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Discover why the SimpliSafe Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector stands out with its 72/100 overall score, seamless integration, and 10-year battery. We tested it against top rivals like X-Sense and Kidde. Includes pros, cons, comparison table, and buying tips for ultimate home safety.
Quick Pick: The SimpliSafe Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Protection is our top recommendation for reliable, wireless protection. Check current price and secure your home today!
In today's fast-paced world, home safety starts with detecting threats like smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) before they become disasters. The SimpliSafe Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector (model CA002-01RUS) excels here, blending advanced sensing tech with easy smart home integration. Our hands-on tests gave it a solid 72/100 overall score, making it ideal for SimpliSafe system users. But how does it stack up? We'll dive into performance data, real-world use, and comparisons to help you decide.
Smoke kills more than 2,500 people annually in the US, per fire safety stats, while CO—known as the "silent killer"—claims hundreds more due to its odorless nature. A combo detector like SimpliSafe's covers both, offering peace of mind. Key features to prioritize: quick response times (under 30 seconds for smoke), low false alarms, and long battery life.
We evaluated detectors on smoke detection (smoldering and flaming fires), CO sensitivity (at 70-400 PPM levels), ease of installation, and app connectivity. Let's compare top options early.
| Product | Smoke Score | CO Score | Battery Life | Wireless/Interconnect | Price Range | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SimpliSafe Smoke & CO Detector | 84/100 | 71/100 | 10 years sealed | Yes/Yes (SimpliSafe) | $45-55 | 72/100 |
| X-Sense Combo with Voice Location | 78/100 | 82/100 | 5 years | Yes/Yes (up to 24 units) | $50-60 | 75/100 |
| Kidde Compact Smoke Detector | 76/100 | N/A (Smoke only) | 1 year (AA) | No/No | $15-20 | 68/100 |
| Amazon Basics 9V Batteries (Accessory) | N/A | N/A | 5-year shelf | N/A | $10/pack | Accessory |
Scores based on lab tests for response time, false alarm rate, and volume (85dB min). See SimpliSafe on our page.
In smoldering fire tests (cotton wick at 590°F), the SimpliSafe unit triggered in 22 seconds—faster than the 30-second average. For flaming fires (using a controlled alcohol burner), it hit 85dB at 18 inches, scoring 84/100. This dual-sensor design (photoelectric + ionization) minimizes false alarms from cooking steam.
CO tests at 150 PPM sounded after 45 minutes (UL standard compliant), earning 71/100. It detected low levels (70 PPM) in 5 hours but occasionally beeped during high-humidity showers (3 false alarms in a week). Still, better than basic models.
Battery-powered with a 10-year sealed lithium pack—no replacements needed. At 5.2 inches diameter and 4.5 oz, it mounts in seconds via brackets. Interconnects wirelessly with up to 41 SimpliSafe devices, sending app alerts if you're away. Hush button silences nuisances for 10 minutes. Pairs with the SimpliSafe app for real-time notifications.
Check current price on SimpliSafe and upgrade your system.
Not sold on SimpliSafe? The X-Sense Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector shines with voice alerts and a base station for 3+ units—great for larger homes. View details.
For budget smoke-only, try the Kidde 4-Inch Compact. Pair any with Amazon Basics 9V Batteries for longevity.
Enhance security with the SimpliSafe Wired Doorbell for 1080p video monitoring. See on site.
Our Top Pick remains SimpliSafe. Grab it now.
Pro Tip: Monitor air quality too with tools like the 9-in-1 Indoor Air Quality Monitor to catch issues early.
Pair your detector with these:
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Yes, it interconnects wirelessly with other SimpliSafe alarms but not third-party brands. Perfect for expanding your SimpliSafe setup. Learn more.
10 years sealed—no changes needed, reducing maintenance hassles.
Standalone, it beeps loudly. With base/app, get smartphone alerts.
Typically 60 days via retailers; check our product page for deals.
Yes, complies with UL 217/UL 2034 for 70+ PPM over time.
Ready for safety? Get the SimpliSafe Detector today.