The Best Long-Range Driveway Alarms (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

Always know who’s in your driveway with a long-range alarm.

byScott Murdock|
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BYScott Murdock/ LAST UPDATED ON September 21, 2021

Home security is important, and it’s becoming more affordable than ever. Professionally monitored security systems are still available and valuable, but private options are viable alternatives that make affordable security accessible to more people. Doorbell cameras, security cameras, and motion-activated lights can all make a home’s perimeter more secure. To extend that safety even further, we recommend a driveway alarm. Check out the best options in the buying guide below.


These simple tools make it easy to know when someone enters your driveway. In addition to being a security precaution, they’re great for being alerted when guests or delivery drivers arrive. They can even be placed away from the driveway to detect motion in a back yard, near a barn, or in parts of the house. Looking for the best long-range driveway alarm? Our team of experts examined the best long-range driveway alarms on the market. Read this review and save yourself time and money.

Best Overall

Guardline Long Range Wireless Driveway Alarm

Summary

A wireless motion alert sensor with a ¼-mile transmission range. It utilizes passive infrared technology to detect people, vehicles, or large animals within its range.

Pros

Easy plug-and-play setup. Can be expanded with up to 16 sensors. Lengthy 40-foot detection range. Adjustable alert volume. Features a durable, industrial-grade build.

Cons

Expensive, but worth it. The range may be limited by thick walls, tall hills, many trees, or metal siding. Sensitivity may be reduced during severe weather conditions.

Best Value

1 by One Driveway Alarm

Summary

A weatherproof infrared motion sensor alarm with a 1,000-foot transmission range. It detects movements from people and vehicles.

Pros

Weatherproof construction. Designed to reduce false alerts caused by weather and temperature changes. Can be customized to only give a silent LED flash.

Cons

Direct sunlight can reduce its sensitivity or create false alarms. May give false alarms during strong winds. Metal siding can reduce the transmission range.

Honorable Mention

eMACROS Long Range Solar Wireless Driveway Alarm

Summary

A solar-powered infrared alert system with a ½-mile transmission range. It can detect movements from people, vehicles, and large animals.

Pros

Long transmission range. Can be expanded with four receivers and unlimited sensors. Features customizable alert tunes. Can be easily set up in minutes. Features both audio and visual alerts.

Cons

The built-in battery can’t be replaced even when it’s damaged. Inclement weather can reduce sensitivity. It can be somewhat expensive to upgrade the sensors and transmitters.

Benefits of Long-Range Driveway Alarms

  • Security. Installing a long-range driveway alarm is a great way of monitoring almost every inch of your driveway in the comfort of your home. You will be alerted of any intruders lurking on your property before they can get into your house. Also, most alarms are expandable, and you can add extra sensors to monitor the windows, doors, and other parts of your property.
  • Peace of mind. You will be more at ease knowing that the kids or pets are safe when playing on the driveway since you will be alerted when they are out of range. Aside from that, you can get an alarm system that links to your smartphone. You will be glad knowing your home is safe when you are at work or out on a trip.
  • Get notified of approaching visitors. If you are expecting guests or a delivery, the alarm can alert you when the visitors arrive in your driveway so that you can prepare to meet them. If it’s within your business premises, you can keep track of the number of guests that visit your business. 
  • Easy to install. You can easily set up a driveway alarm system on your own without the help of a professional technician. Also, you won’t have to buy expensive installation equipment since most systems come with the necessary mounting kit. Usually, you only need a drill. 

Types of Long-Range Driveway Alarms

Passive Infrared Sensor 

Passive infrared or PIR alarms use heat and motion detection technology to detect any animals, people, or vehicles within the detection range. For this reason, they are the most accurate types of alarm systems since they will give fewer false alerts that can be a result of objects being blown onto your property. They can be upgraded with extra transmitters and sensors to improve their accuracy. 

Active Infrared Beam Sensor 

An active infrared beam system is a slight improvement on the PIR system. It consists of a receiver and multiple transmitters, which use active infrared technology to create multiple beams to improve the detection range, and to reduce false alerts caused by objects blown in by the wind or if an animal crosses the path. The transmitters are placed about 100 feet from each other and will only give an alert when all the beams are crossed to indicate that the object is intentionally heading in your direction. 

