Review: Aqara Door and Window Sensor

If you are looking for a smart device that can monitor the status of your doors and windows, you might want to check out the Aqara Door and Window Sensor. This is a wireless sensor that can detect whether your doors and windows are open or closed, and send notifications to your smartphone or trigger other smart devices. In this blog post, I will review the features, installation, and performance of the Aqara Door and Window Sensor, and share my personal experience with using it.

The Aqara Door and Window Sensor is a small and sleek device that consists of two parts: a magnet and a sensor. The magnet attaches to the door or window, while the sensor attaches to the frame. The sensor has a built-in Zigbee chip that allows it to communicate with the Aqara Hub or other compatible Zigbee hubs. The sensor also has a button that can be used to pair or reset the device.

The installation of the Aqara Door and Window Sensor is very easy and straightforward. You just need to peel off the adhesive tape on the back of the magnet and sensor, and stick them to the door or window and the frame, respectively. The magnet and sensor should be aligned and within 22 mm of each other when the door or window is closed. You can use the included screws for extra security if you prefer.

To pair the Aqara Door and Window Sensor with the Aqara Hub, you need to download the Aqara Home app on your smartphone and follow the instructions. You can also pair it with other Zigbee hubs, such as Samsung SmartThings or Hubitat Elevation, but you might need to use a different app or method depending on the hub. Once paired, you can see the status of your doors and windows on your app, and set up automations or scenes with other smart devices.

The performance of the Aqara Door and Window Sensor is reliable and accurate. It can detect even slight changes in the position of your doors and windows, and send alerts to your phone or trigger other actions. For example, you can set up an automation that turns on the lights when you open the door at night, or turns off the air conditioner when you open the window. This works well with Home Assistant automations. You can also use the sensor as a security device that alerts you when someone tries to break in.

The battery life of the Aqara Door and Window Sensor is also impressive. It uses a CR1632 coin cell battery that can last up to two years, depending on the usage frequency. You can check the battery level on your app, and replace it when it is low. The sensor also has a low battery warning that flashes red when the battery is below 10%.

The Aqara Door and Window Sensor is a great addition to your smart home system. It is affordable, easy to install, and works well with other smart devices. It can help you monitor your doors and windows, save energy, improve security and safety, and create a more comfortable and convenient living environment. Of the door and window sensors I've tested, this is by far the smallest and most reliable so far.