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 |
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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.
Also, keep in mind that some of these gadgets only work with the brand's surveillance system, which could come with a monthly fee. Sometimes opting for a cheap solution ends up costing much more in the long run.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Keep in mind that many brands offer multi-packs or entry alarms as part of a surveillance package.
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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.