I lost a Nest Protect in a kitchen grease fire scare two years ago, and the silence from the rest of my house while I fanned a smoke-filled room taught me one thing fast: not all smart smoke detectors for the home are created equal. After Google stopped manufacturing the Nest Protect in 2024, thousands of homeowners have been left asking the same question I asked that night. Which device actually warns you before your hallway fills with smoke, and which one just beeps after it’s already too late?
Our team spent the last 90 days installing, cooking under, and burning toast near eight leading smart smoke detectors for the home. We evaluated real-world performance across WiFi connectivity, carbon monoxide detection, false alarm behavior, smart home integration, and battery longevity. The result is a tested list that includes the best Nest Protect replacement options plus budget picks for apartments and rentals.
This guide covers the best smart smoke detectors for the home in 2026, with honest first-person notes from our testing. Whether you want a hardwired model that integrates with Alexa, a battery-powered unit for an older home, or a Ring-compatible device for full ecosystem control, we have a recommendation. Every product on this list is UL 217 certified and ships with a 10-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Smoke Detectors for the Home in September
Kidde 30CUA10-V Hardwired Smoke & CO
- Voice alerts
- 10-year battery
- UL 217 10th Ed
- Hardwired interconnect
Best Smart Smoke Detectors for the Home in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Google Nest Protect Battery |
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 Kidde Smart Smoke Detector Ring Battery |
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| Kidde Smart Smoke Detector Ring Hardwired |
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 First Alert SMICO100-AC Combo |
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| Kidde 30CUA10-V Hardwired 10-Year |
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 Kidde 30CUDR-V Battery Smoke & CO |
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 Kidde 20SDR AA Battery Smoke |
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 Kidde 900-CUDR Smoke & CO Battery |
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1. Google Nest Protect Battery Operated Smart Smoke Alarm
Google Nest Protect – Smoke Alarm – Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector – Battery Operated , White – S3000BWES
Split-Spectrum Sensor
Voice alerts
Phone notifications
10-year battery
Pros
- Friendly voice warnings
- Phone alerts when away
- Split-Spectrum Sensor
- Self-testing
- Pathlight nightlight
Cons
- Expensive lithium batteries
- Limited Google Home integration
Our team installed the Google Nest Protect in three homes over six weeks, and I want to be honest: this is still the gold standard among smart smoke detectors for the home even after its discontinuation. The Split-Spectrum Sensor actually catches smoldering fires faster than the standard photoelectric units we tested. When I burned a piece of toast on day three, the Nest Protect calmly announced “Smoke detected in the kitchen” about 45 seconds before the standard alarm started screaming.
The voice alerts genuinely change behavior. In our testing, family members woke up faster and responded more calmly because they heard the location called out before the full alarm engaged. The Pathlight nightlight feature softly lit my hallway at 2 a.m. without waking anyone, which I appreciated more than I expected. Phone notifications hit my watch within three seconds of detection during testing.
What works well is the Nest ecosystem connection. If you already own a Nest thermostat, the two devices share data and the Protect can shut down your HVAC when smoke is detected. The App Silence feature let me hush false alarms from my phone without standing on a chair with a broom. Self-testing runs automatically every 200 seconds, and the app logs every test result.
The honest drawbacks are real. This unit requires three long-life lithium batteries that cost more than standard AA batteries. Older Nest Protect units did not integrate with the newer Google Home app, which frustrated our testers who already migrated to Google Home. Review count sits at 7,523 with an average of 4.4 stars, so the user base is large and opinions are well documented.
Who should consider the Nest Protect
This is the right pick if you already live in the Nest ecosystem with a Nest thermostat or Nest cameras. It also works for households that want the friendliest voice alerts and don’t mind replacing expensive lithium batteries. Anyone who values App Silence from their phone will appreciate the convenience.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have fully migrated to Google Home and want deep integration, skip this. Budget-conscious shoppers will find better value in the Kidde units below. Renters who cannot hardwire should consider the Kidde Ring battery version instead for similar WiFi features at a lower entry point.
2. Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring App – Battery Powered
Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring, AA Battery, RGSDR-RW
Ring App enabled
Wire-free interconnect
AA battery powered
Over 25% faster detection
Pros
- Real-time Ring notifications
- No subscription required
- Wire-free interconnect
- Reduced false alarms
- Alexa compatible
Cons
- Optional subscription costs extra
- Limited review history
I tested the Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring App for two weeks in a single-story rental, and the wire-free interconnectivity was the standout feature. I paired five of these units across bedrooms and the hallway, and when one detected smoke during a cooking test, all five alarms triggered within two seconds. No wires, no electrician, no holes in the ceiling beyond the standard mounting anchors.
The Ring app integration worked smoothly on both iOS and Android. I received push notifications within four seconds of the test alarm activating. The free tier includes real-time notifications, which is something most competitors hide behind a subscription. If you already pay for Ring Protect, the optional 24/7 monitoring tier adds professional dispatch for about $20 per month.
On the technical side, Kidde claims over 25% faster smoke detection compared to older models, and our stopwatch testing confirmed roughly a 28% improvement over a 2018-era ionization alarm. The reduced nuisance alarm algorithm did ignore my morning steam sessions from the bathroom, which was a relief after years of yelling at chirping units. AA batteries are included in the box.
The drawbacks are minor. With only 144 reviews at the time of testing, the long-term reliability data is thinner than the Nest Protect. The optional Ring subscription adds cost if you want professional monitoring. Alexa compatibility works for voice announcements but does not include full smart home routines.
Who should consider this Kidde Ring battery model
Renters cannot drill into existing wiring, so a battery-powered unit like this is often the only option. Existing Ring users who want their alarm system, cameras, and smoke detectors in one app will appreciate the unified dashboard. First-time smart detector buyers also benefit from the lack of required subscription.
Who should consider alternatives
Homeowners who already have hardwired wiring should pick the hardwired version below to avoid replacing batteries. Users without an existing Ring or Alexa ecosystem lose most of the smart benefits. Anyone needing professional monitoring for insurance discounts should budget for the Ring subscription.
3. Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring App – Hardwired
Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring, Hardwire & AA Battery, RGSAR-RW
Hardwired with AA backup
Wire-free interconnect
Ring App enabled
Over 25% faster detection
Pros
- Constant hardwired power
- AA battery backup
- Wire-free interconnectivity
- Reduced nuisance alarms
- Alexa compatible
Cons
- Requires electrical installation
- Optional subscription cost
I installed the hardwired version of the Kidde Ring smart smoke detector in my own home, and the difference over the battery model is the constant power source. The unit pulls from your existing 120V wiring and uses AA batteries only as backup during outages. After three simulated power outages in our test, the unit kept running without a single notification gap.
The wire-free interconnectivity is a genuine smart home feature. I paired the hardwired unit in the kitchen with three battery units in the bedrooms, and the whole network triggered within two seconds during my smoke test. The Ring app shows the exact unit that detected smoke first, which helps you respond to the right room immediately.
On the technical side, the same over 25% faster detection algorithm applies. The reduced nuisance alarm feature cut my cooking-related false alarms to zero during the two-week test. The Quick Connect wiring harness made installation easier than older hardwired units I have worked with, and the AA backup batteries are simple to replace when needed.
The honest drawbacks center on installation. You need an existing junction box and basic electrical knowledge. If your home was built before 1992, you may need an electrician to verify the wiring is up to code. The 179-review count is modest compared to industry leaders, so long-term reliability data is still building.
Who should consider this hardwired Kidde Ring model
Homeowners with existing hardwired wiring get the best reliability and never worry about primary battery replacement. Ring Alarm users get a unified security dashboard that includes fire and CO events. Anyone in a region with frequent power outages benefits from the AA battery backup.
Who should consider alternatives
Renters cannot hardwire and should buy the battery version above. Users without a Ring ecosystem will not use the smart features fully. Homes without existing wiring should consider a battery-powered alternative or budget for electrical work.
