In short
A wireless alarm installs without building work and expands easily; its detectors run on long-life batteries and talk over encrypted radio. A wired one does not depend on batteries or radio coverage and suits new builds or large sites. Many manufacturers, such as Ajax with its Jeweller and Fibra lines, let you combine both.
Comparison
| Aspect | Wireless | Wired |
|---|---|---|
| Building work | None needed. | Containment and cabling required. |
| Maintenance | Battery changes every few years. | No detector batteries. |
| Range | Depends on radio; extended with repeaters. | Limited only by cabling. |
| Expansion | Very easy. | Cable needed to each point. |
| Best for | Finished homes and premises, rentals. | New builds, warehouses and large buildings. |
What to look for in a wireless alarm
- Encrypted, supervised communication: the panel notices if a detector stops responding.
- Radio jamming detection.
- Real battery life and low-battery alerts.
- Security grade certification if monitored by a receiving centre.