It can be used as a standalone unit or a part of a larger security system for better functional working to monitor, detect, and alert you about unwanted visitors before they enter the home. People having home with long driveways, living in private spaces or rural areas, and in areas with a bit crime rate are beneficial from these alarms. Here is a quick outlook of key factors to consider before investing in the best driveway alarm.
Transmission Range –
It is defined as the maximum distance between the sensor and receiver to get a proper signal. Usually, the sensor is placed outside and the receiver is placed inside the home. The common sensor range for these driveway alarms will be 500 – 1000 feet, in which a range of 50 feet is the shortest one.
Power Source –
The driveway alarm will function only when it is powered by any type of power source. Usually, there are three types of power sources available for these alarms – solar energy (easy to install with solar panels, yet cause false alarms), batteries (comfortable yet shorter lifespan), and home’s electricity (powerful option yet less versatile). Choose them as per your need.
Types –
Passive infrared (PIR), active infrared (AIR), and magnetic probe are three main types of driveway alarms that are widely used to increase home security and provide utmost protection.
PIR Alarm System uses infrared beams to sense closer movement with the help of heat. A common type of alarm that senses people, animals, and car engines. AIR Alarm System has a transmitter and receiver, in which the transmitter passes a beam of infrared light to the receiver. Then it alerts and sends an alarm when an object crosses this beam path. Magnetic Probe Alarm is built with an encased PVC pipe with an inside hidden metal detector. It only detects metals like vehicles, yet not people or animals.
Apart from these three key factors, you have to take several factors into your account in our detailed “Buying Guide”. Also, we came up with a list of some Best Driveway Alarms with proper description, best features, pros, and cons. Read on to know how to pick the best model that suits you perfectly.
9 Best Driveway Alarms in 2023: List
Best Driveway Alarms in 2023: Reviews
1. eMacros Wireless Driveway Alarm
eMacros is a highly popular brand of driveway systems out there since its offerings can be a great pick for all those of you who want units made for long term usage. The eMacros driveway alarm comes at the 1st position of this list since it is one of the best options out there for long term usage. Talking about its performance, you get a fairly high wireless range of ½ mile which is quite high for most users. Although, you only get 4 sensors with this alarm system which is a bit low for the price. Once the alarm unit has been installed, you can choose from 4 fun chimes as per your liking. Thankfully, you do get a decent coverage area of up to 30 feet with each sensor of this driveway alarm. These sensors rely on solar energy for all their power requirements which makes them ideal for outdoor usage especially when combined with a water-resistant design. Its build quality is quite sturdy thanks to its industrial-grade PVC housing which happens to be weather resistant as well. Other than being water-resistant, this driveway alarm also offers a lifetime warranty making it perfect for long term usage. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ½ mile Includes a total of 4 sensors Comes with a lifetime warranty period Coverage area of up to 30 feet 4 alarm chimes
Pros:
Excellent for long term usage Decent coverage area for each sensor High wireless range for alarm connectivity
Cons:
Only 4 sensors even at the given price
2. Guardline Wireless Driveway Alarm
Guardline and its driveway alarms can be a great choice for all those who wish to get a unit made for large scale usage thanks to its multiple included sensors. This Guardline driveway alarm comes at the 3rd position of this article because you get the highest number of included sensors with it. To be precise, you will find a total of 16 sensors included with its alarm unit. You also get a decent wireless range of ¼ mile with it which is to be expected at the given price tag. Even though you get a total of 16 sensors supported with this driveway alarm, you still get a coverage of up to 40 feet resulting in excellent coverage. Another great thing about its sensors is that they all use a water-resistant construction. As you would expect from a premium option like this, it also comes with a 2-year long warranty. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ¼ mile Includes a total of 16 sensors Comes with a 2 year long warranty period
Pros:
Great for large scale usage Water-resistant sensor units High coverage area for each sensor
Cons:
A bit on the expensive side
3. 1byone Wireless Driveway Alarm
