Best Glass Break Sensors and Detectors
Glass break sensors add an extra line of protection between an intruder and your home. If glass is broken, you’ll be notified by a loud alarm to protect your loved ones if potential danger is near.
Most Sensitive Glass Break Sensor
Vivint Glass Break Detector
Cost:
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Why we picked it:
- Uses a two-stage glass break sensor to listen for the initial glass breaking and shattering
- Automatically sends tampering mobile alerts when the sensor is tampered with
- Adjustable glass break sensor sensitivity to prevent false alarms from it being too sensitive
Best Monitored Security Glass Break Sensor
ADT Glass Break Sensor
Cost:
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Why we picked it:
- Automatically receive ADT mobile app notifications if glass is broken
- Seamlessly connects to your existing ADT monitored security system
- Notifies ADT professional monitoring services automatically if the sensor detects broken glass
Best Value Glass Break Sensor
SimpliSafe Glass Break Sensor
Cost:
–
Why we picked it:
- Works when motion detectors are disabled
- Accurately detects the sound of broken glass with Detection Algorithm and Digital Signal Processing
- Designed to be small and less visible than most hardwired glass break sensors
5 Best Glass Break Sensors of 2019
- Most Sensitive Glass Break Sensor – Vivint Glass Break Detector
- Best Monitored Security Sensor – ADT Glass Break Sensor
- Best Value Glass Break Sensor – SimpliSafe Glass Break Sensor
- Best Wireless Sensor – Frontpoint Glass Break Sensor
- Best Technology to Prevent False Alarms– Honeywell Intellisense
Best Features to Look for in a Glass Break Sensor
Microphone with microprocessor
Together, these features analyze the frequency, intensity and timing of glass breaking sounds. They’re able to detect the sounds at a heightened level and can even detect softer glass breaking sounds. These types of glass break sensors have minimal false alarms.
Clear indicators
A glass break sensor should clearly alert you when the sensor has been tampered with or when it has a low battery. Look for glass break sensors that show an LED light, sound a high-decibel alarm or send a mobile notification to alert you to check the status of the sensor.
Sensitivity settings
The best glass break sensors allow you to adjust the sensitivity to prevent false alarms. Some allow you to select from one of the built-in preset options to determine whether or not the sensor detects the softest glass breaking or more loud and intense shattering. For the best range or options, look for sensors that have at least four settings.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Glass Break Sensor
Range – Look for a glass break sensor that has a wide range. Most glass break sensors can detect broken glass within 20-25 feet from the sensor from 360-degrees. The wider the range, the less glass break sensors you’ll need because one sensor can detect broken glass in multiple other rooms within range. The glass break sensor microphone will pick up noises even through walls and doors, but to make the most of your sensor’s range, place it in an open area with very few walls or doors blocking it.
Monitored security – Glass break sensors connected to a fully monitored home security system helps provide your home with extra protection. If the sensor is connected to a full system, you’ll receive instant mobile alerts of glass breaking even when you’re away and professional monitoring services can notify emergency responders on your behalf. If the glass break sensor is standalone, you may not receive instant alerts and if the sensor’s alarm sounds, you won’t know if you’re away.
Wireless vs. hardwired glass break sensors – Glass break sensors can be wired through your home’s electricity or battery-operated wire-free. Wireless sensors have a peel-and-stick adhesive or one screw for easy installation. Wireless sensors are popular rental properties or dorms. They often only detect breaking glass and sound a high-decibel alarm to alert you. If you’re looking for a more durable glass break sensor that connects to a monitored system, sends mobile push notifications or has a tamper-resistant design, you’ll want to consider a hardwired glass break sensor. These can be professionally installed and are most suitable for home and business owners.
Compare Glass Break Sensors: Our Top 10 Picks
Most Sensitive Glass Break Sensor
1. Vivint Glass Break Detector
Cost:
–
Description:
The Vivint Glass Break Detector is a two-stage glass break sensor that listens for the initial breaking of glass, then the shattering. It automatically triggers an alarm and sends an instant mobile alert. With this glass break sensor, you’ll have the power to adjust the sensitivity using a one-press button on the sensor to only alert you if glass is shattered instead of going off with strong winds during a storm. It pairs with Vivint’s fully monitored home security system for better home safety.
