It feels like everything has a smart version now. Our world of smartphones and smart TVs is becoming more and more interconnected and automated. A large part of this technological revolution that has become incredibly popular is in smart home technology.
The advent of smart assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant has enabled homeowners to manage various facets of their home using voice commands or mobile applications.One of the most popular ways to start your smart home journey is by investing in a best “smart home starter kit”. By that, we mean, buying these products we suggest as great starter devices. Start small and build your way up, but start with a plan.
These kits typically include a range of smart devices, such as smart bulbs, smart plugs, and smart thermostats, among others. We’ll explore some of the best smart home starter kits available in the market, helping you take the first steps towards creating a fully automated and efficient living space…without breaking the bank.
Amazon Simple Plug
The Amazon Smart Plug is an excellent addition to any smart home setup. Offering seamless integration with Alexa, users can easily control their devices with just their voice. The simple setup process makes it a breeze to get started, allowing users to experience the endless possibilities of a smart home.
With the Amazon Smart Plug, users can turn on or off their devices from anywhere, creating a convenient and comfortable living environment. From controlling lights and appliances to scheduling routines, this smart plug truly enhances the functionality of any home. The build quality and design are top-notch, ensuring durability and a sleek look. Overall, the Amazon Smart Plug is a must-have device for anyone looking to make their home smarter and more efficient.
| Control: Voice | Integration: Alexa app |
| Size: Compact | Support: Lamps, fans, coffee makers, etc. |
| Design: Simple | App: Control all plugs |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Amazon Smart Plug | Works with Alexa | Simple setup, endless possibilities* | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-24
Govee Smart Light Bulbs (4-pack)
The Govee Smart Light Bulbs are a fantastic addition to any modern smart home setup. Their seamless compatibility with popular voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant makes controlling the lights effortless – just a simple voice command away. What sets these bulbs apart is their 16 million colors RGBWW feature, offering a myriad of color options to create the perfect ambiance tailored to any mood or occasion.
The WiFi and Bluetooth ensure a stable connection, while music sync adds dynamic lighting synced with tunes. With 800 lumens, these bulbs shine brightly in any room.
The value for money is undeniable with the 4-pack option, allowing you to light up multiple rooms simultaneously without breaking the bank.
Govee Smart Light Bulbs are not only reliable and energy-efficient but also a visually appealing addition that enhances the overall aesthetic of any home environment.
| Shape: A19 | Lumens: 800 |
| Weight: 14 ounces | Model: H6008 |
| Light Color: Multicolor | Count: 4 bulbs |
| Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Control method: App |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Govee Smart Light Bulbs, Color Changing Light Bulb, Work with Alexa and Google Assistant, 16 Million… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-23
Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt
The Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt is a game-changer in the world of deadbolts. With its fingerprint keyless entry and smart Bluetooth technology, it offers a convenient and secure way to access your home. The backlit keypad ensures easy operation even in low light conditions, while the IPX5 weatherproof rating guarantees durability against the elements.
The Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt’s standout feature is its in-app history and scheduled access. It lets you monitor home entry, providing peace of mind and security control. BHMA and UL 20-Min Fire Rated certifications guarantee top industry security and safety standards.
Overall, the Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt is a reliable and user-friendly smart deadbolt that delivers on its promises. With its advanced features and top-notch build quality, it’s definitely worth considering for anyone in need of a secure and tech-savvy entry solution.
Read our comprehensive review:
Wyze Lock Review: Is This the Ultimate Smart Deadbolt?
| Size: 6.8 x 3 x 2.6 inches | Control Method: Touch |
| Material: Metal | Type: Keypad lock |
| Number of items: 1 | Package weight: 2.7 pounds |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Smart Bluetooth Deadbolt Replacement, Backlit… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-24
ecobee Programmable Thermostat
The ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat is a game-changer. With its sleek black design, it adds a touch of sophistication to any home. But what really sets this thermostat apart is its compatibility with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. This means that controlling the temperature of your home is as easy as giving a voice command. The energy Star certification makes it a smart choice for those looking to save on their energy bills. And the best part? The DIY installation is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for anyone. Say goodbye to manual temperature adjustments and hello to a convenient and energy-efficient home with the ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat.
| Weight: 1 pounds | Voltage: 24 V |
| Size: 1″D x 4.05″W x 4.05″H | Controller Type: Vera, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, iOS, Android |
| Model: ecobee3 lite | Screen: 3.5 Inches |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat – Programmable Wifi Thermostat – Works with Siri, Alexa, Google… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-24
TP-Link Kasa HS200 Light Switch
The Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 by TP-Link is a game-changer in the world of light switches. Designed to work with Alexa and Google Home, this switch allows you to control your lights with just the sound of your voice. The simple and sleek design will seamlessly blend in with any decor. Installation is a breeze, as the switch requires a neutral wire and connects to your home’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. Additionally, the UL Certification ensures safety and peace of mind. With no hub required, the Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 is a convenient and accessible smart home solution.
