When you are shopping for a glass break sensor, you need a device that offers the greatest range, is reliable and comes with a long lasting battery. In this glass break sensor buying guide, we will have a look at the top ten best glass break sensors that are well designed, come with tamper proof casing which ensures that thieves do not compromise your safety, have a very loud alarm that will surely wake you up when you are dead asleep and have a battery status indicator to ensure that your battery never runs flat. Which glass break sensor is best for your home? We will have a look at the features offered by each glass break sensor and this will help you make a judgment as to which glass break sensor is best for you. In addition, we will show you which glass break sensor is best for those buying on a tight budget.
Alternatively, just skip to the best glass break sensor on Amazon.
Table of Contents
Best glass break sensors comparison table
TOP 10 BEST GLASS BREAK SENSORS
1. Honeywell 5853 Wireless Glass Break Detector
The Honeywell 5853 is the first in our list of the best glass break sensors. This sensor is designed in a minimalistic white design and is encased in a tamper proof casing back on the front and the back. This tamper proof casing helps to prevent criminals from deactivating the device, thus, boosting security. The device is equipped with four different sensitivities which you can choose from to best suit your needs. These sensitivity settings are: max, medium, low and lowest. The device can be mounted on any ceiling or wall that is within a range of 25 feet. The Honeywell 5853 has no minimum range limitation. It comes with LEDs that indicate the following: test mode, alarms and trouble conditions. The Honeywell 5853 is compatible with all the 5800 series wireless devices. It comes with a FlexCore signal processor which utilizes an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) that helps the device to process the parameters: sound frequency, duration and amplitude to be analyzed up to 50 percent faster. This helps the Honeywell 5853 to minimize false alarms while maintaining the highest possible level of detection. It comes with a remote test mode in which you can use the FG-701 tester to manually test the device. In addition to all this, it comes with a battery life that comes with an expected life expectancy of up to 10 years, and these batteries can be easily replaced. All these factors make this device a highly reliable device that must definitely suit your needs.
This device however may not be allowed by all manufacturers. For example, the manufacturer ADT, a prominent security manufacturer will not allow you to install the Honeywell 5853 in your home. In addition, the cover may be quite difficult to open and you may need to pry it off to adjust the sensitivity to your needs. This is the best glass break sensor on the market.
2. GE Personal Security Window/Door Alarm
This is a product that was developed with the average, non-tech tech savvy consumer in mind. It is a simple to install device. It requires no wiring at all! You also do not need to use any mounting brackets with this product. All you need to do is to install it in the sensitive locations and let it take care of the rest. It is a very loud device that produces sound of up to 120 decibels. This will immediately alert you of the intruder, and it will also scare the intruder away. The alarm features a simple design which allows easy access buttons and controls for simple operation. It comes in a pack of two and this is value for money. It can be used in a wide variety of applications such as in garages, apartments, dorms, RVs, offices. It can be used either on windows or on doors. In addition, this product comes with 4 LR44 batteries in the package so no need to worry about buying the batteries separately. The product comes with a 90 day limited warranty.
This product does have a few drawbacks. The batteries drain rather quickly so you will need to have batteries on your to-buy list quite often. In addition, the unit may be rather difficult to position correctly in order to get the maximum range. This is the cheapest glass break sensor on the market.
3. Honeywell Intellisense FG-730 Dual Flex-Guard Audio Glass-Break Detector
This is the third device in our list of our top 10 best glass break sensors. This device is yet another product from Honeywell. This device has dual flex and audio technology. This technology helps to identify the sound of broken glass. It uses an advanced algorithm which uses signal filtering. This allows for the device to have very few, if any, false alarms. This device is efficient enough to protect all doors and glass windows at once. The device is rather advanced as it comes with an LED to identify the sensor that detects broken glass when more than one glass breaking sensor is enabled. The sensors come with an amazing range as they are able to detect broken glass from up to 30 feet. This is much more than any of the devices we have in this top 10 list. It is quite easy to install and use as the device just needs one wire to be connected to the sensor. The device is also wireless which is very convenient as this greatly reduces clutter that is brought about by wires. This device, whilst providing excellent features could definitely look better.
