Presence Sensor vs Motion Sensor: Which is the Best

If you’re a smart home user, you’ve probably thought about presence and motion sensors. 

Each option, regardless of type, can provide you with a lot of benefits. Generally, they can make your smart home experience much better by granting automation. 

However, which is the best? 

You’ll be surprised. Therefore, let’s explore presence sensors vs motion sensors. 

What is a Presence Sensor?

A presence sensor is a device designed to detect human presence. They use technologies like millimetre wave radar to detect minimal movements, like breathing or small body shifts, making them excellent for smart home systems, energy management, and automated lighting.

What is a Motion Sensor?

A motion sensor is a device that detects movement within its field of view. They use technologies like passive infrared (PIR), ultrasonic waves, and microwaves to detect changes in the surrounding environment, making them ideal for security systems, automatic doors, etc.

Motion Sensor vs Presence Sensor: Which is the Best?

The difference between a presence sensor and a motion sensor (or detector) really depends on the specific application. 

While both offer superb functionality, one may be better than the other, depending on the desired result. 

Therefore, to help determine the best option, let’s compare presence detectors vs motion detectors.

Comparison Between a Presence Sensor and Motion Sensor

Recommendations for Presence Sensors and Motion Sensors

With the difference between motion vs presence sensors now being clear, let’s recommend some quality devices.

Aqara Presence Sensor FP2

The Aqara Presence Sensor FP2 is a presence sensor that uses millimeter-wave radar technology to deliver precise human detection.

Unlike typical motion sensors, this presence sensor can monitor multiple zones within a room, detect up to 5 people simultaneously, and even comes with fall detection and alerts - all without the need for wearables or camera systems. 

Plus, it’s completely compatible with a range of smart home devices—these range from HomeKit to Alexa, Google Home, all the way to IFTTT, allowing for enhanced automation.

Key Features

● Zone Positioning: Covers up to 40 m² (430 sq ft) with customisable zones for spaces like beds, sofas, and desks.  

● Multi-person Detection: Identifies up to 5 different people at one time, filtering false positives from pets (or even robots).

● Ultra-High Precision: Detects even the slightest movement without false positives due to quality radar sensors.

● Seamless Smart Home Integration: Compatible with popular smart home devices like HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT.

● Local Automation: FP2 Runs locally, so it’ll continue to operate even if the internet is down.

● Fall Detection & Alerts: Detects if anybody falls and sends alerts without requiring camera systems.

● Built-In Light Sensor: Allows for advanced lighting automation based on ambient brightness.

● Flexible Placement: Features a USB-C port and magnetic stand for seamless installations in various locations.

● Privacy-Focused: Uses radar-based motion detections, eliminating the need for any security cameras or wearables.

● IPX5-Rated: Can be installed in areas subject to humidity, for example, bathrooms or outdoor covered spaces. 

Use Cases

The use cases of the Aqara Presence Sensor FP2 are very broad, ranging from home automation all the way to sleep monitoring, security purposes, energy efficiency, and elderly (or family) monitoring. 

For example, defining zones for specific actions, like adjusting lighting based on movement, can help automate lighting systems as well as boost energy efficiency. 

Alongside this, the FP2 can detect your heart and respiratory rates in real time without any wearables. On the app, you’ll even get valuable insights into your sleep quality and any historical reports that are available. 

For something like security or elderly monitoring, the FP2 can detect movements or falls of objects and send alerts. Therefore, if someone breaks in or if a family member falls, you’ll get instant notification of the action.

Aqara Motion and Light Sensor P2

The Aqara Motion and Light Sensor P2 is a device that enhances both motion detection and lighting automation in a smart home.

This “2-in-1 Sensor” comes with native Matter support, so the device can integrate seamlessly with popular smart home devices like Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings, enabling optimal automation. 

One of its key features is its Thread protocol. With this, the P2 provides improved connectivity, higher reliability, lower latency, and lower power consumption than its last generation.

Key Features

● Native Matter Support: Seamlessly integrates into Matter-enabled smart homes, allowing for simple compatibility across devices.

● Thread Protocol: Offers an improved smart home experience providing low-power consumption, high reliability, and low latency.

● Independent Light Sensor: Allows for advanced lighting automation based on brightness, enhancing energy efficiency.

● Wide Motion Detection Angle: Features a 170° field of view and a 7-meter (23 ft) range for precise motion tracking.

● Easy Installation: Comes supplied with an adjustable stand for mounting on walls, ceilings, or desktops.

