Customer Ratings & Reviews

Our Nest Protect stopped working… so we knew we needed something that could connect similarly and to our phones. What a great product! It’s definitely not as fancy but we’re happy with it!

Smoke detectors have an expiration date after which they don’t work as well. The original Nest Protect was an attempt at making the smoke detector an enviable product rather than merely a safety necessity but sadly most are now expired and discontinued. This First Alert smoke detector is a worthy successor to the Nest Protect. It mostly matches the design and feature set with a new model that continues the legacy set by the expired predecessor. Highlights: * Easy to set up. * Compatible with Nest Protect app and mounting plate. * Includes first set of long-life batteries. * Enrollment QR code is on both the product and the Quick Start Guide. * Attractive design. * Basic functions work out of the box without app/setup. * Quiet protection. Room for Improvement: * Needs six (6) special (CR123) batteries when time to replace. * Battery status light blinks infrequently so easily missed. * Test/Reset button is a bit mushy. * Not as low-profile or sleek as the Nest Protect. Setup: I already have a Nest Protect smoke detector set up in my hallway. It’s been a trusted watchdog for smoke and fire for years, but it’s now expired and discontinued. I’m in need of a replacement unit as mine has just expired. This cordless version of the First Alert smoke detector includes the six (6) required CR123 batteries pre-installed with a pull tab to keep them from draining before set up. A mounting ring and screws are also provided, but if you’re like me with an older Nest Protect, you won’t need them. Out of the box, this unit works as a standard smoke detector. You don’t need to install an app or set up the unit on your WiFi for the basics, but you’ll probably want to. If you do have an older Nest Protect and don’t need the app-connected benefits of this model, all you need to do to get protected again is twist off the old detector from its mount, pull the battery-protection tab, and twist this detector onto the same mount. Done! Most likely you’d want the connected benefits of this model, though. Setup is really easy. First install the free First Alert by Resideo app and set up a free account. Then choose to add your new detector. The easy setup process finds the detector over Bluetooth, then walks you through everything and even includes options for people like me who are replacing a Nest Protect. Once the detector is set up and online, you can also link it to the Google Home app like the Nest Protect was, but the Resideo app covers most of your app-based needs. Usage: The detector is not quite as slim and stylish as the Nest Protect, but is similar in shape, size and overall design. It has a large illuminated button in the center that is used to test the unit or silence an alert if one is going off, and show you various status messages in addition to the friendly voice and alarm sounds it makes. The button is large and easy to press, but is a bit mushy - I would prefer one that is more “clicky” but that’s just me. Also, unless you’re tall enough to reach the ceiling without help, you’ll probably need a step stool or a stick to press the button. The shape of the button is not quite as easy to press with a stick (like a mop handle) when needed, but again that’s a small nit. Perhaps have a concave center would make it easier to press. The First Alert app has nice overviews for your new detector and the ability to get more detail or change settings remotely. When an alert is happening (provided your home internet is still working), you’ll get a push notification in the app with the ability to easily call for help. We don’t have natural gas in our home so I doubt I’ll ever get a CO alarm, but it and the app will also indicate CO levels if present. I haven’t had this unit long enough to need battery replacement, but it’s supposed to gently warn you before they die with a chirp and a light on the detector. Plus, if you’ve connected it to the app, you can see the current battery level in the app and should get a push notification with advance notice before the batteries die. This detector also has an “interconnect” feature so that any connected smoke detector will trigger all of them. Very handy if you have multiple floors or rooms with compatible detectors. Summary: There are a few nice-to-have features missing that the Nest Protect had and it’s not quite as slim and stylish, but overall it matches the basics and serves its purpose as a connected smoke detector. It does the job of silently guarding your home while also being noticeable and easy to use in the event of an alert. The app is useful and you can even link it back to Google Home for all other types of notifications and automations.