4. Window Door Alarm, Toeeson 120DB Pool Alarm for Doors
This is a glass break sensor that comes in a pack of six. This will definitely be enough for a home owner’s typical needs. The magnetic alarms are very easy to install. They use magnets that sit right next to each sensor – you just need to ensure that the gap between the magnetic part and the alarm is within 1cm for optimum use. You can use adhesive tape to attach the alarm to a door or window. There is no need for any wiring or any screws. This makes it a perfect DIY device. It comes in an ultra-slim design which makes it completely unobtrusive and it will easily blend into any environment. It uses batteries which come together with the device (3xLR44 batteries). It has a low battery indicator which will help alert you to get a new battery before the battery fails. The device is dustproof, and can be used in a wide variety of environments. It is corrosion resistant and is also resistant to high temperatures. It comes with a 120 decibel alarm which is audible up to 750 feet away from the alarm. This will certainly protect your home from any intrusions as the intruder will have flee the scene immediately once the alarm goes off. This device can be used for a wide variety of applications such as in the home, in offices, garages, sheds, and even in toolboxes. The customer support offered by the manufacturer is quite great.
This device does have a few drawbacks. If you stand too close whilst the alarm is active, you can cause damage to your ears. In addition, if an intruder breaks in a window without moving the magnet, the alarm will remain silent.
5. EVA LOGIK Modern Ultra-Thin Window Alarm with Loud 120dB Alarm and Vibration Sensors
This is an alarm sensor from EVA LOGIK. These sensors are sensors that use a sound sensor as well as a vibration sensor. This, in combination with the high/low sensitivity setting allows the device to reduce false positives. It is very easy to install and use as you do not need any wiring at all. All you need to do is to peel the adhesive and stick the device onto a window. The device comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. It comes with a warning LED light that blinks every 4 seconds which alerts potential intruders that the window is secured. In addition, the devices come with warning stickers which are visible from the outside which will scare thieves away. The LED light flashes continuously when the batteries are low and allows the user to buy new batteries before the device runs out. The device is quite loud as it comes with 120db which allows you to hear the device from up to 1000 feet away. This alarm goes off for 60 seconds and then turns off. This product comes in a pack of 8 which is value for money.
This device does have a few drawbacks. It needs AAA x 2 PCS batteries which are not included. The device cannot be recharged. In addition, the device has a range of just 10 feet.
6. Honeywell Intellisense FG-1625 Acoustic Glassbreak Sensor 25 Ft
This is another device by Honeywell. This device is designed and developed to cover all glass types. This means that you are guaranteed that all of your windows will work well with your device. The detector can be mounted anywhere which makes it perfect for a wide variety of a wide variety of applications. It does not need any batteries so there is no need to worry about replacing batteries. It comes with a flexcore signal processor that helps the device to act efficiently. The device also has selectable sensitivity. This allows for you to select the sensitivity setting that best suits your needs. If it is a windy day, you can tone down the sensitivity to reduce the likelihood of getting a false alarm. It comes with a range of 24 feet.
This device does come with a few drawbacks. It is rather pricey and comes alone (1) unit. In addition, this unit is hardwired – no wireless options. This means that it is quite easy to blow a fuse if the wires are connected wrong.
7. Interlogix Glassbreak Shock Detector
This is another entry in our list. This device is very minimalistic. This is so minimalistic that the device is arguably the sensor with the lowest profile unit in the industry. This device is designed and developed with two wires. It is used to detect broken glass and it immediately alerts you that an intruder is trying to enter the premises. This device detects all types of glass without any need for adjustment. It has a transducer that further reduces the likelihood of false alarm. It runs on advanced piezo technology which means that there is no need for power from the loop to have it working. This is because it generates electricity and is therefore able to work day in and day out. The sensor also acts as a visual deterrent for areas up to 10 feet.
This device however has the disadvantage that it is not designed with the average consumer in mind. It requires professional assistance whilst installing it. In addition, the device is not wireless.
