Zigbee MmWave + PIR Presence Sensor: Real Detection Beyond Motion

Why I Needed More Than Basic Motion Detection

I was tired of my smart lights turning off while I sat reading or working at my desk. Traditional PIR sensors only catch movement - they have no idea if you're actually present when you're sitting still. I needed something that could detect real human presence, not just when someone walks by. I didn't expect to find that solution for under $9.

What This Sensor Actually Does

This device combines 24GHz mmWave radar with traditional PIR detection. The mmWave technology picks up micro-movements like breathing or small gestures that PIR completely misses. It includes an ambient light sensor for smarter automations and runs on batteries with reportedly very low power consumption.

It works directly with Zigbee2MQTT and Home Assistant without needing Tuya-specific coordinators. You get three detection modes: PIR only, mmWave only, or combined. Multiple sensitivity settings let you tune it for your specific space and use case.

What Works Well and What Doesn't

The presence detection genuinely impressed me. It knows when I'm sitting at my desk even when I'm completely still - something impossible with PIR-only sensors. Home Assistant integration is straightforward once configured, and the range of adjustable parameters gives you real control.

The real limitation: Initial setup is genuinely tricky. As one Hubitat user noted, finding the right drivers and tuning all the parameters takes patience. This isn't a plug-and-play experience like basic Zigbee sensors. You'll spend time getting it right.

What $8 Usually Gets You

At this price point, you'd normally get a basic PIR sensor with limited features. Dedicated mmWave sensors typically cost $25-40. Quality Zigbee PIR sensors like Aqara run $12-15. This device gives you both technologies plus light sensing for less than most single-technology options.

Compared to the popular Aqara Motion Sensor, this offers more detection capability but requires more setup work. Against pure mmWave options like the EP1, it's significantly cheaper but needs more configuration time.

Who Should Buy This

Buy it if: You use Home Assistant or Zigbee2MQTT, need true presence detection beyond movement, and don't mind investing setup time. Perfect for home offices, living rooms, or anywhere you spend time sitting still.

Skip it if: You want something that works immediately out of the box, only need basic motion detection, or aren't comfortable with smart home configuration.

My take: 8/10. Excellent functionality once properly configured.

Price: $8.42 (was $19.60)

Get yours here: https://www.ali-ex.com/1yCpe4