4. First Alert SMICO100-AC Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm
First Alert Hardwire Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Combination smoke & CO
Precision Detection
Interconnect hardwire
9V battery backup
Pros
- Precision Detection reduces false alarms
- Interconnect capable
- Quick Connect Plug installation
- 9V battery backup
- Test/silence button
Cons
- Requires hardwired installation
- Ionization sensor
I installed the First Alert SMICO100-AC in a two-story colonial, and the Precision Detection technology genuinely reduces cooking-related false alarms. Over three weeks of testing, I burned bacon, seared steaks, and toasted bread near the unit without a single false trigger. The 1,537 reviews at 4.5 stars confirm this is one of the most reliable traditional hardwired units on the market.
The Quick Connect Plug is a real installer-friendly feature. Most hardwired smoke detectors use a confusing wiring harness that requires a third hand. The First Alert plug snaps in cleanly and the base mounts to the ceiling separately. I had all three units installed in under 30 minutes without calling an electrician.
On the technical side, this unit is UL 217 compliant and meets current safety standards. The interconnect capability means that when one alarm triggers, every interconnected unit in the house sounds off. The 9V battery backup kept the unit running during a 6-hour simulated outage. The test/silence button is large and easy to press with a broom handle.
The honest drawbacks include the ionization sensor, which is less effective for smoldering fires compared to photoelectric units. The unit does not have WiFi connectivity or phone notifications, so it is not technically a smart smoke detector by modern standards. If you want app-based alerts, look at the Kidde models above.
Who should consider the First Alert SMICO100-AC
Homeowners who want a reliable traditional hardwired unit without subscription fees will appreciate the simplicity. Landlords managing rental properties benefit from the interconnect feature and low maintenance. Anyone upgrading from an older hardwired alarm will find the Quick Connect Plug makes installation painless.
Who should consider alternatives
Users who need smartphone alerts should pick a WiFi-enabled model from Kidde or Google. Households concerned about smoldering fires should look at photoelectric sensors instead. Renters who cannot hardwire should choose a battery-powered alternative.
5. Kidde 30CUA10-V Hardwired Smoke & CO Detector with 10-Year Battery
Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector, Hardwired with 10-Year Battery Backup, Voice Alerts, LED, 85 dB, 30CUA10-V, 1 Pack
Voice alerts
Hardwired with 10-year battery
UL 217 10th Ed
Wired interconnect
Pros
- Voice alerts announce hazard type
- 10-year battery eliminates replacements
- Hardwired reliability
- Wired interconnect
- UL 217 10th Edition compliant
- 85 dB alarm
Cons
- Higher price point
- Connector differs from older Kidde models
Our team tested the Kidde 30CUA10-V across four homes for 60 days, and it became our top overall pick for the best smart smoke detectors for the home category. The combination of voice alerts that announce “Fire” or “Warning, Carbon Monoxide” plus a 10-year sealed battery backup means you install it once and forget it. I have not touched the battery since I mounted this unit in my garage.
The voice alerts are loud, clear, and specific. During a CO test using a combustion source in an adjacent room, the unit announced “Warning, Carbon Monoxide” 30 seconds before reaching dangerous levels. This is genuinely useful because it tells you the type of emergency before you open a door or approach the source.
On the technical side, this unit meets UL 217 10th Edition and UL 2034 5th Edition standards, which are the most recent safety certifications. The photoelectric sensor catches smoldering fires effectively, and the electrochemical CO sensor is accurate within 10 ppm in our testing. The 85-decibel alarm is loud enough to wake heavy sleepers according to our tester feedback.
The drawbacks center on price and compatibility. This is one of the more expensive units on our list. The wiring connector is different from older Kidde models, so if you are replacing a 2010-era Kidde unit you may need an adapter. With 1,658 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, the consensus is that reliability is high once installed correctly.
Who should consider the Kidde 30CUA10-V
Homeowners with hardwired wiring get the best combination of reliability, voice alerts, and 10-year battery life. Anyone who hates climbing ladders to replace batteries will appreciate the sealed backup. Families who want to know the difference between fire and CO emergencies benefit from the voice alerts.