Key Features
- Includes preset microphone sensitivity settings to detect glass-breaking sounds
- Detects broken glass from 20 feet away
- Wireless glass break sensor
- Tamper resistant with instant tampering mobile alerts
Best Monitored Security Glass Break Sensor
2. ADT Glass Break Sensor
Cost:
–
Description:
The ADT Glass Break Sensor pairs with the ADT security system to protect your home from various glass types. If any glass is broken, you’ll receive instant alerts via the ADT mobile app. This glass break sensor can detect breaking glass within 25 feet and includes four preset sensitivity options to detect softer or louder sounds of glass breaking. It pairs with ADT’s fully monitored home security system for better home safety.
Key Features
- Includes preset microphone sensitivity settings to detect glass-breaking sounds
- Receive mobile alerts via ADT’s mobile app if glass is broken
- Detects broken glass from 25 feet away
- Wireless glass break sensor
Best Value Glass Break Sensor
3. SimpliSafe Glass Break Sensor
Cost:
–
Description:
The SimpliSafe Glass Break Sensor is designed to work properly even when your motion detectors are disabled to keep your home secure while you move around freely. With SimpliSafe’s sensor, you can easily adjust the glass break sensor’s sensitivity to detect softer or louder sounds of glass breaking. It pairs with SimpliSafe’s fully monitored home security system for better home safety.
Key Features
- Includes preset microphone sensitivity settings to detect glass-breaking sounds
- Detects broken glass within 20 feet
- Hardwired glass break sensor
- Uses a Detection Algorithm and Digital Signal Processing to identify the unique sound of broken glass
4. Frontpoint Glass Break Sensor
Cost:
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Description:
The Frontpoint Glass Break Sensor uses pattern-recognition technology to detect the distinct sound of glass breaking and to ignore sounds such as a ball or tree limb hitting a window. The sensor pairs with Frontpoint’s monitored home security system for better home safety. And if glass within 20 feet of the sensor is broken, Frontpoint’s professional monitoring services are instantly notified.
Key Features
- Receive mobile alerts via Frontpoint’s mobile app if glass is broken
- Detects broken glass within 20 feet
- Wireless glass break sensor
- Uses Pattern-Recognition Technology to identify the unique sound of broken glass
5. Honeywell Intellisense FG-730 Glass-Break Detector
Cost:
$49.95
Description:
This Honeywell glass break sensor includes a built-in alarm LED to identify which sensor detects broken glass when multiple glass breaking sensors are enabled. It uses Dual Flex and Audio Technology to detect initial impact and shattering of broken glass. This sensor detects glass broken within 30 feet of the sensor – a broader range than most glass break sensors.
Key Features
- Uses Signal Filtering to prevent false alarms
- Detects broken glass within 30 feet
- Wireless glass break sensor
- Uses Dual Flex and Audio Technology to identify the unique sound of broken glass
6. Digital Security Controls AC-100 Glassbreak Detector
Cost:
$45.38
Description:
This Acuity glass break sensor includes a built-in alarm LED to identify which sensor detects broken glass when multiple glass breaking sensors are enabled. It includes a detection level setting to determine the best room to install the glass break sensor. It also includes a testing mode to ensure that your sensor is working properly.
Key Features
- Tamper resistant with instant tampering alarms
- Detects broken glass within 25 feet
- Hardwired glass break sensor
- Uses a sensitivity range and digital signal processing to identify the unique sound of broken glass
7. Honeywell Intellisense FG-1625 Glassbreak Sensor
Cost:
$45.38
Description:
This Honeywell glass break sensor detects broken glass from all types including plate, tempered, laminated and other glass types. It’s made with a FlexCode Signal Processor to detect glass breaking quickly. The glass break sensor is also built with four preset sensitivity options to detect softer or louder sounds of glass breaking.