1 By One is another highly popular brand of driveway alarm systems that is known for offering some of the most affordable options out there that can be a great pick for many. The 1 By One driveway alarm can be the perfect pick for all those of you who are on a tight budget. Despite being the cheapest option stated here, you get a decent range of ⅕ mile with it. As for the sensors used by it, you get a total of 5 sensors with it which is higher than even more expensive options. One of the best things about this affordable driveway alarm is that it features a total of 3 alert sounds and 36 chimes to choose from for versatility and personalisation. You can also change the volume of the alarm chimes between 25 and 80 dB to ensure that is just loud enough. To ensure that these sensors can be used outdoors, they all offer weatherproof sealing for long term usage. Although, their coverage is a bit limited at just 24 feet which can be limited for some users. Unlike most other budget options, this 1 By One driveway alarm also comes with a 2-year long warranty for your peace of mind. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ⅕ mile Includes a total of 5 sensors Comes with a 2 year long warranty period Coverage up to 24 feets 3 alert sounds Alarm chimes between 25 and 80 dB
Pros:
Highly affordable driveway alarm Decent amount of sensors Fairly sturdy and reliable with weatherproof sealing
Cons:
Limited coverage area
4. Hosmart Wireless Driveway Alarm
As you can guess by its name, H Hosmart makes all kinds of products for using at your home which also includes its driveway alarm unit. H Hosmart’s driveway alarm can be another viable option if you want a unit without spending a lot of money. Starting with its wireless range, it is rated at up to ½ mile which is on par with most other offerings available out there. This is combined along with a total of 4 sensors that you will find inside its box. Similar to many other driveway alarms, this H Hosmart one also features 4 chimes to choose from for its alarm unit. By using its sensitivity settings, you can get a coverage area of up to 30 feet from each sensor. And because these sensors are water-resistant sealed, you can install them anywhere you like. Since this alarm also features an inbuilt solar panel, it can easily last for more than 30 years. While you do get a 2-year long warranty with it, the build quality of this driveway alarm is a bit average. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ½ mile Includes a total of 4 sensors Comes with a 2 year long warranty period Coverage area of up to 30 feet 4 Alarm chimes
Pros:
Easy to install sensors Fairly high coverage area Decent amount of included sensors
Cons:
Build quality could have been better
5. TOGUARD Wireless Driveway Alarm
Toguard makes all sorts of safety and security products that can be deployed all around your home including its driveway alarm that offers excellent build quality. This Toguard driveway alarm system happens to be one of the best built and rugged options available out there. As for its performance numbers, you will be glad to know that you get a ½ mile coverage area with its sensors. Talking about the sensors, you will be glad to know that it includes a total 4 of them which is similar to most other options. But unlike other sensor units, this one not only has a solar panel and an inbuilt 18650 battery, but it also supports USB charging if needed. As for the coverage area offered by these sensors, all of them are rated at 30 feet. This fairly high sensor coverage area is combined along with a But the best thing about its sensors is that not only they have an IP 66 water resistance rating, but you also get an inbuilt solar panel for rugged use. Even though you get an excellent build quality with it, it only has a 1-year long warranty. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ½ mile Includes a total of 4 sensors Comes with a 1 year long warranty period IP 66 water resistance Coverage area of up to 30 feet Inbuilt 18650 battery
Pros:
Excellent build quality IP 66 water resistance rating Decent performance numbers for the price
Cons:
Warranty period could have been longer
6. Seanme Wireless Driveway Alarm
Next on our list, we have a driveway alarm system from Seanme, which is a well-known motion sensor brand that designs highly reliable options to offer decent performance and last longer at a reasonable price tag. This driveway alarm is one of the reliable and durable options present in the listicle that offers a wireless working range of up to 328 feet (or 100 meters) between the transmitter and receiver and 16 feet detection range. Thus, it allows warming you upon the arrival and departure of either expected or unexpected guests to your home or business. It is quite easy and quick to install and set up, as you need to plug the portable plug-in receiver into an outlet. Then install the waterproof (IP65) battery-powered sensor (4 pieces) at the driveway entrance, while the receiver has to be placed inside the home for alarm alerts. The infrared sensor mounted on the wall will detect the motion and thereby send the signal to the inside receiver. In addition, you can customize the alerts with its 38 chimes, 5 volume levels, mute mode, and bright LED indicators. So, it is a perfect home security option to use on driveways, window frames, walking paths, sidewalks, front porches, fences (at home), and store entrances to get alerts by ringing the doorbell automatically upon any motion detected (either visitors, wild animals, vehicles, thieves or trespassers) while entering to your property. Best Features:
