We all want to have a home that is smart and connected, but it can be overwhelming when you start looking at the number of gadgets that are available on the market. This article will give you some helpful tips and recommendations for 7 must-have devices for your modern home.
“Smart Home Essentials” can make your life simpler and more convenient. This article will provide you with advice on which devices to choose, how much they cost, what features are available, and whether or not it’s a good idea to upgrade your current technology – all while offering up some helpful tips that we’ve learned over the years!
1. Smart Outlets
These smart power plugs allow you to turn any device into a “smart” one by connecting them through an outlet instead of hardwiring them directly into the wall. One example is this Aukey smart plug which has both Amazon Echo support as well as IFTTT functionality for those who want greater control – these plugs also work great in conjunction with automation systems like Stringify.
2. Smart Thermostats
Every home with a heating and cooling system should have a smart thermostat – it’s one of the best ways to make your house more comfortable while saving energy! The Nest Learning Thermostat is arguably the most popular device on our list, but there are other options available for those who don’t want to pay that premium price point; Ecobee has some great alternatives in their ecobee line which provide you with additional features like built-in Amazon Alexa support as well as remote sensors so you can track temperatures throughout your whole home instead of just at one location.
3. Smart TV
An upgrade from standard televisions, smart TVs allow you to stream content directly onto its screen without any extra devices or accessories. What’s more, these TVs can usually be controlled with your voice through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support! For those who want a larger smart screen but don’t necessarily have the money to spend on an expensive set, the TCL Smart TV is our pick for the best 43 inch tv under 300 dollars! The TCL Smart TV provides you with Roku Smart functionality for much cheaper than most brands – however if you do decide to go down that route make sure to also purchase a compatible HDMI cable separately (we recommend going with something high speed so you’re not stuck playing content in 480p). If you are planning on upgrading any other devices then look into getting our top pick which will allow them to work together seamlessly.
4. Smart Speaker
Of course you can’t have a smart home without at least one speaker that allows you to control it through your voice! The Amazon Echo line is the most popular option currently available, but those who are looking for something a little more affordable should check out Google Home Mini which comes in at $49 compared to the Echo’s original price of $180 – however if money isn’t an issue then our top pick would definitely be the Apple HomePod ($349).
5. Smart Locks
These locks allow you to lock and unlock doors from anywhere using either Bluetooth or WiFI connectivity – some even support IFTTT functionality so they work with other devices on your network (for example connecting them up with Alexa/Google Assistant).
6. Google Home
This is probably the cheapest option on our list, but it still provides you with everything that someone would need from a smart speaker and more! Not only can this device connect up to your other devices so you don’t have multiple apps installed all over the place (it supports both Alexa/Google Assistant), but it’s compatible with Nest Thermostats as well as many of Google’s own products like Chromecast – not bad for $130!
7. Amazon Echo Dot
For those looking for something even cheaper then we recommend checking out Amazon Echo Dot ($50). While these speakers may be slightly less powerful than some options on our list, they are still able to do everything that you’d expect from a smart speaker and then some!