Presence Sensors
Smarter Automations Through True Occupancy Detection
Presence sensors use technologies such as millimeter-wave radar or infrared patterns to determine whether a room is occupied, even if the person inside is sitting still. This makes them far more accurate than traditional motion sensors when managing tasks like lighting, climate control, and room-based routines.
By identifying subtle movement and micro-adjustments, presence sensors help your smart home maintain comfort without unwanted shutoffs or interruptions.
Reliable Stillness Detection
Presence sensors can detect people who are sitting, reading, working at a desk, or watching TV without requiring noticeable movement.
This ensures automations stay active when needed.
Improved Lighting & Climate Control
Because they track true occupancy, presence sensors support more consistent lighting and HVAC routines.
Rooms remain comfortable without relying solely on motion-based triggers.
Wide Coverage With Fine Detection Zones
Many presence sensors can divide a room into detection zones, allowing you to trigger different automations based on where someone is located.
Enhanced Security Awareness
Presence sensors can monitor spaces for unexpected occupancy and work with alarms or notifications to provide an additional layer of home awareness.
All Presence Sensors
Aqara FP1E Presence Sensor
Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor
Sonoff Zigbee Human Presence Sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a presence sensor different from a motion sensor?
Motion sensors detect movement, while presence sensors detect whether someone is in the room, even without visible motion. This makes presence sensors more reliable for lighting and climate routines that need to stay active.
Where should I place a presence sensor for the best results?
Presence sensors work well when mounted on ceilings or high on walls, allowing them to monitor the room evenly. Avoid pointing them directly at windows or vents to reduce false detections.
What types of presence sensors are used in smart homes?
Most modern presence sensors use millimeter-wave radar for fine detection sensitivity. Some combine radar with infrared or light-based measurements for improved accuracy.
Can presence sensors replace motion sensors?
Presence sensors can handle many tasks motion sensors struggle with, such as detecting someone sitting still. However, motion sensors may still be useful for quick entry detection or broader security coverage.
Do presence sensors work with major smart home platforms?
Yes. Many presence sensors support Zigbee, Wi-Fi, or mmWave radar and integrate with platforms like Home Assistant, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, and Apple Home through compatible hubs.