Key takeaways
- Motion (PIR) sensors detect movement; presence sensors detect even tiny micro-movements.
- Use PIR where people move through a space, and presence where people sit still (offices, study rooms).
- Choosing the right one avoids the common 'light switches off while I'm still' problem.
Choosing between motion and presence sensors comes down to one question: do people stay still in the space?
Motion sensors (PIR)
Passive infrared sensors detect changes in heat caused by movement. They're perfect for transit spaces — corridors, staircases, parking, and entrances — where people are always moving.
Presence sensors
Presence sensors detect micro-movements and continuous occupancy. They're ideal for offices, study rooms, and conference rooms where a person may sit still for long stretches.
Quick decision guide
- People passing through → Motion sensor
- People sitting and working → Presence sensor
- Large open area through obstacles → Microwave sensor
Still unsure? Our team can recommend the right mix for your building.
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