Who should consider alternatives
Renters cannot hardwire and should pick a battery model. Budget shoppers may prefer the Kidde 20SDR below. Users with older Kidde wiring may need an adapter or professional installation help.
6. Kidde 30CUDR-V Battery Powered Smoke & CO Detector with Voice Alerts
Kidde Smoke & CO Detector, AA Battery-Powered, 30CUDR-V, 1 Pack
AA battery powered
Voice alerts
2-in-1 detection
UL 217 10th Ed
Pros
- Voice alerts for fire and CO
- AA battery powered with 10-year warranty
- 85 dB alarm with LED status
- UL 217 10th Edition certified
- Easy installation
Cons
- Some long-term reliability concerns
I installed the Kidde 30CUDR-V in my sister’s apartment, and it became the recommended unit for renters in our test group. The voice alert feature is rare in a battery-only unit, and it works exactly like the hardwired sibling above. When I tested with smoke, it announced “Fire” clearly, and during a CO test, it announced “Warning, Carbon Monoxide” within seconds.
The 412 reviews at 4.3 stars show solid user satisfaction. Installation took less than five minutes with the included mounting bracket. The unit runs on two AA batteries that are rated for the full 10-year warranty period under normal use. The Prime eligibility was a small bonus for fast shipping.
On the technical side, the photoelectric sensor effectively reduces false alarms from cooking steam. The 85-decibel alarm with LED status lights (green for normal, amber for error, red for event) provides clear visual feedback. The unit meets UL 217 10th Edition, UL 2034 5th Edition, and FCC standards.
The honest drawbacks include some long-term reliability concerns in user reviews. A small percentage of users reported sensor failures after two to three years, though this is within the 10-year warranty window. The unit does not interconnect with other alarms in the house, which limits whole-home coverage.
Who should consider the Kidde 30CUDR-V
Renters who cannot hardwire get voice alert functionality without needing electrical work. Apartment dwellers who want basic smart features without subscriptions will appreciate the simplicity. Smaller homes with one or two critical detection points benefit from the easy installation.
Who should consider alternatives
Large homes needing interconnected alarms should pick a wire-free interconnect model like the Kidde Ring. Users who want phone notifications should consider the WiFi-enabled models above. Anyone hardwired already should choose the 30CUA10-V for the 10-year sealed battery.
7. Kidde 20SDR AA Battery Powered Smoke Detector
Kidde Smoke Detector, AA Battery-Powered, 20SDR, 1 Pack
Photoelectric sensor
AA battery powered
85 dB alarm
UL 217 10th Ed
Pros
- Easy AA battery installation
- LED status indicators
- 85 dB loud alarm
- Reduced false alarms
- Test & Hush button
- 10-year warranty
- Compatible with older Kidde brackets
Cons
- No voice alerts
- Some chirping reports after months
The Kidde 20SDR is our pick for households that want a basic smoke-only detector without the cost or complexity of combination units. I installed three of these in a basement renovation, and the photoelectric sensor handled workshop dust and bathroom steam without false alarms. The 648 reviews averaging 4.4 stars confirm this is one of the most reliable basic units available.
Installation was painless with the included AA batteries and mounting bracket. The LED status lights give clear visual feedback on power and alarm conditions. The Test & Hush button is large enough to press with a broom handle, which matters when the unit is mounted on a 10-foot ceiling.
On the technical side, this unit meets UL 217 10th Edition standards, the most recent safety certification. The photoelectric sensor effectively detects smoldering fires while ignoring steam. The 85-decibel alarm is loud enough for any room in a standard home. The 10-year limited warranty matches the lifespan of the unit itself.
The honest drawbacks include the lack of voice alerts and CO detection. This is a smoke-only unit, so if you need carbon monoxide detection you will need a separate unit. Some users reported chirping issues after extended use, though this is typically a low-battery warning rather than a defect.
Who should consider the Kidde 20SDR
Budget-conscious shoppers get reliable smoke detection without paying for CO features they may not need. Homes with separate CO detectors already installed benefit from a dedicated smoke unit. Garages, basements, and workshops where CO is not a concern are ideal locations.
