Comparisons
Compare TOMMY with other Wi-Fi and RF sensing projects. See how different approaches to motion and presence detection stack up in terms of technology, cost, and openness.
Overview
A handful of projects today tackle motion and presence detection using Wi-Fi or other RF signals. Each takes a different approach, with different trade-offs around hardware, accuracy, ecosystem, and openness. The table below summarizes the landscape. Follow the links for a deeper comparison against TOMMY.
| Project | Released | Technology | Topology | Stationary Presence | Source | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOMMY | 17 August 2025 | Wi-Fi CSI (ESP32) | Mesh | Yes* | Closed source | Free Trial / one-time purchase |
| Philips Hue MotionAware | 4 September 2025 | Zigbee signal fluctuation | Mesh | No | Closed source | Included with Hue Bridge Pro |
| ESPectre | 2 November 2025 | Wi-Fi CSI (ESP32) | Star | No | Open source (GPLv3) | Free |
* Stationary presence detection with TOMMY requires compatible hardware. See Detection Mode for configuration requirements and optimal setup.
The Topology column describes how the sensing network is structured. Mesh systems measure signals between multiple sensing devices, so you can place devices to define the exact zones you want to monitor. Star systems measure signals between a single sensor and your router (the hub), which means your detection zone is fixed to the path between the router and that sensor rather than something you freely shape.