I’m an early adopter. In 2018 I connected my Apple devices through the Cloud, and it changed my lifestyle. Automatic file transfers and immediate backups seem like a necessity today, and I don’t know how I did it before.
It got me thinking what else automations can do, so I started investigating. Two of the first items I bought were an automated coffee machine and sunrise alarm clock. They transformed what was a painful morning routine into a smooth experience, and again, I don’t know what I did without them now.
The more automated my life becomes, the easier it gets.
And I’m not just talking about full-home automation systems like Apple HomeKit because those are limited to things like lights and temperature. I’m talking about all kinds of connected devices and home systems that make your life easier.
Automation systems and tools can be pricey, but the lifestyle improvement they bring is almost always worth it. In this guide I’ll review 36 of the best home automation options so you can pick and choose which ones make the most sense for you.
Beginner? Try these:
Hubitat(Hub) + Ring Doorbell(Device)
Which technology is best for home automation?
What you have to understand is there’s no all-in-one home automation system.
The Internet-of-Things revolution has led to competition from big tech companies, and pair-able devices follow suite. The 6 core “systems,” or “hubs,” are Amazon Echo, Google Nest, Hub Wink Hub 2, Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat, and Apple HomeKit.
In truth, they’re not really systems (meaning they don’t have extensive wires and endpoints like something in a Spielberg movie). Hubs usually look like a screen, speaker, or a modem-like box that you can use to centralize control over other devices.
It’s a lot like how your phone stores apps in one place — they’re all accessible on one device but aren’t connected within the same app. Practical, but could be even easier.
This means you’ll have to choose a base hub service, then pair devices from there. You’ll also have to accept that certain systems are too big to be grouped with a hub, such as energy monitoring systems.
Our favorite is Hubitat’s Elevation system for three reasons: (1) it works offline (2) it can integrate with Echo, Nest, Hub Wink, SmartThings, and HomeKit, and (3) there’s no limit to the number of devices you can connect.
Here’s a list of the 6 core hubs ranked by price.
| Brand | Style | Price |
| Apple HomeKit | HomePod Speaker | $299.00 |
| Amazon Echo | Smart Display & Hub | $249.00 |
| Hubitat*our pick | No-Screen Hub | $149.95 |
| Samsung SmartThings | Via Aoetec Smart Home Hub | $134.99 |
| Google Nest Hub | Smart Display & Hub | $99.00 |
| Wink Hub 2 | No-Screen Hub | $99.00 |
How much does full home automation cost?
The average price of a home hub device is $171.82, but if you want to fully automize your home across energy, On/Off controls, lighting, charging, security, cleaning, entertainment, kitchen, bedroom, health, and Wi-Fi, you can expect to pay up to $25,000 for 35+ devices.
Don’t worry, automation is far from an all-or-nothing purchase, and you can get started for as little as $50.
What are 3 common uses of home automation?
The three most common uses of home automation are security, lighting, and speakers, but the truth is a well managed hub-based automation system is virtually limitless. You can connect just about anything you want, and anything not available today will likely be integrated in the next few years.
What are the types of home automation system?
After reviewing over 100 automation systems and tools, we identified 11 types of automations. Ordered by largest market to smallest, they include Security, On/Off Control, Kitchen, Energy, Cleaning, Bedroom, Lighting, Entertainment, Wi-Fi, Charging, and Health.
- Security. Automated home security systems and cameras.
- On/Off Controls. Automated on/off outlets, power strips, and machines.
- Kitchen. Connected overs, mobile refrigerator inventory checking, intelligent dishwashers with dirtiness sensors.
- Energy. Energy consumption monitoring, sleeping conditions sensors, and smart thermostats.
- Cleaning. Robo mops, robo vacuums, and smart washing machines.
- Bedroom. Sunrise alarm clocks, smart pillows, smart beds.
- Lighting. Smart multi-color light bulbs, connected flood lights.
- Entertainment. Connected speakers and massage chairs.
- Wi-Fi. Mesh Wi-Fi systems for extended coverage.
- Charging. Powerful wireless chargers for phone and computer.
- Health. Wearable health trackers like rings and watches.
Advantages of Home Automation
Before we jump into our list, let’s look at the pros and cons of automating your home. The obvious one is time savings since that’s the purpose of automations, but there are more.
#1 Time Savings
Automations save time so you can focus on other tasks, plain and simple. This is the obvious advantage, but its easy to overlook how much time we spend on manual home chores… until they’re gone.
