Aqara Presence Sensor FP2
VERDICT
This is the single most important upgrade for any smart home enthusiast. It solves the "lights turning off when I'm reading" problem permanently. But it goes further: it turns one room into 30 distinct zones. It knows if you are in bed, at your desk, or on the sofa, and triggers different scenes for each spot. It is pure magic.
The Big Picture
Standard PIR sensors are blind; the Aqara FP2 has eagle eyes. Using millimeter-wave radar technology (similar to what self-driving cars use), it maps your room. It can track up to 5 people simultaneously and detect falls (great for elderly care). It integrates directly into Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home via Wi-Fi.
📍 Zone Positioning
The Revolution: One sensor, multiple triggers.
How it works: You draw a map of your room in the app. You can define the "Sofa" zone and the "TV" zone.
Example: If you sit on the sofa, turn on the reading lamp. If you walk to the TV, turn on the LED strip. All with one device.
🫁 Micro-Motion Detection
It sees you breathe.
Performance: Unlike PIR sensors that need you to wave your hand to stay active, the FP2 detects the subtle rise and fall of your chest. The lights will NEVER turn off on you again while you are in the room, no matter how still you sit.
✅ The Pros
- True Presence: Keeps lights on as long as you are there. Period.
- Multi-Person Tracking: Tracks up to 5 people independently.
- Zone Automation: Replaces multiple sensors in one room.
- Light Sensor: Built-in lux sensor to automate based on brightness.
❌ The Cons
- Wired Power: Must be plugged into USB-C (uses too much power for batteries).
- Ghosting: Fans or moving curtains can sometimes confuse the radar (needs careful tuning).
- Price: Expensive (~$80) compared to a $10 motion sensor.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES for living rooms, offices, and bathrooms where you tend to sit still for long periods.
NO for hallways or stairs where simple motion detection is enough (save money and get a standard PIR sensor).
See the showdown: Aqara FP2 vs. Everything Presence One Comparison