Best Door & Window Alarms Guide & Reviews of 2021

Lots of people have alarms on their doors. However, the best door and window alarms of 2021 offer more ease of use and personal control than the products of the past. This list of the top wireless security devices will dive deeper into what consumers should look for in an alarm. Plus, it will provide 10 great options that can steer individuals in the right direction since safety isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Brad Smith - Editorial Staff

Updated: June 1, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

It wasn’t easy to organize a list of just 10 products. To get the final results, we had to look at the top qualities that customers want in a security alarm. Then, each key metric received a grade from zero to 10. Finally, we calculated the averages of all the scores to compile the findings into a neat list.

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

It took time and energy to read through countless reviews, analyze the technical components of each device, and weigh the advantages of each option. It’s because we want readers to understand the pros and cons of each product before they use it.

1. Nest Detect Sensor: Wireless Safety at a Great Value

Total Score 9.5/10

Nest Main
Nest Hello
Nest Support
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$49

Visit Website
BBB Rating B
Best for Budgets

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Nest boasts awesome door sensors, all at a great cost. Nest Detect, in particular, can go on doors and walls and register movement from16 feet away.

The system triggers an alarm whenever the entry point is open, but customers can set up the Quiet Open mode for personal use. That way, it does not constantly sound the alarms when a family member leaves or enters a room.

Pros:

  • Affordability
  • Automatic night light
  • Mobile compatibility
  • Pet-friendly
  • Quiet Mode
  • Remote access
  • Simple set-up
  • Sleek and discreet

Cons:

  • Most families will need more than one
  • Requires a starter pack
  • So-so client reviews

This door sensor has a tamper-detection switch and blends into the interior environment quite nicely. It also comes with a cushiony two-year warranty.

While the Detect door alarm has prime features at a great cost, it also requires the Nest Secure alarm system starter pack. Consumers should keep that in mind when analyzing the total costs of everything.


2. Ring Alarm Contact Sensor: A Small But Mighty Door Alarm

Total Score 9.2/10

Ring-Review
Ring Security Cameras
Ring Support
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.5/10

Starting Price

$20

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Smart integration

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This device is a simple peel-and-stick contact sensor that’s small and inconspicuous. It also syncs with any smart product that customers may have, such as a Z-Wave device. Again, this door sensor is a supplemental product that requires the larger Ring alarm system.

That said, once everything is connected, clients can receive instant updates even when they’re away from the property.

Pros:

  • Attaches to window frames
  • Compatible with some smart devices
  • Easy connectivity
  • Small and discreet
  • Tamper alerts
  • Three-year battery life
  • Very affordable

Cons:

  • Limited warranty
  • No motion detection
  • Requires Ring Alarm Security Kit

Those with a Z-Wave product can wirelessly connect the Ring window alarms up to 250 feet away. That said, they are not pet-friendly, so if Fido starts tampering with it, the siren will sound. This piece of equipment is meant for the Alarm Security Kit, which explains the very low cost.


3. SimpliSafe Entry Sensor: Simplest Door Sensor Set-Up

Total Score 8.8/10

SimpliSafe Home Security Systems-simplisafe
SimpliSafe Camera
No Contaract SimpliSafe
  • Features9.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.5/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$14.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Flexibility

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

SimpliSafe’s door sensors are available with any of the surveillance packages. Clients can add as many as they need. Since the cost is manageable, getting additional door alarms shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

A nice thing about these door sensors is that they continue to chime even when they’re disabled from the larger system. Moreover, the magnetic transmitter strips make set-up simple.

Pros:

  • Compact design
  • Great customer reviews
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Never completely turns off
  • Simple installation
  • Wider detection range than competitors
  • Works on all types of entryways

Cons:

  • Excess moisture can cause false alarms
  • No motion detection
  • Pricier than others

There isn’t anything particularly outstanding out this door and window alarm, but it boasts more flexibility and value than many competitors. For instance, it can trigger a 105-decibel siren, which is sure to keep intruders away.

Also, the magnetic strips can be up to two inches apart, which is much wider than the other door sensors on this list.


4. Vivint Door/Window Sensor: An Automation Superstar

Total Score 8.8/10

No Contract Vivint Main
Vivint Camera
Smart Home App Vivint
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$60

Visit Website
BBB Rating C+
Best for Automation

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

7 days

The devices from Vivint work with the larger overall surveillance system. This enables clients to automate everything. In other words, the gadgets stay in touch with the main security panel from 350 feet away.

The access sensor itself has a very sleek design and a five-year battery life. The wire-free design makes it simple to install it anywhere, but the professionals have to do it.

