Introduction
With so many PIR sensor modules on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. We’ve tested dozens and compiled this list of the top 10 PIR sensors for 2025, considering factors like price, reliability, power consumption, and ease of use.
1. HC-SR501 – The Classic Workhorse
Price: $2-3
Pros: Cheap, widely available, adjustable sensitivity and delay, works with 5V.
Cons: Bulky, higher power consumption, prone to false triggers if not placed carefully.
Best for: Beginners, prototyping, projects where size and power aren’t critical.
2. AM312 – Ultra-Compact & Low Power
Price: $3-4
Pros: Tiny (10×8mm), 3.3V compatible, low 35µA standby current.
Cons: Fixed 2-second delay, shorter range (3-5m).
Best for: Battery-powered IoT devices, wearables, discreet installations.
3. HC-SR505 – Mini Version of HC-SR501
Price: $2-3
Pros: Smaller than SR501, still adjustable? (some versions have fixed delay), good range.
Cons: Fixed 3-5s delay, 5V only.
Best for: Projects needing SR501 performance in smaller package.
4. Panasonic EKMB Series – Premium Low Power
Price: $10-15
Pros: Ultra-low power (1µA), digital output, various lens options, high reliability.
Cons: Expensive, requires careful PCB layout, open-drain output needs pull-up.
Best for: Professional products, battery-powered long-life applications.
5. RCWL-0516 – Microwave Radar Alternative
Price: $2-3
Pros: Detects through plastic and some walls, sensitive, works with 3.3-5V.
Cons: Not PIR (different technology), can be too sensitive, may have interference.
Best for: Projects where PIR fails (behind glass, through walls).
6. DYP-ME003 – Improved HC-SR501 Clone
Price: $2-3
Pros: Similar to SR501 but sometimes with better build quality, adjustable.
Cons: Same limitations as SR501.
Best for: Alternative to SR501 when quality varies.
7. Murata IRA-S210ST01 – Analog Output
Price: $5-7
Pros: Raw analog output for advanced signal processing, TO-5 package.
Cons: Requires external amplification and comparator, not beginner-friendly.
Best for: Research, people counting, custom sensor design.
8. LHI 878 – Digital PIR with Low Profile
Price: $4-6
Pros: Surface mount, low profile, digital output, suitable for SMD assembly.
Cons: Requires reflow soldering, less common.
Best for: Compact commercial products.
9. Seeed Studio Grove PIR Motion Sensor
Price: $5-7
Pros: Grove connector (plug-and-play with Seeed base shields), 3.3/5V compatible.
Cons: Proprietary connector, limited to Grove ecosystem.
Best for: Rapid prototyping with Grove system.
10. Adafruit PIR Motion Sensor (based on AM312)
Price: $10
Pros: Quality-assured, well-documented, comes with header pins, 3.3/5V.
Cons: Premium price for same AM312 sensor.
Best for: Beginners wanting guaranteed quality and support.
Honorable Mention: mmWave Sensors (LD2410, LD2450)
While not PIR, mmWave radar sensors are gaining popularity for presence detection. They can detect stationary people and through thin materials. Consider them if you need more than motion detection.
Conclusion
Your choice depends on project requirements: HC-SR501 for versatility, AM312 for low power and size, Panasonic for professional battery-powered designs. For most hobbyists, starting with HC-SR501 or AM312 is recommended.