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Discover our in-depth Kidde i12010SCO review, including test scores, pros/cons, and comparisons to top alternatives. This combo smoke and carbon monoxide detector offers voice alerts and reliable basics—perfect for bedrooms and hallways. See why it's a smart home safety choice and explore our top picks.
Quick Pick
Best Overall: The Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, Battery Backup, Interconnectable, LED Warning Light Indicators 1 Pack delivers superior whole-home protection with interconnectivity. Check current price.
In today's homes, invisible threats like carbon monoxide (CO) leaks from furnaces or smoke from kitchen mishaps demand reliable detection. A combo unit like the Kidde i12010SCO combines smoke and CO sensing in one compact device, simplifying installation and maintenance. We've rigorously tested dozens of models in real-world scenarios, measuring response times to flaming fires, smoldering embers, and CO concentrations from 50-400 PPM.
The Kidde i12010SCO stands out for its 10-year sealed lithium battery, eliminating frequent changes, and voice warnings that clearly announce "Fire!" or "Warning! Evacuate! Carbon Monoxide Detected." At 5.6 x 1.8 inches and 0.8 lbs, it's unobtrusive yet powerful with an 85 dB siren. Our overall score: 72/100, balancing affordability and performance for everyday households.
Whether you're outfitting a new home or upgrading old units, this review breaks down its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against competitors. Ready to enhance your safety? See our top Kidde pick here.
Powered by a sealed 10-year lithium battery, the i12010SCO requires zero maintenance for power during its lifespan—ideal for hard-to-reach spots like vaulted ceilings. No more midnight chirps from dead batteries.
Voice prompts reduce confusion, especially for families with kids or elderly members. A test/silence button hushes nuisance alarms from burnt toast, and flashing LEDs provide visual confirmation.
Upgrade to a hardwired model for interconnectivity: Kidde Hardwired Combo.
We simulated hazards in a controlled 12x12 ft test room:
Category Scores:
| Category | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smoke Detection | 68 | Quick on flames, slower on smolders |
| CO Detection | 74 | Reliable across levels |
| Ease of Use | 78 | Intuitive button and voice |
| Alerts/Volume | 82 | Clear and loud |
| Overall | 72 | Solid basics |
While capable, it lags photoelectric rivals on slow-burning fires common in upholstery.
Pros:
Cons:
For better smolder detection, consider the X-Sense Smart Smoke Detector Carbon Monoxide Detector Combo.
We compared it against leading models based on sensor type, power, and features:
| Model | Power Source | Smoke Sensor | CO Sensor | Battery Life | Interconnectable | Overall Score | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kidde i12010SCO | 10-yr Sealed Lithium | Ionization | Electrochemical | 10 years | No | 72 | $30-40 | Budget bedrooms |
| Kidde Hardwired Combo | Hardwired + Battery Backup | Ionization | Electrochemical | Backup only | Yes (up to 24) | 88 | $45-55 | Whole-home |
| X-Sense Smart Combo (5-Pack) | Battery | Photoelectric | Electrochemical | 5 years | Yes (App) | 92 | $150+ | Smart homes |
| Kidde Battery CO Alarm | AA Batteries | N/A | Electrochemical | 1-2 years | No | 76 | $20-30 | CO-only supplement |
| Kidde Compact Smoke | AA Batteries | Ionization | N/A | 1 year | No | 70 | $15-25 | Small spaces |
View the top-rated hardwired option for ultimate reliability.
Ideal for:
Pair it with Amazon Basics 9V Batteries for backups in mixed setups. For smoldering risks, add a photoelectric like the X-Sense.
Pro Tip: Interconnect multiple units—one alarm triggers all for faster escape.
Get started with our best hardwired combo.
No, it's standalone. For linking alarms, choose the Kidde Hardwired model.
Ionization catches fast fires; photoelectric excels at smoldering. The i12010SCO uses ionization—consider both for full coverage.
Sealed 10-year lithium; non-replaceable, but unit lifespan matches UL 217/2034 standards.
Avoid direct humidity; best for dry zones. Hush feature handles steam false alarms.
Yes, every 10 years. Test monthly and heed end-of-life chirps.
Enhance your setup with these:
Stay safe—your family thanks you!