IP65 waterproof wireless driveway alert Comes with a transmission range of 328 feet Offers 5 volume levels, 38 chimes, mute mode, and an LED indicator. Coverage area of up to 16 feet Easy to install and simple to set up. Includes a total of 4 sensors and 1 alarm receiver
Pros:
Excellent build quality Waterproof PIR motion detector The doorbell rings automatically whenever the motion is detected. Sturdy, durable, and reliable weatherproof sealing
Cons:
Limited coverage area No information on its warranty.
7. Mighty Wireless Driveway Alarm
Mighty Mule is a fairly small and new brand of driveway alarms when compared with most other offerings available out there that can still be a viable option for decent performance. The Mighty Mule driveway alarm is a great option for those of you who want an easy to install alarm system. Unlike most other driveway alarms, this one has a slightly lower wireless range of 1/13 mile which might be an issue for many. Thankfully, you still get a total of 4 sensors in the box for decent coverage. A unique thing about this driveway alarm to keep in mind is that it has an electromagnetic sensor that only detects vehicles. Although, since each sensor is only limited at up to 12 feet of coverage, you can certainly find better options out there in terms of their coverage. Thankfully, you do get handy features like being able to power this unit via AA batteries. You also get a standard but decent build quality combined along with a 1-year warranty with this driveway system. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of 1/13 mile Includes a total of 4 sensors Comes with a 1 year long warranty period Coverage area of up to 12 feet
Pros:
Decent performance for the price Easy to install Can be powered via AA batteries
Cons:
Limited coverage area than others
8. HTZSafe Wireless Driveway Alarm
While you may not have heard about HTZSafe in the past, most of its products like its driveway alarm stated here can be a great affordable option despite having multiple handy features. HTZSafe’s driveway alarm is one of the best options out there if you want an alarm system that offers a high value for money. For the given price, its wireless range of ¼ mile is quite decent for most users. This is quite great, especially when combined with its 4 sensors to be installed around your driveway. You will be glad to know that you can either use its inbuilt solar panel for power or charge it externally via USB. These solar-powered sensors are able to offer a coverage area of up to 50 feet which is quite higher than most others making it ideal for larger areas as well. Coming over to its alarm unit, you get a total of 35 chimes that can play on 4 different volume levels. Other than having a water-resistant construction and a decent built quality, you also get a 2-year long warranty with this driveway alarm unit for your peace of mind. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ¼ mile Includes a total of 4 sensors Comes with a 2 year long warranty period Coverage area of up to 50 feet Total of 35 chimes
Pros:
High value for money Quite a high coverage area Decent build quality and warranty
Cons:
Installation process is not the easiest
9. Wuloo Wireless Driveway Alarm
Arriving at the final position of this list of driveway alarms, we have an option from Wuloo that you can certainly consider if you are looking for fairly powerful options. In comparison to most other driveway alarms of its class, the performance offered by this Wuloo one is quite decent. Starting with its wireless range, it is rated at a decent ⅓ mile. But the best thing about this driveway alarm system is that it combines a total of 8 sensors to cover your driveway. A unique thing about this alarm system is that other than its adjustable chimes and volumes, you can also use it as a clock. And as you would expect from its premium price tag, these sensors are rated for a coverage area of up to 30 feet which is always great to have. Thanks to its solar panel, you can expect the inbuilt battery to last for up to 24 months on a single charge. Similar to most other driveway alarms out there, this one also uses weatherproof construction which is combined along with a decent 1-year long warranty. Best Features:
Offers a wireless range of ½ mile Includes a total of 8 sensors Comes with a 1 year long warranty period Coverage area of up to 30 feet
Pros:
High-performance driveway alarm Excellent coverage for larger driveways Uses a weatherproof construction
Cons:
Not the cheapest option
Buying Guide for the Best Driveway Alarms:
With this security feature, you can sleep peacefully without worrying about any burglars or visitors coming to your driveway/property. As a buyer, you should have a clear idea of your home security requirement (like alarm type, features, power source, and other capabilities). To help you in figuring out all these things and buy the best option, we came with this detailed guide.