Key Features
- Uses Multiple Domain Signal Analysis detect glass breaking and prevent false alarms
- Detects broken glass within 25 feet
- Wireless glass break sensor
- Includes preset microphone sensitivity settings to detect glass-breaking sounds
8. Eva Logik Glass Break Security Alarm Sensor
Cost:
$33.99
Description:
The Eva Logik glass break sensor easily peels and sticks to any window or glass at homes and businesses. When breaking glass is triggered, it sounds a loud 120-decibel alarm for 60 seconds. This wireless glass break sensor is designed to work for one year before changing the batteries depending on the use. It includes a warning sticker to alert intruders that your home is protected.
Key Features
- Signals a low-battery alert to remind you to change the glass break sensor’s batteries
- Includes preset microphone sensitivity settings to detect glass-breaking sounds
- Sounds a 120-decibel alarm when triggered
- Wireless glass break sensor
9. SABRE Wireless Glass Break & Vibration Detector Alarm
Cost:
$13.84
Description:
The SABRE glass break sensor includes a warning sticker to alert intruders that your home is protected. The sensor includes a built-in sensitivity switch to prevent false alarms. It automatically signals a low-battery alert to remind you to change the glass break sensor’s batteries. SABRE recommends using this glass break sensor on sliding doors, windows and patios.
Key Features
- Signals a low-battery alert to remind you to change the glass break sensor’s batteries
- Includes preset microphone sensitivity settings to detect glass-breaking sounds
- Detects broken glass within 300 feet
- Wireless glass break sensor
10. Interlogix Acoustic Glassbreak Detector
Cost:
$27.28
Description:
The Interlogix glass break sensor uses Pattern Recognition Technology to detect the vibration of glass breaking within 25 feet of the sensor. It’s designed to understand the frequency range for glass breaking to prevent false alarms. And, to test the glass break sensor’s microphone, all you have to do is clap your hands or press the ‘Test Mode’ button on the alarm.
Key Features
- Tamper resistant with a screw that connects the glass break sensor cover and its base securely to the wall
- Detects broken glass within 25 feet
- Uses Pattern-Recognition Technology to identify the unique sound of broken glass
- Hardwired glass break sensor
Glass Break Sensor FAQs
How do glass break sensors work?
Glass break sensors use a microphone to listen and detect the sound of glass breaking.. Some glass break sensors use additional technology to distinguish between the initial sound of glass cracking and the shattering of glass. Glass break sensor also work differently depending on the type of glass.
What’s the difference between a glass break sensor and a window sensor?
Window sensors are designed to alert you when a window is opened, however, they don’t alert you if the window is shattered. Glass break sensors are designed to let you know if your home’s glass is cracked or broken. Also, keep in mind that window sensors cover one area while one glass break sensor covers an area within a certain range.
Where should I install a glass break sensor?
If you own a fully monitored home security system, your provider’s installation technician will install the glass break sensor for you. If you’re installing DIY security equipment, there are a few common places glass break sensors should be placed such as your home’s wall six feet high or ceiling free from anything blocking it. Before installing, read over the manufacturer’s manual for proper installation tips. You’ll want to mount the sensor within the manufacturer’s suggested range to detect broken glass in the sensor’s range.
Benefits of Glass Break Sensors
Deters potential burglars
Burglars often force entry by breaking door glass and windows. If thieves are trying to break in and hear the glass break sensor’s loud alarm, they’ll think twice before entering because they know your home is protected.
Wider covered range
With one glass break sensor, you’ll know a wide range of your home is protected since the 360-degree design allows the sensor to listen for glass breaking from all angles. The best part is, you’ll need a lot fewer glass break sensors to cover a wider range in your home instead of window sensors which only cover 1-2 windows.
Added home security
You’ll never have to wonder if you heard glass break because your sensor will automatically alert you. You should expect a mobile notification or loud alarm if the glass break sensor’s microphone hears the unique sound of glass breaking or shattering.
Installing glass break sensors is one easy and affordable way to help protect your home. Remember to check for all of the glass break sensor’s features you’ll need to feel safe. Browsing our top picks, then check out a full list of Amazon’s best selling glass break sensors to see today’s industry-leading offers.
