Motion sensors have long been a staple in smart homes, primarily used to activate devices—commonly smart lighting—upon detecting motion and to notify users of any detected activity. While highly versatile, PIR (Passive InfraRed) motion sensors come with certain limitations. For instance, they often fail to recognize motion when an individual remains still—such as while reading, watching TV, or napping—leading to unintended activation of the 'lights off' mode. This is due to their reliance on infrared light, which detects heat from objects in view. To overcome this, mmWave technology in Presence Sensors (or Occupancy Sensors) is more effective. Wikipedia explains mmWave as follows:

"(mmWave) sensing is a non-contact system of using mmWave radar sensors to measure movement, acceleration, and angles as small as a fraction of a millimeter. This system requires a mmWave radar sensor to transmit and receive pulses of millimeter electromagnetic wave energy, detecting targets and motion from the reflections it receives back."

With mmWave technology, simple breathing can be detected, ensuring you stay visible to the sensor. Our focus today is on the Aqara FP1E, an upgrade from the FP1, which was available only in China, and a simplified version of the Aqara FP2(review HERE, video HERE).

Read on to find out how the FP1E performs and how it stacks up against other Presence Sensors.

PACKAGING | CONTENTS

Aqara’s packaging is fairly standardized, featuring the product prominently, a disclaimer below, and logos for compatible ecosystems. Notably, the 'Works With Apple Home' logo is absent, replaced by Alexa and Google logos. This is due to the FP1E’s use of Zigbee 3.0, requiring an Aqara hub for Apple Home integration. Alexa and Google seem more lenient about logo usage on the packaging than Apple. The disclaimer states, “To connect to third-party ecosystems such as Apple Home, Amazon Alexa and Google Home, an Aqara Zigbee 3.0 hub is required.” Rest assured, it does work with Apple Home provided you have one of their Zigbee 3.0 hubs.

The rear of the box provides technical details, including the sensor’s radar detection range. The sides highlight features and specifications:

Features

• Accurate presence detection
• Active spatial learning
• Hassle-free setup for all
• Versatile mounting options

Specs

• Model: PS-S03E
• Ports: USB-A
• Input power: 5V 1A
• Wireless protocol: Zigbee (3.0)
• Dimensions: 57 x 50 x 37mm
• Operating temperature: -10~40ºC | 14~104ºF
• Operating humidity: 0~95% RH, no condensation

Inside the box, you find the FP1E, a metal plate with holes for wall-mounting, a matching double-sided adhesive patch, and a multi-language manual. Both the metal mounting plate and the FP1E’s stand base are magnetic, ensuring a secure hold. There’s no power brick, which has become common these days.

The FP1E utilizes a proven stand design, reminiscent of early Xiaomi cameras and still in use with the Aqara camera Hub G2H Pro. This design allows for versatile placement angles and includes a reset button on the underside. Unlike the FP2, the FP1E’s power cable is non-detachable but sufficiently long at about 2 meters.

If you own the FP1 (I have three), you’ll notice no design changes in the FP1E. It differs from the FP2 in both design and functionality but brings some improvements over the original FP1.

IN AQARA HOME