Types:
The driveway alarms can be classified into three main and most common types – passive infrared, active infrared, and magnetic probe. All these types are effective in enhancing home security and offering more protection for the family. Yet each type has its set of pros and cons that are essential to know which type is suitable for your needs.
Passive Infrared (PIR) Alarms –
This is the most common type of driveway alarm that uses infrared beams to sense the nearby movement with the help of heat. The PIR alarms sense and detect every object (like people, car engines, or animals) that radiate warmer temperatures. If there is any change detected in its heat patterns, then the alarm transmits a signal to the receiver, which alerts you of this change. With sensitivity adjustments, some premium models won’t let front yard squirrels set off the system constantly. This alarm is available in a single unit that lets you mount outside, which makes it an easy to install and affordable option than other types.
Active Infrared (AIR) Alarms –
This type of alarm comes with two parts – transmitter and receiver. Here, the transmitter will emit a continuous beam of infrared light to the receiver. If any object passes through this path, the receiver will detect the interruption and alert you by sending an alarm. Place this transmitter and the receiver on each side of their driveway for movement detection. The main drawback of these alarms will be the coverage area is small and specific, in which one can easily walk around the driveway for not getting detected. Still, it is better to have some kind of security instead of not having any security system. Mostly, it is considered as the beginning point for a large home security system.
Magnetic Probe –
This type of alarm is designed with an encased PVC pipe having an inbuilt (inside) hidden metal detector. Here this pipe is partially buried a few inches underground in the area next to the driveway. It triggers the passage of any vehicle through its path and transmits to an indoor receiver, which alerts you of the vehicle. Since it is a magnetic detector, it only senses metals and minimizes the chance of false alarms. While the above two types (PIR & AIR) might detect your neighbor or rustling leaves and falsely send an alarm as a burglar. But this is not the case with this alarm. The magnetic probe won’t detect everything, they let you know about the vehicles in the driveway.
What to Consider While Shopping for the Best Driveway Alarms:
Apart from its types, you have to consider several factors before investing in these driveway alarms to grab the best option that is suitable as per your requirements. Let’s dive into the factors to consider while shopping for a driveway alarm system.
1. Purpose:
Before buying any product (including this driveway alarm), you should know the purpose (why you install it and what you expect). For instance, a magnetic probe is designed to detect vehicles, while other alarm types will detect animals and people. So, consider what type of alarm you need, as a standalone or part of an overall home security option. Other factors like features, durability, built quality and cost will help you in taking the correct decision on picking the perfect option that serves your requirements.
2. Power Source:
The sensors of these alarms will function only when it is properly powered. These driveway alarms are powered in any of these three sources – solar energy, home’s electricity (electric-corded) & batteries (cordless). Here is a detailed explanation of these power sources. Solar-Powered Alarms – These are a great option that lets you set up and forget. As the name implies, they are powered by the sun’s heat and run efficiently. Yet sometimes, it might trigger false alarms due to overcast or cloudy conditions. Electricity-Powered Alarms – They are powered by the household electric outlet. For this, you need either closer placement to the outlet or its long power cord (or with an extension cord). Thus, it is a bit less versatile type due to its restricted area to use, yet more powerful that works till you turn off or power goes off. Battery-Powered Alarms – Since these are powered by the batteries, these cordless models are placed or used anywhere, yet come with a shorter lifespan, and need to change batteries on regular basis. So, we recommend you use rechargeable batteries instead of replaceable batteries (AA or AAA batteries).
