How to

How to Pick the Right Smart Home Devices

February 15, 2024

How to Pick the Right Smart Home Devices

Introduction

Choosing the right smart home devices for your home can be overwhelming given the many options available today. The key is to understand your needs, set a budget, and do some research to find devices that are compatible, secure, and easy to use. This guide will walk you through the main factors to consider when building your smart home.

Determine Your Needs

Before shopping for any smart home devices, make a list of what you want to control or automate in your home. Some common needs include:

Lighting – Smart lightbulbs, switches and plugs allow you to control lights via app or voice assistant. Great for scheduling, dimming, changing colors.
Climate – Smart thermostats help regulate temperature and reduce energy costs. Some models can be controlled remotely.
Security – Devices like video doorbells, security cameras, motion sensors and smart locks increase home security.
Entertainment – Smart speakers and displays, streaming devices, and smart TVs provide voice controls, automation, and seamless content.
Appliances – Smart plugs can make “dumb” appliances like fans or coffee makers controllable via app. Some appliances have smart modes built-in.
Convenience – Smart sensors can detect leaks, open doors/windows, motion and more. Remote controls also add convenience.

Once you know the uses you want to get out of a smart home, you can narrow down the best types of devices to consider.

Set a Budget

Smart home tech can range greatly in terms of price. Setting a realistic budget before you start shopping will help guide your choices. Here are some budget price ranges to keep in mind:

$25-$100 – Basic smart home devices like wifi smart plugs, bulbs, and security sensors. Offer basic on/off control.
$100-$250 – Midrange devices like smart speakers, cameras, thermostats, switches, and locks. Feature rich with app control.
$250-$1000+ – High-end options like large smart displays, advanced lighting, high resolution cameras, full home security systems. Offer premium features and integrations.

Determine how much you’re comfortable spending upfront, as well as ongoing costs like monthly subscriptions for cloud storage and professional monitoring. This will give you a budget to work within.

Research Compatibility

With devices from so many different brands, making sure everything is compatible is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider:

Voice assistants – If you want to control devices by voice, ensure they work with your assistant of choice like Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri.
Smart home ecosystems – Many devices work together in a particular ecosystem like Alexa/Echo, Google Home or Apple HomeKit. Pick an ecosystem to stick with.
IFTTT – Check if devices support IFTTT for compatibility between different brands and automating actions.
WiFi – Devices should support latest WiFi standards like 802.11n/ac for optimal connectivity. Avoid proprietary bridges/hubs.
Smart home platforms – Some devices connect to a central platform like SmartThings or Wink. Check ecosystem compatibility.
Wireless standards – Look for Z-Wave, Zigbee, Bluetooth etc. for compatibility between devices. WiFi isn’t always best for sensors.

Doing research on specs like these will help identify devices that will work well together.

Opt for Simple Setups

Ease of setup and use should also factor into your smart home buying decisions. Consider these factors:

Minimal hubs/bridges – WiFi and hub-less devices are easiest. Extra hubs add complexity.
Easy installation – Devices that require professional installation will add cost. Look for modular, DIY setups.
Intuitive apps – The companion apps should make controlling and automating devices simple. Compare user reviews.
Clear instructions – Even WiFi devices often require pairing. Look for clear setup instructions and tutorial videos.
Voice control – Having voice assistant compatibility makes controlling devices hands-free and convenient.

The more difficult a device is to setup and use, the less likely you are to take advantage of all its capabilities. Seek out devices with simple, streamlined setup and controls.

Prioritize Privacy and Security

With the sensitivity of in-home data, security and privacy protection for your smart devices is a must. When evaluating options, look for:

Data encryption – Video/audio should use secure transmission and storage encryption like 256-bit AES.
Two-factor authentication – Account access should require two-factor authentication via email, app etc.
No default passwords – Devices shouldn’t ship with simple default credentials that hackers can exploit.
Secure on-boarding – Initial setup should use your home’s secure WiFi, not unsecured remote access.
Patching policy – Manufacturer should provide ongoing security patches and firmware updates.
Data privacy policy – Review company’s data collection and sharing policies. Opt-out of sharing when possible.

Taking these precautions will help protect your home and information from unwanted attacks. Don’t compromise security for lower cost or more convenience.

Start Small and Expand Over Time

It can be tempting to overhaul your entire home with smart devices all at once. But a gradual approach is often better, allowing you to learn what works for your needs. Consider this strategy:

Begin with one device type like smart bulbs or a voice assistant. Get used to controlling it.
Slowly add complementary devices over weeks/months based on needs and budget. Integrate them together.
Focus first on your most needed use cases – like security or energy savings – rather than novelty.
Over time, continue adding devices and optimizing automations as needs evolve. But avoid overcomplicating.

Starting small allows you to get comfortable with smart home tech at your own pace. And it avoids potential frustration from trying to learn too many new gadgets simultaneously.

Comparison Guide

Here is a brief comparison of some of the top smart home device brands across popular categories:

This table provides a high level view of key brands and differences among the top options. Be sure to dig deeper into specific features and reviews as you evaluate models.

Final Thoughts

Building a smart home tailored to your needs and budget takes research and planning. Focus first on your most wanted uses and priorities. Look for devices that offer wide compatibility, seamless operation, security protections, and room for expansion. Resist overcomplicating or buying devices just because they are “smart”. Start small, choose wisely, and let your smart home evolve over time.