How to Choose Best Outdoor Motion Detector Light

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First how to choose the best outdoor motion detector light

There are 3 main criteria in selecting the best motion detector light outside to meet your needs, whether for safety or for convenience.
Outdoor Motion Detector Light

How far away, or at what distance will the motion detector sense movement before the light turns on


The sensing distance is very important for outdoor security when it is dark outside. If the purpose is for security, you definitely want the maximum distance possible. Being able to sense motion at long distances is where high quality motion detectors shine. Here you can get your money. If the distance is not a big concern, then almost every typical motion light will be fine.


How wide of a detection area does the motion detector sensor “see”

Outdoor motion detector lights are also rated by their detection pattern, including coverage width, or their sensing angle measured in degrees. For the best security protection, a 360 degree full circle coverage is absolutely the best. This will leave no dead zones whatsoever. A 180 degree half circle coverage may be good enough if the motion detector light is mounted against, or on an outdoor wall.

How much power or wattage, or how big or bright a light will the motion detector handle, or switch on

An outdoor motion detector light is also measured by how many watts that the total number of bulbs can be. The typical maximum total bulb power is often 150 or 300 watts, but high quality motion detectors can switch 300 watts and more. For security purposes, you want it bright, so a 300 watt rating is very good.

RAB Super Stealth
Having owned quite a lot of outdoor motion lights over time, I have found my absolute favorite, the RAB Super Stealth 360 .
It will detect motion out to an incredible distance of 60 feet when mounted properly.
It has a 180 degree coverage detection pattern and also a 360 degree full circle coverage detection pattern facing down underneath it.
It will handle and switch 1,000 watts of power and comes in various light configurations including one with two 150 watt lamps.
There are many more high quality features integrated into this model including temperature compensation, high voltage spike protection, scanning LED’s, and RF immunity.


You get what you pay for, and this one is worth it. In fact, it is so good, that I have been inspired to post this review and recommendation to you for your protection and security.

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