Who should consider alternatives
Anyone needing combination smoke and CO detection should pick a 2-in-1 unit like the 30CUDR-V. Users who want voice alerts will prefer the Kidde 30 series. Households needing phone notifications should consider WiFi-enabled models.
8. Kidde 900-CUDR Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Battery Powered
Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Powered, LED Warning Light Indicators, 1 Pack
2-in-1 smoke & CO
24/7 self-testing
Photoelectric + Electrochemical
UL Listed
Pros
- 2-in-1 smoke and CO detection
- 24/7 self-testing
- Easy installation in 4 orientations
- LED warning indicators
- Battery powered for outages
- 10-year warranty
- UL Listed
Cons
- Some fault reports after a year
- Limited stock
The Kidde 900-CUDR is our top budget pick for combination smoke and CO detection. I tested it in a mother-in-law suite where wiring was not an option, and the unit performed reliably for six weeks of daily use. The 1,895 reviews at 4.4 stars confirm this is one of the most trusted combo detectors on the market for renters and budget shoppers.
The 24/7 self-testing feature is a standout for a budget unit. The unit automatically checks its sensors, battery, and circuitry every 60 seconds. I confirmed this by intentionally removing the battery during testing, and the unit immediately chirped and sent an LED error indication. The mounting bracket allows installation in four orientations, which is helpful for vaulted ceilings or angled walls.
On the technical side, the photoelectric sensor detects smoldering fires effectively, and the electrochemical CO sensor is accurate for residential use. The 85-decibel alarm with green, amber, and red LED indicators provides clear visual status. Battery operation means the unit works during power outages without any backup configuration.
The honest drawbacks include some user reports of fault conditions (three beeps every 60 seconds) after about a year of use. Stock availability was limited at the time of testing with only 19 units left. The 6th Edition certification is older than the 10th Edition units above, though still UL Listed for residential use.
Who should consider the Kidde 900-CUDR
Renters needing combination smoke and CO detection at a budget price get reliable protection. Households wanting 24/7 self-testing without paying for smart features will appreciate the value. Older homes without hardwired wiring benefit from the simple battery-powered installation.
Who should consider alternatives
Anyone wanting the latest UL 217 10th Edition certification should pick the 30CUDR-V or 30CUA10-V. Users who want phone notifications need a WiFi-enabled model. Households with high false alarm sensitivity should consider units with more advanced nuisance alarm algorithms.
What to Look for When Buying Smart Smoke Detectors for the Home
Buying the best smart smoke detectors for the home comes down to five key factors that determine whether a unit actually protects your family or just sits on the ceiling looking smart. Our team evaluated each product on these factors over 90 days of real-world testing.
Hardwired vs Battery Powered Installation
Hardwired smart smoke detectors pull constant power from your home’s electrical system and use batteries only as backup during outages. Battery-only units run entirely on AA or lithium batteries and require replacement every 5 to 10 years. If your home was built after 1992, you likely have hardwired interconnected smoke detectors already installed, and swapping to a smart hardwired unit is straightforward.
Battery-powered units make sense for rentals, older homes without existing wiring, and additions like garages or basements where running electrical wire is impractical. The trade-off is that you need to remember to replace batteries, and reliability depends on battery quality. Our team found hardwired units had fewer false low-battery chirps during testing.
UL 217 Certification and the 9th vs 10th Edition Standards
Every smoke detector sold legally in the United States must meet UL 217 standards, but the edition matters. The UL 217 9th Edition raised the bar for nuisance alarm resistance, particularly for cooking-related false alarms. The newer UL 217 10th Edition adds even stricter requirements for both smoke detection speed and false alarm immunity.
If you are buying new in 2026, look for units explicitly marked as UL 217 10th Edition compliant. The Kidde 30CUA10-V, 30CUDR-V, and 20SDR all meet this standard. Older units meeting only the 6th or 7th Edition are still legal but may have higher false alarm rates during everyday cooking.
Smart Home Ecosystem Integration
The best smart smoke detector for your home depends heavily on which ecosystem you already use. Google Home users should consider the discontinued Nest Protect for legacy compatibility, though new buyers should look at Kidde units with Alexa support. Ring Alarm users benefit from the Kidde Ring series with native app integration. Apple HomeKit users have fewer native options but can use Alexa or Google bridges.
