Honeywell BW Flex 4 & the Flex 5

What is the difference between the Flex 4 & the Flex 5?

Posted by Rhys Redrup

What are Honeywell BW Flex gas detectors?

BW Flex 4

The Honeywell BW™ Flex is a versatile multi-gas detector designed to protect workers and first responders in demanding industries such as steel, wastewater, and paper production. It can monitor up to four gas hazards at the same time using a choice of more than 15 sensor options. For example, teams can monitor oxygen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide, and combustible gases with a single device.

The large high-resolution display provides clear real-time readings in multiple languages, helping users make faster safety decisions in hazardous environments. Intelligent i-Series sensors provide predictive calibration and maintenance alerts to help reduce downtime. For example, users can identify when a sensor needs servicing before it fails. Bluetooth® connectivity also allows the device to integrate with Honeywell Safety Suite and IntelliDoX for simplified reporting and device management.

Click for more information: BW Flex 4 Multi-Gas Detector | Rockall safety

BW Flex 5

The Honeywell BW™ Flex 5 is an advanced and highly adaptable multi-gas detector designed to support a wide range of industrial safety applications with maximum flexibility and efficiency. Designed around a modular platform, the Flex 5 can operate as both a pumped device for confined space sampling and a wearable detector for personal gas monitoring, allowing users to seamlessly switch between tasks using the same base unit.

With configurable options for monitoring up to six gases and field-replaceable sensor cartridges, the Flex 5 helps organisations reduce downtime, simplify fleet management, and adapt quickly to changing operational requirements. Integrated wireless connectivity and compatibility with Honeywell Safety Suite 2.0 provide intelligent data sharing and fleet insights without the need for constant connectivity, ensuring safety information reaches the right personnel when it matters most.

Click for more information: BW Flex 5 Multi-Gas Detector | Rockall safety

What are the key differences between the BW Flex 4 and the BW Flex 5?

Additional sensor ports for BW Flex 5 (6 way pumped or diffused option)

The Honeywell BW™ Flex 5 (6 way version) features additional sensor ports compared to the BW™ Flex 4, allowing users to monitor a wider range of gases simultaneously. While the BW™ Flex 4 supports up to four gas sensors (up to 5 gases with dual sensor), the Flex 5 can be configured to detect up to six gases depending on the application. This gives organisations greater flexibility when working in complex or higher-risk environments where additional toxic gas monitoring may be required.

For example, a confined space team can monitor standard atmospheric hazards alongside an additional toxic gas without needing a second device. The increased sensor capacity also helps future-proof operations, making it easier for businesses to adapt to changing site requirements while reducing the need for multiple detectors across different tasks.

Honeywell BW Flex 4 Vs Honeywell BW Flex 5

The BW™ Flex 4 is a compact and straightforward solution for everyday 4-gas monitoring, making it ideal for standard industrial applications where simplicity and long battery life are key. The BW™ Flex 5 builds on this foundation with additional sensor ports, modular configurations, pumped sampling capability, and advanced workflow features, making it better suited for confined space entry, complex gas monitoring, and larger scale operations.

Choosing the right detector will depend on your site requirements, the gases being monitored, and the level of flexibility your teams need. For more information on the differences between the Honeywell BW™ Flex 4 and BW™ Flex 5, contact Rockall Safety. Our team can provide expert advice and explain the features in more detail.