Nearly every household device is smart today. These items usually connect to the internet, so you can control them with an app on your phone. Many also use voice control.
You can schedule your devices’ actions with many smart home companion apps. In response to a bike theft, PCMag’s Editor-in-Chief, Wendy Sheehan Donnell, configured her smart garage door to close at night.
You can use Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to set up routines for your gadgets to operate together and accomplish many things, including adjusting the temperature and lights at home. Apple HomeKit lets you control devices with Siri or an Apple Watch and create scenes to trigger multiple devices. Many of the major smart home companies support IFTTT, which lets you link internet-connected gadgets and program them to respond to real-world events like turning on your lights at sunset. The launch of Matter, a new smart home interoperability standard, makes connecting devices easier than ever.
The top smart devices we’ve evaluated for each room are below. We’ve arranged several products by room to keep things organized, although most can be used elsewhere.
Technology greets you at the ideal smart house before you enter. Security cameras are among the most beneficial connected home devices in the front yard. Our top selection for phone-based home monitoring is the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera. This high-resolution, weather-resistant security camera records motion-triggered footage and illuminates your property. It provides detailed 2K video with color night vision, accurate and intelligent motion detection, and many integration options. It installs wirelessly in minutes.
A video doorbell lets you see who’s at your door without getting up, whether it’s a delivery person or an unpleasant solicitor. Video doorbells can prevent property theft, home invasion, and porch pirates, in addition to their convenience. They let you see and talk to the person outside and record guests who approach your door while you’re away. The Ezviz DB1C Wi-Fi, our favorite budget model, supports IFTTT, Alexa, and Google Assistant voice commands, gives crisp HD video with a wide viewing angle, and stores videos locally and in the cloud.
You could also want a smart lock on your entrance door. Some of the most crucial parts of a connected home, these devices enable you to come and go as you choose and watch who enters and leaves your home. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi, our favorite smart lock, allows you to lock and open your door with your voice, fingerprint, keypad, smartphone app, or traditional key.
Professionally monitored smart home security offers the most protection. ADT Command, one of our top picks, is expensive but provides complete security. ADT costs more than Vivint, another Editors’ Choice winner, but has better client service.
DIY smart home security systems are great for homeowners who want to monitor their houses themselves for less money. Our favorite DIY home security system, the SimpliSafe Home Security System, helps you monitor and secure your home remotely without spending a lot or signing a contract. DIY systems leave alarms for you to handle.
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