Best Optical Sensors of 2025

Kenneth Collin Avatar
Kenneth Collin
Last Updated: 29 Jan 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Optical sensors are electronic devices that detect and measure light, allowing for accurate and efficient monitoring of various physical and chemical parameters. These sensors are widely used in a range of industries including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and environmental monitoring. Optical sensors provide high sensitivity and accuracy, making them ideal for applications such as temperature sensing, gas detection, humidity monitoring, and pressure measurement. With their ability to provide real-time data and non-invasive measurements, optical sensors are a valuable tool for any industry looking to improve their monitoring and control processes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

10PCS TopHomer TCRT5000 Reflective Sensors Cover #TOP 1
10PCS TopHomer TCRT5000 Reflective Sensors
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DollaTek CJMCU-9930 Proximity Sensor for Arduino Cover #TOP 2
DollaTek CJMCU-9930 Proximity Sensor for Arduino
ftb score rating icon 9.7
DAOKAI Infrared Speed Measuring Sensor Module Cover #TOP 3
DAOKAI Infrared Speed Measuring Sensor Module
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Optical Sensors

#TOP 1

10PCS TopHomer TCRT5000 Reflective Sensors

SQ_155
10PCS TopHomer TCRT5000 Reflective Sensors Cover
10PCS TCRT5000L TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensor Infrared IR Switch

The TopHomer TCRT5000 Sensors are designed with a compact construction that allows you to detect the presence of objects using an infrared reflective beam. This feature is particularly useful for applications requiring precision in detecting reflective materials such as paper or magnetic tapes. The plastic polycarbonate housing prevents crosstalk, ensuring reliability in various environments. Additionally, the snap-in construction makes it easy for you to mount them onto PCBs, simplifying your projects significantly.

What We Like
Compact design
Prevents crosstalk
Easy PCB mounting
Detects various reflective materials
#TOP 2

DollaTek CJMCU-9930 Proximity Sensor for Arduino

DollaTek CJMCU-9930 Proximity Sensor for Arduino Cover
DollaTek 5Pcs CJMCU-9930 APDS-9930 Proximity and Non Contact Gesture Detection Attitude Sensor for Arduino

The DollaTek CJMCU-9930 Sensor is a versatile device designed for Arduino projects. It features integrated optical modules that include Ambient Light Sensing (ALS), providing you with the ability to detect light levels in your environment. This sensor mimics the human visual response, enabling applications that require accurate light detection. With programmable interrupt capability, you can set upper and lower thresholds to better control your projects. Additionally, it offers up to 16-bit resolution, ensuring precise readings for enhanced performance.

What We Like
High-resolution readings
Integrated ambient light sensing
Programmable interrupt feature
Compact and easy to use
#TOP 3

DAOKAI Infrared Speed Measuring Sensor Module

WE-DA-026
DAOKAI Infrared Speed Measuring Sensor Module Cover
DAOKAI 5PCS IR Infrared Slotted Optical Optocoupler Speed Measuring Sensor Module 3.3-5V for Arduino Also for Smart Robot Car Speed Measurement with Wire

The DAOKAI Speed Sensor Module is designed for precise speed measurement using infrared detection. It effectively eliminates interference from external stray light, ensuring stable waveforms and signals. Operating within a voltage range of 3.3V to 5V, it provides a reliable digital output, making it easy to integrate into various projects. The built-in signal output indicator lights up when the beam is broken, offering instant feedback on operation. This module is particularly useful for motor speed detection and pulse counting, enhancing the functionality of your smart robot car.

What We Like
Infrared detection eliminates interference
Stable waveforms and signals
Wide operating voltage range
Instant feedback with signal indicator
Versatile applications in speed measurement
#TOP 4

Fasizi VL6180X Range Finder Sensor Module

ELA3310
Fasizi VL6180X Range Finder Sensor Module Cover
Fasizi VL6180X VL6180 VL6180X Range Finder Optical Ranging Sensor Module for Arduino I2C Interface 3.3V 5V gesture recognition

The Fasizi VL6180X Sensor is a versatile optical ranging module ideal for your Arduino and microcontroller projects. With a range of 5mm to 200mm, you can accurately measure distances, making it perfect for various applications. It features a built-in 5V regulator and level shifting, allowing seamless integration with both 3V and 5V systems. This feature simplifies your setup and enhances compatibility. Additionally, it utilises VL6180X Time of Flight technology, ensuring precise measurements with minimal effort on your part.

What We Like
Accurate distance measurement
Wide compatibility
Easy to integrate
Compact design
Suitable for various projects
#TOP 5

Youmile Infrared Optical Sensor Module for Arduino

GR-YM-227
Youmile Infrared Optical Sensor Module for Arduino Cover
Youmile 5Pcs Speed Measuring Sensor IR Infrared Slotted Optical Optocoupler Module Photo Interrupter Sensor for Motor Speed Detection or Arduino with Encoders

The Youmile Optical Sensor Module is designed for precise speed detection in motors or Arduino projects. Its infrared detection capability helps eliminate interference from external stray light, ensuring accurate readings. The inclusion of a Schmitt trigger stabilises waveforms and signals, providing consistent performance. Additionally, the signal output indicator informs you when the beam is broken, lighting up to indicate a low-level output. This combination of features enhances your projects by delivering reliable data and ease of use.