8. Fortress Security Store (TM) Glass Break Sensor for Fortress Alarm Home Security Systems
This is device comes is from one of the best home security manufacturers out there. This device is quite easy to use. You do not need to have any technical expertise in order to install the devices in your home as they wirelessly link to your control panel. This means that there is no need for dealing with any wires, which means peace of mind to you. It is a high performance device that is compatible with fortress S02/GSM home alarm systems. It uses the advanced GSM technology to immediately send a notification to your phone. This can be in the form of an SMS or a phone call. This device is tested and trained in order for it to avoid the sound of common natural phenomenon such as sound of wind, or other similar glass breaking sounds. This helps the device to avoid false alarm rings which is quite a handy feature as false alarm rings are rather annoying. This break glass break sensor is an excellent device that goes off well with many popular home security systems. In addition, this device has a range of 25 feet.
This device does have the drawback that it is not compatible with each and every home security system on the market.
9. Interlogix Shatterpro Crystal Wireless Glassbreak Detector (NX-488)
This is a product from Interlogix. This device is our second from last entry in our list of glass break sensors. This is because it is not as popular as the other devices on the list. It is a rather sensitive device that is so sensitive that it can detect a sneeze a couple of feet from the window! It is rather small and it is a wireless device. It is quite easy to install in your home. It comes with 2.3V lithium batteries that are guaranteed to last for months. It easily integrates with other security systems that are present in your home. It comes with a maximum range of up to 20 feet. This device works so well that it can work between rooms which have obstructions between them.
This device does have a few drawbacks. The device does not work with drywall anchors. This means that if you want to mount it on a drywall, you will need to drill through the plastic in the back. The device does not look very good looking. It definitely will not blend into your home’s décor. In addition, the device comes at a rather expensive price.
10. SABRE Wireless Window Glass Break & Vibration Detector Alarm with Security Warning Decal
This is the last item in our list of the top 10 best glass break sensors. This device comes with two features which are glass break and vibration detector. This means that the device is able to greatly reduce false positives as the two parameters – sound and vibration are used to ensure that a break in has occurred for sure. It comes in a pack of three which allows you to install each device on a separate window. The device is totally wireless. This means that you do not need to have any wired connections to the base system, thus making it easy to install and use. It is battery powered, and it comes with the batteries in the package (2 x CR2032 batteries). The device is attractive, coming with a premium white finish. This helps it to blend in quite well with your home décor. It is designed with the average consumer in mind as it is quite user friendly. It provides a battery status to ensure that you are able to buy a new battery before the battery runs out. In addition, it is a stick-on alarm – all you need to do is stick the sensor on your window and you are good to go! It has the high/low sensitivity settings that help suit your needs e.g. on a windy day or in windy locations, it may be best to use this feature to prevent false triggering. In addition it comes with an attention grabbing 115dB sound that is audible up to 300 feet away. This will definitely grab your attention and scare the intruder away.
This device, however, has a few drawbacks. It is not as sensitive as other products we have listed in this top 10 list of the best glass break sensors. In addition, it may have trouble when detecting frequencies on larger windows.
Best Glass Break Sensor Brands
The best glass break sensor brands are Honeywell, Fortress, and Sabre. Honeywell is an industrial giant that designs and develops very reliable devices that are used in various manufacturing and processing industries. The Fortress brand is well known in the security space as it is one of the best home security manufacturers out there. The Sabre brand is also one of the well-known brands as it creates reliable devices and provides amazing customer service.
Best Glass Break Sensor
The best glass break sensor from our list is the Honeywell 5853 Wireless Glass Break Detector. This device comes from one of the most reliable device manufacturers, Honeywell. The sensor is designed in a tamper proof casing that guarantees that criminals will not deactivate the device, thus, boosting security. It comes with a flexcore processor which uses an Application Specific Integrated Circuit that helps identify vital parameters 50% faster, thus, alerting you well in advance.
