The Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors
We compared seven top-rated carbon monoxide detectors, analyzing owner ratings, expert reviews, and specs. The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector (B0DT1MYBNV) is our top pick for its reliability and ease of use.
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The bottom line
The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector (B0DT1MYBNV) is our top pick at $27.99. It features easy plug-in installation, a battery backup, and a loud 85-decibel alarm. Owners rate it 9.6/10, and video reviewers give it an 8/10. The closest alternative is the First Alert CO605 (B000ND74XA), which is slightly cheaper at $21.83 but lacks the battery backup feature. For a budget option, the Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector (B0DT1MGCKK) offers similar features at $23.97, though it requires batteries and has no plug-in option.
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector $27.99
Best overall carbon monoxide detector
The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector (B0DT1MYBNV) is our top pick at $27.99. It features easy plug-in installation, a battery backup, and a loud 85-decibel alarm. Owners rate it 9.6/10, and video reviewers give it an 8/10. The tradeoff is its higher price compared to battery-only models.
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FIRST ALERT CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector $21.83
Best budget plug-in detector
The First Alert CO605 (B000ND74XA) is a strong runner-up at $21.83. It offers a loud alarm, battery backup, and easy installation. Owners rate it 9.2/10 from 23,164 ratings. The tradeoff is the lack of a battery backup compared to the top pick.
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Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector $23.97
Best battery-powered detector
The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector (B0DT1MGCKK) is our budget pick at $23.97. It operates on 2-AA batteries, has an 85-decibel alarm, and is highly rated by owners (9.4/10 from 2,008 ratings). The tradeoff is the need for battery replacement and no plug-in option.
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- Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector Best for reliability and ease of use 9.0/10 $27.99 Amazon
- FIRST ALERT CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector Best budget plug-in option 8.5/10 $21.83 Amazon
- Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector Best for battery-powered convenience 8.0/10 $23.97 Amazon
- Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, Plug-in & AA Battery Backup Good plug-in with battery backup 7.5/10 $34.97 Amazon
- Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector Reliable battery-powered option 7.0/10 $24.97 Amazon
- First Alert Battery Carbon Monoxide Alarm Basic battery-powered detector 6.5/10 $22.49 Amazon
- First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm Expensive plug-in with mixed durability 6.0/10 $50.64 Amazon
What to consider
When choosing a carbon monoxide detector, consider the type of power source (battery vs. plug-in with battery backup), ease of installation, and owner satisfaction. Plug-in models with battery backup offer the most reliability, especially during power outages. Battery-powered models are more portable but require regular battery changes.
Also-rans
The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector (B0G1CR88J9) and the First Alert Battery Carbon Monoxide Alarm (B000N8OYXI) are reliable options but lack some features of the top picks. The First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm (B014KEPQLE) is more expensive and has mixed durability reports, making it less attractive despite its high owner ratings.