The IKEA TRÅDFRI motion sensor may not be the newest kid on the block, having been replaced by the VALLHORN series, but it’s still a popular and affordable motion detection option in the smart home world. In this review, I’ll cover what it does well, where it falls short, and how it compares to newer motion and presence sensors available today.
A Quick Note on Newer Alternatives
While the TRÅDFRI motion sensor is still available, IKEA has introduced the VALLHORN motion sensors as a newer range. Additionally, we’re now seeing more advanced Zigbee human presence sensors from brands like Aqara and Sonoff. These offer finer detection capabilities (such as detecting people even when they are sitting still), but they often require a wired power supply and are more expensive than traditional motion sensors.
Positives: What IKEA TRÅDFRI Gets Right
Direct Control Without a Hub
One standout feature of the TRÅDFRI motion sensor is that it can control IKEA TRÅDFRI lights directly without any hub. This is a unique capability within the IKEA ecosystem. It offers simple automation—like turning lights on when motion is detected—without needing to set up a smart hub or app.
Broad Zigbee Compatibility
It works seamlessly with most Zigbee hubs, including SmartThings, Home Assistant (via ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT), and Amazon Alexa Zigbee hubs. This makes it an excellent plug-and-play sensor for a variety of smart home platforms.
Long Battery Life
The sensor uses two standard CR2032 coin cell batteries, which can power it for up to 6 months under typical use. That’s fairly decent for a motion sensor in this price range.
Negatives: Where It Falls Short
Limited Customization Without a Hub
If you’re using it without a hub, you’re stuck with the default behavior. You can’t adjust:
- Motion sensitivity
- Detection range
- Delay before the light turns off
This limits its usefulness for more advanced automations.
No Built-in Lux Sensor
One key missing feature is a lux sensor, which would allow the motion sensor to determine ambient light levels. Without this, it can’t distinguish between day and night – meaning it might turn lights on even in broad daylight unless additional rules are implemented via a smart hub.
Final Thoughts
While the IKEA TRÅDFRI motion sensor is no longer IKEA’s most advanced model, it still delivers surprising value – especially for those already invested in IKEA’s smart lighting ecosystem or those looking for a no-hub motion control solution.
It’s easy to set up, widely compatible, and still performs well in basic scenarios. If you’re using Apple HomeKit, you’ll need the IKEA TRÅDFRI gateway for integration.
That said, if you’re building a more sophisticated home automation system (like Home Assistant) and mixing devices from multiple vendors, I’d recommend looking into the Aqara Motion Sensors. These are more reliable, offer lux sensing, and provide better customisation options out of the box.
If IKEA ever updates TRÅDFRI with lux sensing and improved configuration options, it could once again become a top-tier budget motion sensor.
Common FAQs
Can I control lights without a hub?
Yes, you can control IKEA TRÅDFRI lights directly with this motion sensor. This is a unique feature of the IKEA ecosystem.
Do I need an IKEA hub?
No, you can use any Zigbee hub. In our tests, it works with SmartThings, Home Assistant (ZHA and Zigbee2MQTT), and Amazon Alexa Zigbee hubs.
Does it work with Home Assistant?
Yes, it works well with both ZHA and Zigbee2MQTT (Z2M).
Can I use it with Apple HomeKit?
Yes, but only if you use the IKEA TRÅDFRI gateway.
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