As recently as a decade ago, devices that we talk to to control our homes might have seemed like the stuff of a science fiction movie. But, with the creation of voice-controlled smart devices like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home, the concept of a “smart home” has become commonplace. Smart home devices include speakers, thermostats, lights, doorbell cameras, and security systems among other things. As years go by, the high prices have come down, and more and more people are making their home a smart. Around the holidays, these products are some of the most sought-after gifts. Are you interested in exploring smart devices? Read on for some of our favorites.
Speakers
One of the foundational elements of the smart home is the smart speaker. A cool speaker that you can speak commands to as well as listen to your favorite music and podcasts on, these speakers allow you to control all your other smart devices as well. The most popular are Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Although they were once expensive, prices have come down considerably recently. From small mini-speakers for small spaces to big “hubs” that you can even stream TV on, there is a device for every space. Many owners keep one in every room. You can even create different home groups and stream everything at once across devices. Enjoying your favorite Spotify list? Play it in every room in your home for your own home sound system!
Thermostats
One of the first smart devices to work with smart speakers is the Nest thermostat. Still one of the most popular, easy-to-use smart thermostats, Nest is the #1 smart thermostat on the market. In addition to telling your smart thermostat to adjust the AC or heat from anywhere in your home, smart thermostats can save you energy as well, in addition to identifying your favorite ranges and setting your home in away and/or eco modes. You can control your thermostat from your phone as well. Like other smart devices, the Nest is pretty affordable these days.
Lights
Smart lights are also a staple of a connected smart home. Philips, one of the biggest smart home lighting brands, released Hue several years ago. In addition to commanding the lights with your devices, one of the coolest things about the Hue is the selection of colors. From mimicking a sunset to creating the perfect hue for reading and studying, the Hue is one of the slickest smart home components on the market today.
Doorbells
Like the Nest, the Ring was one of the first home components to be connected to your phone and other smart devices. The premise is simple but brilliant and highly valuable to homeowners. When your visitors ring your doorbell, a notification pings your phone and you can see who’s there. See delivery drivers and any other activity happening on your doorstep–you can connect it to your smart speakers, and even your fire TV stick to see it on your TV! The entire line of Ring security cameras can be connected. Like other smart devices, the Ring has decreased in price over the years, and they offer great sales, especially during the holidays.
Security cameras
Smart cameras and security systems are very handy to keep an eye on activity around your home, but can also deter criminals and prevent crime. Since motion detectors will set off flood lights. There are both wired versions and wireless versions. More and more brands have released cameras and security systems, however, the Ring is still one of the most popular lines.
Other items
One of the most cost-conscious and no-hassle ways to make your home into a smart home is to use smart plugs throughout your home. These cool plugs and power strips can turn any device into a smart device! There are many to choose from–check out this roundup we found.
It’s important to remember that many of these brands do not ship to every country. Make sure you sign up for a free Trans-Express international shipping address today to make sure you can ship anywhere!