What We Like
Infrared detection reduces light interference
Stable waveforms for reliable signals
Indicator light for easy monitoring
Works with 3.3V to 5V power
Compact design for easy integration
#TOP 6

BOJKEON FT610 Through-Beam Optical Sensor

BOJKEON
FT410
Blue
BOJKEON FT610 Through-Beam Optical Sensor Cover
BOJKEON FT610 Fiber Optic Sensor,Through-Beam Reflection Fiber Optic,1m Line Length,M6 Sensor Probe Through-Beam Reflection Optical Sensor

The BOJKEON FT610 Sensor is a high-quality diffuse reflective optical fibre sensor designed for various applications. With a 1m line length and a robust construction, it offers excellent durability, bending up to 10 million times. The sensor is made from TPV and features high-quality copper wire, ensuring reliability in demanding environments. Its safe design includes insulation and resistance to water, high temperatures, and corrosion, making it ideal for use in railway monitoring and urban construction projects.

What We Like
High durability and flexibility
Safe and reliable design
Easy installation and connection
Strong anti-interference capability
#TOP 7

HALJIA TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensors

ADN2006030A
HALJIA TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensors Cover
HALJIA 10PCS TCRT5000 TCRT5000L Reflective Optical Sensor IR Switch Compatible with Arduino

The HALJIA TCRT5000 Sensors are designed for effective object detection using reflective infrared beams. With a maximum continuous output current of 5A and a peak current of 10A, these sensors offer reliable performance for various applications. Their compact construction allows for easy integration into projects, making them ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike. Furthermore, the snap-in design ensures straightforward PCB mounting, providing you with convenience during installation.

What We Like
High current output capability
Compact and easy to install
Effective object detection
Prevents crosstalk interference
#TOP 8

Hailege 20pcs TCRT5000L Optical Sensors Set

H-1-0579
Hailege 20pcs TCRT5000L Optical Sensors Set Cover
Hailege 20pcs TCRT5000L TCRT5000 Photoelectric Sensors Reflective Optical Sensor Transistor Output Infrared 950mm 5V 3A for smart Car Robot

The Hailege TCRT5000L Sensors are a pack of 20 photoelectric sensors designed for various applications. These reflective optical sensors allow you to detect objects by reflecting infrared light, making them ideal for smart cars and robots. Operating at 5V and a current of 3A, they provide reliable performance. Each sensor is compact and easy to integrate into your projects, enhancing functionality and convenience. Whether you're building a robotic system or an automated vehicle, these sensors will help improve accuracy and efficiency.

What We Like
Pack of 20 sensors
Reflective optical sensing
Suitable for smart devices
Easy to integrate
Reliable performance
#TOP 9

HALJIA TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensor for Arduino

HALJIA TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensor for Arduino Cover
HALJIA TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensor IR Switch Compatible with Arduino (2PCS)

The HALJIA TCRT5000 Sensor offers a compact design that detects the presence of objects using a reflective IR beam. This feature is particularly useful in various applications where object detection is required, allowing you to streamline your projects. Additionally, it includes a phototransistor that enhances sensitivity and response time. The snap-in construction makes it easy to mount on a PCB, ensuring a hassle-free installation. Lastly, the plastic polycarbonate housing effectively prevents crosstalk, making it a reliable choice for your sensor needs.

What We Like
Compact design
Easy PCB mounting
Effective crosstalk prevention
High sensitivity
#TOP 10

10 Pcs TCRT5000L Infrared Optical Sensors

10 Pcs TCRT5000L Infrared Optical Sensors Cover
10 Pcs TCRT5000L TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensor Infrared 950mm 5V 3A

The TCRT5000L Optical Sensors are designed for compact use, allowing you to easily detect the presence of objects through the reflective infrared beam. This is particularly useful in applications requiring proximity detection. The sensors feature a phototransistor that enhances their sensitivity, ensuring reliable performance. Their snap-in construction makes them straightforward to mount on PCBs, simplifying your installation process. Additionally, the plastic polycarbonate housing prevents crosstalk, ensuring that your readings remain accurate and interference-free.

What We Like
Compact design
Easy PCB mounting
Accurate object detection
Durable housing
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the types of optical sensors?

The optical sensor types include Point sensor, Distributed sensor, Extrinsic sensor, Intrinsic sensor, Through Beam Sensor, Diffuse reflective Sensor and Retro-reflective sensor. The optical sensor advantages and disadvantages are also covered. Definition: The method of sensing light rays is known as optical sensing.

2. What does an optical sensor detect?

In general, an optical sensor measures light and its characteristics and produces a representative electronic signal. When the light is affected by external forces, optical sensors can be used as transducers to measure things such as displacement, temperature and even voltage and current.

3. What is optical imaging sensors?

The basic purpose of an optical image sensor is to convert light to electrical signals. In automobiles these sensors are used in various systems including accident recorders, lane departure warning systems, sign detection systems, parking assistance and collision avoidance.

4. What is optical sensor technology?

Optical sensors make use of the same physical phenomena to perform their sensing operation but involve no optical fiber. They instead rely on lens or mirror systems to transmit and manipulate the beams of light used in their sensing process.

Editor's Notes

During our optical sensor research, we found 30 optical sensor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,722 customer reviews through our big data system to write the optical sensors list. We found that most customers choose optical sensors with an average price of £6.36.

The optical sensors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of optical sensors, including TopHomer, DollaTek, DAOKAI, Fasizi, Youmile. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 155 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

Written by
Kenneth Collin Avatar

Kenneth Collin graduated from Imperial College, London, at 22. He is a UX/UI designer, a web developer, and a writer, amongst others. At age 14, Kenneth programmed his first app. Kenneth's app served as a remote control for censored devices. "When I was 8, I would pick up scraps from electronics and try to rebuild or at least fix them," Kenneth said in one of his recent articles on Home repairs for top gadgets.