When you think of HomeKit, the first thing that may pop up into your mind just might be HomeKit-enabled smart lights. But what about light sensors? They tend to fly under the radar most of the time, but these nifty devices can make some of the best personal automations around. When it comes to measuring light and motion, it works best with HomeKit blinds, plugs, and, of course, light bulbs — things will just happen automatically in the background, so you don't need to lift a finger! And it's cool to just ask Siri how bright your home is. Here are the best HomeKit light sensors available on the market today.
Motion and light
The Philips Hue Motion Sensor is the gold standard for motion sensors, so chances are, you may already have one of these in your home. However, you may not know that this accessory actually measures light levels as well, and its readings are available in HomeKit. This allows this already awesome sensor to work with automations, giving you the ability to activate things like your blinds when it gets a little too dark.
All seeing eye
The Fibaro Motion Sensor has a unique eyeball design, which is only fitting as it can detect motion and light levels. This sensor can also measure temperature, and even has an accelerometer, notifying you if it detects any tampering. If that weren't enough, this all-seeing eye is also completely wireless, running on just a single CR123A battery.
Light and compact
Don't let its looks fool you, the Aqara Motion Sensor is a compact little accessory, one that has to be seen in person. Despite its small size, this tiny device somehow manages to pack in light-sensing abilities as well, allowing placement that is out of sight. Best of all, this sensor also comes with a small price tag, making it the cheapest option around.
For the great outdoors
The Philips Hue Outdoor Motion Sensor combines the already fantastic indoor motion sensor with certified weather resistance. This outdoor sensor can withstand heavy rain, and extreme temperatures, covering your home all year long. Dusk to dawn sensing capabilities enables true sunset and sunrise automations, relying on actual light levels outside of your home, not from a generalized location.
Affordable sensor
If you want something that is super affordable, you can't go wrong with the Onvis SMart Wireless HomeKit Motion Sensor. This little sensor can detect motion 24/7, as well as humidity and temperature. You can easily set up automations to turn on the lights once you get to the front door, and you just can't beat the price.
Simple and efficient
This motion sensor from Eve will work 24/7 and it even has IPX3 water resistance, so it can be used outdoors. You can get notifications whenever motion is detected, and you can set up your own scenes to control your smart home accessories once it detects your presence. What makes Eve Motion even better is the fact that you don't even need a bridge to make this work, so it's super easy to set up.
See the light with the best HomeKit light sensors
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HomeKit light sensors may not get a lot of love when it comes to home automation, but they have the potential to provide quite an impact with their minute measurements. With the best HomeKit light sensors, you'll be adding an extra layer of security to your home, and you can have your HomeKit lights and accessories automatically turn on to your favorite scene the moment you get home. Who doesn't want to come home to have everything ready and waiting for you after a long day?
We love the Philips Hue Motion Sensor thanks to its industry-leading motion response times, and light-sensing is just the icing on the cake. This smart home essential works with HomeKit to make magic moments happen through automations, ones that are completely local to your environment.
If you are looking for a light sensor that works in the great outdoors, then the Philips Hue Outdoor Motion Sensor is the one for you. This sensor is one of the few HomeKit options on the market that is UL certified for weather resistance, giving you the option to create automations that are custom to your home. Whichever option you choose for the best HomeKit light sensors, these little devices are sure to give you the finest levels of control through their unique ability to measure even the slightest levels of light.
