Smoke alarms
We tested 20 models to see which respond fastest to smoke.
Nest
Protect A13
recommended
Avg price
$219
Test results
- 75Ease of use
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How we test
Overall score is based on smouldering and flaming fire sensitivity.
“Good” or “OK” meant the alarm sounded quickly enough to alert you to danger.
“Poor” meant the alarm took significantly longer to sound.
“Extreme” sensitivity meant the alarm sounded so quickly they are more likely to issue false alarms.
Ease of use includes instructions and ease of installation.
See "About our test" for more information.
Noise is measured in a quiet room 3m from the alarm.
Price is from a March 2018 price survey.
More test results
- Smouldering fire sensitivity
Good
- Flaming fire sensitivity
Good
Model
- Avg price
$219
- Alarm type
Photoelectric
- Noise (dBA)
85
- Battery type
6x AA (lithium)
- Size
Standard
Features
- Battery life (years)
Not stated
- Alarm life (years)
10
- Warranty (yrs)
2
- Hush period (min)
Not stated
- Carbon monoxide alarm
- Alarms can be linked
- Voice alerts
More info
- Notes
-
- Availability
-
Brilliant but expensive
Pros
I first purchased one of these when the Nest Protect 2 was first released in 2015 (imported from the U.S). I was very impressed with the complete lack of false alarms and the fact it give you a "Heads up" warning if it detects anything. Great for the Kitchen. The batteries supplied with this device are very high quality and after 2+ years the original batteries are still fine. I have since purchased a second device.
Cons
The main downside is the cost - very expensive but recommended for the Kitchen at least.
Needs the App and Wifi to set up.
Recommend it?
Yes, I recommend this product.
Richard & Terresa B.
Used 6 months or more