Pros:

  • Great automation capabilities
  • Hardware included
  • Lots of customization
  • Recessed (hidden) devices
  • Tamper-resistant
  • Trusted provider
  • Wire-free design

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Professional installation only
  • Requires the larger Vivint system

Vivint is a solid choice for those who want to have full home automation. The sensor requires a complete surveillance package to work, so that’s something to be aware of.

The expenses involved can be quite hefty since customers would need a monitoring package of about $40 a month.


5. Protect America Window/Door Sensor: No Pricing Games - Ever

Total Score 8.8/10

Main Protect America
Home Automation Protect America
Reviews Protect America
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price9.5/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$39

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Locked-In Rates

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

60 days

Protect America’s systems are great for larger properties, but they’ll work for moderate-sized homes, too. The sensors have a magnetic field that sends a signal to the control panel whenever there’s a gap in the transmission range.

Remember that this brand requires a subscription plan. The base package comes with three sensors and starts at about $20 per month.

Pros:

  • Affordable plans
  • Five-year battery life
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Locked-in rates
  • Mobile app
  • Pre-programmed
  • Wire-free

Cons:

  • Long contract
  • Remote access on higher plans only
  • Requires a full Protect America package

All of the sensors should work within 100 feet of the control panel. Also, this brand does a good job with automation and integration features, so families can customize their own smart homes.

The gadgets themselves are compact, but they are expensive, costing $60 apiece.


6. Frontpoint Door/Window Sensor: A Versatile Value

Total Score 8.7/10

FrontPoint Main
Frontpoint Monitoring Plan
Frontpoint Apps New
  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$19.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for All-Around

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This Frontpoint door alarm triggers a loud siren whenever the magnetic strip is more than 0.75 inches from the transmitter. Customers should just be careful that their pets don’t accidentally set it off.

This door sensor is designed to work with the Frontpoint system as a whole. Therefore, it will function up to 150 feet from the control panel.

Pros:

  • 85-decibel siren
  • Competitive pricing
  • Defect alerts
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Mobile app
  • Simple peel-and-stick design
  • Works on drawers/cabinets too

Cons:

  • No quiet mode
  • Pets might set off false alarms
  • Works best with Frontpoint's system

The pricing is on par with other competitors, which is great. Also, the door sensor comes pre-programmed to work straight out of the box. Batteries are included and last for up to six years.

There are even automatic defect alerts, so clients don’t have to worry about whether it’s working or not.


7. ADT Door/Window Sensor: Top Supplemental Door Alarm

Total Score 8.6/10

ADT Main
ADT Trust Score
ADT Price
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$36.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Complete Systems

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

6 month

Customers can connect this door alarm sensor to the larger ADT system so the cameras can hone in on whoever sets the alert off. With that in mind, remember that the door alarms are supplements.

For example, the basic plan comes with three door and window sensors and has a monthly fee of $36.99. Still, this is a great deal and includes 2/7 professional monitoring.

Pros:

  • Great customer reviews
  • Highly regarded company
  • Mobile notifications
  • Package deals available
  • Suitable for a variety of doors/frames
  • Syncs to other ADT devices
  • Wired and wireless options

Cons:

  • Cost depends on the surveillance plan
  • Part of the larger ADT package
  • Requires professional installation

As for the door sensors themselves, they are discreet and sleek and attach right to the frame. They connect to the entire system, sounding a powerful siren and sending mobile alerts the minute something goes amiss.

On the downside, strong winds or a pet could end up triggering a false alarm.


8. GE Security Door/Window Alarm: The Door Alarm for Renters

Total Score 8.6/10

GE Main
GE About Us
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$6.75

BBB Rating A+
Best for Renters

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

90 days

For less than $10, consumers can get a door alarm that will keep kids safe at night and deter burglars from breaking in. The GE door sensor is battery-operated and has an expected battery life of 10,000 hours.

Batteries are included, and the alarms are available on their own or in multi-packs of four, five, or 12. The affordability is great, and there’s no wiring to deal with, so it’s good for renters.

Pros:

  • 120-decibel siren
  • 10,000 hours of battery life
  • Affordability
  • Available in multi-packs
  • No wiring to deal with
  • Simple, no-mess removal
  • Suitable for dorms, trailers, and more

Cons:

  • Doesn't sync with smart devices
  • Only usable indoors
  • Short warranty period

Each door and window alarm comes with a 120-decibel siren and a simple chime/off switch on the side. The convenient test button allows individuals to test the sound with one touch.

