Smoke Detectors: Reviews

Updated March 2013

There's no doubt that smoke detectors can save lives. It's just that finding the best ones can cause a little confusion. Our report on smoke detectors clears that up by looking at the different types, and naming the ones that experts and users say are the most effective and reliable -- without driving you to distractions with excessive false alarms. There's also lots of other helpful information about smoke detectors -- including how to make sure ones you already have are still doing their job.

First Alert SA320CN

Best smoke detector

*Est. $25

Estimated Price

The First Alert SA320CN is a dual-sensor smoke detector that's easy to install and has few false alarms. An easy-to-use test and silence button lets you know the unit is working and allows you to quickly silence the 85-decibel alarm if it should go off unnecessarily.

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Kidde RF-SM-DC

Ionization smoke detector

*Est. $30

Estimated Price

The Kidde RF-SM-DC is a battery-powered, interconnected ionization smoke alarm system. Pressing the test button on one unit will tell you if the whole system is working; likewise, pressing the silence button on a single unit will deactivate the alarms on all connected units.

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First Alert SA710CN

Photoelectric smoke detector

*Est. $15

Estimated Price

Photoelectric smoke detectors like the First Alert SA710CN are better at detecting slow, smoldering fires than ionization smoke alarms. This battery-powered model earns praise from professionals and owners for its simple installation and is said to be both effective and reliable.

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Kidde i9010

Dual-sensor smoke detector

*Est. $25

Estimated Price

For maximum protection, experts suggest a dual-sensor smoke detector like the Kidde i9010, which is equipped with both ionization and photoelectric sensors to accurately identify all types of fire hazards. This alarm is very sensitive, reviews say, a good indication it will work as expected in case of a fire.

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See a side-by-side comparison of key features, product specs, and prices.

How to Buy a Smoke Detector