Smart home technology has grown a lot and enhanced a lot of aspects in our homes in terms of control and security. So, with there being so many different devices out there to choose from, it can be somewhat confusing. That’s okay, it’s solved – here’s how: This is a detailed 2024 guide on the best smart home devices including their explanations.
Voice Assistants: Your New Best Friends
Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
- Features: Amazon Echo (4th Gen) is a smart speaker which comes from the popular brand of smart voice assistant, Alexa. Music, controlling other smart appliances, answering questions and other functions as well can be performed. This has a Zigbee hub integrated into the system and therefore can actively communicate with other Zigbee enabled appliances such as the lights, and locks among others without the need for an additional hub.
- Why you’ll love it: Another feature that speaks about its capabilities is the sound quality that is good for a speaker of this size, perfect for music. It is very lively and can operate many smart home devices. Besides, it is constantly improving its mechanisms with the help of updates.
- Things to consider: Of course, to get the most out of it, you will need to be signed in to your Amazon account. That said, some people might feel that having Alexa always listening might give off a kind of creepy feeling.
- Link to buy: Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
Google Nest Hub Max
- Features: This device combines a smart speaker with a 10-inch display. Google Assistant powers it, so you can ask it questions, control your smart home, and even make video calls using the built-in camera. The screen is perfect for watching YouTube or following along with recipes in the kitchen.
- Why you’ll love it: The large screen is a game-changer, offering visual answers to your questions and making video calls a breeze. It integrates seamlessly with Google services like Calendar and Photos.
- Things to consider: The always-on camera might be a privacy concern for some. It works best if you’re already using Google services.
- Link to buy: Google Nest Hub Max
Smart Thermostats: Comfort and Savings
Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)
- Features: This thermostat learns your schedule and preferences over time, automatically adjusting the temperature to keep you comfortable and save energy. It has a sleek, modern design and a bright display that shows the current temperature and weather. You can control it from your phone, tablet, or laptop.
- Why you’ll love it: It’s super stylish and can help you save on your energy bills. The fact that it learns your habits means you don’t have to constantly adjust it.
- Things to consider: It’s more expensive than basic thermostats, but the savings on your energy bill can make up for it.
- Link to buy: Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)
Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control
- Features: This thermostat has Alexa built-in, so it can do everything a voice assistant can, plus control your home’s temperature. It also comes with a smart sensor you can place in another room to ensure the whole house is comfortable. It supports most smart home platforms, including Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings.
- Why you’ll love it: You get two devices in one – a smart thermostat and a voice assistant. The extra sensor helps manage hot or cold spots in your home.
- Things to consider: It’s on the expensive side, but it’s packed with features that justify the price.
- Link to buy: Ecobee SmartThermostat
Smart Lighting: Set the Mood
Philips Hue Starter Kit
- Features: This kit includes three smart bulbs and a Hue Bridge, which is the hub that connects everything. You can control the bulbs with your phone, voice, or even through automation routines. They can change colors and dim, letting you set the perfect ambiance for any occasion.
- Why you’ll love it: The range of colors and brightness options is amazing, and it integrates well with almost every smart home system. It’s perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere or a vibrant party vibe.
- Things to consider: It’s more expensive than regular bulbs, and you need the Hue Bridge to get all the features.
- Link to buy: Philips Hue Starter Kit
LIFX Mini White (A19)
- Features: This smart bulb connects directly to your Wi-Fi, so there’s no need for a separate hub. It can be controlled via your phone or voice assistant and allows you to set schedules and dim the lights.
- Why you’ll love it: It’s super easy to set up and use, making it perfect for anyone new to smart lighting. It’s also a bit cheaper since it doesn’t need a hub.
- Things to consider: It only offers white light (though you can adjust the brightness), so if you want color options, you’ll need a different bulb.
- Link to buy: LIFX Mini White
Smart Security: Peace of Mind
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
- Features: This doorbell lets you see, hear, and speak to visitors from your phone, tablet, or PC. It has a 150-degree field of view, advanced motion detection, and 3D Motion Detection, which gives you better alerts and a bird’s eye view of motion events. The video is in high-definition, and it has two-way audio.
- Why you’ll love it: Knowing who’s at your door (even when you’re not home) provides great peace of mind. The advanced motion detection means fewer false alerts.
- Things to consider: There’s a subscription fee for storing video footage and accessing advanced features. Installation requires some DIY skills.
- Link to buy: Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera
- Features: This camera offers 2K video quality, color night vision, and a built-in spotlight to deter intruders. It’s wireless, making it easy to install anywhere. You can store footage locally with an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station, or use Arlo’s cloud storage.
- Why you’ll love it: The video quality is top-notch, and the spotlight and color night vision provide added security. The wireless design makes installation flexible.
- Things to consider: It’s pricier than some other security cameras, and a subscription is needed for cloud storage and advanced features.
- Link to buy: Arlo Pro 4
Smart Plugs: Simple Control
TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug HS103
- Features: This plug lets you control whatever’s plugged into it from your phone or with your voice using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Microsoft Cortana. You can set schedules and timers, and even use an Away Mode to make it look like you’re home when you’re not.
- Why you’ll love it: It’s affordable, easy to set up, and perfect for turning regular appliances into smart ones. The scheduling and timer features are super handy.
- Things to consider: It’s a bit bulky, which might block adjacent outlets.
- Link to buy: TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug
Wemo Mini Smart Plug
- Features: This compact plug allows remote control and scheduling via the Wemo app. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Its slim design means it won’t block other outlets, and it offers features like scheduling and an Away Mode.
- Why you’ll love it: The compact design is convenient, and it’s super easy to set up. It’s compatible with a lot of different smart home systems.
- Things to consider: Some users report occasional connectivity issues, but overall it’s pretty reliable.
- Link to buy: Wemo Mini Smart Plug
Smart Speakers: Music and More
Sonos One (Gen 2)
- Features: This speaker offers fantastic sound quality and supports both Alexa and Google Assistant. It integrates seamlessly with other Sonos speakers for a multi-room audio experience. It’s also humidity-resistant, making it perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Why you’ll love it: The sound quality is exceptional, with deep bass and clear highs. Having both Alexa and Google Assistant means you can choose your favorite voice assistant.
- Things to consider: It’s more expensive than other smart speakers, but the audio quality is worth it.
- Link to buy: Sonos One (Gen 2)
Apple HomePod mini
- Features: This tiny speaker delivers impressive sound for its size and features Siri for voice control. It integrates seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem, including HomeKit, Apple Music, and other Apple services.
- Why you’ll love it: It’s small, stylish, and fits anywhere. If you’re an Apple user, it offers seamless integration with your other devices.
- Things to consider:It’s designed to work best with Apple products, so it might not be the best choice if you use other systems.
- Link to buy: Apple HomePod mini
Conclusion
Smart home devices can make your life easier, more secure, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your setup, there’s something for everyone. From voice assistants and smart plugs to security cameras and smart lights, these devices offer a range of benefits that can transform your home.
