Last Updated On January 7th, 2022
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that can be present in your home if your appliances do not function correctly. The best carbon monoxide detector is one of the most important tools you’ll have in your home, and not something you can afford to cut corners on either. A high-quality carbon monoxide (CO) alarm will be able to detect the dangers that you can’t sniff out in your home and help to protect your family.
Although there are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to buying a carbon monoxide detector, figuring out which device is best isn’t always easy. With countless options on the market, and most featuring terms that many of us don’t understand, it’s common to get confused.
Fortunately, we’ve picked out a selection of the best CO detectors to help guide you.
Best Carbon Monoxide Detector Reviews – Top 10 Picks
1. X-Sense SCO1 (Editor’s Choice)
Prepared to protect your home for up to 10 years, the X-Sense is one of the most reliable carbon monoxide detectors on the market. This CO detector can provide up to 10 years of continuous power, thanks to it’s reliable and eco-friendly lithium battery. You also get a practical digital display where you can check the concentration of carbon monoxide instantly.
Features
Reliable and accurate, this long-lasting carbon monoxide detector comes with leading electrochemical and photoelectric sensors. The CO detectors work independently of each other, to notify you when dangerous concentrations of smoke or carbon monoxide are in the air. Malfunction and low battery alarms ensure you have peace of mind against the threat of CO poisoning. It even acts as a fire and smoke detector as well.
Installing this device is quick and simple, plus the 10-year battery life means you won’t need to replace it too frequently either. Unfortunately, you do need to mount this device quite low in your home.
- Reliable performance with an extensive battery life
- 2 types of CO detectors working independently
- Quick and easy installation with digital display
- Easy to read with warnings on low battery
- Also functions as a smoke and fire detector
- Some may not consider the design as attractive
- May need to mount the device quite low for the display
2. Fireangel CO-9D Digital (Best Value)
The Fireangel CO-9D carbon monoxide alarm comes with an automatic self-diagnostic check system, so you can rest assured that the device will continue to perform well at all times. These carbon monoxide detectors come with 7-year sealed lithium batteries, and an extra loud 85-decibel carbon monoxide alarm to keep you safe when CO levels get too high.
Features
This CO Detector from Fireangel is one of the best carbon monoxide products on the market, with a long-lasting battery, and a powerful CO alarm that’s sure to wake the neighbours. Carbon monoxide alarms by FireAngel come with a large test and silence button, as well as a digital display where you can check battery life, and room status. You don’t have to worry about CO gas with this device.
The battery-operated CO detector also comes with a thermometer function that shows you how warm your rooms are in an easy-to-read way. The temperature feature isn’t always entirely accurate for some customers, and you might find the loud beep when switching between display modes annoying.
- Automatic self-diagnostic check keeps your CO alarms working
- Battery-powered device lasts up to 7 years
- Extra loud CO alarms to alert the neighbours
- Large and easy to operate test and silence button
- Has a temperature sensor
- The alarms can be noisy when switching modes
- Temperature sensor features might not always be accurate
3. Nest Protect 2 S3000BWDE (Luxury Choice)
Designed by one of the leaders in smart home products, Nest protect CO detectors are some of the best choices on the market. These high-performance carbon monoxide detectors also come with a smoke alarm, so you’ll have no problem tracking slow-burning fires or open fires. The Nest Protect is a multifunctional CO alarm that efficiently protects you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires.
Features
Suitable for detecting CO levels, smoke, and fire, the Nest Protect 2 can do it all. This device is attractive and convenient, connecting to your smartphone to warn you exactly where the danger might be in your home. You can even achieve peace of mind when away from home with alerts sent to your smartphone.
To ensure complete safety, this Nest Protect CO detector also tests the alarms available silently hundreds of times a day. Unfortunately, changing the language can be a little difficult for some users. You may also have some problems setting up the initial internet connection but once done, the Nest Protect can start detecting fire or smoke, gas and CO levels in no time.
- Intelligent Nest Protect works with smartphone
- Suitable carbon monoxide and smoke or fire detector
- 10-year battery life for long-term safety
- Excellent automatic test process
- Keeps you safe when you’re out of the home too
- Might be difficult to connect at first
- Setting up the sensor and changing the language can be tough
4. Kidde 5DCO (Best Slim)
If you’re looking for a slim and compact CO alarm that’s ideal for detecting dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, the Kidde carbon monoxide detector is a smart choice for many households. One of the best carbon monoxide alarm choices around, this digital Kidde product features a compact and slimline case that doesn’t take up too much space in your home.
Features
With a high sensor lifespan capable of lasting up to ten years, you shouldn’t have to worry about replacing your batteries or your CO detector very often. This model is powered by replaceable AA batteries, so it’s easy to maintain when your energy levels are running low.
This Kidde detector comes with a warning chirp to tell you when power levels are low. There’s a test button for checking performance, and a digital display to show you when CO2 and gas levels are dangerous. Unfortunately, the colour might not be appealing for some homeowners, and the Kidde display is a little small, making it harder to see.
