I don’t know about you, but I’m just not feeling the “smart home” trend. Sure, it’s cool that my new refrigerator can tell me when I’m out of milk and that my thermostat knows when I’m coming home.
But with all these devices sending data to the cloud and getting hacked… well, let’s just say it’s not exactly making me feel safer in my own home.
But there are some smart home gadgets worth considering if you’re interested in making your house smarter without sacrificing your privacy or security. Here are some of our favorites:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Smart home devices offer a range of solutions to help you sleep better. |
| Investing in smart home devices can make your home more energy-efficient, saving you money on your bills. |
| There are dozens of smart home devices available to upgrade your kitchen, from temperature-controlled coffee makers to voice-activated assistants. |
| Smart home technology can help keep your home safe from intruders and other threats with features like smart locks and security cameras. |
| With a little planning and the right equipment, anyone can create an immersive cinematic experience with a home theater. |
Nest Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a great way to make your home more efficient. The Nest Thermostat learns from you, so it gets better at saving energy over time. You can control it with your phone or tablet, as well as by voice commands and through the Nest app.
Nest Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Nest Protect is the most trusted home alarm in America. It detects smoke, carbon monoxide and other airborne threats, so you know when it’s time to get out of your house fast.
Nest Protect features a 9-volt battery that lasts up to 10 years–and if there’s an emergency while you’re away from home, Nest Protect can send you an alert via text message or phone call (you choose).
If there’s ever a problem with your smoke detector or carbon monoxide sensor during those first 10 years, we’ll replace it at no cost to you.
Looking to improve your sleep quality? “Smart home technology offers a range of solutions to help you sleep better, from smart lights to temperature controls.” Check out The Top Smart Home Devices for Improving Your Sleep to learn more about how smart home devices can improve your sleep.
Amazon Echo Dot
The Amazon Echo Dot is a smart home device that allows you to control your lights, thermostat and other home appliances.
Alexa is a voice-controlled assistant that can answer questions, play music and order food for you. If you have an Amazon Prime membership, Alexa can even help with shopping by reading product reviews aloud!
The Echo Dot also works as an alarm clock because it has built-in speakers so you can wake up with music or news from any station you choose (or the weather report). The best part is that there are no wires required; all you need is WiFi access!
Philips Hue A19 Smart Bulb Starter Kit
The Philips Hue A19 Smart Bulb Starter Kit is an excellent choice for those who want to get started with smart lighting. The kit comes with three bulbs and a hub, which you can use to control your lights from anywhere using the Philips Hue app.
The kit also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant if you have either of those devices in your home, so you can use voice commands to activate scenes or turn on/off individual lights without needing to touch anything.
If this isn’t enough for you (and why wouldn’t it be?), this starter kit has one more trick up its sleeve: It works with Apple HomeKit as well as Amazon Echo and Google Assistant!
That means if you have any of these other gadgets around the house–or even one of them–you’ll be able to sync everything up seamlessly into one seamless smart home experience that makes life easier every day.”
Want to save energy while making your home smarter? “Investing in smart home devices can make your home more energy-efficient, saving you money on your bills.” Check out The Best Smart Home Devices for Energy Savings to learn more about how energy-saving smart home devices can benefit you.
Honeywell Lyric Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector
If you’re looking for a smart water leak and freeze detector that works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, then this is a great option.
It also has Apple HomeKit compatibility, so if you have an iPhone or iPad in the house, it’ll be easy to connect this device.
Honeywell Lyric Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector comes with a built-in battery (which lasts up to 10 years) so there’s no need to worry about replacing batteries every once in awhile. It even sends notifications when there is an issue detected!
This smart home device works with Wink and SmartThings as well as Nest products–so if those are part of your home tech setup already then this could be an easy add-on item for your current system.
iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum
If you’re looking for a way to keep your house clean without having to do any of the work, then the iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum is a great option. The roomba can be scheduled to clean at certain times.
You can use it on both carpet and hardwood floors, as well as in corners where dirt tends to collect because of its small size.
The roomba comes with intelligent sensors that let it navigate around furniture or other obstacles in its path while still getting all areas of your floor cleaned thoroughly. This makes it perfect for pet owners who want their pets’ fur off of their furniture without having to manually vacuum every day!
Looking to upgrade your kitchen with smart home devices? “From temperature-controlled coffee makers to voice-activated assistants, there are dozens of smart home devices available to upgrade your kitchen.” Check out 18 Smart Home Devices for The Ultimate Kitchen Upgrade to see our top picks for smart home devices in the kitchen.
TP-Link Smart Plug
This plug works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control it remotely. It also comes with an app that allows you to set schedules for your devices, monitor energy usage and more.
The TP-Link smart plug is compatible with Android phones running 4.4 or later versions of the operating system; iPhones running iOS 8 or later versions; iPads running iOS 9 or later versions; Windows 10 devices; Mac computers with OS X 10.8 or later installed (HomeKit compatibility requires an additional HomeKit hub).
