The Qolsys IQ glass break sensor is popular with our company and others who use the 2GIG line of security panels. Like other similar components, it has a working radius of 25 feet, and 360-degree omni-directional coverage, which means you can mount it anywhere in the same room as the windows you want to protect—including walls and ceilings.
Another of our staples here at General Security, the Resolution Products RE109 and RE209 sensors are compatible with both Honeywell or 2GIG panels. These products and the Qolysis IQ are very similar, with the exception of minor price differences and Honeywell compatibility—the latter is only compatible with 2GIG systems. Both will work for most DIY projects, but if you have any questions, contact a home security professional.
This is the only wireless shock-style glass break sensor we use. It works with all Honeywell and 2GIG panels, and is very easy to install. If your system is compatible and you need this style of sensor specifically, this is likely your best choice.
Glass break detectors work by sensing the noise or vibrations of a window shattering, then sounding a loud alarm and sending an alert signal to your security system. There are several different types that vary in how they sense break-ins or notify homeowners, but the basic pattern of detection and alarm remain the same.
“Glass break detectors work by sensing the noise or vibrations of a window shattering..."
Installation of glass break detectors ranges from simple to quite involved, depending on the model. Most shock-sensing models come with an adhesive so you can simply stick it to the window, though wired models require you to drill holes and run wires if you want to hide them.
Sound-detecting options also vary in installation procedures, with some that stick to walls with adhesive, are mounted with screws, or even set on a piece of furniture. There are even flush-mounted options, such as the Honeywell FG1625RFM housed inside your wall to reduce clutter.
Not every home needs a glass break sensor, but they’re crucial for some applications.
The Qolsys IQ glass break sensor is popular with our company and others who use the 2GIG line of security panels. Like other similar components, it has a working radius of 25 feet, and 360-degree omni-directional coverage, which means you can mount it anywhere in the same room as the windows you want to protect—including walls and ceilings.
Another of our staples here at General Security, the Resolution Products RE109 and RE209 sensors are compatible with both Honeywell or 2GIG panels. These products and the Qolysis IQ are very similar, with the exception of minor price differences and Honeywell compatibility—the latter is only compatible with 2GIG systems. Both will work for most DIY projects, but if you have any questions, contact a home security professional.
The Honeywell Intellisense FG-1625 is another popular glass break sensor with a sleek appearance and adjustable sensitivity levels. Despite what’s often mentioned online, this unit is NOT wireless. It’s still a solid component if you have a wired system in place, but it’s losing popularity as other wireless models become ubiquitous.
The Honeywell 5853 is one of the most-often mentioned glass break sensors online, as it works well with popular Honeywell panels, and is even used by some professional companies. We specify Resolution Products sensors over this one, as they’re easy to set up with our panels, but the 5853 is serviceable, as well. The differences between the two are largely aesthetic and a matter of installer preference.
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This 2GIG unit unsurprisingly works with the entire 2GIG line of panels. It’s designed to be mounted on the ceiling, unlike most wall-mounted sensors, but only has a 15-foot range—still more than enough for a normal living space. If you’re specifically looking for a ceiling-mounted option, this is one of the best.
This is the only wireless shock-style glass break sensor we use. It works with all Honeywell and 2GIG panels, and is very easy to install. If your system is compatible and you need this style of sensor specifically, this is likely your best choice.
Perfect for all existing wired systems, the 5150 shock sensor has millions of installations around the world. This unit is still very popular, and we use it in some of our jobs, though it will likely see less use with the rise of wireless components.
This Sabre shock sensor doesn’t connect to any panel or monitored security system, so is only suitable for the most budget-friendly setups. It has the built-in alarm that most other shock sensors have, but reviews warn of volume issues that make it hard to hear in other rooms. Still, if you need a shock sensor and are on a shoestring budget, this may be your only option.
ADT uses a variant of the Honeywell 5853 in most of their systems. Unfortunately, they don’t allow DIY installation of third-party components, so you’ll have to purchase through ADT directly. The 5853 is a solid component, though, so if you’re set on ADT, it’s your best (and only) option.
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Vivint uses the 2GIG GB1 listed above. Again, if you want to install it in your Vivint system, you’ll need professional help, but the component should serve you well. For more information, see the 2GIG GB1 overview listed above.
The sensor most commonly attributed to Frontpoint is the Interlogix ShatterPro wireless acoustic sensor. It operates similarly to other sound-based components, but only has a 20-foot range, rather than the standard 25.
The SimpliSafe glass break sensor is a proprietary unit that only works with their components and monitoring. It’s an acoustic sensor with a 30-foot range. If you’re with SimpliSafe, this is your best choice.
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