What is the difference between Presence Sensors and Movement Sensors?

They look similar and are installed alike, but one detects motion, while the other detects occupancy even when you stay still.

① What they detect A movement sensor responds to motion: the light turns on when you walk past it. A presence sensor detects a person. It can pick up tiny movements like typing, flipping documents, or even subtle body movement while you are seated.

② Consequences of wrong selection If movement sensors are used in offices, lights will turn off shortly after you sit down, and you have to wave your hand to retrigger them. This issue is even more noticeable in restrooms: lights go out while you are stationary inside a cubicle. This is not a device fault — it is the wrong sensor type.

③ Coverage difference Movement sensors are designed for passing traffic, with a wide detection range. Ideal for corridors, stairwells and parking garages. Presence sensors are designed for stationary occupants, with a smaller coverage area. One unit serves a workstation zone.

④ Hold-time setting Movement sensors require a long hold time to avoid unwanted switch-off. Presence sensors continuously verify occupancy, so a shorter hold time works. Lights turn off promptly after people leave for better energy savings.

The difference is not sensitivity — it is what the sensor judges: motion, or human presence.

A side note: Many presence sensors feature dual channels, to detect movement and stationary presence separately. Check specifications before purchase; do not rely only on the product name. Use movement sensors for transit areas where people keep walking: corridors, stairs, parking garages. Use presence sensors for spaces where people stay seated: workstations, meeting rooms, classrooms, restroom cubicles. The extra cost buys you the guarantee that lights stay on while you are seated.

Presence Sensor: Detects minor movements such as typing and sedentary activity, for offices & meeting rooms MTN630819, MTN630919, MTN630719, MTN6354-0019

Movement Sensor: Only detects large walking motions; triggers vacant status when a person sits still. For corridors, stairwells, parking garages MTN632519, MTN632660, MTN6300-0019

🪑 Offices / Meeting Rooms → Presence Sensor MTN630919 / MTN630819 🚶 Corridors, Stairs, Underground Parking → Movement Sensor MTN632519 / MTN632660 🏭 High Ceiling Industrial Spaces → MTN6354-0019