 0.6 and 1.5 microseconds, being fast and responsive.
Cons
Closed environment: Due to the sensor system, it is not recommended for closed spaces, such as the bathroom.
motion sensor switch
ChillTec 21251
This motion sensor switch stands out for being able to allow you to activate it, turn it off or use its PIR detection function with a single movement of its selector. It can be mounted on lighting or home security systems and has a discreet and simple design so you can handle it without discomfort.
The dimensions of this equipment are 11.4 x 8.6 x 5.4 centimeters and its weight is 99.8 grams. It is white in color and is made mainly of ABS plastics, which offer greater strength and durability than common plastic.
As for the sensor, it has a distance range of 9 meters, as well as a 160° detection angle and can be adjusted according to your needs. It is compatible with different power ranges that go from 1W to 500W and bulbs from 1W to 200W so that you do not have performance problems.
If you are still in doubt about which motion sensor to buy, consider what the ChillTec model has to offer:
Pros
Practicality: Being a sensor integrated in a switcher, you can install it in various systems depending on what you need at home or at work.
Settings: It offers adjustment systems in terms of angle, power, brightness and environment detection.
Sensor: Its sensor offers a wide viewing angle, as well as a sufficient range for standard use.
Compatibility: It is compatible with various types of systems thanks to its ability to work with different powers and voltages.
Cons
System: You must have already assembled the lighting or security system to be able to integrate it.
motion sensor with alarm
Tiiwee A2
A2 is a motion sensor with alarm that you can use to deter thieves from entering your property as, when activated, it will emit a 125 decibel alarm sound to alert anyone nearby.
In addition, this motion sensor with sound has its own remote control, which is also capable of working remotely, so you can turn the equipment on or off from afar in case it is activated by accident.
It has a modern, attractive and eye-catching design, but also compact dimensions so as not to be noticed immediately. Its size is 15.8 x 11.4 x 6.4 centimeters and it weighs 181 grams. The structure incorporates a small base with which you can adjust the angle of the sensor and thus point directly at an entrance or a window, for example.
Another striking detail is that it does not need to be connected to an outlet to work, since it uses disposable batteries.
In case you have been interested in this model, now you can take into consideration its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
Design: It is a striking and modern sensor with a simple function, but effective against thieves.
Alarm: The alarm that is triggered when the sensor is activated can reach a noise level of 125 decibels to be heard by the inhabitants of the area.
Remote control: With the remote control you can manage your alarm sensor comfortably, either to turn it off, turn it on or change its settings.
System: The system of this model allows up to nine more sensors to be activated if one of them detects movement.
Cons
Batteries: Although it does not depend on electricity, you will have to replace its batteries from time to time.
Guide to buying a motion sensor
In order to acquire a good device with a motion sensor, it is necessary to first consider what you are going to need it for, so that you can invest your money in a product that is really useful and practical to complement your comfort, either at home or in the office.
Shopping guide
Type of device
The first thing to consider in this guide to buying the best motion sensor is the type of device. As you know, motion sensors have obtained an increasingly compact and discreet size over time, so that it can be integrated into other equipment.
In this case, you should consider the type, since the market offers you multiple accessories, devices, and even household appliances that work with motion sensors.
For example, if you want to have a lighting system that can be turned on without you having to flip a switch, you might consider lamps with motion sensors. These can be found in all kinds of designs, shapes and sizes so you can choose the one that suits you best.
For security, you might also consider motion-activated cameras or alarm systems so you can call the police or alert someone before an unknown individual gets too close to your property.
Those mentioned are just a few options with sensors, but you should know that there are many more alternatives in which you can find one, so you will have to clearly know what you need it for and then choose the most appropriate one.
team design
Regardless of what type of device you have chosen that is equipped with a motion sensor, it is very important that you consider its design. A comparison of motion sensors indicates that details such as the size of the device, its weight, material installation requirements, among many other aspects, must be analyzed.
Generally, when it comes to lighting systems, we recommend you consider waterproof ones in case you want to install the system outside. If it is an alarm, the same recommendation also applies to prevent elements of the weather from damaging the equipment.
In these cases, we also recommend that it be a model with a discreet design so that you can hide it if you wish or so that outsiders cannot notice its presence.
Manufacturing materials
You cannot forget the manufacturing materials used in the sensor or in the equipment that contains it. This may affect how much it costs, but it’s best to have a rugged device, which will prevent you from having to replace it anytime soon. In addition, it is also convenient to analyze the capacity of the sensor, which we will study later.
If you want to acquire a model that is economical, you have many options available, since, as mentioned, there are a large number of devices that work with sensors, try to balance the greatest number of advantages for the cost that you are willing to pay.