- Excellent compact device
- Convenient test button and easy to install design
- Kidde Batteries last for up to 10 years
- Warning chirp warns you when batteries are low
- Digital display features CO level information
- Screen may be a little small for some people
- Perhaps not the most attractive option for some homeowners
5. Scondaor EN 50291 (Best Compact)
The Scondaor EN 50291 carbon monoxide detector is a compact device that can easily be wall-mounted in any place you like – thanks to its battery-powered operation.
Features
Scondoar CO detectors feature a long-lasting 1o-year sensor that will accurately protect your home for the next decade. It is powered by three AA batteries that come included with purchase. Meanwhile, a convenient low battery and end-of-sensor life alert warn you when it is time to replace either the batteries or the entire device. A button on the front also allows you to test the device manually for added peace of mind.
A digital display adorns the front of the Scondoar CO detector so you can monitor the presence of CO in your air in real-time. Aside from CO concentration, the LCD screen displays battery life and room temperature as well. As we mentioned, this device is wall-mounted and doesn’t require mains power so you can install it anywhere you like. We recommend placing it at or near eye level so you can take advantage of the digital thermostat.
Keep in mind, the Scondaor isn’t the most versatile detector as it only monitors CO, not CO2 or fire smoke. Also, while we really like the wall-mounted design of this CO detector, it is not intended to be hung on the ceiling as some consumers prefer.
- Long-lasting 10-year lifespan
- Easy to read digital display
- Low battery and end-of-sensor life alert
- Batteries included with purchase
- Loud 85dB alarm
- May only monitors carbon monoxide
- Wall mount only design may be restricting to some
6. X-Sense Detector (Best Responsive)
Equipped to help you detect and protect your family against carbon monoxide for a long time, the X-Sense CO detector is a fantastic product. If you’re looking for a carbon monoxide alarm that offers accuracy and speed, this is it. The carbon monoxide alarm comes with an electrochemical CO sensor and ST chipset to detect potential risks for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Features
One of the best carbon monoxide detectors around, the X-sense will ensure that you get your first alert about any carbon monoxide issues fast. Working alongside your smoke alarm, this battery-operated device can run for up to 10 years, protecting against CO poisoning with an 85DB loud alarm and an LED light indicator.
There’s an end of life warning on the battery-powered system to advise you when you’re running out of energy. A large screen ensures that anyone in your home can easily check the detector for issues at a glance, and the unit comes with a 5-year warranty too. One slight issue is that it can be a little difficult to install. The sound can sometimes malfunction, too.
- Excellent electrochemical detector
- Accurate performance works alongside your smoke alarm
- Protects against CO poisoning
- Battery-powered performance for easy operation
- Extensive battery life
- You may have some initial issues installing the unit
- Could suffer from occasional audio issues throughout its life
7. Mercury 350 (Best Easy to Install)
A battery operated carbon monoxide detector with a compact design, this Mercury carbon monoxide alarm will keep you and your family safe for years to come. Like many of the top carbon monoxide alarms, this CO detector can deliver up to 7 years of excellent performance, protecting against CO poisoning and high carbon monoxide levels.
Features
The battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm from Mercury keeps your home safe, with an extra backup battery in place in the event of a power cut. The LED status indicators show you when there’s a fault on your detector so you can take action fast.
Tested in UK labs for safety, this carbon monoxide detector gives you peace of mind, with a unit that you can easily install and use from the moment it first arrives. The device is compliant with the highest safety rating standards and includes a top of the line display showing ambient temperature and battery life too. One slight issue is that the sticky pad doesn’t fix the device to the wall very well.
- Adheres to the highest safety test standards
- Up to 7 years of battery life
- High volume alarm and alert function
- Unit continues working in the event of a power cut
- LCD screen to show you ambient temperature and other details
- The unit may not stick to the wall with the pad on the back
- Can be quite bulky for people who prefer compact devices
8. FireAngel CO-9X-TOT-FF (Best Portable)
A leading carbon monoxide alarm designed to protect your family from all kinds of carbon monoxide issues, the FireAngel device has it all. With an electrochemical sensor, this carbon monoxide detector works alongside your smoke alarm to protect you from ambient issues in your home. The battery-operated product also comes with LED status indicators.
Features
This battery-powered carbon monoxide detector will accurately measure all levels of carbon monoxide gas in your home. If you’re looking for the best way to protect yourself from more than just fuel burning gas and smoke, then this could be the item you need. Easy to install, this carbon monoxide detector is even portable so you can take it on the move.
With 7 to 10 years of battery life, this device works in any room of the house and comes with a screen to show you the gas and carbon levels in your home. Unfortunately, testing the alarm can be quite difficult. Additionally, the bracket on this carbon monoxide detector can feel a little flimsy.
- Extensive battery life
- Simple installation
- Can be placed in any room you like
- Portable so you can take back and forth to different places
- Accurate carbon monoxide alarm
- Brackets on the carbon monoxide alarms may feel flimsy
- Testing the device can be difficult
9. Honeywell XC100D (Most User-Friendly)
To get the most out of your carbon monoxide detector, you need a device that’s convenient and easy to operate. This carbon monoxide alarm from Honeywell could be just the thing. Intended for simple set up and use, this CO detector takes minutes to install, and it comes with a digital display where you can check information too.
