This dual-sensor (photoelectric and ionization), battery-operated smoke alarm detects both types of fires: fast-burning with high flames (ionization) in addition to slow-burning, smoldering ones that produce lots of smoke (photoelectric).

It’s fairly compact at 5 inches in diameter, though its overall design is not as streamlined as that of some other options. That said, safety comes first and this smoke alarm ranks high where it counts. It has intelligent sensing technology to distinguish the difference between cooking smoke and other non-threatening situations and real emergencies.

This UL-certified device features a sealed (non-replaceable) 10-year lithium battery along with an 85-decibel alarm.

Full First Alert Battery-Powered Dual-Ssensor Smoke Alarm Review

This smoke alarm is inexpensive (and lacks a dual-sensor), yet it offers excellent value and solid features. Hardwired, it has an ionization sensor and is interconnectable with up to 18 compatible devices.

There’s a single test-and-silence button, and the backup 9-volt battery (installed on the side of the unit with a tamper-resistant bracket) continues to provide constant monitoring even during a power outage.

Additionally, this smoke alarm comes with a universal mounting bracket. It’s tested to meet UL standards and the alarm sounds at 85 decibels.

Key Specs

Similar to our Best Overall pick, this model also offers a dual sensor, but this version is hardwired so you need to install it. It also has battery backup.

With ionization and photoelectric sensors, this device covers smoky fires and fast-burning ones that produce a lot of flames. There’s a single button to test and silence the unit, and it’s designed to provide 360-degree access to the sensor, plus it has UL certification.

Key Specs

This smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector is perfect if you want alerts at your fingertips. Not only will the alarm sound if it detects smoke or high levels of carbon monoxide, it also sends a notification through the app. It also monitors low levels of CO. This system uses AA batteries and allows you to connect multiple alarms, so if one goes off, they all do.

You can control the alarms through the Ring App, so you can silence or test them right from your phone. This model reduces nuisance alarms by detecting the difference between common household smoke sources, like cooking, and smoke from a fire, so you can cook in peace.

Key Specs

This smoke and carbon monoxide alarm not only includes an 85+ dB alarm, it also includes voice messages that say “Fire!” or “Warning! Carbon Monoxide” when either (or both) is detected. This is ideal because you’ll know exactly why the alarm is going off rather than having to remember the beep pattern for each alert.

The alarm meets UL and FCC standards and has a 10-year battery, meaning no low-battery chirps or regular replacement—something that actually saves you up to $40 over the life of the device. The sensing technology reduces nuisance or false alarms by distinguishing between smoke from cooking or smoke from a fire.

Key Specs

Smoke detectors have a signature shape and size that doesn’t fit with all design aesthetics. While we know that safety is the first concern, it doesn’t hurt to add a little style as well. That’s one of the reasons we put the First Alert SC5 Hardwire Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm on this list.

Not only is it a 2-in-1 device that detects the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide, but its slimmer profile and square shape blends in more seamlessly than a traditional smoke alarm. We do like this profile, but we did notice that it’s slightly larger than a traditional smoke detector, so bear that in mind when you install it.

It’s a hardwired alarm and is equipped with a quick connect hardwire adapter plug for easy installation. It works with Google Nest and interconnects with other compatible alarms for greater protection and complies with UL 217 10th edition standards.

Key Specs

If you’re just getting started installing smoke detectors in your home, or need to replace the ones you currently have, then choosing a multi-pack will save both time and money. You can install the Kidde Hardwired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector two-pack to your hardwired system and meet UL 217 9th edition and UL 2034 4th edition standards.

The alarms include internal components that continuously check to make sure the alarm is operating as it should—though this isn’t a replacement for weekly alarm checks. They also interconnect with compatible alarms, so when one sounds, they all sound. Although you have to replace the batteries every 6 months, Kidde technology does reduce nuisance alarms from cooking.

Key Specs

This smoke alarm is one of First Alert’s updated models that adheres to the most recent safety standard, the UL 217 10th edition. We like that it includes a built-in Safety Path Light that will illuminate the surrounding area, making it easier to find the exit in case of a fire at night. First Alert lists it as a Premium alarm, meaning it has the most safety features, including a 10-year battery, voice alerts, and the ability to interconnect wirelessly with other smoke alarms.

Along with these safety features, this smoke alarm model includes advanced sensing technology to avoid nuisance alarms and provide early warning in the event of an actual fire. This means less false alarms while you’re cooking and more time to escape during a real fire emergency.

Key Specs