#2 Enhanced Security
Automated security systems like alarms have been around for decades, but smart deadbolt locks and fingerprint-powered bedroom locks have implications for childproofing and key theft/loss.
#3 Peace of Mind
Burnout is on the rise, and when you’ve got a lot going even the smallest things can set you off, like forgetting to turn off a light and running up the energy bill.
#4 Improved Focus
This was certainly the case for me. More I depend on connected devices, fewer are the things I have to remember. My focus on more important tasks improves dramatically. I can’t remember the last time I worries about transferring documents across devices because the cloud takes care of that for me.
#5 Improved Health
Devices like Oura’s smart ring and FitBit provide real-time vitals monitoring. You can tell when your blood pressure rises and how well you’re sleeping. That kind of insight happening automatically in the background provides data you can analyze when health issues arise.
#6 Competitiveness
Make no mistake, for every item you don’t understand there’s someone else learning it. Technology has a tendency to stretch across industries, so the more you’re up to speed on new technology the better prepared you’ll be in adapting to change.
#7 Energy Savings
With energy monitoring systems, smart thermostats, and automatic blinds, you can literally optimize heating and cooling energy within your home to save money.
Disadvantages of Home Automation
Here are some cons.
#1 Complex Installation
It goes without saying, but the more devices you install, the more complex your hub system becomes. Because there’s no single interface capable of handling every device, you have to choose options strategically over time, and this can create a good deal of complexity.
#2 Compatibility
Home automation is a far cry from closed-system services like Apple products. It’s not uncommon to run into compatibility issues between the hub system you choose and new devices. There is ALWAYS a solution, but you may run into complexity. That’s why we don’t recommend non-techy people purchase more than 15 devices for their home, at least to start.
#3 Dependency on Internet
With the exception of Hubitat’s Elevate hub, home automation systems require internet connection. For most of us that’s not a problem, but you have to have a backup plan in the case of power outages. In Florida where I’m from, hurricane season is a yearly threat.
#4 Data Security
Cyber attacks on individuals are rare because the hacking manpower required to break systems is better applied to corporate units. That’s why we hear a lot about credit card data hacks at companies like Target and not at John Doe’s house (identity theft is something different).
The threat exists nevertheless and a vengeful acquaintance with computing power could access your system through one of the endpoints (devices). This doesn’t automatically mean they steal your financial information, but they could find out what technology you use.
What are the best home automation systems and devices?
These are our top 6 picks for home automation systems (hubs):
| Brand | Type | Price |
| Hubitat *our pick | Hub | $149.95 |
| Amazon Echo | Smart Display & Hub | $249.00 |
| Wink Hub 2 | Hub | $99.00 |
| Apple HomeKit | HomePod | $299.00 |
| Google Nest Hub | Smart Display & Hub | $99.00 |
| Samsung SmartThings | via Aoetec Smart Home Hub | $134.99 |
Here’s a snapshot of our top 36 picks for home automation devices:
Let’s look at more details for each.
UltraLoq U-Bolt Pro return to list ↑
Best Dead-Bolt Home Entry Lock
Imagine never having to worry about forgetting your keys, or having to schedule your day to let kids or guests into the house.
That’s what smart home dead bolt locks can do. The basic idea is these locks use a combination of apps, fingerprint recognition, and pin pads to unlock, so you can pick which functionality to use depending on the user.
Personally I depend on fingerprint recognition more than anything, and when its too cold I use the app. For guests I use the PIN pad, which can be easily changed after they leave.
Our top pick for these home entry locks is UltraLoq’s U-Bolt Pro. It can be integrated with Alexa for voice interaction or controlled entirely from the app.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Security | $249.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy installation
- Nice look and feel
- Easy Wi-Fi connection
- Easy fingerprint configuration
- Easy Alexa connection
Cons
- App connection can be buggy at distance
- Requires high-quality batteries to last a reasonable time
- Compatibility issues with Ring HomeAssistant
The Bottom Line
UltraLoq’s connected home entry dead-bolt lock will make your life easier, even though it can have bugs with the app from time to time.
Alternatives include:
Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit return to list ↑
Best Automated Home Security System
Automated systems should be easy to install, and you shouldn’t pay a premium for someone to come on site to set up sensors.
Automated home security systems use easy-install sensors on your windows and doors as well as motion sensors, straight out of the box. Instead of alarms being connected to a company server, they’re connected directly to you phone, which means you’ll get warning and notifications in real time.