In general, these sensors offer a certain degree of protection and although they work with delicate components, most manufacturers try to offer them a protective casing that will prevent them from being affected by external agents.
sensor sensitivity
Another aspect that we advise you to consider carefully is the capacity of the sensor. These components are mainly responsible for activating a certain system when its sensors detect the presence of movement in front of it. Therefore, when you are going to choose one for your home, you should consider how far the equipment can detect. This way the chosen system will have enough time to react to the sensor command and activate properly.
Compatibility
If you have decided to buy a motion sensor to adapt it to a system you already have at home, the most essential thing to analyze is the compatibility of the component with your equipment. This can be verified according to the indications of the manufacturer of your device, as well as those specified for the sensor.
If you have doubts about it, the most convenient thing would be to consult with a specialist technician, who can answer your questions so that you do not end up wasting your money.
possible functions
Lastly, you may want to consider the features that a certain motion sensor offers you. Because this component is so versatile and has been able to adapt to so many pieces of equipment, very interesting and practical functions have also been developed to carry out its main work.
Depending on the device you have purchased, you will be able to enjoy actions parallel to those of simply turning a system off or on. Some motion sensors can be adjusted based on detection distance, as well as trigger the main unit with custom settings based on information received by the sensors.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use a motion sensor?
Depending on the model of motion sensor you have purchased, you will have to install it or integrate it into the system of your interest.
If it is a spotlight, you will only have to place it in the socket entrance on your ceiling or wall and turn clockwise until it is firm. Remember to adjust the detection and brightness parameters.
In the case of a sensor to integrate, you must have knowledge in electronics, since with these sensors a bridge must be made between the main wiring of the system and that of the sensor, so that it can be activated when the device is activated.
Q2: How to connect a three-wire motion sensor?
To use a three-wire motion sensor you must first identify them. Manufacturers typically employ three colors for them: black or brown, blue, and red. The black wire is the line wire, the blue wire is the neutral wire, and the red wire is the return wire.
To connect the sensor to your lighting, alarm or opening system, you must connect the line cable and the neutral cable to the sensor input, so that the internal circuit of the system can be activated.
On the other hand, the return cable must be anchored to the sensor’s voltage output and connected to the system of interest, so that it can be activated upon receiving the detection. In addition to this, you will also need to connect a second end of the neutral wire to the system for circuit stability.
Q3: How to make a motion sensor alarm?
If you have knowledge of DIY and you are interested in making your own alarm system with a motion detection sensor at home, we advise you to purchase each device separately and then make a bridge between them, so that one can activate the other.
As mentioned in another answer, you must work with a sensor that allows the use of the three basic cables: neutral, line and return, which you must implement in the appropriate position next to the alarm system. As with a lighting one, the alarm will be activated when the motion sensor that you have integrated into its electronic circuit is triggered.
Q4: How does a motion sensor for lighting work?
Motion sensors, whether for lighting, security or any other purpose, work basically the same way: with infrared radiation.
This type of radiation is capable of detecting the presence of heat in a room and the sensors are equipped with systems that, by detecting the change in radiation received, can activate the necessary components that send the order to the main system to turn on.
Therefore, when you walk into a room that has a motion-sensing spotlight, it can turn on simply because the human body naturally emits radiation and changes the range detected by the equipment.
Q5: How to connect a motion sensor to a switch?
If you need to connect a new motion sensor to the main light switch in your entryway, for example, the procedure and steps to follow are to work with the three wires that come with these sensors.
Similarly, you will have to interrupt the power supply for safety. Disconnect the cables that go directly to the switch of your interest and make the bridge using the cables of the motion sensor. Then put everything back in its place, integrating the sensor in the location you want keeping the connection and you’re done.
Q6: What is the motion sensor for?
Motion sensors are very useful devices that can both save labor and increase safety and comfort. These teams work with detectors that can be of different types: presence, movement, radiation, temperature, video, sound, vibrations, etc.
In general, domestic models are used to activate lighting systems when passing through a threshold or a corridor, thus avoiding having to search for the switch in the dark.
They can also be integrated into alarm systems, which will be activated when they detect the presence of outsiders too close to your property, so that they know that you are aware and this will dissuade them from leaving or, on the other hand, alert your neighbors.
Its applications are quite extensive, but it could be summed up to the fact that a motion sensor is capable of activating an external system through other types of interactions.
Q7: How to regulate a motion sensor?
This will depend on the type of motion sensor you have. In general, consumer models, which have integrated adjustment systems, have dials or buttons that allow you to change parameters such as detection distance, range, angle, among others.
Q8: How to install a motion sensor to a lamp?
To mount it, you will need to take the wires from the motion sensor and connect the return wire to the lamp along with the neutral wire. Then, install the phase cable in the positive socket of the outlet and the other end of the neutral cable to the negative socket, and then finish connecting a third neutral point to the sensor output.