3. Transmission Range:
It is referred to as the maximum distance a receiver can get a signal from the sensor. Usually, the receiving device is placed inside the house. So, it is essential to pick a product that receives a signal and works well while indoors. Determine the spot/area where you want to mount and install these sensors before investing in these alarms. This will let you know the maximum distance (range of transmission) you require to install the sensor from the receiver. Most of these sensors will come with a range of 500 – 1000 feet, in which a range of up to 50 feet is the shortest distance.
4. Weatherproofing:
It is always better to have a model that can function easily in any type of weather, why because they offer moisture protection, which makes the system less prone to have false alarms, especially when there is a change in the weather. This is the case mostly seen in solar-powered alarms. Look for models featuring angled sensors to get rid of false alarms even in intense weather conditions. Prefer waterproof or water-resistant models if you are more concerned about the weather. Usually, magnetic probe-type alarms have to be buried underground, which means they have to be weatherproof for their proper functioning. If living in a place with heavy snowstorms and rainstorms, then go with a model offering the best weatherproof feature and can easily stand for the toughest winds, rain, or snow.
5. Motion Detection and Sensors:
The motion detection and sensors will vary from one model to another, which means all driveway alarms won’t detect similar things. For instance, PIR type alarms trigger objects by using heat patterns, AIR type alarms detect when anyone crosses the infrared beam, and magnetic type alarms will sense only metals (like vehicles). So, before investing you have to determine what type of things you want to detect (like animals, vehicles, or people) with these alarms. Also, check to confirm that the driveway alarm system you choose has sensors to assess the driveway effectively. Like, PIR alarm to place in a spot or an AIR alarm to place across the width of the driveway. Few models offer expandability features that let you customize to fit the alarm as per your home requirement.
6. Wired or Wireless:
Generally, a driveway alarm is categorized mainly into two types – wired and wireless. Knowing about them in detail will help you to choose the right option. Wired Driveway Alarms – Since they rely on the household’s power source, these alarms need professional installation. They are highly dependable and economical that won’t suffer from signal interferences. Wireless Driveway Alarms – These systems are easy to upgrade, install, and customize as per your preferred settings. It let you run on either rechargeable or replaceable batteries. Yet the signal interferes within areas like buildings, trees, and other structures.
7. Prevention of False Alarm:
Triggering false alarms is the main complaint by most people with these driveway alarm systems. The solar-powered models will set off due to the changes in weather conditions, while PIR heat-sensing system can trigger even by running animals, birds, or children. To get rid of this issue, most manufacturers designed their driveway alarms with sensitivity settings, which let you adjust the sensors range to minimize the rate of false alarms in a specific area. Simply change the settings by moving a dial on the model. With this new technology, the alarm models get more effective and the best option to use in high-traffic areas around the home.
8. Smart Technology:
The new models come with various smart features that include security cameras, voice control, and notifications to receive on their phone via downloading its related app. While some higher-end premium models are compatible with popular smart home assistants. There are some additional smart features like weatherproofing, sensitivity control, multiple alarm sounds, hassle-free installation, various tones to select, and several hidden styles to view. Moreover, some models have alarm systems with long battery life and the capability to include extra sensors for better security. Just keep in mind that a model with extra features will cost a bit more.
