Technology experts reveal 12 genius products that could change your life. It's also easy to set up. If you have a smartphone, you can create a smart home.
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What exactly are smart home devices?
Smart home devices are products that can be automatically controlled from anywhere with an internet connection. You can control and configure these devices remotely using your phone or other network device. Items like the best smart light switches allow you to instantly turn your lights on and off while you're on the go.
From smart light bulbs to smart Christmas trees and even smart door locks, there are all sorts of weird smart home gadgets available to simplify your life. Increase your home protection with smart home cameras, doorbell security cameras, and home security lights.
Are smart home devices worth it?
If you've ever forgotten to turn off a light or stove, smart home devices are certainly worth the cost and the few minutes of setup time required. Smart home automation can also save you a lot of money on heating and cooling costs thanks to energy items like smart home thermostats.
Are smart home devices safe?
Most smart home devices can be installed and safely operated in just a few minutes, even by entry-level technology enthusiasts. Designed to add convenience and safety to your life.
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best smart outlet
Wemo smart plug
If you're new to smart home devices, the Wemo Mini smart plug is a great first choice. “This is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get into smart home technology,” technology consultant Stephanie Duchesne Montgomery says of this affordable option.
Plug it into a power outlet and connect home appliances such as lamps, fans, hair irons, etc., and you can control your home appliances from your mobile phone anytime, anywhere. It also responds to voice commands through Amazon's virtual assistant, Alexa. “Away Mode” randomly turns on and off the lights in your house, making it seem as if you are at home. If you like this, try his Kasa outdoor smart plug for patios and decks.
Strong Points:
Affordable Easy to use, no special technical training or setup required Responds to voice commands Works seamlessly with anything you plug in
Cons:
For indoor use only Limited color selection
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Perfect for home security
smart doorbell
Ring is one of the best smart home security devices on the market. According to technology expert Lance Ulanoff, security is a key area for smart home devices. With Ring Video Doorbell, you can instantly know when a package is delivered or a guest arrives by simply asking Alexa to see who's at the door.
With the Ring Video Doorbell's motion sensor, you'll receive an alert on your phone when someone approaches your home, and you can communicate with the visitor who rings your bell. One of its advantages over similar video doorbells is that it can be battery powered, so if your doorbell isn't hardwired, that's no problem. These are the safest smart doorbells for your home.
Strong Points:
Check for guests and package deliveries from anywhere Comes with a motion sensor Easy to set up Can be powered by batteries
Cons:
Batteries are temperature sensitive due to their lithium-ion composition and may not be able to charge reliably at extreme temperatures.