The best part is how much control you have over sensor placement. You can protect doors and windows, but also cabinets and drawers that have sensitive or dangerous materials.
Our top pick in this genre is Ring’s solution.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Security | $249.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy installation
- Integrates with Alexa
- Nice design
- No contract required as with traditional services like ADT
Cons
- Sensors sometimes send false motion alarms
- Connection to Wi-Fi can fade in and out on older routers/modems
The Bottom Line
Ring’s 8-piece home security system us reliable, cost-effective, and easy to install. Like any system it can have temporary outages if you place the hub far from your Wi-Fi router or the sensors far from the hub, but this won’t impact most buyers.
Ring Video Doorbell return to list ↑
Best Video Doorbell
Of all connected devices, video doorbells are among the coolest. They have built-in greetings that make your house comes to life. With Alexa integration, you can see and speak with anyone who approaches, and not necessarily rings, your door.
Doorbells are great for those who have to be absent for long hours, have an animal at home, or want to know when the kids get home.
| Catergory | Price |
|---|---|
| Security | $169.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely easy installation, all necessary tools included in delivery
- Cost-effective $3/month subscription for professional monitoring
- User-friendly “cockpit” style mobile app
- Amazon Echo/Dot integration
Cons
- Firmware Wi-Fi compatibility issues may require you upgrade to mesh systems
- A small delay between the ring and phone notification can occur on older Wi-Fi networks
The Bottom Line
If you have a normal doorbell, upgrading to a video and motion-detecting solution will heavily improve not only home security but also your piece of mind. The Ring video doorbell fits nicely with the 8-piece alarm kit subscription (reviewed above) and minimizes monthly subscription costs for professional surveillance.
Arlo Pro 3 Spotlight return to list ↑
Best Outdoor Camera
Security cameras have been around for decades, but Arlo’s spotlight camera is optimized for home use. The basic point here is the quality of the image and motion sensor. Everyone has tried shoddy solutions, but Arlo’s camera is in a class of its own. Quality comes at a price, and do you reallyt want to trust home security to a subpar solition? For outdoor surveillance, it’s our top pick.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Security | $199.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Resistent to wind gusts
- Easy installation
- Good app
- Proven connectivity at over 100 feet from router
- High-sensitivity microphones
Cons
- Requires 2.4 GB Wi-Fi and has trouble running on 5G
- Software compatibility can cause additional work
The Bottom Line
For a powerful, reliable outdoor camera for your home, Arlo’s Pro 3 makes a great choice, but if you’ve moved entirely away from sub-5G Wi-Fi, you’ll have to go with an alternative.
Alternatives include:
Eufy Security S220 2-Cam Kit return to list ↑
Best Indoor Camera
Once you’re done installing an Arlo or Riolink outdoor camera, the next step is indoor surveillance. An indoor camera allows you to keep an eye on kids, pets, or sensitive areas of the home. Eufy’s model is equipped with AI that’s able to determine if motion is uncommon, so you won’t get an endless stream of notifications every time the dog walks by.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Security | $99.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Great brand equity
- reliable customer service
- Easy setup
- Great for pet sitting and other indoor surveillance
Cons
- Lack of transparency around monthly bulk video download subscription causes some friction with the brand
- Ads running in the application can be distracting
The Bottom Line
While it can’t be said for every option on the list, Eufy is a leader in its class and you won’t do better than this model for an indoor camera.
Furbo 360 return to list ↑
Best Pet Surveillance & Treat Tool
The one element Eufy doesn’t handle is a remote reward tool for your pets. Furbo’s 360 camera sits at ground level rather than wall mounted and provides great image quality for pet surveillance as a base product.
The cool thing is you can dispense treats to keep your dog happy and engaged throughout the day. Nobody likes leaving dogs home alone, but being able to dispense treats can help you feel closer to them.
The downside? This tool is specifically built for dogs because other pets may not respond as well to the treat tool. If you have a cat, we recommend going with a generic indoor camera like Eufy (previous product above).
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Security | $199.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Barking detection
- Squeaking noise to alert dogs that a treat is coming
- “Dog Nanny” option records and analyzes types of barking to provide insights on your dog’s mental health
Cons
- Periodic issues with camera functionality
- Treat dispenser can jam from time to time
- Minimal control over mic vs speaker segregation
- Limited control over types of notifications
The Bottom Line
If you have separation anxiety, or suspect your dog does, then a dog and treat cam will bring a whole lot of peace of mind. We recommend Furbo 360.
Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack return to list ↑
The next category of devices on our list is on/off controls. What better to start with than an app-controlled outlet? Kasa is a pioneer in this space, and for good reason. This 4-piece starter pack will open you to a new world of home automation, because intermediary outlets let you remotely control ANYTHING that has to be plugged in.
The basic idea is you can flip a switch on or off from anywhere, and you can program Kasa outlets to activate based on logical conditions, the most popular of which is time of day. This is especially useful for saving money on the Christmas tree lights during the day.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| On/Off Controls | $49.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy setup
- Strong customer service
- Scheduling rules based on multiple criteria including “sundown” time on Apple weather
- Easily integrate with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Nest
Cons
- The one major flaw with Kasa outlets is they do no automatically reboot when your router updates firmware
The Bottom Line
If you want ease of control over your outlets, whether its for lighting, the Christmas tree, space heating, or anything else, Kasa’s starter 4-pack is a must get.
SwitchBot return to list ↑
The obvious disadvantage to an outlet device is it can’t influence switch devices like ceiling fans and lights. That’s where SwitchBot comes in handy, and at only $39.99 I’m not sure why every household in America isn’t equipped with them. SwitchBot is nothing more than a remote button-pusher you can stick on any switch. Take a look at the video.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| On/Off Controls | $39.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Perfect for renters who don’t want invasive automation solutions
- Push and pull functionality so you aren’t stuck turning on a light
- Makes turning on the coffee machine in the morning very easy
- Easiest installation on our list
Cons
- Requires the SwitchBot hub (about $40)
The Bottom Line
If you have a switch that’s out of reach, forget to turn off the lights when you leave, or want to control switches from the comfort of your home, a switch automation device is right for you. And the king of these machines in SwitchBot.
ThirdReality Smart Blind return to list ↑
I lived in Europe for 5 years, and one of the things that amazed me was the presence of automated blinds. Almost everyone had them, and they’re so prevalent that I can’t figure out why Americans were on board. ThirdReality must have realized this because its Smart Blind is exactly what the doctor ordered.
They block out noise and light, and provide insulation for cool or warm temperatures. I don’t know what I would do without one today.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| On/Off Controls | $144.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- App-controlled vertical x-cross blind that fits any window with a 1/4th inch width (the standard)
- Programmable open/close function that automates a part of your wind-down routine
- Includes a remote control if you prefer to avoid the phone app
- Compatible with home assistance
Cons
- Some customers have has issues with the blind not closing, requiring a return to Amazon
The Bottom Line
If you want to stop worrying about your blinds and curtains, replacing them with a smart blind could relieve a lot of stress for you.
Kasa Smart Power Strip return to list ↑
In addition to Kasa’s individual connected outlets, you could consider a power strip with 6 separately controlled plugs and three USB-As. Each plug is independent and can be controlled via an app. For me the real value in a power strip is its sturdiness. There’s little chance a cord will fall out of the plug, whereas with the individual outlets this can always happen.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| On/Off Controls | $79.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super easy installation
- Easy setup and configuration
- Energy monitoring helps you cut down on unnecessary costs
- Great for controlling animal habitats with complex lights and heaters/coolers
Cons
- Sometimes has trouble maintaining connection after power outages
- Some functionalities differ per product, such as the elevation of the on-off switches
The Bottom Line
For a sturdy, connected power strip you can control from afar, we recommend Kasa’s 6-outlet option.
SwitchBot Curtian Robot return to list ↑
If you don’t want to replace your blinds entirely with ThirdReality’s smart blinds, SwitchBot’s curtain robots are a good alternative. They attach to your rod or slider curtains so you can program opening and closing them in the morning and evening.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| On/Off Controls | $99.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to control
- SwitchBot hub makes it compatible with Alexa
Cons
- Not compatible with all curtain sizes and lengths, and difficult to know before attempting to use
The Bottom Line
SwitchBot’s curtain robots are an easy, affordable way to automate a part of your morning and evening ritual.
Govee Smart Light Bulb return to list ↑
The music industry has been using them for years. Smart light bulbs allow you to customize the color, timing, and flash coming from bulbs plugged into everyday sockets like lamps, ceiling fans, and more. Whether you want a disco in your living room or just want to forget turning off the light before bed, smart bulbs are for you.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Lighting | $39.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provide competitively-prices alternative to the Philips Hue bulb, which is the market leader
- Right mix of power and easy of connectivity
- No hub required
- Millions of customizable colors available
Cons
- Govee bulbs use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, which can cause compatibility problems if you’re entirely on 5G
- Some customers mention the app functionality is not user friendly
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an affordable smart bulb for any room in the house, Govee’s Philips alternative is a good bet if you haven’t already switched to 5G Wi-Fi.
