Aqara Door and Window Sensor P2 VS NEO Coolcam Door/Window Sensor

Aqara has taken a big step into the future with its latest sensor, the Door and Window Sensor P2, which has full support for Matter via the Thread protocol. The most exciting thing about this sensor is that it does not require a separate hub to operate. Instead, it can be easily connected directly to your smart home and take advantage of devices like the AppleTV or HomePod as a border router to establish a stable and reliable connection.

When it comes to the sensor size, we can note that it is slightly larger than some other sensors on the market. This can be an important aspect to consider depending on where you plan to place it. However, it is worth mentioning that the Door and Window Sensor P2 compensates for its size with an impressively fast response time, which is crucial to ensure fast and reliable detection of door and window openings.

It is important to note that at this time the Door and Window Sensor P2 is not compatible with Aqara's own app. This could be a transition period where users may need to use other platforms or apps to take advantage of the sensor's capabilities. However, it is possible that future updates may change this situation, so it is something to keep an eye on.

In summary, Aqara's Door and Window Sensor P2 is a promising sensor that takes us into the future through its full support for Matter over Thread. It impresses with its easy connection to your smart home and fast response time, although its slightly larger size may be a preponderant factor. While it is currently not compatible with Aqara's own app, future updates could resolve this and give users even more flexibility and control over their smart homes.

This compact magnetic sensor from China is available at a very affordable price, making it an affordable option. If you do not have an urgent need for advanced features such as temperature measurement, light measurement (LUX), tamper alarm, or you simply need multiple sensors to cover different areas, this sensor may be the right choice for you.

However, it is important to be aware of one of its limitations, namely the short battery life. This can be a factor to consider, especially if you plan to use several of these sensors in your smart home ecosystem. Battery life can affect how often you need to change your battery and can be a factor to consider when evaluating your need and budget.

In summary, this affordable China-made magnetic sensor is a great option for those who don't require advanced features and want to keep costs down. It can be especially beneficial if you need multiple sensors to cover different areas of your home. That being said, be aware of its limited battery life and plan accordingly to ensure smooth use over time.