Here are the key features that we like about the product:
- Tamper proof casing
- Remote test mode
- Excellent battery life
- Minimalistic Design
- Can be used on many types of windows
Cheapest Glass Break Sensor
This award goes to the GE Personal Security Window/Door Alarm. This is a product that was designed and developed by General Electric. It was made for the average non-tech savvy consumer in mind. It is easy to install, requires no wiring and it is a very loud device that produces sound of up to 120 decibels. It also comes with a 90 day limited warranty.
Here are the key features that we like about the product:
- Battery powered
- Loud alarm
- 90 day limited warranty
- No wires
- Simple and easy to install
All this shows that this device is cheap, but packed with features.
How Much Do Glass Break Sensors Cost
The glass break sensors are not highly expensive devices. These range of the device depends on various factors such as the range (in feet) of the device, the special features that come with the devices, and also the manufacturer who creates the devices.
Relatively expensive devices are in the range of 80 – 100 USD. In this range come devices such as the Interlogix Shatterpro crystal. Such devices come with a good range, are very sensitive, and have batteries that last for months
Fair priced devices are in the range of 30-70 USD. In this range come devices such as the EVA LOGIK and the Honeywell 5853 Wireless glass break detector. Such devices come with a good battery life, wireless features, use on a wide variety of windows and very loud sound.
The relatively cheap devices are in the sub 30 USD. In this range come devices such as the Interlogix and the SABRE wireless windows glass break. Such devices come with features such as low range, lower sensitivity as well less convenient features such as wired features instead of wireless features.
Glass Break Sensor FAQ
How Loud Is A Typical Glass Break Sensor?
The sound intensity of each glass break sensor is rather unique. This is because different manufacturers create different glass break sensors and each produce a different sound intensity. The average sound intensity is around 120 decibels.
What Do I Do In The Case Of A False Alarm?
If this is the glass break sensor gives a false alarm then try just resetting it. If the problem recurs then the problem could be due to things such as faulty installation, improper placement, bad weather and faulty configuration. First check if the device was installed correctly, and whether it was placed in the correct position. If fixing this does not work, then try adjusting the configurations. The devices usually come with sensitivity settings and try to make it less sensitive. In addition, the weather e.g. windy conditions can lead to false alarms. In such scenarios, just make it less sensitive and it must solve your problems.
What Is The Range Of A Glass Break Sensor?
Well this depends with the manufacturer. Some manufacturers create glass break sensors that are able to operate in ranges of up to 30 feet. Some just work for a range of up to 10 feet. You will need to check the specifications written on the product’s packaging.
Where Should I Place My Glass Break Sensor?
The glass break sensor covers a range which ranges from 10 feet to 30 feet. It picks up the specific frequency of shattering glass. If you happen to have thick curtains in front of your windows then you will need to place the device closer to the glass.
Do All Glass Break Sensors Use Batteries?
The glass break sensors use a wide variety of powering mechanisms. Some use batteries, some use the conventional wiring method, and others use solutions such as piezo electric mechanisms that allow the sensor to operate without any electricity at all.
How Easy Is It To Install the Glass Break Sensor?
Most of the glass break sensors are made for the average consumer. This means that they are designed and developed for any non-tech savvy person to install them with ease. Most come with adhesive tape and all you need to do is stick the sensor on and that’s it!
How Do I Test My Glass Break Sensor?
Very many people have asked this question. To understand how best to test your glass break sensor, let me first briefly explain how the glass break sensor works. It detects the unique sound made when glass is shattered. In order for you to test your glass break sensor, you do not necessarily need to break glass. All you may need to do is to look for a sound clip in which there is glass that is being shattered. Such clips are widely available on YouTube. Try to look for a sound clip that has the low pitched “thud” of an object hitting a glass surface, as well as the high-pitched shattering sound that is commonly associated with breaking glass. After selecting the right clip, set your phone’s volume to the highest setting. Set your system on test mode to avoid damage to your ears. After this play the sound clip. That’s it. Alternatively, you can use a glass break simulator such as the Interlogix 5709C-W or the Honeywell FG701.Don’t forget to remove your system from the testing mode when you are done!