Features
If you’re not great at using technology, the Honeywell XC100D could help you get the peace of mind you need from a CO detector, without the stress. This highly reliable CO detector comes with a large test and silence button to check performance, and you can even upgrade it for wireless connections.
The display monitor will tell you instantly if you’re at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and what kind of CO levels you might be facing. One slight issue, according to carbon monoxide detector reviews, is that this device may not be as loud expected. Another issue is that it can take a while for the carbon monoxide alarm to turn off after a test.
- Simple to install and set up
- Ease of use with convenient digital display
- Long-lasting battery life
- Quick test and silence button
- Suitable for Wi-Fi connection upgrade
- Might not be loud enough for some
- Can take a while to turn off after a test
10. BRK CO850MBXi (Best Multi-Alarm)
A carbon monoxide sensor can come in a range of different styles. This model from BRK is a mains operated unit, designed to plug into your home electricity for years of life. The BRK carbon monoxide alarm features an electrochemical sensor that makes it easy to detect CO levels in your home. The extra loud CO alarms will immediately notify you when your CO rating gets out of control.
Features
This mains powered carbon monoxide sensor is an easy to operate solution for those who don’t want to worry about batteries and low battery alert notifications. The CO detector accurately seeks out carbon monoxide levels and makes sure you’re the first to know about any issues with an 85-decibel alarm. Equipped for long-lasting performance, these BRK sensors come with power, alarm, and fault LCD indicators.
The multi-alarm indicator system on this product makes it one of the top options around. You can connect things like smoke, heat, and CO alarms for simultaneous alert options around a larger property. There’s also a 5-year guarantee. It can be a little difficult to set up, however, and you may need help wiring everything in.
- Mains power means no need to worry about batteries
- Instant alert with 85-decibel alarm
- Backup battery included
- Multi-alarm interlink system
- 5-year guarantee included
- May require professional wiring help
- May be difficult to set up
What to Look for in a Carbon Monoxide Detector
If you’ve just bought a new home, you might have had landlords deal with purchasing home safety devices such as wireless CCTV, home alarm systems, and carbon monoxide detectors for your properties before now. However, as a homeowner, it’s up to you to ensure your investment is protected with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
With various products out there offering excellent first alert detection and accurate measurement of carbon monoxide levels, finding the best carbon monoxide alarm can be tough, particularly when you’re shopping for the first time. Here are some things to consider when picking the best device for your home.
Functionality
The functionality of a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm can vary depending on what you’re looking for. If you want the ultimate safety equipment, then you might want to look for a gas, smoke, and carbon monoxide detector that can give you an instant alert whenever anything is wrong in your home. Today’s smart devices can assess your ambient environment and give you a safety rating in seconds.
If you’ve already got a smoke alarm in your home, then you might want to go back to the drawing board and choose something simple such as a gas and carbon monoxide detector with a good rating and decent customer reviews.
Power
The kind of carbon monoxide detector you choose will also vary depending on whether you’re looking for battery or mains power. Plug-in carbon monoxide detector products mean you don’t have to worry about your smart device running out of power in the first couple of years. Mains devices can offer a higher level of safety for larger buildings too.
However, batteries in your carbon monoxide detector also make it easier to maintain the item in your home without the need for regular replacements.
Accuracy
Any valuable smoke and carbon monoxide detector should be able to give you an accurate first alert in a matter of seconds. Remember, carbon monoxide is a very dangerous and invisible gas that you can’t track on your own. Good carbon monoxide detectors can issue a first alert before you start to notice the flu-like symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and other problems. Hence, make sure that you choose your carbon monoxide and smoke detector based on their accuracy rating and safety levels.
Simplicity
Make sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are simple enough to use to ensure that you’re going to get a good experience. From an easy-to-use first alert system to a convenient screen that shows the information you need, the best carbon monoxide detectors need to be a breeze for anyone in your home to access.
Longevity
Finally, when it comes to detecting smoke and carbon monoxide, CO alarms should deliver long-lasting performance. Many of the leading carbon monoxide detectors available on the market today can deliver accurate readings of carbon monoxide levels for up to 10 years.
You can’t afford to run the risk of a CO detector that stops working after being in your home for a couple of years. The best products will continue to detect smoke and carbon monoxide for years to come in your home, without any faults.
Choosing Your Carbon Monoxide Detector
The best carbon monoxide detector isn’t a one-size-fits-all product. There are tons of carbon monoxide detectors out there that come with their own unique benefits to consider.
Our top pick for this list is our Editor’s Choice, the X-Sense SCO1. Featuring a rapid first alert response and two sensor systems, this carbon monoxide detector is accurate. It is also designed to provide 10 years of continuous protection, thanks to its eco-friendly and durable lithium battery. Setup and installation are simple as well. All in all, this device offers a fantastic, reliable, and lasting performance.
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