Electromagnetic

Electromagnet alarms detect metal objects within their range. They are designed with a magnetic coil that creates a magnetic field, which sends a signal to the receiver whenever a metal object is within the field. They are typically used on commercial properties to detect vehicles approaching the driveway. 

Top Brands

Guardline 

Guardline is a Seattle-based company that specializes in making alarm systems for residential and commercial properties. The company has designed more than 250,000 products since its inception in 2001. Apart from alarm systems, the company also designs sirens and loud ringing bells. One of its best driveway alarm systems is the Guardline Long Range Wireless Driveway Alarm

1byone

Based in California, 1byone specializes in creating home security systems and other products that make life easier, using the latest technology. A few products in its repertoire include driveway alarms, laser light projectors, outdoor antennas, and Bluetooth mini speakers. Check out the 1byone Driveway Alarm if you are looking for an affordable driveway alarm. 

Long-Range Driveway Alarm Pricing

  • Under $100: Most driveway alarm systems on the market fall within this price range. They typically come as a basic set, which includes a single transmitter and receiver. They are suitable for small residential properties, and you can find a unit that gives both audio and visual alerts. It’s also possible to find an affordable unit with a great transmission range.  
  • $100 and up: This price range is for an advanced alarm system holding a plethora of features, such as an object counter that keeps track of the number of objects detected. Also, it’s possible to find a hybrid alarm system that uses both an infrared sensor and a magnetic probe to detect both metallic and non-metallic objects. In addition, expect to spend this much if you are buying an alarm system with multiple sensors.

Key Features

Transmission Range 

The transmission range will help you determine how far you can install the transmitter or sensor, which is installed outdoors, from the receiver. For a driveway alarm, a longer detection range from ¼- to ½-mile will be appropriate, so that you can install the receiver anywhere in your house without affecting the connection. 

Weatherproof Design 

Since you will be installing the sensors outdoors, it’s important that the alarm system can hold up to the elements without getting damaged. Also, weather elements such as snow, a heavy downpour, or intense sunlight can reduce the sensitivity or affect the accuracy of the transmitter. Therefore, prioritize systems that come with a waterproof and UV-protected cover or have a general weatherproof construction. 

Other Considerations

  • Wired vs. Wireless: If you don’t want to bother yourself with routine battery replacements, you can install an alarm system that comes with power and connection cables running from a power outlet to the transmitters at the driveway. However, if you don’t want to do all the extra wiring, you can opt for a wireless option where both the transmitter and receiver have either replaceable or rechargeable batteries.
  • Expandability: Many alarm systems can be expanded with extra sensors and receivers to help improve the detection range. Confirm the number of extra sensors and receivers that the unit can take to determine if it will be the right fit for your property. 
  • Customizable Settings: Alarms can get quite annoying, so you need a driveway alarm system that comes with an adjustable volume setting and different chimes so that you can select an appealing tune. It should also have adjustable flash alerts so that you can switch them off or use them independent of the sound if need be. 
  • Ease of Installation: Choose an alarm system that’s easy to install. The product should at least come with a well-illustrated user manual and a few online tutorials to make installation a breeze. 

Best Long-Range Driveway Alarm Reviews & Recommendations 2020

When you need a long-range driveway alarm that doesn’t compromise on quality, take a look at the Guardline Long Range Wireless Driveway Alarm. Install up to 16 sensors using the screw-mounted backing plates, and aim the sensor to create a 40-foot monitored zone. Each detector sends a signal to the home receiver up to a quarter-mile away, through trees and other obstacles. The in-home unit can be programmed to use unique audible signals for different zones. While less expensive monitors may give false alarms, this one combines motion and heat detection to avoid being tripped by things like falling leaves. Each waterproof sensor uses four AA batteries. The system comes with video tutorials, a customer service line, and a two-year warranty.


This driveway alarm is significantly more expensive than the other options on our list, but we think its capabilities are more than worth it. The unit isn’t weatherproof and can eventually leak in extreme weather conditions.