Check out our in-depth review of the Kasa smart switch product line.
| Wire type: Neutral |
| Switch Type: One-way |
| Size: 1.5 x 3.3 x 5 inches |
| Instructions: Kasa App |
| Weight: Not specific |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200, Single Pole, Needs Neutral Wire, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Light Switch Works with… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-24
Aeotec Smart Home Hub
The Aeotec Smart Home Hub is a versatile and powerful addition to any smart home setup. With its ability to work as a SmartThings hub, it seamlessly integrates with a wide range of devices using Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter protocols. This ensures compatibility with a vast array of smart home products, giving users the freedom to choose from a wide selection of devices.
One of the standout features of the Aeotec Smart Home Hub is its compatibility with popular voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows users to control their smart home devices using voice commands, adding convenience and ease to everyday tasks. Additionally, with built-in WiFi, setup and connectivity are a breeze, eliminating the need for additional wires or adapters.
For starters and beyond, the Aeotec Smart Home Hub offers a comprehensive solution for managing and controlling smart home devices. Its extensive compatibility, along with its user-friendly design, makes it a top choice for those looking to create a seamless and efficient smart home experience.
| Control Method: App, Voice | Temperature Rating: from 32 to 140 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| Weight: 1.1 pounds | Connectivity Protocol: Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Bluetooth, Matter, ZigBee |
| Compatibility: Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Aeotec Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter Gateway, Compatible with… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-24
Kasa Dome Camera EC70
The Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera is a fantastic addition to any smart home setup. With its sleek design and crisp 1080p HD resolution, it provides clear and detailed footage, making it an excellent choice for monitoring both babies and pets. The pan/tilt functionality allows for a wide viewing angle, ensuring you never miss a moment.
One standout feature of this camera is its night vision capability. Even in complete darkness, the camera can capture clear images up to 30 feet away, providing peace of mind during nighttime hours. The motion detection feature is also impressive, sending instant notifications to your mobile device whenever movement is detected.
Whether you’re at home or away, the Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera offers flexible storage options. The footage can be saved to a cloud service or an SD card, giving you multiple choices for accessing and storing your recordings.
The Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera is also compatible with popular voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Home, allowing for convenient hands-free control. Set up is easy, and the Kasa Smart app provides a user-friendly interface for managing your camera and adjusting settings.
Overall, the Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera is a reliable and feature-packed option for those looking to enhance their home security and monitor their loved ones. Its high-definition video quality, night vision capability, and compatibility with smart home devices make this camera a top choice in its category.
| Batteries: No | Wireless: Wi-Fi |
| Resolution: 1080p | Assistant: 1x Google, 1x Amazon Alexa |
| Style: Tilt / Pan / Zoom |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Kasa Indoor Pan/Tilt Smart Security Camera, 1080p HD Dog-Camera,2.4GHz with Night Vision,Motion… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-24
Blink Doorbell HD
The Blink Video Doorbell offers impressive features that make it a standout choice among doorbell cameras. With its two-way audio, HD video, and motion and chime app alerts, homeowners can easily communicate with visitors and keep track of any activity around their front door. The option to use it wired or wire-free adds convenience and flexibility to the installation process. Additionally, the Alexa compatibility allows users to control the doorbell with voice commands. Overall, the Blink Video Doorbell provides a reliable and feature-packed solution for enhancing home security.
| Wire type: Wired or wire-free | Audio: Two-way audio |
| Storage: Cloud with a free 30-day, USB (2 and module sold separately) | Installation time: Few minutes |
| Video quality: 1080p HD day and infrared night | Doorbell type: Video |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Blink Video Doorbell (newest model), Two-way audio, HD video, motion and chime app alerts and Alexa… | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-13
Ring Home Security System
The Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their home security. With its sleek design and easy installation, it provides peace of mind without compromising on aesthetics. The 30-day free subscription to Ring Protect Pro is an bonus, offering advanced features such as professional monitoring and video recording.
The user-friendly interface allows homeowners to control and monitor their security system from their smartphone, making it convenient. With a base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, and range extender, the kit offers complete coverage for any home. The Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit ensures the protection of your property and loved ones, whether you’re at home or away.
| Recommended place: condos and apartments |
| Model: 5-Piece Kit |
| Support: 24/7 emergency police, fire and medical response |
| Subscription: 30-day free Ring Protect Pro |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit – home security system with 30-day free Ring Home subscription* | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-13
Amazon Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, 2023)
The Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) by Amazon is a game-changer in the world of smart displays. With its 5.5″ HD screen, this compact device delivers crystal-clear visuals that are perfect for streaming videos, making video calls, and displaying your favorite photos. The improved sound quality is definitely a standout feature of this model.
