Top Smart Home Devices for Beginners in 2024
Getting started with smart home technology can be easy and impactful, even for beginners. The following devices are user-friendly, versatile, and make daily tasks more convenient.
1. Smart Speakers
- Amazon Echo (4th Gen): With Alexa as the built-in assistant, the Echo can play music, answer questions, control compatible smart devices, and set reminders. Alexa supports a vast number of skills, which makes it versatile for voice-controlled tasks.
- Google Nest Audio: Google’s smart speaker has excellent sound quality and integrates with Google Assistant. It’s ideal for users who use Google services, offering controls for smart lights, thermostats, and more.
Best For: Voice control, information on demand, and controlling other smart devices.
2. Smart Plugs
- TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug: These plugs allow you to control appliances from your smartphone. You can schedule devices to turn on or off and even control them remotely through the Kasa app.
- Amazon Smart Plug: Designed for Alexa, this plug is simple to set up and perfect for controlling lights, fans, or coffee makers with voice commands.
Best For: Automating appliances and creating schedules without complex installation.
3. Smart Bulbs
- Philips Hue Starter Kit: Philips Hue bulbs are popular for their reliability and variety of color options. You can dim lights, set schedules, and even sync the bulbs with music or movies.
- Wyze Bulb: An affordable option with essential features, Wyze bulbs allow remote control, scheduling, and dimming through the Wyze app.
Best For: Mood lighting, energy savings, and setting lighting schedules.
4. Smart Thermostats
- Google Nest Thermostat: This thermostat learns your temperature preferences and adjusts automatically, helping to save energy over time. You can control it from the Nest app and monitor energy usage.
- ecobee Smart Thermostat: With built-in Alexa and optional room sensors, ecobee provides room-by-room comfort adjustments. It’s energy-efficient and can also work with Apple HomeKit.
Best For: Saving energy and maintaining a comfortable home temperature remotely.
5. Video Doorbells
- Ring Video Doorbell: This device allows you to see and speak to visitors through your smartphone, whether you’re home or away. The Ring app offers motion detection, live streaming, and compatibility with Alexa.
- Google Nest Doorbell: The Nest Doorbell records high-quality video and integrates seamlessly with Google services. It offers intelligent alerts for people, packages, and animals.
Best For: Monitoring entryways, receiving visitor alerts, and enhancing home security.
6. Smart Security Cameras
- Wyze Cam v3: Wyze’s budget-friendly camera records 1080p video, has night vision, and provides two-way audio. You can monitor rooms, receive alerts, and view footage through the Wyze app.
- Arlo Pro 4: This camera offers high-quality video and advanced features, including color night vision and motion detection. Arlo cameras work well with Google Assistant, Alexa, and HomeKit.
Best For: Indoor and outdoor security with live monitoring and alerts.
7. Smart Locks
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: August locks are easy to install over existing deadbolts. You can lock and unlock your door remotely and give temporary access to guests.
- Wyze Lock: This lock is affordable and works with Wyze’s ecosystem, letting you control access through the Wyze app.
Best For: Enhancing home security with convenient, remote-controlled entry.
8. Robot Vacuums
- iRobot Roomba 694: The Roomba 694 is user-friendly and cleans floors on a schedule or on demand. It can be controlled through the iRobot app or via voice assistants.
- Eufy RoboVac 11S: A budget-friendly option with quiet operation and decent cleaning power. It doesn’t require complex setup and is great for basic cleaning needs.
Best For: Hands-free cleaning and maintaining a tidy home without manual effort.
Conclusion: Best Smart Home Devices for Beginners
- For Voice Control: Amazon Echo or Google Nest Audio provide a great entry point.
- For Easy Automation: TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug and Philips Hue Bulbs allow easy scheduling and remote control.
- For Security and Monitoring: Ring Video Doorbell and Wyze Cam v3 enhance home security with minimal setup.
Each of these devices offers simplicity and functionality, making it easy to add smart technology to your home.