Like many others, I’m nearing the expiration of my three Google Nest Protect smoke alarms, with one already expired. The timing of the First Alert smoke alarm’s release feels convenient, as it appears designed as a direct replacement for the Nest Protect. While I’ll avoid constant comparisons, some are unavoidable. My first impression is positive—the First Alert has a sleek design that I actually prefer over the Nest Protect’s appearance. For those transitioning from Nest, you’ll appreciate that the First Alert is compatible with the existing Nest mounting plate, eliminating the need for a new one. It uses CR123A batteries, which I believe are intended to last the alarm’s lifespan. If replacement is needed, the process seems straightforward and the battery model is sold everywhere. However, the speaker quality disappointed me. Compared to the Nest Protect’s loud, clear, and pleasant sound, the First Alert’s speaker sounds tinny and cheap. I tested the alerts themselves and they are LOUD, so the voice speaker appears to be seperate. Setup requires downloading the First Alert app, which I found less than ideal. The only Google integration involved linking the device to Google Home during setup, and everything seems to function well afterward. With two of my Nest alarms still functional for another year or two, I hope this First Alert proves reliable, as I’ll need to purchase two more of them soon. The First Alert app feels outdated and clunky, like something from 2019, but I don’t expect to use it often. I assume the alarm will send alerts to Google Home if triggered, as my Nest Protect does. Overall I can recommend it simply based on it being the only viable replacement for the Google Home Protect product line. At the end of the day, its sole existence is to save my life, and I have no doubt it will handle that task just fine since First Alert has decades of real-world experience...it's just not a Nest Protect.

This is my first smart smoke detector and my first CO detector, and I was trepidatious about smart detectors, but I’m so glad I have this in my house now. If you’re looking for a smart detector this is the one you want. Being in my home for just over 10 years, I knew it was time to start replacing my three smoke detectors. I started with this one, the battery powered one first as it is the easiest to swap out and closest to my kitchen and fireplace, the likely sources of CO outside of my water heater in the garage. The packaging is simple. It contains the detector, with batteries preinstalled, a mounting plate, screws and anchors for the mounting plate, two manual documents, an informational document about CO, and two stickers about the dangers of CO. Setting up is about as straightforward as all smart devices these days. The first thing you do is download the First Alert app, create an account if you don’t already have one, selecting the device, and the app will walk you through the rest of the setup. After removing the tab to activate the device, it will talk to you as the app walks you through connecting via scanning a QR code on the device or manual, automatically connecting via Bluetooth, selecting your WiFi network, and joining it. If you bought multiple devices at this point you could add more or link it with you Google account to be in your smarthome devices list. Then the app instructs you on mounting the device. These instructions ARE also physically printed and included, too. Mounting was screwing two holes in my ceiling and twisting the device on. At that point, you’re done. I did run a test via the app just to see. The detector itself spoke aloud to inform me the test was running, that it would sound the smoke alarm, then the CO alarm, followed by the CO ppm it detected. Everything went fine and this test was noted in the app’s activity, so you can see when it was last tested. This area would also tell you when it’s previously alerted you. The unit itself is noticeably bigger than the previous First Alert smoke detector I was replacing. I’m unfamiliar with the typical sizes of CO detectors to compare them to. That said, it still isn’t that large, about 1.5 inches tall and about five and a half inches in length and width. Bigger than older detectors, but not enough to make it stand out too much. The rounded square shape makes it sort of blend in. There is a power light that very dimly blinks every half minute, but you wouldn’t notice unless you were looking right at it. There is a large single button in the center of the unit to use for testing or silencing the alarm, should you not do those things from your phone app. Among the many features that I feel makes this device worthwhile are its smart features. Firstly, once I get more devices, they will be able to interconnect with one another even if some are hardwired and some are battery. This means if one goes off to alert you, they all will. Having a house where there’s a combination of hardwired and battery powered, this is a feature I appreciate. Speaking of alerts, another feature I appreciate is how it will alert you on your phone. It’s internet connected, so I can be alerted no matter where I’m present. One of the alerts it can also do is warn you as it slowly detects smoke or CO levels rising – alerting you of potential danger before it would be at a level it where the alarm would normally sound. This feature, to me, is something I most appreciate. It allows me the ability to investigate sources of such things before it becomes a problem. And, lastly, I also like the fact that it knows what time it is and if there is a low battery warning you won’t have to worry about chirps waking you up in the middle of the night nor having to wait for more chirps to successfully identify what unit is the source. Like any smoke and CO detector, you must have trust that it works when the need arises. The detectors I’m replacing are First Alert and have worked well over the past ten years, so I have confidence in the brand and its ability to do its job when the time comes. I understand that this device is costlier than other devices. This is partly why I cannot replace all my home’s smoke detectors at once. However, like all detectors, they are good for ten years. If any of the smart features excite you or make you feel safer, I feel like the cost per year over a ten-year lifespan is negligible. I’m glad that I have more of a piece of mind for me and my family with this detector than I have for any other I’ve had in my life previously!