Eero Home Wi-Fi System
The Eero Home Wi-Fi System is a mesh network, which means it uses multiple devices to create a single signal and extend the range of your home’s Wi-Fi coverage. Each device acts as a router, broadcasting signals throughout your house so you can get online anywhere without dead spots.
The benefits of using this system include:
- Improved speed and reliability when streaming videos or other media content (like music) because there are no more interruptions in service due to weak signals
- Better security because each device blocks unauthorized access attempts by hackers who want access to your personal information
How can you ensure the safety and security of your home with smart home technology? “With features like smart locks and security cameras, smart home technology can help keep your home safe from intruders and other threats.” Check out The Top Smart Home Devices for Security and Safety to learn more about how smart home devices can improve the security of your home.
GE Z-Wave Plus In-Wall Smart Switch
How to install the switch. The GE Z-Wave Plus In-Wall Smart Switch is a great device to use if you have an older home and want to upgrade its capabilities with smart technology. It’s easy to install, but it’s important that you follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions carefully so that you don’t damage your wall or wiring when installing it.
What the switch does and how it connects with other devices in your home network. This smart switch allows users who own compatible gadgets (like lights) on their Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth range–such as smartphones, tablets and laptops–to control those devices remotely via an application on those devices’ screens without having any physical contact with them at all!
You can even set up timers so that some lights turn off automatically when no one is around at night time hours during summer months when people tend not only go outdoors more often but also tend toward staying up later than usual due to warmer temperatures outside making them feel less sleepy earlier than normal bedtime hours would suggest otherwise…
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | In-Wall Smart Switch |
| Connectivity | Z-Wave Plus |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Z-Wave certified gateways and Amazon Alexa devices |
| Wireless Range | Up to 150 feet |
| Power Source | Hardwire |
| Control | Manual and Remote Control |
| Price | $39.99 |
The GE Z-Wave Plus In-Wall Smart Switch is a Z-Wave Plus certified in-wall switch that connects to your smart home network for remote control of lights. It is compatible with Z-Wave certified gateways and Amazon Alexa devices, and has a wireless range of up to 150 feet. The in-wall smart switch is available for $39.99.
Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote Control
The Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote Control can control up to 15 devices, and it’s compatible with all major brands. No matter the product or brand of the device you want to control, the remote will be able to do it.
You can also use your smartphone or tablet as a remote for controlling different aspects of your home’s smart devices–and if you don’t have any other equipment for doing so in your home yet but still want to be able to use this feature (such as Amazon Alexa), then you’re in luck!
The Logitech Harmony app is available on both iOS and Android platforms so anyone can download it from their respective app stores. Once downloaded, simply log in using your account information provided by Logitech when purchasing this product (or create one). Then just follow along with their instructions until everything gets set up properly without having any problems whatsoever!
This makes things much easier than trying something else out – trust me! Finally: You’ll never lose track of where everything went again once configured correctly because there will always be an icon representing each device within reach while using either option mentioned above.”
Want to create the ultimate home theater experience? “From projectors to sound systems, setting up a home theater can seem overwhelming. But with a little planning and the right equipment, anyone can create an immersive cinematic experience.” Check out The Ultimate Home Theater Setup Guide for Movie Lovers to learn more about how to set up a home theater that will impress your friends and family.
Canary All-In-One Home Security Device
The Canary All-in-One Home Security Device is a smart home gadget that can be used to monitor your home and keep it safe.
It offers 24/7 live streaming and two-way talk, which means you can see what’s going on in your house at all times and speak through the device if there’s an intruder or other problem.
This device also has a 130-degree field of view, so it covers more than most other security cameras on the market today.
Canary works indoors or outdoors, so whether you want to install it inside one room or place it outside your residence for added protection from intruders who try entering through windows or doors (or even break into cars parked nearby), this product will work well for those situations as well!
The only downside is that if someone breaks into their own car with keys instead of smashing glass with rocks like most criminals do these days… well then again maybe not so much after all?
D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD Camera
The D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD Camera is a smart home camera that can be placed anywhere in your home. It has a 180 degree field of view and can pan, tilt, zoom and rotate remotely using your smartphone.
You can use it as a security camera to keep an eye on what’s happening at home when you’re not there or set up notifications if motion is detected.
Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera Pack
The Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera Pack is a great option for those who want to keep an eye on their outdoor spaces. This pack comes with two cameras, one wired and one Wi-Fi enabled, so you can set up both inside and outside your home.
The camera has 1080p HD video resolution and infrared night vision that allows it to see in the dark up to 25 feet away, so it’s perfect for monitoring your backyard at night or during inclement weather.
The 2-way audio function allows you to speak through either of these cameras using its built-in microphone or speakers; simply press “talk” on either device and speak into them like they were walkie talkies!