Adding long-range driveway alarms to your property doesn’t have to be expensive, thanks to the 1byone Driveway Alarm. This is the most affordable option on our list, and it still offers two wireless transmitters and an in-home receiver that can function up to 1,000 feet apart. Each sensor unit monitors a 45-degree field with a 24-foot range. When a sensor detects motion, the receiver can be programmed to produce an audible alarm, flashing light, or both. Up to five transmitters can be used with one receiver. Transmitters require three AAA batteries, and the receiver can either be plugged in or use three C batteries. The small transmitters can be easily installed outdoors or inside. This system provides quality home security at an incredible price.


The downside of this unit is that it is slow to trigger an alarm when it detects motion. However, it’s still responsive enough to give you plenty of notice. The receiver distance is shorter than other alarms on this list. This makes it ideal for shorter driveways.

When you need as much range as possible, choose the eMACROS Long Range Solar Wireless Driveway Alarm. These solar-powered sensors don’t require wired installation or battery replacement. In testing, this system proved effective at ranges up to half a mile, making it one of the farthest-reaching options on our list. Durable sensors use PVC construction and sealed closures to resist water, heat, and cold. A ball-and-socket attachment to the mounting plate allows each sensor to be precisely aimed. Choose between 20-foot and 30-foot sensitivity settings to avoid false alarms. Additional sensors can be purchased, for a total of four per in-home receiver. The receiver can be plugged in or run off four AA batteries. A customer support team is even available to provide installation recommendations. We love the long range and the competitive price point of this system.


One drawback of this unit is that it only comes with one sensor, while others come with more than one. One sensor is enough for smaller driveways, but you’ll need to buy additional sensors if you want a complete system.

If you only want to be notified when cars enter your driveway, the Mighty Mule Wireless Driveway Alarm is a great option. Unlike other systems that detect motion or heat, this device only activates when the electromagnetic sensor detects a car’s large, metallic presence. You won’t be bothered by false alarms caused by wind, animals, or pedestrians. The small, 12-foot radius makes this a perfect solution for urban areas, where farther-reaching sensors would constantly be activated by city traffic. Once installed, the sensor signals the remote base station up to 400 feet away to create an audible chime. As long as the transmitter remains unobstructed, the wire-connected electromagnetic wand can function when buried under your driveway, and is unaffected by weather or snow cover. The sensor unit runs on two AA batteries. Both the receiver and transmitter feature a low-battery light.


One drawback of this unit is that it only detects large masses of metal. So this isn’t an ideal unit if you’re looking to have alerts for people and animals. This makes it only ideal if you’re looking for vehicle traffic alerts.

For a versatile, low-maintenance long-range driveway alarm, consider the Htz Safe Solar Driveway Alarm System. This system’s solar-powered sensors are ready to work as soon as they are installed, with no need for batteries. They also have a plug-in capability for sustained use in low-light areas. Choose from 25-, 30-, and 50-foot sensor ranges to get the most range out of your system or avoid false alarms. The plug-in home alarm receiver can be activated up to a quarter-mile away from the transmitting motion detector. The outdoor sensor’s waterproof enclosure is rated for use in temperatures from -22 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. Each kit includes one transmitter and one receiver, but up to 32 transmitters and individual alarm tones can be used with each receiver.


One downside of this sensor is that it doesn’t work well in below-freezing temperatures. This makes it best suited for people who live in warmer climates. It also struggles to hold a charge long term.

This driveway sensor and receiver have a 650-foot range. The sensor has a large solar panel for charging. It uses PIR technology to detect motion that’s within a 13-foot range. When you mount your sensor 50 feet high it has a detection range of 30 degrees vertically and 60 degrees horizontally. The housing is waterproof for durability. You have 52 chimes and an LED indicator to customize your alerts. There are also four sound levels to choose from, so you’re sure to hear the alerts. The system can expand up to 20 sensors for complete protection.


The downside of this unit is that the installation requirements are very specific, and they may not work with your property or security needs. However, if they do work, you’ll have superior detection and performance.