9. Ease of Installation:
Almost all of these driveway alarms need DIY installation, in which some alarm systems are much easier compared to other models. So, it is better to know about the installation requirements before investing in a model to confirm that you have all the necessary tools needed for its proper installation. Here are quick installation tips based on the alarm types. Infrared Alarms (PIR & AIR) – These are easy to install alarm systems. As per the manual’s instructions, set the distance between the sensors within the correct range, in such a way that two parts should face each other. Magnetic Probe Alarms – This sensor alarm is a bit difficult to install, as you have to bury the probe underground and ensure it should be at a minimum of 25 feet away from the road so as not to get triggered by car traffic.
10. Density of Property:
The density of the user’s property that includes surrounding trees and woods has to be taken into consideration while choosing the driveway alarm. A few models work well at transmitting via dense areas compared to other models.
11. Expandability:
Most alarm models have one driveway sensor and one base. You have to add some extra sensors whenever having a long driveway or need to monitor other areas of your property.
12. Unique Features:
Some higher-end models offer unique features like volume control or extra security cameras. Whenever you think of home security require a specific type of sensor before settling or purchasing the driveway alarms.
13. Price:
Almost all these driveway alarms are affordable and their price range will be from $25 – $350 (or more). However, the price of a particular product is based on their features, built construction, durability, and warranty. You have to go with a model that balance your requirements and budget range.
14. Warranty:
The model you choose has to be functional for a long time without any possible issues. For this, you have to check the warranty offered by the particular driveway alarm to get a clear idea of its reliability, durability, and longevity. Though most driveway alarms are backed by a 1- or 2-years warranty, yet a few options offer a lifetime warranty along with the peace of mind.
Benefits of Using Driveway Alarms:
This alarm is an excellent option for those living in a rural or secluded area (or) home with a long driveway (or) who want to get notified about everything in their driveway (or) who give utmost importance to security. Here are some of the benefits mentioned to help you choose the best driveway alarm for your home’s security.
To know when someone (people, animals, or vehicles) is approaching near to your home. Sense and alert you about the intruders, which means it keeps your home safe by avoiding burglars getting into the home. A few models feature sensitivity settings, which let you receive alerts more accurately without any confusion of false alarms. Easy to monitor the surrounding of your home and can deter any unsafe situations with its alerts. You can cover a larger area by setting up multiple sensors. This alarm will synchronize with other home security devices.
How will this driveway alarm work?
With the help of motion sensors, this driveway alarm will detect the presence of something. Then it sends an alert to the user to check out what is going on in your surroundings. Here, you have to place the sensors in the driveway to detect and sense the motion. While placing the receiver in the home will let you easily hear the alert if it triggers any motion. Both of these are available in various styles and capabilities. You have to consider another two significant features like detection range (sensor covering area) and transmission range (the maximum distance between the receiver and sensor to still get a signal to work).
Conclusion:
Even if you have parked your cars and other vehicles inside your garage, you would still want them to secure at times. For the same, you can consider installing cameras and motion sensors for monitoring them with ease. Thus, a few of the best driveway alarms have already been discussed up above in this listicle. We have stated these driveway alarms alongside their features, specifications, details, and a complete buying guide so that you can choose the right type of alarm. However, those of you who are still confused regarding driveway alarms can consider checking out the following recommendations for the best driveway alarms:
In comparison to the majority of driveway alarms out there, the Guardline alarm includes a total of 16 sensors resulting in excellent coverage thanks to the 40 feet coverage offered by each sensor. You also get a decent ¼ mile wireless range for the alarm unit itself which is backed by a 2-year warranty for your peace of mind. If you want a driveway alarm made for long term usage, then the eMacros alarm can be a great pick. Even at its fairly low price tag, you get a lifetime warranty with it along with a great build quality. Talking about its performance, you will be glad to find a total of 4 sensors that can work up to ½ mile away from the primary alarm unit for high versatility. Taking a look at the 1 By One driveway alarm, it happens to be the cheapest option stated here which makes it a great pick for buyers on a tight budget. Being an entry-level option, its slightly lower wireless range of ⅕ inch is to be expected. Thankfully, you still get a total of 5 sensors with it all of which are backed by a decent 2 year long warranty period.
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