A full security system may be the peace of mind you and your loved ones need.
Compare Door and Window Sensors: Our 17 Picks
Our take
The Nest Detect is designed to stick to walls and doors for simple installation. The alarm includes a motion sensor that detects movement within 16 feet in any room.
Stand-out features include
- Includes Nest Quiet Open to open a door without the alarm going off
- Enable ‘Dog Pass’ to keep your home secure, but allowing your dog to move around without triggering the alarm
- Includes a built-in Pathlight to see clearly in the dark when you walk past a Nest Detect
Our take
This door sensor mounts to both window frames and doors with easy mounting. Connect the sensor to the Ring Alarm Security and automatically receive mobile alerts when doors or windows are opened in your home – even when you’re away.
Stand-out features include
- Automatically alarms when the door sensor detects motion or is meddled with
- Sends mobile notifications when doors or windows are opened using Ring’s app
- Connects to a Z-Wave wireless connection portal to create a seamless, smart security system
Our take
This window sensor includes multiple installation options to a variety of doors and window frames. The sensors connect to other home security monitoring tools and home automation equipment to create a smart security system. ADT helps provide extra peace of mind by sending automated mobile notifications when suspicious activity is detected.
Stand-out features include
- Automatically receive mobile notifications if a door or window is opened while your security system is enabled
- Ability to activate connected security cameras to quickly see who alarmed your window or door sensor when you’re away using the ADT Pulse® mobile app
- Get peace of mind with 24/7 ADT professional monitoring services to watch over your home
Our take
This door alarm is easy to install by using the double-sided tape to mount to any door or window indoors. The built-in, loud alarm is an affordable option to automatically sound when doors and windows are open to deter intruders or keep children out of harm’s way.
Stand-out features include
- Includes a loud 120-decibel alarm that sounds when the door sensor detects a door or window is opened
- Built-in low-battery light to indicate when the door sensor batteries need to be changed
- On and off switch settings to disable the door alarm as needed
Our take
Vivint Door and Window Sensors are professionally installed to work with your Vivint home security system and smart home equipment. Their sensors are professionally monitored 24/7 to alert you if someone’s entering or leaving your home. It can be installed on doors, windows and cabinets. This Vivint sensor is battery-powered and has a sensor range of 350 feet.
Stand-out features include
- 350-foot sensor range
- Battery-powered sensor that works with Vivint home security system
- Professionally installed
Compare Door and Window Sensors
Price | $38.95 | $19.99 | N/A | $14.49 | $49.99 | $39.95 | $119.99 | $19.99 | $14.99 | N/A | $7.88 | $18 | $19.99 | $26.85 | N/A | $35 | $15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Range | 16 feet | 250 feet | 350 feet | N/A | 350 feet | N/A | 492 feet | 500 feet | 700-800 feet | N/A | N/A | N/A | 150 feet | 500 feet | N/A | 15 feet | 45 feet |
Installation | DIY or professional | DIY or professional | Professional | DIY | Professional | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY or professional | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | Professional | DIY | DIY |
Requires security system | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Monitored | DIY or professional | DIY or professional | Professional | DIY | Professional | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY or professional | Yes | DIY | DIY | Yes | DIY | Professional | Through subscription and app | Through subscription and app |
What are the Different Types of Door or Window Sensors?
A variety of window and door sensors are available. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best sensors for your household.
- Surface contact sensors are the most affordable door sensor options. You can install the sensors using magnets on the surface of your door and window frames.
- Recessed contact sensors are installed inside the frames and inside the door or window, making them less visible to intruders.
- Vanishing sensors are very thin and virtually undetectable door sensors. They’re designed to blend into your home’s décor to be less noticeable.
- Vented window sensors use two magnets to open any armed window that may remain open a few inches for fresh air. If the window is opened any further, the alarm is triggered.
The Benefits of Door and Window Sensors
Door and window sensors are a great DIY home security measure. These small alarms alert you to potential danger to your home and family. The following list outlines several benefits of installing door and window sensors:
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- Better security — Door and window sensors offer enhanced security, alerting you when someone enters your home.
- Child protection — Sensors can alert you when your child opens a window or door, helping to keep them out of harm’s way.
- Deter danger — Once intruders hear an alarm sounding after opening a door or window, they’re likely to run away.
To find the best fit for your household, start by shopping Amazon’s best-selling door and window sensors. You’ll enjoy a variety of features and designs to choose from.
As with any security feature, every household is different. There are different needs to ensure optimal protection from door and window sensors. Start by shopping Amazon’s best selling door and window sensors. You’ll have a variety of features and designs to choose from to best fit your home.
Door and Window Sensor FAQs
A door sensor is simply motion detection for your doors and windows. Door sensors use a reed switch and magnet as a sensor. One end attaches to the door frame, while the other end attaches to the door itself. As long as these two pieces are less than 2 inches apart, the alarm won’t sound. Once the door or window is open, the circuit opens, and the alarm sounds.
Most door alarms come with self-adhesive stick pads or tape. Simply attach one piece to the window or door and the other to the back of the alarm. Push the two sticky pieces together for the alarm to stay attached to the door or window without worry. Some door alarms include smart technology and should be connected to wifi, Bluetooth or a Z-Wave smart hub to enable features such as push notifications or full control of your home’s smart security system.
Most door sensors are fairly inexpensive. The average door sensor is around $15, while the best can cost upwards of $50. If you’re looking for basic DIY security, cheap door alarms may work just fine. But if you’re looking for more features, including smartphone notifications or connectivity to monitored systems, you’ll pay slightly more. Most door sensors come in sets of two or more for a better value.
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