Just last weekend, we finished building our 5th bedroom in our basement. When the opportunity came to get this battery powered First Alert - Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector, I jumped on it. our basement is 80% finished, with the unfinished portion of the basement (per usual) cantains storage, gas fueled hot-water heater and of course, the gas fueld furnace. Given that we already have 2 classic smoke detctors, this will add a third, but of most importance, it will provide carbon moxide detection. In the box you will findthe alarm itself, mounting plate and hardware, batteries, and the ubiquitous quick-start and manual. Set up was simple. I would suggest first downloading the Resido First Alert app, and creating an aaccount. Once you've done that, remove the plastic strip, press the center button, and you will be alerted to scan the QR code. Next, you can add to to your WiFi network, and then, in my case, I was queued to add to my Google Home networ. And there it was, accessible via the RFesido app, but more importantly, the Google Home ecosystem. If you press the button for a couple seconds, it runs a test. First for the smoke, and then for the carbon momoxide. One cool feature, that I hope I'll never have to use, is that if it detects, you will sent a notification of alarm and to call 911. Nice add. Physical mounting was, as expected, simple. Mount the base with a couple screws, and pop the detector onto it. Boom, you are done. This can be mounted horizontily on a cieling, or vertically on a wall. I placed mikne on the cieling. End of the day, I'm glad to have this and I hjave some immediate peace of mind

I needed to add a smoke detector to a bedroom in my basement, as previously there was none. I wanted one that was a combo smoke and CO2 detector, but also a smart connected device so I could get alerts on my phone. I’ve used First Alert non-smart devices before, so decided to give the “Smart” ones a try. Pros: - Simple setup & software. - Combo Smoke and CO2 detector. - Battery Operated. Cons: - None. Setup: This was by far one of the easiest smart devices to setup. Just create an account, follow the guided walk through which includes pulling the tab, scanning the QR code, and adding a wireless network. Then done! I was very impressed by how simple and easy setup was. Software: The software is super simple, which is always a great thing when it comes to safety devices. The main page different tiles of information for Safety, Video, Air, and Water. Along with temperature at the top corner, this provides quick access to specific devices and details. In the main part of the home page each of your devices will be listed along with their status, I’ve only got the one device so far, but I’m thinking about getting more. Clicking on the device allows you to see more details and options like Test Alarm or Last Activity. Additionally, the Smoke and CO2 detector can connect to Google Home, which can help drive automations or additional alerts, like notifying all household members of an alarm. Battery Powered: With this being Battery Operated, it can work anywhere and doesn’t rely on a wired connection being in place, which is what I needed. If the battery is low, it will notify you on the device and in the app, which is the big benefit of a smart device compared to just waiting for the chirping to begin. It uses 6 3V CR123A batteries, which might be less standard for consumer electronics but often used in safety and security devices due to the longer shelf life and stability of the voltage over its life. I’m not sure how long the batteries will last, but assuming 2-4 years which is plenty. Mounting: Included with the Smoke and CO2 detector is the mounting plate with wall anchors and screws. Though, in the case where you have an existing mounting plate, it might fit if it’s an older Nest device. Just check the plates against each other before removing. In my case, I needed to install as new. I had not issues getting the plate and detector installed. Conclusion: If you the peace of mind knowing you will get alerted when a fire or CO2 event occurs, you’ll want a Smoke & CO2 detector. And there is no reason to cheap out, so go with a reputable brand like First Alert. I’ve been using First Alert for years because they always work and will continue to trust them. Plus, with a Smart detector, I’ll now know even if we’re not home if a fire or something else occurs that puts our home at risk.