● Enhanced Privacy Design: The P2’s design doesn’t look like a camera, addressing privacy concerns in areas like bathrooms or changing rooms.

● Long Battery Life: Runs on CR2450 lithium batteries, giving users 2 years of uninterrupted performance.

● Local Automation: Doesn’t require a constant internet connection, allowing the device to work even if the internet is down.

● Exclusive Features via Aqara Home App: When connected to the Hub M3, users can set up custom automation, sensitivity adjustments, and security alerts. 

Use Cases

Due to the P2’s “2-in-1 design”, it has many use cases, ranging from basic smart lighting control all the way to comfort, energy, and security improvements.

Starting with smart lighting control, the P2 can be set up to adjust lights based on motion and brightness levels. This doesn’t only improve the functionality of a space, but it also enhances energy efficiency. 

Alongside this, the device can integrate into many smart home devices, including Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings, so you can set temperature conditions, receive alerts, or even trigger camera recording if motion is detected.

Aqara Motion Sensor P1

The Aqara Motion Sensor P1 is a motion detection device that’s designed to enhance home security and automation.

Featuring a 5-year battery life, adjustable sensitivity, and a built-in light sensor, the P1 ensures extremely precise motion detection that connects seamlessly to the Aqara Zigbee 3.0 Hub, Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and IFFT. 

Due to its design, the device provides its users with security, energy saving, and convenience benefits in any home setting.

Key Features

● 5-Year Battery Life: Get up to 5 years of long-lasting performance even in extreme temperatures.

● Adjustable Sensitivity: Offer three modes - high, medium, and low - to improve the accuracy of the device.

● Customisable Detection Timeout: Change detection intervals from 1 to 200 seconds for bespoke automation.

● Built-in Light Sensor: Enables advanced lighting automation based on brightness levels.

● Wide-Angle Detection: 170° Field of view that covers up to 7 meters (23 ft).

● Adjustable Stand: Complete 360° stand that can be placed almost anywhere, indoors or outside.

● Smart Home Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Aqara Zigbee 3.0 Hub as well as Apple Home, Alexa, IFTT, and more.

● Easy Installation: No tools required for installation, mount includes a stand and an adhesive sticker.

● OTA Updates: Devices can be updated even after the release or purchase of the product remotely. 

Use Cases

One of the key use cases for the P1 is the ability to trigger alerts and alarms when motion is detected in certain areas. 

Other include things such as smart lighting automation, nighttime convenience (i.g., turning lights off when you get into bed), and temperature automation. 

Not only this, but the P1 is pet-friendly. You’re able to adjust the detection sensitivity. Therefore, it’ll reduce the number of false triggers caused by the movement of pets.

Which Aqara Device is Best for You?

The device you choose really depends on your needs and goals. While all are quality, you must carefully compare them to determine which suits your wants best.

Comparing the FP2, P2, and P1 Devices

A Combination of Presence and Motion Sensor Might be a Better Choice

In some situations, using a single type of sensor may not provide the type of coverage or functionality that you want. 

However, combining them (both presence and motion sensors) can offer a much higher quality and versatile solution for smart home automation. 

For example, let’s say you have a large open-plan living area; you could use a presence sensor like the FP2 to maintain consistent occupancy detection from climate control, ambient lighting, etc., and a motion sensor, like the P2, to trigger task lighting or cameras for specific zones. 

This “combi” approach ensures that you cover all areas of smart home automation, from security, like camera activation from motion to lighting or temperature controls, from a presence.

FAQ

What is the main difference between a presence sensor and a motion sensor?

A presence sensor detects very subtle human presence, including small movements like breathing, whereas a motion sensor detects larger movements, like someone walking.

Which is better for home automation: a presence or motion sensor?

It depends on the use case. Presence sensors are good for continuous occupancy detection for lighting and temperature controls. On the other hand, a motion sensor is more suited for trigger-based automation; when someone enters a room, it activates the security cameras.

Are presence sensors more accurate than motion sensors?

Yes, presence sensors are more accurate than motion sensors. They detect even the smallest of movements, like breathing. A motion sensor would need to detect real movement, like somebody walking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing presence and motion sensors is not about finding the “best” option, but rather about understanding your specific needs and usage. Presence sensors are great for detecting subtle movements like breathing, while motion sensors are designed to detect larger movements like walking.

Take the time to assess your needs to make an informed decision. Now that you have a clearer picture, we invite you to take a look at our range of Acara sensor products. Our innovative solutions can help you find the right sensors to enhance your smart home experience. Invest in your comfort and safety now!