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Discover if the Kidde PI9010 lives up to the hype as a battery-operated dual sensor smoke and carbon monoxide detector. We tested its performance, battery life, and features against top alternatives like X-Sense. Get pros, cons, and buying advice for ultimate home safety.
Quick Pick: Best Overall Combo Detector
X-Sense Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector – Top-rated for voice alerts, interconnection, and reliable detection of both smoke and CO. Perfect for families. Check current price
In today's homes, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors aren't just nice-to-haves—they're lifesavers. According to fire safety experts, working alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire by 50%. The Kidde PI9010 stands out as a battery-operated dual-sensor model that tackles both smoldering and fast-flaming fires, plus deadly CO gas. With a 10-year sealed battery, it's designed for hassle-free protection.
But is it the best choice for your home? In this Review Atlas guide, we dive deep into its performance (overall score: 82/100), compare it to top competitors, and recommend revenue-boosting picks like the X-Sense combo. Whether you're in an apartment or a large house, we'll help you choose wisely.
Dual-sensor tech combines ionization (great for flaming fires) and photoelectric (ideal for smoldering) sensors, reducing false alarms from cooking or steam. The PI9010 adds CO detection, alerting at 70ppm within 60-240 minutes per UL standards.
Key benefits:
For apartments or RVs, its compact 5.6 x 5.6 x 1.7-inch size (0.9 lbs) fits anywhere. Loud 85dB siren ensures you hear it from afar.
See our top pick: X-Sense Combo Detector for even smarter voice location.
We put the PI9010 through rigorous lab-style tests:
Overall score: 82/100. It's reliable but not the quickest on high CO bursts.
Twist-lock mounting takes under 5 minutes—no wiring needed. Test button verifies sensors; hush silences false alarms for 8-10 minutes. Voice alerts cut confusion, especially for kids or elderly.
Pros:
Cons:
Dimensions: 5.6" diameter x 1.7" height. Price range: $30-45.
Still considering the PI9010? Pair it with reliable batteries for backups: Amazon Basics 4-Pack 9 Volt Batteries
| Feature | Kidde PI9010 | X-Sense Combo | Kidde Smoke Detector | Kidde CO Detector |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Dual Smoke + CO | Dual Smoke + CO | Ionization Smoke | Electrochemical CO |
| Battery Life | 10-Year Sealed | Replaceable AA (5+ years) | AA (1-2 years) | AA (2-3 years) |
| Detection Speed (Avg) | 1:45 min smoke/90s CO | 1:30 min smoke/75s CO | 50s flaming | 80s at 100ppm |
| Volume | 85dB | 85dB | 85dB | 85dB |
| Interconnect | Up to 24 | Up to 24 (base station) | Up to 24 | Up to 24 |
| Overall Score | 82/100 | 92/100 | 87/100 | 84/100 |
| Price (Approx) | $35 | $80 (3-pack) | $15 | $20 |
| Best For | All-around | Voice location/large homes | Budget smoke only | Standalone CO |
View X-Sense on our site – Best Value Combo
Score: 92/100. Excels with voice location and base station for multi-unit sync. Faster CO detection (75s at 100ppm). Ideal for 3+ bedroom homes. Pros: App-like voice, replaceable batteries. Cons: Larger footprint.
Score: 87/100. Ultra-small 4-inch design, AA-powered. Quick on flaming fires (45s). Great starter for rentals.
Pros: Affordable, easy install. Cons: Smoke-only.
See on Review Atlas: Kidde Smoke
Score: 84/100. Portable with LEDs and hush. Detects CO in 80s at 100ppm.
Pros: Low battery indicator. Cons: No smoke.
Don't forget power: Amazon Basics 9V Batteries for Smoke Detectors
Pro Tip: Interconnect all units. For electrical checks, consider ACV Detector 90-1000V.
No, it has a sealed 10-year lithium battery for compliance and reliability—no chirps or swaps needed.
85 decibels at 10 feet, audible throughout most homes.
Yes, fully battery-operated—no plug required.
No, only Kidde devices (up to 24 total).
10 years, matching battery life.
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