Aeotec Motion Sensor review: simple Zigbee motion plus temperature, but pricey

# What this product is

# Design and installation

# Features and connectivity

• Connectivity: Zigbee, so it can join non-Aeotec hubs.
• Sensors: Passive infrared motion detection plus an integrated temperature sensor.

The motion sensor provides the usual automation triggers: motion detected and motion not detected. The temperature sensor adds an extra data point but may be redundant in homes that already have multiple environmental sensors.

# Performance in everyday use

For basic motion detection the device works well. In testing it reliably detected entry into an office and triggered automations. Where it shows its limits is when occupants remain relatively still: the PIR motion sensor needs actual movement to re-trigger, so users who sit quietly at a desk may find lights or automations time out unless they move enough to be detected. The reviewer set an automation to turn lights off after ten minutes of no motion and found they needed to exaggerate movement to keep lights on.

# Comparisons and value

The review highlights price as the main drawback. The Aeotec Motion Sensor is more expensive than many motion-only sensors and costs about the same as the SwitchBot mmWave Presence Sensor and only a little less than the Aqara FP300 presence multi-sensor. Those alternatives offer presence detection that can register someone who is still — a capability this Aeotec PIR sensor lacks. The Philips Hue Motion Sensor also offers more advanced integration features than this Aeotec model.

# Who should buy it

Choose this sensor if you need a straightforward Zigbee motion sensor that's simple to install and works reliably for basic presence-by-motion automations, and you can find it on a discount. Avoid it if you need presence detection when occupants are still, or if you want more advanced integrations at a lower price.

# Final assessment

Sensor performs reliably for its intended role as a basic motion detector and adds a temperature sensor for modest extra utility. Its installation design is user-friendly, but the lack of screw mounting and the dependence on motion limit flexibility. The main trade-off is cost: the sensor is priced high relative to competitors that offer presence detection or richer integration features, so its value depends on how much you need only basic motion sensing and how good a deal you can find.