Smart Battery Operated Motion Sensors – Testing and Review

Motion sensors

With the rise of smart homes, motion sensors have become a key part of automation setups-whether it’s for turning on lights, triggering cameras, or improving energy efficiency. But not all motion sensors are created equal.

In this post, we’ve tested and reviewed a range of popular battery-operated Zigbee motion sensors from brands like Aqara, IKEA, Sonoff, Mercator Ikuü, and more. Each sensor was evaluated for real-world use including:

Ease of installation and setup
Motion detection performance and reliability
Battery life and type
Integration with smart platforms like Home Assistant (ZHA & Z2M), SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit
Additional features like lux sensors, mounting flexibility, and weather resistance

Whether you’re building a DIY smart home or upgrading your existing setup, this guide will help you find the right motion sensor for your needs-whether your priorities are price, performance, ecosystem compatibility, or automation features.