If someone knocks at your door while they’re still outside? Just tell them through this device what time they should come back later (or even invite them inside).
The Nest Aware subscription required for this product also enables cloud storage for footage recorded by both cameras–which means no more worrying about running out of space when reviewing footage from previous days/weeks/months!
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Camera Type | Outdoor Security |
| Camera Resolution | 1080p Full HD |
| Power Source | Wired |
| Night Vision | Yes |
| Audio | Two-Way Audio |
| Compatibility | Works with Google Assistant and Alexa |
| Price | $398 |
The Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera Pack is a wired outdoor security camera that offers a 1080p Full HD resolution for clear footage. It features night vision, two-way audio, and is compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa. The camera pack is available for $398.
August Smart Lock Pro + Connect
The August Smart Lock Pro + Connect is a great option if you want to lock and unlock your door from anywhere.
The device can be controlled with the August app, allowing you to create virtual keys for guests, share access to your home with family members or friends and even create schedules so that certain people can have limited access at specific times.
The Smart Lock Pro + Connect works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant (so you don’t have to buy separate smart devices). It also comes with built-in WiFi so it doesn’t require additional wiring or installation costs — just screw in the deadbolt like normal!
Nabu’s Smart Swim Goggles with Water Tracking App
Nabu’s Smart Swim Goggles are the first of their kind to track your swim workout and provide real-time feedback on your performance.
The goggles are equipped with an optical sensor that detects motion in the water and relays information about speed, stroke count and distance covered to a companion app on your phone or smartwatch.
Nabu also includes an automatic flip turn feature so no matter how many laps you do at the pool every day, it’ll know when it’s time for you to switch directions (and keep track).
OXO Good Grips Toaster Tongs with Built-In Timer
If you’re the type of person who likes to make breakfast for yourself, these toaster tongs with built-in timer are a must have.
They’ll help you toast your bagel, muffin or crumpet at just the right time and temperature so that it’s perfectly browned on all sides (and not burnt). Plus they keep your hands away from the hot toaster while they do their job!
The best part? The built-in timer means no more burnt fingers or singed bread; simply set it for however long you want your food to be warm for and let these babies do their thing!
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | OXO Good Grips |
| Product Type | Toaster Tongs with Built-In Timer |
| Material | Stainless steel with silicone grips |
| Size/Dimension | 10.5 inches x 1.5 inches x 1.25 inches |
| Weight | 5.3 ounces |
| Color | Stainless steel and black |
| Features | Built-in timer for perfectly timed toast, silicone grips for easy handling, dishwasher safe, great for retrieving small items from toaster or toaster oven |
| Warranty | Satisfaction guarantee, contact OXO Customer Service for assistance |
Note:
- The table consists of various specifications of OXO Good Grips Toaster Tongs with Built-In Timer, such as brand, material, size/dimension, weight, color, features, and warranty.
- The description for the features column uses bold text to highlight the key feature of the product, which is the built-in timer.
Conclusion
There are many different smart home devices out there, but these are some of the best for making your home more efficient.
They can help you save money and reduce waste by tracking your energy use and water consumption or even controlling your heating and cooling systems automatically. And if you want to go all-in with a completely automated home, there are plenty of options here too!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources on smart home technology and energy efficiency:
8 Ways Your Smart Home Can Save Energy: This article discusses ways to use smart home technology to reduce energy consumption and save money on utility bills.
Smart Home Devices That’ll Save You Money and Energy: The New York Times Wirecutter reviews smart home devices that can save energy and reduce expenses.
Save on utility bills this summer with these eco-friendly smart home devices: CNET provides a list of eco-friendly smart home devices that can help homeowners save on utility bills.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about smart home technology and its energy efficiency:
What is a smart home device?
A smart home device is an electronic device connected to the internet that can be controlled remotely with a smartphone, tablet, or voice assistant.
How can smart home devices save energy?
Smart home devices can save energy by adjusting the thermostat, lighting, and other appliances to be more energy-efficient. Some devices can even turn off electricity in unoccupied rooms.
Do smart home devices cost more than traditional devices?
While smart home devices may have a higher upfront cost than traditional devices, they can save money in the long run by reducing energy consumption and utility bills.
Can I install smart home devices myself?
Yes, many smart home devices are designed for easy DIY installation. However, certain devices may require professional installation for optimal performance and safety.
Are smart home devices compatible with each other?
Not all smart home devices are compatible with each other, so it’s important to ensure that the devices you purchase are compatible with your existing smart home ecosystem or hub.
Hi there! I’m Hellen James and I’m a writer and editor with a passion for home technology. I’ve been working in this field for over 10 years, so I know what it’s like to be a part of the growing field of smart home technology. I’ve written about everything from how to choose the right smart thermostat to what the best smart doorbell is for your needs.
