Head-to-head · Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors

First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm vs Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.1 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about Smart home users wanting integration — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors

First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

4.1

$111

The First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm offers a modern design and app-based control that enhances home safety. Bob Vila reviewers praised its simple installation, one-button silence feature, and Google Home integration. Isaac from Smart Home Explained noted the device's superior build quality and smooth app setup process. However, the $130 price point and limited brand compatibility for interconnect features are drawbacks. This alarm suits users seeking smart home integration and improved user experience over traditional detectors, but those with existing non-First Alert systems may miss out on full network coverage.

Strengths

— Easy installation with pre-installed batteries and voice-guided setup
— One-button silence feature improves user experience during false alarms
— Integrates seamlessly with Google Home smart home ecosystem

Watch-outs

— Price is significantly higher than standard alarms at around $130 per unit
— Limited interconnect compatibility with other brands like Kidde and Nest Protect

$111 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

3.8

$49

The Kidde Ring Smart Smoke + CO Alarm offers reliable dual detection with smartphone notifications, according to PCMag's review. While praised for its ease of installation and long battery life, the device received criticism for its limited smart home integration capabilities. Consumer Reports recommends it as a solid choice for basic smoke and carbon monoxide protection, though it lacks advanced automation features found in higher-end models. This detector is best suited for users seeking straightforward safety monitoring without complex smart home integration.

Strengths

— Smart alerts with smartphone notifications
— Easy installation and setup
— Long battery life with low-battery warnings

Watch-outs

— Limited smart home integration with only basic automation support
— No built-in siren override for testing

$49 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

The SC5 Smart Alarm outperforms the CO710 in smart home integration with Google Home compatibility and app-based testing, while the CO710 lacks smart connectivity. Compared to the basic First Alert detector, the SC5 offers superior user experience with one-button silence and voice alerts, though it comes at a significantly higher price point.

Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

The Kidde Ring Smart Alarm provides smartphone notifications and easy setup, but lacks the advanced interconnect features of the hardwired model. Unlike the First Alert SC5, it offers only basic automation support and no Wi-Fi connectivity, making it a middle-ground option between basic and smart models. While the Klein ET110 provides professional-grade accuracy, the Kidde model focuses on simplicity and reliability.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm	Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
Detection Type	Smart Smoke and CO Alarm	Smoke and Carbon Monoxide
Power Source	Built-in lithium backup battery	Hardwired with 10-year integrated battery
Battery Life	10-year sealed lithium battery	10 years
Connectivity	Google Home compatible	Wi-Fi
Display	LED light ring	—
Alarm Thresholds	70 PPM CO concentration	—
Features	App-based testing, voice alerts, one-button silence	Voice alerts, interconnectable, LED indicator

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