This First alert smoke and carbon monoxide detector is a great addition to my home safety system and will help alert on any potential fire hazard. Easy to install and connect to the First alert app. This version is battery operated with 6 3V CR123A Lithium batteries included inside the device, it’s is compatible with Google home but does not work with Alexa app, which I think it was disappointing since a lot of people use Alexa throughout their homes, with the first alert app you received alerts to your phone if smoke or Carbon Monoxide is detected, also alert you of low batteries. If already use google nest protect alarm system it will interconnect so when the smoke alarm goes off, all compartible alarms in your house will sound. You can also mute an alarm from the app and conduct alarm test, recommended every week to make sure your home is protected. This smoke alarm needs to be connected to WiFi 2.4 or 5.0 GHz. It also includes a 10 year limited warranty, which most smoke alarms would need to be replace around that time. The only down side about this smoke alarm is that it will not work with Alexa if that’s all you have at home, make sure you have Google home to be able to connect with the app, also the app could use some updates.

Needed to replace my Nest Protects and these are compatible with them. Easy install using the app and the old Nest Protect mounts can be used with the First Alert ones. Ran some tests and seems ok. The only thing it doesn't have is integration with Home Assistant.

We have 3 Nest protects in our home. I’m reading that they’ve been discontinued & replaced by this smoke & CO detector. I wanted an extra one for our bedroom. This seems to have pretty much the same features & alsotalks to you. I feel like the alarm isn’t quite as loud. The center has a blue ring, just like my others, an amber flash for heads up & red for smoke. It comes with lithium batteries but they’re not brand name so we’ll see how long they last. We use Energizer lithium in our other detectors and they last about a year. This takes 6 batteries as well, which can get quite pricey. The alarm shows in my Google home app & First alert app, which you need for setup, it doesn’t show in the Nest app. I had a little trouble connecting it to my Nest devices at first only to find I was on a different network, when I switched it said connected, then setup failed but the alarm was already listed in the app, that was a bit strange. I also had a hard time trying to reset it to reconnect, when I held the center button down as directed it wouldn’t reboot, it just kept trying to do a test. This also doesn’t have a nightlight/pathlight , which I love , especially in the hallway. Otherwise, it works the same for about the same price & is a nice, asthecially pleasing smoke detector.

First Alert’s battery-powered SC5 Smoke and CO2 detector is an excellent way to upgrade your home’s protection from these threats to your home and health. The convenience of having both detectors in one unit is nice, and the setup is very easy. And since it’s battery-powered you don’t have to worry about dealing with wiring or possibly involving an electrician. Out of the box, the batteries are pre-installed and you only need to pull out a plastic protector to enable them. (The six batteries are replaceable but the documentation is pretty specific about what it recommends for replacement.) Setup is guided by the First Alert app, whose instructions were easy to follow in just a few steps. I connected this unit to my IoT network without difficulty. The app scales so you can add additional units/products easily as well all in one place. Compatible units with the Smart Interconnect feature can all sound together if connected through the app, which is nice because battery-powered, opposed to hard wired, units usually do not have this capability. If you choose not to connect this to the cloud, it still does behave as a normal smoke/CO2 detector. The light up indicator in the center is handy. Its various colors give status, and the red varies for smoke or CO2 detection. Pressing the center button runs the detector through a test cycle, with a verbal warning that it will be loud and then a countdown. It is indeed very loud, and the fire (a more conventional pattern) is contrasted with the CO2, which is a rapid series of alarms followed by a pause. At the end of the test cycle it checks its connections and gives the current CO2 level before turning green to indicate a successful test. Included in both the print instructions and the app is an installation guide, and all the necessary hardware to mount is included. As is typical, it rotates onto the included installation bracket. I liked how specific its placement instructions were for what was best, and it included how to install in non-flat ceilings as well. I really liked how easy this was to install and since I do have a lot of combustion going on in my house (gas furnaces, water heater, fireplace), CO2 protection is especially important. I put the first one in my living room where I have a gas fireplace, but I’ll be adding a few more of these elsewhere in my house.