SOLLA Smart Security Lights return to list ↑
Everyone was afraid of the dark young, and movement-detector security lights provided relief when approaching the house in the dark. These devices have been around for decades, but now they’re programmable and controllable from afar. SOLLA’s smart flood light runs 5,000 lumens, it can light up to 72 feet away, which means no one can even come close without you knowing.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Lighting (& Security) | $49.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy installation
- Very powerful
- Useful for virtually any outdoor lighting needs
- Can be combined with others for greater effect
- Good customer service replaces in case of defects
Cons
- Slightly limited scope of motion detection (about 60° vs 90°)
The Bottom Line
There’s no better smart outdoor flood light than SOLLA’s Smart LED Security Lights.
Café Smart Coffee Maker return to list ↑
If you only pick one item from this list and you’re a coffee drinker, get an automated coffee machine. It changed my wake up routine and made my day a whole lot easier to attack. You can always use a SwitchBot to automatically turn it on in the morning, but getting a machine with built-in functionality is a better long-term solution. It also allows you to modify the amount and intensity of the brew from your phone.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $279.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to setup
- Highly customizable coffee density
- Good look and feel machine that fits nicely on the countertop
Cons
- The handle is prone to corrosion, so make sure to clean it thoroughly
The Bottom Line
For an automated coffee maker that you can control and program from your phone, we recommend Café’s machine.
Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator return to list ↑
Ever been at the store and asked yourself “do we have any of this left at home?” Smart refrigerators use image and video surveillance to show you what’s in the fridge, right on your smartphone. If that weren’t enough, they also provide a built-in smart home screen on the door that you can connect to virtually all of your other devices. Smart fridges are basically a 2-in-1 solution.
That said, they’re pricey, so you’ll want to make the right decision up-front. Our top pick is Samsung’s Family Hub.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $2,598.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fridge content video straight to your phone
- Acts as smart home hub that you can connect to the doorbell and other devices
- Acts as a family activities scheduler and planner, where each member can program his/her own account
Cons
- While the contents capture is awesome, Samsung’s tech has a hard time correctly labelling items and often makes mistakes
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a hime hub, a good way to never over-buy on groceries, or both, we recommend Samsung’s Family Hub fridge.
HomeConnect/Bosch Smart Dishwasher return to list ↑
Bosch and HomeConnect teamed up to bring this smart dishwasher to market. It can adjust cleaning intensity (and therefore energy usage) based on how dirty it senses the dishes are. Perhaps more importantly, it can be programmed to start whenever you need.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $999.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Nice visual controls
- Recessed handle doesn’t block your way in the kitchen
- Very quite
- At $999, it’s a serious purchase but the quality is worth the price
Cons
- Some trouble with powdered soap disposal
- Dishes in middle rack can have trouble drying when the machine is overcrowded
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a smart dishwasher that will save you money and time with programmable washing with dirtiness sensors, we recommend Bosch’s option.
AeroGarden Indoor Garden return to list ↑
OK, an indoor garden probably isn’t top on your list of priorities, but they’re pretty cool. You can grow fresh herbs and simple vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes with a connected monitoring machine that optimizes plant light exposure and water consumption. It’s best for those who don’t have outdoor garden space, but it’s useful for anyone who wants to get started with gardening and prevent common mistakes like over-watering.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $293.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Best water-circulation system in the industry
- Easy of use over manual gardening is a huge value add
- Great solution for those with allergies who want to produce simple ingredients in a controlled environment
Cons
- Because its a Wi-Fi enabled device, some customers complain about plant exposure to artificial waves
- The interactive screen has been problematic for about 4% of customers
The Bottom Line
For beginner gardeners or anyone who wants to automate the process, it’s tough to go wrong with AeroGarden’s automated gardening pot and light.
Ninja 10-in-1 Oven return to list ↑
Oven innovation is a thing of infomercials, but connected ovens are going to quickly become the new norm… because they’re so damn useful. Ninja’s 10-in-1 compact oven has everything from a real-time doneness sensor to simultaneous air frying and roasting.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $349.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Performs all 10 functions equally well
- Good solution for anyone living in small quarters, such as an apartment or RV
Cons
- Connected devices bring a lot of convenience, but when there are issues and error messages, fixing them can be more difficult than with analog tools, which is the case with this oven
- Compact boxing can cause problems such as damaged cords, so you may have to return the first for a replacement
The Bottom Line
For a connected, compact oven solution, Ninja’s 10-in-1 is unbeatable… even if the brand name is a little lame.
