Sensors and detectors for smart homes: motion and presence detectors, door and window contacts, smoke and CO alarms, temperature and humidity sensors, and LoRaWAN sensors. Our range holds over 900 models, including STEINEL, DRAGINO, SHELLY, AJAX and X-SENSE. They suit homes, offices and industrial sites alike.
How to choose a sensor or detector
Type of detection. Start by deciding what you need to detect: movement, presence in a room, a door opening, smoke, temperature, humidity or a water leak. A motion detector is enough to switch on a hallway light, while an office where people sit almost still calls for a presence detector.
Connection standard. A sensor must work with the same system as your controller. Wi-Fi models usually need no separate hub, Zigbee, Z-Wave or manufacturer-specific radio devices need a matching hub, and LoRaWAN sensors work with a LoRaWAN gateway on larger sites. Check compatibility with your system, such as Homematic IP, KNX or Ajax, before buying.
Power supply. A battery lets you place the sensor anywhere, but it has to be replaced, so check the battery life the manufacturer states. Mains-powered models make sense where the device runs constantly, for example light control from a wall box.
Mounting location. Outdoors, look for a suitable IP rating and the operating temperature range given by the manufacturer. For motion detectors, check the detection angle and range, and if you have pets, choose a model with adjustable sensitivity or pet immunity.
Safety requirements. Smoke alarms should comply with the EN 14604 standard. If you plan to connect detectors to an alarm system, it is easiest to stay with one manufacturer, because the devices are designed to work together and are simpler to set up.
Brands we carry
- STEINEL: a German manufacturer known for motion and presence detectors and outdoor sensor lights.
- DRAGINO: specialises in LoRaWAN sensors and gateways for industrial and agricultural monitoring.
- SHELLY: offers Wi-Fi relays, sensors and detectors that can also be controlled over a local network.
- AJAX: wireless security systems with their own radio protocol, plus door, motion and smoke detectors.
- ABUS SECURITY-CENTER: a German security manufacturer known for door and window contacts, alarms and locks.
- MILESIGHT IoT: LoRaWAN sensors and gateways for monitoring buildings and industrial sites.
- X-SENSE: smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that can be interconnected wirelessly.
- BUSCH-JAEGER: a German maker of switches and building automation, whose sensors fit into its wall switch ranges.
- eQ-3: the developer of the Homematic IP system, offering wireless sensors for home automation.
Also in our range: SYGONIX, ALLNET and ALECTO.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a motion detector and a presence detector?
A motion detector reacts to larger moving bodies, so it suits hallways, stairwells and outdoor lighting. A presence detector also picks up small movements, such as a person working at a desk, and keeps the light on while someone is in the room. Presence detectors are most often installed in offices and studies.
What is the difference between Zigbee, Wi-Fi and LoRaWAN sensors?
Wi-Fi sensors connect directly to your home network but can drain a battery faster. Zigbee and Z-Wave devices work through a hub and form a mesh network, while LoRaWAN offers very long range and low power use, which is why it is used on large sites.
How long does a sensor battery last?
It depends on the sensor type, the connection standard and how often it sends data. Radio and LoRaWAN sensors often run from one to several years on a battery, while Wi-Fi models usually need new batteries more often. The manufacturer states the exact figure in the product description.
Do sensors need an internet connection?
Not always. Zigbee, Z-Wave, KNX and LoRaWAN systems usually run on a local network through a hub, and the internet is only needed for remote control and phone notifications. With Wi-Fi devices it depends on the manufacturer, so check that local control is supported.