For home security, beside burglar alarm equipment and service subscription, we often forget smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that are most important to preserve life and health. The First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Battery Powered is a great addition to any household. First, I like the fact that it’s a 2 in 1 detector, and this model is battery operated which gives more options for placement. It comes equipped with 6 model 123 batteries which are known for their high power concentration; I expect a long battery life. And, speaking of installation, it's simple, quick and easy; however, it’s important to follow the guide and recommendations for best results. The hardware itself is well made with smooth and modern looking plastic. It’s square shaped and made of solid plastic with rounded edges and a squared LED button at the center. The button is used to test and silence the alarm and it changes colors depending on the situation. The set-up was issue free and quicker than expected. All is done in the First Alert app that has a good user interface that makes the set-up process easy. Once the set-up was complete, I was able to integrate it to the Google Home app from which I control my whole house. I can check the status and conduct tests from either app. In the First Alert app, I assigned it to my bedroom and, in case of emergency, it would verbally tell the location of the incident through the speaker that is very loud as anybody would want. This is done through “Smart Interconnect” from First Alert that allows several detectors to connect and work together and, in case of an actual alarm, they will all sound and identify the location of the emergency which is ideal in a large or multi-story house. Beyond the app test, I tried the smoke detection ability by lighting and extinguishing a candle and letting the light smoke reach the detector. I did at least five trials and every time, the detection was immediate, which means the sensor works well and seems quite sensitive. The detector’s LED light would turn red and it would say out loud, “Emergency! Smoke detected in the bedroom”, and a loud, deafening alarm would sound until stopped with the press of the LED button. Directly in the First Alert app 911 can be called at the touch of a red screen button; very convenient. To prevent false alarms, First Alert advises against installing the detector in kitchens or too near bathrooms, where smoke or water vapor is more likely to occur. In conclusion, the First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Battery Powered is a silent partner that makes its presence known in a very loud manner to protect my loved ones and my home. It’s easy to use and reliable, plus the Smart Interconnect features like voice alerts and emergency location can really make a difference in a critical situation. For peace of mind and reliance, it’s a worthy investment.

First Alert - Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Battery Powered. I’d like to believe there are no homes lacking smoke or CO detectors. If that’s true, most Smoke and Carbon Detector buyers are either replacing expired units or adding to existing systems. And, yes, those frequent false alarms are often a result of detectors going bad, no matter if they are battery or hardwired. These First Alert models are fully compatible with the Google Nest system and will communicate with it in a way that broadcasts an alarm throughout your home. SETUP: If you’re setting up these First Alert devices as a new system, the included mounting plate makes installation a breeze. Pull out the battery protecting strip and you’re ready for the app setup. Two screws, through the plate, and into a wall or ceiling. Now rotate the alarm onto the plate with a slight twist. The Residio First Alert APP: I installed the app from the Apple Store, created an account, and followed the app instructions which step you through enabling the detector to communicate through your Wi-Fi home network, and then to your phone. This was a painless process that brought me to a SETTINGS page where I could see the battery status of my new detector, name it (LOCATION), and run a test. I’ve captured the SETUP stages in my included pictures. This all works flawlessly. It takes the guesswork out of setup and increases my confidence that my home is safe for my family. First Alert’s new generation of smart alarms has brought my home safety devices into the 21st century. Recommended.

