Our top pick for CO detection is a more traditional Kidde alarm. We’ve also got the ultra-smart Google Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide detector and the Alexa-compatible Onelink Safe & Sound, among other recommendations. Let’s jump into our list of the best carbon monoxide detectors. We picked this Kidde detector largely because of its reputation. This device may be old school, but it’s one of the (if not the) best-reviewed carbon monoxide alarms we considered. Also, if you’re big on home automation, know that this device won’t sync with a voice assistant or other equipment. For those who want the two-in-one safety of a smoke alarm-carbon monoxide detector combo, the KN-COSM-BA is a solid choice. This detector isn’t too expensive, and it runs on batteries rather than needing a plug or wires. Our favorite feature, though, is the voice warnings aka voice alarm. When the alarm goes off, it vocally announces either “Fire,” or “Warning: carbon monoxide,” so you know what you’re dealing with. If you swear by your Google Home, or if you’ve already invested in a Google Nest Secure security system, the Nest Protect is a safe bet. It’ll integrate smoothly with your existing setup. It’s also flexible; you can have it hardwired or just use batteries. This high-tech smart device features a smoke detector and voice warnings, similar to the Kidde KN-COSMA-BA. You’ll get mobile notifications for alarm events and when the batteries need to be changed. And if you need to turn the alarm off, you’ll tap the Nest app to silence the system from anywhere. Your device has a two-year limited manufacturer warranty to protect your Nest Protect. It took us some digging to realize that the circle in the middle, which lights up when the alarm goes off, is also the silence button. If you forget that little detail, you’ll be forced to listen to the incessant beeping of the alarm while you search for a way to turn it off. Similarly, the device doesn’t have a digital display to show you the carbon monoxide levels. You’ll have to go to the app. Onelink is the best option if you want something to work with your Alexa-enabled smart home. The Onelink Safe & Sound is quite similar to the Nest Protect, right down to the smoke detector combo and voice warnings. But the Onelink offers a little more than the Nest Protect. It has an Alexa speaker built right into it. The speaker doesn’t just control the carbon monoxide detector either; you can use it for other Alexa voice commands. Lastly, with a Onelink Safe & Sound, you get a three-year warranty. It’s not as extensive as the Kidde detectors’ warranties, but it’s better than Nest Protect’s. The Onelink also shares Nest Protect’s lack of a digital display. We think it’s cool to control your detector from a mobile app, but again, it’s also nice to look at the device and immediately know its status. Also, you have to plug this detector in. The battery backup is for power outages, not for day-to-day use. If finances are tight, this is the pick for you. The Kidde KN-COB-LP2 9CO5-LP2 is very inexpensive. But it also comes from Kidde, one of the top carbon monoxide detector manufacturers, so it should be quality even with the price cut. This battery-powered alarm has a ten-year limited warranty. It takes just two AA batteries, which makes it relatively inexpensive to operate and keeps it safe from a power outage.
If you seek a basic, traditional option, then the Kidde KN-COPP-3 is what we recommend. Try this Kidde KN-COSM-BA alarm to harness the power of both carbon monoxide and smoke detection. We recommend Nest’s homegrown product, Nest Protect, for Google Assistant enthusiasts. Likewise, the Onelink Safe & Sound is perfect for Alexa lovers. If you don’t want to spend much money, try this super cheap Kidde Battery-Operated KN-Copp-B-LPM option.
If you’re looking for a straight-up smoke alarm, check out this guide. Or, if you want more robust protection, consider a full security suite.
Price Warranty Power source Presence of smoke alarm Presence of emergency buttons Presence of low battery signal
HeadacheDizzinessWeaknessUpset stomachVomitingChest painConfusion³
These might seem like pretty distinct symptoms at first blush, but things aren’t always so straightforward in the moment. There’s a famous Reddit tale about a man who believed his landlord was leaving him mysterious notes around his apartment. Turned out, he was actually confused due to high carbon monoxide levels in his rental—he’d written the notes himself. Having a carbon monoxide detector means that your bewildered brain doesn’t have to play detective. You’ll know that you’re being poisoned and can get out. Ring Alarm also has an Alexa-compatible offering called a smoke and CO “listener.” Install this little beauty near your previously existing alarms. When one goes off, the listener lets you know through a mobile notification. It’s also smart to put detectors in bedrooms and highly trafficked living areas. You want the detectors to be where you are so that you’ll be notified of high levels immediately. There’s also the waterproof, shockproof Sensorcon. You can carry this CO alarm throughout different rooms in your house if needed—though we recommend it primarily for hotels. Be smart about your carbon monoxide detector’s warranty. Read the conditions and terms thoroughly and follow them so you aren’t on the hook for repair and replacement costs.