This pair of driveway sensors connect to a receiver that’s up to a half-mile away. The receiver can connect up to seven sensors for a complete system. The sensors are reliable and waterproof and can work in a temperature range from -20 to 60 degrees Celsius. The sensor housing is a durable PVC with a rubberized weatherproof seal. The sensors are solar-powered, so there’s no need to replace the batteries. The sensors will alert you to movement within a 30-foot range.


One drawback of this system is that you can’t customize the chimes. This can make it challenging to know which of your sensors is alerting you to motion. To address this, there’s a light on the receiver, so if you need to know, you can go look at it to find out.

Enjoy a half-mile range between your sensor and receiver with this driveway alarm set. The sensor has a 300-foot-wide sensor range. To power the sensor components, there’s a solar panel on each one, so there’s no need for wiring or replacing batteries. You can connect up to four sensors to the receiver. The sensor uses a photoelectric beam sensor. This means that there are two pieces to the sensor. You’ll install them facing each other on either side of your driveway. The sensor beam projects from one sensor to the other and then returns to the first. When this beam is interrupted, the alarm is triggered.


The downside of this system is that if the sensor beam isn’t interrupted, the alarm won’t go off. However, this is also an advantage because it eliminates the false alarm problems that motion sensors have.

This sensor and receiver set is incredibly customizable with five volume levels and 58 chimes to choose from. The sensor uses passive infrared to detect motion. You can place the receiver up to 500 feet away from the sensor. The sensitivity range for movement detection is up to 30 feet. The sensor is waterproof, which makes it durable enough for outdoor use. It has a PVC housing with a rubber seal and large sun shield. You can expand your system to up to 58 sensors and an unlimited number of receivers.


Because the sensor uses motion detection, you can have false alarms from animals, insects, and foliage. You can easily address this by keeping the tree branches trimmed.  The sensor also requires four AA batteries. This means ongoing expense of replacing the batteries.

Tips

  • Prioritize alarm systems that can be powered by alternative power sources such as solar power. It will save you the trouble of always having to connect it to a power source for recharging every time the battery runs out.  
  • If you have a large property, consider installing additional transmitters and sensors to enhance the motion detection range. 
  • Consider buying an alarm system with a status check feature, which indicates if the sensors are still working or if the signal has been lost. 
  • Consider buying a weatherproof cover for your sensor if it doesn’t come with one. Remember to install it at a secure place where it can be safe from vandalism. 

FAQs

Q: Can you trick a motion sensor?

Only if you are tech-savvy and know how to bypass an alarm system. The motion sensor works by detecting changes in temperature in the surrounding area, so unless you move at a safe distance from the detection range, expect to trip the alarm. 

Q: Can a spider set off a motion detector?

It’s expected that insects and spiders will get in front of the motion sensor, but they aren’t large enough to trigger the alarm. However, pets and other small animals can occasionally trigger the sensors.

Q: Can thunder set off a long-range driveway alarm?

Not if it’s a high-quality alarm system. Some alarm systems can be triggered by the flash of lightning, but not necessarily the sound of a thunderclap. You can turn down the volume during a storm if your alarm system is easily triggered. 

Q: How do you install a wireless driveway alarm?

It mostly depends on the type of alarm system you have. The installation for most alarm systems is rather basic and only involves drilling the transmitter into a solid place that’s free of interference such as trees, dense foliage, or thick walls. 

Q: Can pets trigger motion sensors?

Yes, they can. To prevent this, you can tilt the transmitter slightly upwards so that it can detect objects that are at least four feet off the ground. Alternatively, you could use it to your advantage to monitor your pet. You can turn down the audio alerts so that the alarm doesn’t startle you whenever your pet goes outside. 

Final Thoughts

Our top pick is the Guardline Long Range Wireless Driveway Alarm since it’s an expandable alarm system that can be augmented with extra transmitters and receivers to enhance the motion sensing range. You also get 30 different chimes to choose from, and you can adjust the volume. 

If you are looking for a more pocket-friendly option, consider the 1byone Driveway Alarm. It’s a decent alarm system that can either run on batteries or use direct AC power.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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