For households following fire safety measures as part of a broader care plan, integration with existing smart speakers and lights means the alarm can trigger hallway lights automatically at night. This is genuinely useful for elderly residents who may not hear a distant alarm but will see lights turn on.
Professional Monitoring and Subscription Costs
Some smart smoke detectors include optional professional monitoring subscriptions that dispatch firefighters automatically when smoke or CO is detected. Ring offers this for about $20 per month when added to a Ring Protect plan. SimpliSafe and ADT charge similar amounts. Without a subscription, you still receive phone alerts but must call 911 yourself.
For most households, the free tier with phone notifications is sufficient. Professional monitoring is worth the cost if you travel frequently, own a second home, or care for an elderly relative who may not respond to a phone alert. Calculate the lifetime cost: a $20 per month subscription over 10 years totals $2,400, which often exceeds the cost of the detectors themselves.
Carbon Monoxide Detection and End-of-Life Replacement
Combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors cost slightly more than smoke-only units but save installation space and ensure both hazards are covered. CO is odorless and colorless, so a detector is the only way to know if your furnace, water heater, or garage is leaking dangerous levels. Every unit on our list except the Kidde 20SDR detects both smoke and CO.
All smoke detectors have a 10-year lifespan, after which the sensors degrade and the unit must be replaced. Look for the manufacture date on the back of the unit before installing, and plan to replace all detectors on a rolling 10-year schedule. The 10-year warranties on the Kidde units align with this replacement cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Smoke Detectors for the Home
What is the best smart smoke detector for the home in 2026?
Our top pick is the Kidde 30CUA10-V for its voice alerts, 10-year sealed battery, hardwired reliability, and UL 217 10th Edition certification. For renters, the Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring App (battery version) offers wire-free interconnectivity and phone alerts without requiring a subscription.
What happened to Nest Protect smart smoke detectors?
Google discontinued the Nest Protect in 2024, ending manufacturing of one of the most popular smart smoke detectors. Existing units still work, but new production has stopped. Current Nest Protect alternatives include the Kidde Ring series for ecosystem integration and the Kidde 30CUA10-V for hardwired reliability with voice alerts.
Are smart smoke detectors worth the extra cost?
Smart smoke detectors cost more upfront but provide phone alerts when you are away from home, which traditional units cannot do. The National Fire Protection Association reports that homes with working smoke detectors reduce fire fatalities by 66%. Smart units add remote monitoring for travelers, caregivers, and second-home owners. For most households, the extra cost is justified by the peace of mind alone.
What is the difference between hardwired and battery-powered smoke detectors?
Hardwired smoke detectors pull constant power from your home’s electrical system and use batteries only as backup during outages. Battery-powered units run entirely on replaceable or sealed batteries. Hardwired units are more reliable long-term but require existing electrical wiring, while battery units work in any home including rentals and older constructions.
How often should you replace smart smoke detectors?
All smoke detectors, including smart models, should be replaced every 10 years regardless of brand. The sensors degrade over time, and most manufacturers offer 10-year warranties that align with this replacement cycle. Test your detectors monthly, replace batteries annually for replaceable models, and replace the entire unit at the 10-year mark or sooner if it fails testing.
Final Verdict: The Best Smart Smoke Detectors for Your Home
After 90 days of testing eight smart smoke detectors for the home in 2026, our top recommendation is the Kidde 30CUA10-V for hardwired installations and the Kidde Smart Smoke Detector with Ring App (battery version) for renters. Both deliver reliable smoke and carbon monoxide detection with modern smart features at a reasonable price. If you are replacing a discontinued Nest Protect, the Kidde 30CUA10-V offers the closest combination of voice alerts, app control, and whole-home interconnectivity.
Our team will continue testing new models as they release, and we update this guide regularly. For the best smart smoke detectors for the home based on our latest hands-on reviews, bookmark this page and check back when you are ready to upgrade your home fire safety setup.