Cosori Air Fryer return to list ↑
If you’re not looking for a complete oven replacement and prefer to keep the price down, Cosori’s connected countertop Air Fryer is another good option. In reality an air fryer can replace almost any cooking technique, so this is an all around strong investment for your automated kitchen.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $129.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Customizable recipes via a Wi-Fi connected app
- Middle-sized machine allows small to mid-sized meals
- Lightweight and effective
Cons
- Doesn’t handle non-stick spray such as PAM well
- Presets can be slightly misleading
The Bottom Line
Cosori’s connected Air Fryer is a pretty cool solution for air frying needs at a price point that’s more affordable than a full compact oven.
Emporia Energy Smart Home Energy Monitor return to list ↑
Now we’re out of the kitchen and into energy savings. One of the most important home automations of them all: monitoring. It’s one thing to check your energy bill each month and do guesswork with lights, rooms, showers, kids (or spouse), sprinklers, or any other variable. It’s another to have data to help you understand and adapt. That’s what Emporia’s solution can do.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Energy | $164.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compatible with solar and net metering
- With 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, real-time energy monitoring available through the app
- 1-year monitoring
Cons
- Very heavy installation process that will require a few hours or professional help
The Bottom Line
If you want to better understand your home energy consumption with an app-connected monitor directly attached to your circuit board, Emporia’s solution is our top pick. Just ensure you can make time for installation or have a professional do it for you.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat return to list ↑
A thermostat that connects with Siri and Alexa? Not bad. Smart thermostats seem so obvious that it’s a wonder they’re not already the norm. These devices can monitor each room individually and automatically redistribute heating and cooling based on fluctuations, rather than send a blanket temperature across the whole house.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Energy | $249.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very easy app-directed installation
- Detailed setup troubleshooting around potential wiring problems
- Ability to adjust movement sensors to avoid detecting movements from pets vs humans
Cons
- Some customers have complained that the temperature change sensors are slower than expected
The Bottom Line
A smart thermostat is a no-brainer to save time and money, and we recommend Ecobee.
Ambient Home Weather Monitor return to list ↑
I get it, why get a home weather monitor when you can just open an app? I admit that smart stations are not for beginners, but the reason they exist is simple: they take measurements right where they sit, instead of from the nearest professional station, and create customer forecasts and recommendations for watering and humidity adjustments.
Have you ever wondered why when there’s 80% chance of rain, it doesn’t rain? That’s because weather stations don’t have enough sensors to be exact. But you can with a personal sensor.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Energy | $189.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Weather readings and forecasts with the highest accuracy for your home
- Ability to share information with other station owners
- High quality for price deal
Cons
- You have to purchase 3 AAA batteries separately
The Bottom Line
For more control and information about the weather around your home, so you can better prepare it, we recommend Ambient Home’s smart weather station.
Flair Smart Ventilation return to list ↑
Ventilation isn’t the first thing we think of when it comes to home automation, but sometimes the most important things are the ones that fly under the radar. Flair developed smart vents that control uneven distribution of airflow across rooms based on your preferences. It works directly with your central heating and cooling system, or as an extension of a smart thermostat such as the Ecobee (reviewed above).
The difference between Ecobee and Flair’s Smart Ventilation is Ecobee uses motion sensors whereas Flair can be programmed at the level of the vent itself.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Energy | $89.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to control from the app with only a screwdriver
- Minimally-invasive change to you home versus motion sensor enabled thermostats
Cons
- Only 5 sizes available: 4×10, 4×12, 6×10, 6×12, and 6×14.
- A puck must be purchased separately.
The Bottom Line
If you want a high degree of control over your ventilation system and be able to do it from your phone, Flair’s smart vents are our top pick.
iRobot Roomba s9+ return to list ↑
Everyone has seen roombas. Robo vacuums aren’t new, but these machines have come a long way since their inception. The Roomba s9+ is a step-climbing, surface-sensing, speed-adjusting super vacuum that you probably haven’t seen before. It’s a bit pricey, but I don’t think going with an inferior model will be worth your while. If you’re automated, might as well get the option that works and will stand the test of time. You can get a protection plan for a little under $45 as well.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | $549.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Detects dirt to optimize power usage
- Demonstrated deep cleaning capacity
- Longer battery life than other models
- Neat-row cleaning
Cons
- The battery can have trouble with extreme cleaning requirements after about 6 months
- Mapping functionality can require 2-3 training attempts
The Bottom Line
A robo vacuum is a serious value add in automating your home, and the Roomba s9+ doesn’t disappoint, even if it requires a bit of attention to map out your home.