I'm not going to beat around the bush: this is an excellent safety device. I will add more over time. If you want to know more about this detector, read on... Since my daytime job has to do with workplace safety, I have become very aware of potential danger resulting from a lack of vigilance. Now, I'm not paranoid, so not every room in my house has a smoke and carbon monoxide detector. But I needed to replace an aging one in the kitchen, so I thought why not go with a big player like First Alert. The box contains everything you need: a mounting plate, screws, the detector and as a bonus, batteries. One of the first thing that caught my eye on the box was the compatibility with Google Nest devices. So, after mounting the detector as directed per the manual, I set up the app and added the device to my Nest Hub. And it works like a charm! The only thing that bugged me a bit, was the sheer size of the thing. It's a bit bigger than the other detectors in the house. But aside from that, it's a home run. I even lit some paper on fire from a short distance to see what would happen and it started blinking and then came the noise. If this noise doesn't wake you up from a sound sleep, nothing will. Big thumbs-up to First Alert for making such a quality product.

Found this to be a very valuable addition to my home. Set up was very easy and only took minutes after setting up the app on my phone. Huge plus this is 100% wireless! Once connected, everything regarding set up is laid out the app. Another great feature about this unit is that it provides voice prompts. This monitors both smoke and CO2. It is battery operated and takes 6 small CR123A; Lithium batteries. Was hoping it would be double a or triple a, however these batteries are easily obtained. The fact that this works via the app as well makes this so beneficial regardless if you are home or away. It provides two distinctive alarms, one for smoke, and the other for co2. It is also compatible with google nest. The price point is a bit high, especially for how many are recommended to be placed throughout the home. These are well made and do not feel flimsy at all. It comes with screws, wall anchors and a mounting plate so you can easily install this on a wall or ceiling. Definately take note of the installation instructions so you are mounting this in the proper location(s). I would definitely recommend this to ensure the safety of your loved ones and homes.

Having had a house fire years ago, I am all about fire safety! Add a carbon monoxide detector in the same unit and I am a happy homeowner! This unit come with the ability to be hard wired in or battery operated. I wanted this in a specific location so I opted for the battery model. This way I can move it as needed. That is a great option for renters as well so you can take it with you when you move. I have run the tests and it goes through it's routine- smoke and carbon. The alarm is not very loud. I have this right outside my 12 year old grandson's room and I can assure you, he would NOT wake up if this went off in the middle of the night. I have had issues getting it to connect to the app. If you have Google nest alarms or other compatible units and can get it connected via the app, it will alert you any time, anywhere if the alarm is activated. It will also act in coordination with other connected units (again, I can't attest to this since I have not been able to get it connected to the app). I will reach out to customer service to see if they can help. I got frustrated trying to connect it over and over and eventually just hung it up. I will get back to it soon!

So you hear the stories of people on vacation or at home dying from carbon Monoxide poisoning and wonder…should I worry? Probably not…I mean, the odds are so low in general, but it does happen. I am in the emergency services, and even locally, I have worked on suspected carbon monoxide poisonings (again, rare). But for a little investment, you can have peace of mind and rule out this tragic end! Now I have a comprehensive burglar alarm, smoke, and fire all set up in my home network, but I really wanted a high-quality traveling Smoke and Carbon monoxide alarm to take with me to Airbnbs or hotels or wherever. But I also didn’t want the alarm to sit in a box except for the 10 -12 times a year I am away at an Airbnb or hotel… Then I saw the First Alert Battery Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm and it fits the bill perfectly! Safe at home and I can take it with me! What I really love: It’s built well, feels sturdy, and is a low-profile form factor. First Alert is a premier brand in this space, so you know its quality. It uses CR123 lithium batteries, so the power is long and strong! It's Wi-Fi and app connected, so when I go to an Airbnb and get it on their wifi and connected to the app, my pets (who we take with us to the airbnbs) will be safe and protected while we are out! Some pluses when I use it at home are that it is Google compatible and it was easy to set up and link to my Google Home and no wires to mess with, and thus …Portable. It also has some features that I have not been able to test yet but appeal to me nonetheless, for example, it has what they call, “Precision Detection and Advanced sensing” that reduces kitchen cooking incidents. That’s nice because some of the small resort Airbnb cabins are pretty small and the kitchen is right in the mix, and I should not have any false alerts due to cooking…we’ll see. Another little feature that struck me is they send voice and app alerts for everything, even the low battery alert….NO MORE CHIRPING!! LOVE THAT. The app seems ok so far. Looks like First alert farmed the app to a company called Reiseo. The app on the Apple App Store is rated 2 out of 5 stars with 127 reviews as of the time of this review so I am not sure why the low rating. Seems ok to me. Nothing fancy…just an average app. I also would have liked a QR code to take me right to the app. I had to read the instructions a little to find what the actual app name. Not a big deal. “First Alert by Resideo” is the name. So far, I have the detector on built in book shelves in the family room at home simulating a wall mount. On on next big outing at an Airbnb it will be keeping me and my spouse safe and sound…and we can have the peace of mind that our furry family members are safe and sound as well, thanks to the app. Really impressive detector and very versatile!