Just be aware that this is an indoors-only gadget, although it’s suitable for dorms, trailers, and other small spaces. There’s no wiring to deal with, plus the simple no-mess removal is ideal.


9. LifeShield Door/Window Sensor: Wireless Safety for Larger Properties

Total Score 8.4/10

Lifeshield Home Security Review
LifeShield Door_Window Sensor
LifeShield Door_Window
  • Features7.0/10
  • Equipment7.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$8.99

BBB Rating A+
Best for Larger Homes

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

30 days

LifeShield is a collaboration with Blue by ADT. Customers have the option to purchase a pre-packaged set or to build their unique security systems.

No matter the number of door and window sensors they choose, they’ll receive a free month of professional monitoring. That said, the costs can add up quickly, so be aware of that.

Pros:

  • Connects to other smart gadgets
  • Discreet design
  • Easy set-up
  • Included with a professional monitoring package
  • Lots of room for customization
  • Mobile alerts
  • Specific contact alarms for doors/windows

Cons:

  • Door and window sensors sold separately
  • Part of a larger security system
  • Requires ADT's professional installation

LifeShield offers individual door alarms, which are sold separately from the window alarms. Each product costs $8.99 apiece, and pet-friendly motion detectors cost $29.99 each. It’s easy to see how this system could get expensive very quickly.

That said, each device syncs to the larger hub so that clients receive text alerts as soon as something goes wrong.


10. SABRE Wireless Security Door/Window Alarm: Affordable Standalone Window Alarms

Total Score 8.2/10

Sabre Main
Sabre-Security
Sabre Features
  • Features7.0/10
  • Equipment7.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$5.25

BBB Rating A+
Best for Standalone Option

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

These door alarms come from a company that specializes in personal devices such as stun guns and pepper sprays. Therefore, the door and window sensors are standalone gadgets, so clients can incorporate them into any system.

The alarms cost about $5 each, and they also come in multi-packs of two or four.

Pros:

  • 120-decibel siren
  • Battery-operated
  • Built-in alarm
  • Compact wireless design
  • LED indicator lights
  • Multi-packs available
  • Several sound settings

Cons:

  • Does not connect to WiFi network
  • No quiet mode
  • Short transmission range

The redeeming quality of these door and window sensors is the 120-decibel siren. This is sure to scare off intruders and anyone who tries to break into the property.

On the downside, the gadgets are battery-operated and won’t connect to an existing smart automation system.


Best Door & Window Alarms of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

Check out the door and window sensors below to see a side-by-side look at the costs and technical specifications. This handy guide can make it easier to choose the most suitable contact alarm.

Providers Best For Cost Detection Range Mobile App Pet-Friendly Quiet Mode Remote Access Siren Transmission Range Trial Warranty
1. Nest Detect Budgets $49 16 ft Yes Yes Yes Yes 85 dB 1.5” 30 days 2 yrs
2. Ring Smart homes $20 N/A Yes No No Yes 104 dB 1.5” 30 days 1 yr
3. SimpliSafe Flexibility $14.99 N/A Yes No Yes Yes 105 dB 2” 60 days 3 yrs
4. Vivint Automation $60 N/A Yes No Yes Yes 104 dB 0.5” 7 days 120 days
5. Protect America Locked-in rates $39 N/A Yes No No Yes 85 dB 0.5” 60 days Lifetime
6. Frontpoint All-around $19.99 N/A Yes No No Yes 85 dB 0.75” 30 days As-is
7. ADT Total systems $36.99+ N/A Yes No No Yes 85 dB 0.125” 30 days Lifetime
8. GE Renters $6.75 N/A Yes No Yes Yes 120 dB 0.5” 90 days 90 days
9. Life Shield Larger houses $8.99 N/A Yes No No Yes 85 dB 0.125” 30 days 1 yr
10. SABRE Single option $5.25 N/A No No No No 120 dB 0.2” 90 days 1 yr

Types of Door & Window Sensors

Here is a brief look at the door sensor alarms available in 2021. Some of these home window alarms offer extra privacy features, while others integrate well with surveillance cameras. It’s up to consumers to read reviews and shop around to find the ideal door sensor for their needs.

  • Recessed door sensors. These go inside the frame, so they’re imperceptible to burglars
  • Surface contact door sensors. Affordable and simple, they go on the outside of the frame via magnetic strips
  • Vanishing door alarms. These are so thin that they virtually blend in with the environment
  • Vented door and window sensors. These keep windows open but trigger an alert if they close

Pros & Cons

A door alarm sensor is never a bad idea. The trick is to choose one that meets the needs of the family and the size of the property. For example, larger homes may require multiple door sensor alarms, which can quickly get expensive.