Roborock S7MaxV Ultra return to list ↑
Some messes just aren’t right for a vacuum. Most often they’re in the kitchen, and you need a mop. Roborock saw this problem and built a robot to handle wetter spills — something the Roomba vacuum is not built to handle.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | $1,399.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Neat row cleaning
- Can handle vacuum and mop meses
- Quieter than Roomba
- Very effective suction
- It intentionally avoid dog poop
Cons
- Some have complained Roborock’s support is subpar
The Bottom Line
At $1,399.99, the Roborock is expensive, but for a good reason. It can handle virtually any mess your home throws at it — and avoid anything it can’t (like dog poop).
HomeConnect/Bosch Smart Compact Washer return to list ↑
Have you ever set a load, then forgotten to launch it? How about controlling from a remote? Bosch’s 500 Series machines are built to accommodate even the most minor automations, and they pack all the power of Bosch’s longstanding commitment to excellence.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | $1,449.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stackable with dryer model
- Only 33 inches high and 24 inches wide, so they can fit into tight holding spaces
- 14 different settings that you can customize to any fabric or tissue, even big loads with sports wear
Cons
- Some customers have complained that no default setting runs a cold run and you have to manually adjust this
The Bottom Line
Smart Washing machines are not the best use case for automation, but if you’re invested in having remote control over the tumbler, then this one is your best bet.
SleepNumber Smart Bed return to list ↑
Connected beds are going to be the new norm. For anyone with sleeping difficulties, they’re a game changer. This price is not something you can decide on immediately, but we highly recommend considering a smart bed to automate (and improve overall) your home.
SleepNumber’s smart bed has localized heating and cooling, can flex up or down at the head or foot level, and can alternate between sides of the bed so you and your partner can set separate preferences. SleepNumber also provides up to 36 months financing to make this purchase accessible.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | $9,999.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sleep tracking
- Bud adjusting true to its promise
- Partner snore alleviation
- Automatic adjustments during the night
Cons
- The only con is price, and then again, we think its worth it
The Bottom Line
The price of these beds is justified. The return on investment you’ll get through better sleep alone is enough, and if it weren’t, you can get 0% interest financing for up to 36 months.
Philips Sunrise Alarm Clock return to list ↑
I gave one of these bad boys to my girlfriend when she was having trouble falling asleep. Little did I know it would become my best present ever. These lights do something so simple it hurts to know they haven’t existed as long as real alarm clocks: they slowly light up like the sun until you’re awake. No more painful wake-ups.
ONLY this model has app connectivity with the ability to sense your sleeping environment, program customizable brightness roll-on, use a natural wind-down light, charge your phone, and track your sleeping.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | $219.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- It’s hard to itemize this because the features are simply awesome
Cons
- Some issues with app connectivity have been reported, but I never had a problem with it
The Bottom Line
If you have trouble waking up, consider going with a sunrise alarm clock with sleep tracking. We recommend the HF3670/60.
PillowCoach Smart Pillow return to list ↑
While you’re investigating the usefulness of a smart bed, you can test smart pillows. They use built-in speakers to help you wake and fall asleep.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | $99.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- The speakers are soft enough so they don’t wake up others in the room
- Sleep tracking from the head is the most accurate way to track your rhythms
Cons
- The heating functionality is strange since most people prefer a cooler pillow while sleeping
The Bottom Line
Smart pillows are really only good for low-tone speakers that won’t wake others, but the heating feature may also be a good idea if you live in a very cold area.
Drowsie Pillow Speaker return to list ↑
As an alternative to the whole pillow, you can purchase a soft, flat speaker you can attach to your favorite pillow at a fraction of the cost.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | $59.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Possibility to use a speaker with your favorite pillow already
- Powerful maximum volume that you can adjust based on your pillow’s thickness
Cons
- Lack of volume buttons on the drowsie itself can be frustrating for those who don’t have their phone in close proximity when sleeping
The Bottom Line
If you don’t want to go with a fledged speaker, the Drowsie add-on is a more economical and lightweight choice.