With 2x the bass and clearer sound, the Echo Show 5 provides a more immersive and enjoyable audio experience. The sleek charcoal color adds a touch of modern elegance to any space, making it a perfect addition to your home or office. Overall, the Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) offers top-notch performance and is a must-have for any Amazon Alexa user.
| Size: 5.5″ | Sound: 2x bass |
| Display: HD | Control of smart devices: yes |
| Camera: built-in | Color: Charcoal |
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal* | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-13
Do you REALLY need a smart home starter kit?
If you’ve been considering turning your house into a smart home, you may be wondering if investing in a smart home starter kit is worth it. The answer? It depends on your needs and preferences.
Smart Home Starter Kit Explained
A smart home starter kit is a great way to begin making your home smarter. It usually has:
- Smart Speakers: These let you play music or get answers just by talking.
- Smart Displays: You can check the weather or set reminders with these.
- Smart Light Bulbs: Control your lights with your voice or phone.
Why Choose a Smart Home Starter Kit?
Convenience:
- Control things like lights and the thermostat easily with your voice or phone.
- Set lights to turn on automatically when you walk into a room.
Save Money:
- Keep track of your energy use and lower bills.
- Use smart thermostats and power strips to manage energy better.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Cost: Smart home kits can be pricey, and you might want to buy more devices later.
- Compatibility: Not all smart devices work well together, so make sure to check if they can connect.
A smart home can make daily life easier and save you money. Think about getting a starter kit today!
Which voice assistant should you buy?
Smart technology thrives today. Voice assistants fill homes. They command smart devices. They resolve questions. They tackle tasks for you. These helpers gain traction fast. Yet, many choices exist. Which voice assistant suits you?
Choosing a Voice Assistant for Your Smart Home
When it comes to smart home voice assistants, here are three great options:
Amazon Alexa:
- Controls smart lights, thermostats, and security cameras with voice commands.
- Works with many smart home devices, making it a popular choice.
Google Assistant:
- Learns from what you use and offers personalized recommendations.
- Integrates well with Google services, perfect for Google fans.
Apple Siri:
- Comes on all Apple devices like iPhones and iPads.
- Works well with the Apple ecosystem, even if it has fewer compatible devices.
How to Choose the Right One
Think about:
- Compatibility: Will it work with the smart devices you have?
- Ecosystem: Are you already using Amazon, Google, or Apple products?
- Personalization: Do you want suggestions based on how you use it?
By considering these points, you can pick the best voice assistant to help control your smart home and make your life simpler!
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display with 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal* | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-13
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Google Nest Hub 7” Smart Display with Google Assistant (2nd Gen) – Chalk* | CHECK PRICE |
Last updated on 2025-02-13
What are the benefits of a smart home?
It’s no surprise that smart homes are becoming increasingly popular. With the ability to control various aspects of your home with just a tap on your smartphone, these futuristic abodes are transforming the way we live. From security systems to energy management, there are countless benefits to be gained from embracing the smart home revolution.
Benefits of a Smart Home
A smart home offers many great advantages:
Convenience:
- Control devices like lights, temperature, and locks from one place.
- Use your voice or phone to make changes easily.
- Saves time and makes daily tasks easier.
Security:
- Features like cameras, motion sensors, and smart locks help keep your home safe.
- Get alerts and monitor your home in real-time, even when you’re away.
- Control your security from anywhere for extra peace of mind.
Energy Management:
- Smart devices, like thermostats and lights, help you save energy and money.
- Track how much energy you use and make adjustments to lower bills.
- Automate tasks to create a more eco-friendly home.
Smart homes bring comfort and efficiency to your life. With these benefits, they are changing how we live and interact with our homes. As technology grows, smart homes will become even more common!
What can you do with a smart home?
A smart home has become an increasingly popular trend in recent years, offering homeowners a new level of convenience, comfort, and security. With the advancement of technology, many smart home devices and systems have emerged, revolutionizing the way we live. From controlling the lights and temperature to managing security and energy consumption, the possibilities are endless.
Final Nerdy Thoughts: Is a smart home worth it?
It seems there’s a new smart home gadget hitting the market every day. From thermostats that learn your preferences to security systems that can be controlled from your smartphone, the possibilities for transforming your home into a high-tech haven are endless. But is all this smart home tech really worth it?
On one side, smart homes offer convenience. You can adjust the temperature while commuting home. You can check your security system from anywhere. These devices aim to simplify our lives and enhance connectivity.
On the other side, privacy issues arise. Smart tech gathers data on habits and preferences. This information may be misused or fall into bad hands. Each new device adds more vulnerability. More connections increase the risk of cyber attacks.
The value of a smart home ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you cherish convenience and connectivity, the allure of smart technology could be irresistible. However, if your top priorities are privacy and security, it’s essential to carefully evaluate the potential risks before fully embracing the world of smart living.
Last updated on 2025-01-17