All that said, 2021’s selection of door and window sensors is brilliant. Individuals can choose from various sizes and designs, from the barely-perceptible to items for drawers and cabinets. Most of these devices require very little set-up, so just about anyone can install them.

Pros:

  • Different sizes and designs available
  • Keeps kids better protected
  • Quickly scares off intruders
  • Simple set-up and little-to-no maintenance
  • Variety of sounds and alert settings

Cons:

  • Most properties need more than one door alarm, so costs add up
  • Some door sensors require a surveillance system

Features to Look For in Door Alarms

Shopping for a door sensor shouldn’t be a daunting task, but it does require some prior research. There are plenty of options to choose from in 2021, so check out these top qualities to figure out which door sensor meets a particular need or concern.

1. Volume Controls

Yes, a door sensor should be loud, but family members don’t want to hear it blaring all day long. This is where the volume controls come in; they allow individuals to alter the siren or chime so that everyone can sleep happy at night.

2. A Sleek Design

Some people are fine with a door sensor that doesn’t perfectly blend in with the room. Others want something inconspicuous that no one will notice. Keep the size and shape in mind when shopping around.

3. Connectivity

A door sensor may be part of a brand’s larger surveillance system. Others work as standalone devices. Think about what matters most and whether it’s preferable to have a WiFi connection or a battery-operated gadget.

4. Updates & Alerts

Again, if the door sensor is part of a larger system, then odds are it can sync to a mobile app. This is great because it gives individuals instant updates if someone opens a door or approaches a window.

5. Smart Integrations

Finally, a door sensor with smart integrations and automation may cost more, but it’s often well worth it. This means that families can sync up to other intelligent gadgets like Amazon Alexa for an all-around surveillance system.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How Does a Door Sensor Work?

    Think of a door sensor as a small, compact device that sits within a door frame. Some of these gadgets are motion-activated, while others get triggered when the door is ajar.

    • Typically, there are two parts: the door sensor itself and a magnetic strip. When the distance between the two is too great, that’s when it triggers an alert.
    • Once the two pieces are within range again, the alert sound stops.
    • There are even some devices that sync with smart gadgets like Google Assistant, allowing for remote access.

  • How Do I Install a Door Alarm?

    It’s usually a simple process since there are just two parts involved. Some brands even send them over pre-programmed.

    • A door sensor typically has an adhesive strip on one side that allows individuals to attach it to the window frame.
    • Window alarms have the same thing with the magnetic transmitter.
    • If it’s a “smart” door alarm, then there’s a mobile app that customers need to set up.

  • What is the Best Door Alarm?

    This depends on the person’s preferences, their budget, and what they want to use the device for. A good place to start is with this top 10 list because it features a variety of gadgets from reputable companies.

    The ideal choice is one that is fully functional, simple to install, and user-friendly, so it gets utilized every day! Check out a review or two of some promising cameras and go from there.

  • How Much Should I Pay For a Door Sensor?

    This varies depending on what customers are willing to pay. Some of these devices cost under $10, while others might be twice as much (or more) but come with additional functionalities.

    A good ballpark figure is around $15 for a simple yet effective DIY gadget. Keep in mind that larger homes may need more than one.

  • Do I Need Sensors on Every Window?

    Ideally, yes. Most families would agree that they want to keep their loved ones safe from any disaster. Burglars will try every entry point to get inside, so if there’s a place that doesn’t have a sensor, that could spell trouble.

  • What is a Door Stop Alarm?

    Rather than fitting inside the frame, these devices sit under the door so that when it swings inwards, an alert goes off. Imagine a stopper or kickstand, and that’s a general idea.

    So, if an intruder tries to slip inside, the stop alarm will trigger a siren, which will scare them off.

These Little Gadgets Have Limitless Potential

Even though these devices may be small, they hold a ton of potential when it comes to protecting a family and home. Since they are simple to install and come at an affordable price, they make a wonderful addition to any surveillance system.

Be sure to check out all of the options in this list to get a feel for which one meets the chosen budget and preferred features.


Editorial Staff

Brad has worked as a sales manager in the security sector for 10 years. He is curious, attentive to details, and hard-working. He has dedicated several years to helping customers with their safety and protection. His background has helped Brad to write comprehensive security and life safety materials, which he has been writing for about 4 years. Brad has contributed work to The Washington Post, DailyJournal, Los Angeles Times, and many others.


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