Fits the original Nest Protect mounting bracket so replacement was as simple as twisting the new unit into place. Device siluette not as sleek as protect and voice a bit harsh and robotic. Interconects with additional units and gets the job done.

I had been thinking that I needed to add a carbon monoxide monitor to my home so when the opportunity to try out the First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Battery Powered unit came along I was more than happy. I already had a hardwired smoke detector installed in my home but suspected it was well beyond time to replace it. I opted for the Battery Powered version of the First Alert unit for easier installation on my own. Battery powered units may be a great option for anyone living in a rented home or for anyone like me that just wanted the easiest installation option without needing to deal with your wiring. The setup and actual installation was pretty simple. No drilling necessary and the hardware needed in included (I only needed to use a screw driver and a hammer to help get the red wall anchors into the drywall easier). Before actually installing the unit you do need to download the First Alert app and set it up, which was simple. Pairing the detector to the app was easy with just scanning the QR code on the unit in the app and following the prompts, including connecting to your home wifi and having bluetooth enabled. After installation you do a quick alarm test to make sure everything is working correctly. The voice commands are easy to hear when nearby but the real superstar is how loud the actual alarms are for both smoke detection and carbon monoxide detection (2 different alert tones so you will know which alarm is going off based on the tones). The app shows activity including the last time it was tested and detection status. You can also see more detailed info such as the last time the doctor checked in and the next time it's scheduled to do it again, battery status, etc. You can also opt to link the detector to your existing Google Home Integration (as well as control with Alexa) if applicable and toggle on the Heads-Up Alerts to receive notifications when smoke or CO levels are rising before an alarm is triggered. Overall, I am impressed so far with this unit and plan to get a couple more to put in other areas of my home. It is an added peace of mind for my household with the assurance that the alarms would be loud enough to awaken everyone in my house.

First I have to say, I bought this because my Nest Protect was at end of life and this product was recommended. For all intents and purposes this seems like a good product with a decent app. The pro is that you can take your nest protect down and put this one up without having to change the mounting plate. Now the cons. Keep in mind these are not inherently the shortcomings of the device itself, but more of in comparison to the unit is replacing. First the app is not as nice ad the best app. It’s easy enough to use but not as elegant and cohesive as the Nest. The overall looks of the unit are not as sleek. The nest looked impressive and to the point you couldn’t tell it was simply a smoke detector. This by comparison is not ugly but plain. And the biggest issue personally, is that this device does not have the guide light that comes on when motion is detected. I would recommend this product as it looks to be the best unit currently available. Compared to the Nest, it falls a little short. The simple fact that you can use the same mounting plate is enough to sway me toward this product.

Unfortunately the AA Lithium batteries died, on my Nest Protect fire/CO detector as it was approaching its suggested replacement date. I decided to purchase the Google recommended First Alert SC5 because the Nest is no longer manufactured. The First Alerts SC5 appears to be a functional fire and carbon monoxide detector and does sync with Google's Home application well, however it seems of lower quality build and has fewer features than the original Nest Protect. I had grown quite fond of the night light especially when we had overnight guests, and the automated tests which reassured us the Protect (Nest) would always do its job. The First Alert SC5 recommends weekly testing, eschews the convenient lighting, requires more expensive CR123 lithium batteries and does not seem built as robust as the Protect. I suppose Time will tell if Google Home and First Alert have anywhere near the eloquence or reliability Nest had achieved before Google bought them out.