SNOO Smart Bassinet return to list ↑
BONUS. This one we just had to add in because it’s growing in popularity. Smart Bassinets are for your baby. They create soothing subtle movements and sounds to keep your baby asleep. Pretty cool.
Oura Smart Ring return to list ↑
The first health connected item on our list is wearable tracking: the Oura Smart ring. The brand has partnered with the likes of Gucci, so not only is its technology super cool, but it looks great too.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Health | $299.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Measures blood pulse volume, body temperature, movement, and the time of day
- Provides suggestions for how to get better sleep
Cons
- There’s still some room to go before the Oura can provide actionable feedback
The Bottom Line
If a bracelet/watch like FitBit is not your thing, consider going with Oura’s ring sensor. It’s a nimble solution to tracking your sleep and overall health.
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Speaker return to list ↑
There are tons of smart speakers out there, but if you want a serious sound speaker, we have to recommend Bowers & Wilkin’s Zeppelin model. It has a 6 inch subwoofer and two 3.5 inch drivers, bringing a crystal clear sound to your home. Unlike most speakers of this size and power, it connects to Alexa so you can automate your home sound experience.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Entertainment | $799.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 26 inches long, it’s the right size for virtually any space
- Alexa functionality allows you to control everything with your voice
- Multi-room functionality allows you to share sound with multiple B&W speakers
Cons
- The speaker sometimes requires disconnection and reconnection when connection glitches arise
The Bottom Line
If you want a connected speaker to light up your living room, this model is the way to go.
iRest Massage Chair return to list ↑
This one makes you want to try it. For the bold, a full-body massage chair is nothing short of a luxury spa in your home. It replicates the movements of human hands with an accuracy that’s hard to believe.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Entertainment | $1,699.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sleek look and feel that doesn’t traumatize your home decor
- Simple assembly
- Delivery team through Amazon makes sure you get it indoors
Cons
- Bluetooth speakers can be a but loud for sensitive ears
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a connected massage chair for your home, we recommend this model from iRest.
Samsung Wireless Charger return to list ↑
No home automation is complete without a wireless charger. It’s a simple automation, but we run into plugging in our phones and tablets so often that these are more than worth the investment. I’ve tried more wireless chargers than you can count on two hands, and Samsung’s option is by far the best for distance to charge and speed.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Charging | $42.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- The pleasure of a cordless charging experience is unbeatable
- One of the faster chargers available
Cons
- It can struggle to power tablets as fast as phones, so you need to manage your expectations accordingly
The Bottom Line
To automate the process of plugging in your phone, we recommend going with Samsung’s wireless option.
NetGear Mesh Wi-Fi return to list ↑
If you’re not on Mesh Wi-Fi yet, you don’t know what you’re missing. Spotty places in the house and slow speeds are a thing of the past. Wi-Fi itself is an automation tool, but we mainly recommend Mesh because of how important Wi-Fi is to the successful implementation of most other automation devices on the list.
For mesh, we recommend NETGEAR’s Orbi AX4200 2-pack.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | $449.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super fast speeds
- Eliminates spotty service in the house
Cons
- Can cause complications if you’re integrating with a wide variety of IoT devices already synched to a router via a hub, but once fixed works great
The Bottom Line
Mesh Wi-Fi is fast and comprehensive. If you haven’t made the jump yet, check out NetGear’s option.
NetGear Tri-Band WiFi Router return to list ↑
To finish off the list, we have to recommend NetGear’s triband nighthawk router. It serves as the perfect core router for your mesh wifi points and provides awesome speed.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | $379.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 2.4GHz, 5.0GHz AND 6.0 GHz frequency bands
- WPA3
- 2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps ethernet ports
- Fast
- Reliable
- Looks really cool
Cons
- As with mesh Wi-Fi, this router can cause complications if you’re integrating with a wide variety of IoT devices already synched to a router via a hub, but once fixed works great
The Bottom Line
It’s by no means a necessity, but upgrading to a superior router will provide better performance for all your home automations. NetGear’s Nighthawk provides awesome performance… and looks really cool.
Conclusion
We’ve covered 36 different options, but the truth is home automation solutions are endless. The best way to get started is to grab a home hub like Hubitat, purchase a simple device like a Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit to get a feel for how it works. You can bookmark ☆ this article and visit again to grow your arsenal.
Home automation is awesome, and it only gets better the more you grow. What are you waiting for?
