Buying guide · Updated 2026-11-02
Heating season is a good time to check the alarms in your home. A smart alarm sends a phone alert when it sounds, even if you are away. Google has stopped selling the Nest Protect, so we focus on models that are still being sold.
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Hardwired alarms connect to your home power and keep a backup battery. Battery models are easier to install and suit renters. Check what your existing alarms are before you mix brands, since interconnect usually works only between compatible models.
Kidde alarms work with the Kidde app, and the Ring versions work with the Ring app. X-Sense uses its own app, and Aqara suits Apple Home. Check the listing for Alexa or Google support, because it differs by model.
App alerts depend on your home Wi-Fi, and some Wi-Fi alarms only work on 2.4 GHz networks. The alarm itself should still sound if the internet drops. Test it monthly and replace it by the date on the label.
| Product | Best for | Group | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Alarm Smoke & CO Listener | Ring Alarm owners with working alarms | Budget or add-on | Check price |
| Aqara Smart Smoke Detector | Apple Home users who want a smoke-only alarm | Budget or add-on | Check price |
| X-Sense Wi-Fi Smoke and CO Alarm SC07-WX | Wi-Fi alerts with no hub | Budget or add-on | Check price |
| Kidde Smart Smoke + CO Alarm (Wi-Fi, hardwired) | Homes with existing Kidde hardwired alarms | Popular all-round | Check price |
| First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & CO Alarm (battery) | Google Nest Protect owners and renters | Popular all-round | Check price |
| Kidde Smart Smoke + CO Alarm for Ring (battery) | Ring app users who cannot run wires | Popular all-round | Check price |
| Kidde Smart Smoke + CO Alarm with Indoor Air Quality Monitor | Alexa or Google homes that want air quality data | Premium | Check price |
| First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & CO Alarm (hardwired) | Homes with existing First Alert or BRK wiring | Premium | Check price |
| Kidde Hardwired Smart Smoke + CO Alarm for Ring | Ring homes replacing hardwired alarms | Premium | Check price |
Best for: Ring Alarm owners with working alarms
It does not detect smoke or CO itself. It listens for your existing alarm and sends a Ring alert. It needs a Ring Alarm system and is not a substitute for alarms.
Check price on AmazonBest for: Apple Home users who want a smoke-only alarm
Smoke only, with no CO sensing. Listed as working with Apple Home, so check the listing for any hub or Matter setup needs.
Check price on AmazonBest for: Wi-Fi alerts with no hub
Connects to the X-Sense app over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, so no base station is needed. Check the listing for interconnect support before you buy more than one.
Check price on AmazonBest for: Homes with existing Kidde hardwired alarms
Wi-Fi alerts and alarm testing through the Kidde app. It works with existing Kidde hardwired interconnected alarms. Check stock, as some retailers list it as unavailable.
Check price on AmazonBest for: Google Nest Protect owners and renters
Made by First Alert as the Nest Protect follow-up. First Alert lists it as compatible with Nest Protect alarms. Check the listing for the Google Home setup.
Check price on AmazonBest for: Ring app users who cannot run wires
Battery model that works with the Ring app over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. It includes 2 AA batteries and has a wire-free interconnect option.
Check price on AmazonWe compared manufacturer pages, retailer listings and reputable review sites, looking at power type, app support and interconnect options. We have not tested these alarms ourselves. Smart alerts add convenience, but they do not replace working alarms or a professional inspection of your heating system. Check each listing for current features and stock before you buy.
No. Google has stopped selling the Nest Protect, according to news reports and the Google Store listing. Existing alarms keep working. Google worked with First Alert on the SC5 as a follow-up.
NFPA says to test smoke alarms at least once a month. It also says to replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old. For CO alarms, follow the replacement date in your alarm's manual.
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