Smoke detectors are one of the simplest and most important security features of a household. Utilizing either fine laser beams or radioactive ions, fire alarms have a sensitive circuit that's designed to emit a high decibel sound bound to rouse even the deepest sleepers from bed in the event of an emergency. With proper maintenance and security checks, this inexpensive insurance policy will keep your loved ones safe in the event of a catastrophe. Our top five smoke detectors range in features, price, and alert functionality, but all share unfailing sensors that will perform when you need them most. First Alert BRK 9120LBL Smoke Detector Security, SimplifiedPeace of mind is a priceless asset. First Alert's BRK9120LBL Smoke Detector is engineered to deliver unwavering security with a powerful sensor and power source.Best OverallFind on Amazon First Alert is a top manufacturer when it comes to home protection, and The BRK 9120LBL Smoke Detector is their premier example. Unlike some fire alarms that rely solely on disposable 9V batteries, First Alert’s Smoke Detector is hard wired directly into your electrical system. In the event of power failure, you can be assured (with regular tests) that your battery backup will last up to a decade. What’s more, if you decide to purchase multiple BRK 9120LBL units, the hardwiring mechanism will allow all alarms to go off simultaneously if one is triggered. Pros: Ionization sensor built-in Includes test button for proper maintenance Tamper-proof locking bracket keeps children out End-of-life sensor for peace of mind Cons: It can be tricky installing if unfamiliar with electrical systems Kidde i9010 Sealed Lithium Battery Smoke Detector Push-Action ProtectionThe Kidde Sealed Lithium Battery Smoke Detector works in any environment and alerts you promptly the second disaster strikes.Runner UpFind on Amazon If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, easy-to-install fire alarm, you can hardly do better than the Kidde i9010 Sealed Lithium Battery Smoke Detector. Most other models lack an interface, so it can be nerve-wracking knowing whether or not your smoke detector is active, especially without visual input. The second that the i9010 docks into its ceiling mount, the unit activates. This unit also comes with a powerful built-in lithium-ion battery that will save the landfill from years of disposable 9-volts. Pros: Hush and test buttons included Flashes every 45 seconds to indicate the unit is operational Ten-year limited warranty Lockout feature prevents deactivated units from mounting Cons: The mounting plate is not universal Vitowell 3-Pack Fire Alarms Fire Protection That Won't FalterProtecting only one alleyway or room is a risky proposition. Vitowell's 3-Pack Smoke Detector offers maximum protection for your purchase.Best Multi-PackFind on Amazon Protecting your whole home from hazardous flames is too large a task for one measly sensor. Vitowell’s Three-Pack Fire Alarms are reliable sensors and an ideal housewarming present for friends and family. If the worst were to occur, Vitowell’s alarms immediately spring into action, boasting an 85-decibel siren and rapidly flashing red LED to alert you in the strongest possible terms. This three-pack of fire alarms is incredibly easy to install and takes disposable 9-volt batteries that can be secured with additional protection in the form of a pinhole lock. Pros: Mounting brackets included Incredibly compact design 5-Year lifespan The unit will not mount unless a battery is installed Cons: The screws for mounting included with purchase are feeble First Alert Smoke Alarm Accessorize Your Alert ApparatusFire protection isn't just limited to a sensor and ear-shattering alarm. First Alert's Smoke Alarm has everything for the cost-conscious consumer, from enhanced battery capacity to superior safety features.Best BudgetFind on Amazon As various jurisdictions increase their fire safety standards, having a smoke detector up to code is more important than ever. First Alert’s Smoke Alarms are battery-operated, lightweight, and discrete. More importantly, First Alert’s products are all UL certified to last up to 10 years with its built-in lithium-ion battery. Depending on your budget, First Alert’s Smoke Alarm can be outfitted with a larger LED escape light, increased battery locking features, and a more discrete silence button. Pros: Can be mounted on ceilings or walls Unbeatable price for the value User manual included with purchase 9V battery included Cons: The battery’s latch takes some effort to open X-Sense Wireless Smoke Detector Threat Thwarting TechX-Sense's Wireless Smoke Detectors are the perfect fit for large square footage and remote alerts when you're away from home. Best Wifi-EnabledFind on Amazon Very little has changed in the design of the smoke detector since its humble origins. Although ionization sensors have given homeowners an added means of detecting disaster, what if you’re on vacation or just simply out of earshot of your alarms? X-Sense provides us with the feature we’ve all been waiting for in our home security systems: wireless connectivity. These Wireless Smoke Detectors come in either 3- or six-packs and are programmed to sound simultaneously in the event of a fire at incredible distances from one another. Pros: Alert yourself to fire hazards across almost 900 feet Straightforward setup Up to 24 nodes available in one network Lifetime customer service Cons: Does not send alerts to smart devices Frequently Asked Questions How do I properly test my smoke detectors? Smoke detectors must be regularly maintained to keep safe from combustible situations. As a general rule of thumb, fire alarms should be checked every month to ensure battery upkeep. While some models will alert you to low power, holding down the silence button will give you a definitive answer. Hardwired detectors should rarely if at all, require battery replacement throughout their lives, while disposable battery-dependent units may require a replacement as often as every six months. What other measures should I take to protect my home from fire? While smoke detectors are a great first step, so much more can be done to prevent fires from spreading. To begin, smoke detectors at the very least should be installed on every level of your home, and at the very best installed in every hallway and room. In addition to carbon monoxide detectors and extinguishers accompanying every alarm, protocols such as this are guaranteed to stop tragedy in its tracks. If you want a further layer of protection, consider using both ionization and photoelectric sensors on every floor. Ionization alarms detect the change in airflow that raging fires create, while photoelectric lasers will go off more easily in the event of low heat, smoldering fires.