Why Do You Need a Glass Break Sensor
1. Loud
Glass break sensors are effective because they quickly alert the homeowner that an intruder is trying to break into his or her premises. These devices are quite loud and some are 120 decibels loud. This scares the intruder away, and it also alerts the homeowner and his neighbors that there is a break in attempt.
2. Cost Effective
A full blown security system can easily create a huge hole in your pocket. Glass sensors are different. These devices are quite cheap and definitely will not dig a hole in your pocket. One glass break sensor can easily protect a large room with several windows and sliding glass doors.
3. Ease of Installation and Use
Glass break sensors are quite easy to install and use. If you had a look at our top ten list of the best glass break sensors available, you might have realized that the device we chose as our best glass sensor has the key advantage that all you need to do is to stick it to a window and that’s it! Most other glass sensors are rather easy to install and also use the stick and forget method.
Factors to Consider When Buying Glass Break Sensors
1. Installation
This is a very important factor to consider when getting a glass break sensor. You do not want to buy a glass break sensor that is quite difficult to install and may end up needing you to get a qualified professional. This may end up costing you hundreds of dollars. When looking for a glass break sensor choose one that requires minimum installation. Most of the glass break sensors have a peel and stick installation, and most are wireless which reduces wire clutter.
2. Features
Every sensor has a few basic features. They are equipped with a sound generating mechanism when they detect that an intruder is trying to enter your house. Some other sensors come with advanced features. For example, the Fortress Security Store (TM) Glass Break Sensor for Fortress Alarm Home Security Systems is designed and developed to send a notification to your phone when an intruder is trying to enter your home. Some have features that allow for you to reduce the sensitivity, and this is quite a handy feature when there is windy weather. Other sensors are wireless, which is a handy feature that allows you to install the device without dealing with wire clutter. In addition, wireless sensors are quite handy for those who live in a rental apartment.
3. Indicators
Good sensors must have indicators. The most common indicator is the battery indicator. The battery indicator is quite important as it allows the homeowner will be able to know beforehand that his device’s battery is low and the battery needs to be replaced. This allows the homeowner to shop for a new battery and replace the low battery before it runs out.
4. Size
The size is rather important when it comes to glass break sensors. A big size may easily ruin the aesthetics of your door or window. In addition, it may look unobtrusive and fail to blend in with your décor. It is best to choose a glass break sensor that is small and compact in size.
5. Range
It is best to get a glass break sensor which has the widest range. Most of the glass break sensors that are available are able to detect broken glass within 10-30 feet from the sensor from 360 degrees. The wider the range of the senor, the fewer the glass break sensors you will need.
What is a Glass Break Sensor?
A glass break sensor is a type of a sensor that is used in electronic burglar alarms that detects whether a pane of glass is shattered or broken. These devices are commonly used near glass doors or glass store front windows.
How do Glass Break Sensors Work?
The glass break sensors are usually equipped with a microphone. The microphone is there to detect acoustic signals that are generated by shattering glass. This automatically activates the sound mechanism which then alerts the user that an intruder is trying to penetrate the home.
There are two main types of glass break detectors. The first type of the glass break detector is the acoustic glass break sensor. This glass break sensor takes advantage that when a pane of glass shatters, it creates a distinct sound frequency. As explained above, the microphone present detects this unique sound frequency and this allows for the device to trigger an alarm. Since the device relies on the frequency of sound, one sensor can cover a lot of windows and glass doors in a single room. This will work as long as the window is within the range of the glass break detector.
The other type of the glass break detector is the shock glass break detector. These types of glass break detectors are usually mounted directly on the glass panel. They detect the vibrations of the shattering glass. These types of glass break detectors are usually better in terms of false alarms but they have the main drawback that you will need to mount them on each glass window/door that you wish to monitor.
Other glass break sensors, commonly referred to as dual tech glass break detectors use both sound and vibration. They detect the sound of breaking glass, and they also detect the impact that is present on the window. This is achieved by both vibration sensors that detect the vibrations of the shattering glass as well as the microphone that is present in the device.
Conclusion
This article has explored the different types of glass break sensors. We have given a comprehensive analysis of ten of the best glass break sensors. Checkout the best glass break sensor on Amazon.
