Product Reviews

Our team independently tests smart home devices to help you make confident purchasing decisions.

Smart Security Kit

The Smart Security Kit bundles an HD camera, a Wi‑Fi smart plug and a multifunctional hub. Setup is straightforward: scan the QR code on each device, connect to your home network and pair them in the companion app. In our tests the camera delivered crisp 1080p video with night vision, while the plug responded to voice commands from Alexa and Google Assistant in under a second. Battery‑powered sensors attach easily to doors or windows and alert you via push notification if something moves. Overall, this kit offers an affordable entry point into home security and automation.

This kit stands out for its ease of use. The hub supports both Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth, allowing offline automation when the internet goes down. The camera’s 130‑degree field of view captures a wide area, and two‑way audio lets you speak to visitors through the app. The plug includes energy monitoring to track power consumption of connected devices. In addition, the companion app provides automatic firmware updates and supports customizable alert zones to reduce false alarms.

• Pros: Quick installation, affordable price, expandable ecosystem.
• Cons: Requires cloud subscription for continuous recording, limited third‑party integrations.

Whether you’re renting or own your home, a modular security kit like this can evolve with your needs—add more sensors or upgrade components as technology improves. If you’re just starting out with home automation, check out our Beginner’s Smart Home Setup guide for step‑by‑step advice on choosing platforms and setting up devices.

Top Smart Speakers

Smart speakers have evolved into the central hub for many homes. We compared the latest models from Amazon, Google and Apple. The Echo (4th Gen) offers deep Alexa integration, a balanced sound profile and Zigbee hub support. Google’s Nest Audio impresses with a clean, warm sound and tight integration with the Google Home ecosystem. Apple’s HomePod mini delivers excellent voice recognition and secure on‑device processing, but requires an iOS device to configure. Our overall pick for most users is the Echo, thanks to its expansive skills library and competitive price.

Beyond the basics, we looked at multi‑room audio, smart home control and privacy. Amazon’s Echo supports a growing selection of Alexa skills, including routines that automate lights, locks and thermostats. Google’s Nest Audio delivers contextual answers powered by Google Search and pairs easily with Chromecast devices. Apple’s HomePod mini excels at handoff with iPhones and uses the U1 chip for precise proximity detection.

• Amazon Echo (4th Gen): Best overall assistant support, built‑in Zigbee hub, affordable.
• Google Nest Audio: Superior voice recognition, seamless integration with Google services, sleek design.
• Apple HomePod mini: Secure processing on device, robust sound for size, deep integration with the Apple ecosystem.

Your choice ultimately comes down to which ecosystem you’re most invested in. For cross‑platform households, the Echo’s versatility and low price make it an easy recommendation. Once you’ve chosen a speaker, learn how to automate routines like turning lights on at sunset or adjusting thermostats when you leave home. New to smart home platforms? Our Beginner’s Setup guide will get you up to speed.

Smart Lighting Solutions

Lighting sets the mood in your home, and smart bulbs let you change colors, brightness and schedules from your phone. We tested popular LED bulbs and light strips from Philips Hue, Nanoleaf and Govee. Hue bulbs produced the most accurate colors and integrate with Apple HomeKit, but require a hub. Nanoleaf lines create stunning patterns on your wall and respond to music. Govee’s light strips are budget friendly and feature a rich app with DIY modes. Whichever you choose, pairing your lighting with motion sensors and routines can reduce energy consumption and enhance convenience.

When evaluating smart lighting we considered color accuracy, brightness, connectivity and ecosystem compatibility. Philips Hue remains the gold standard for reliability and rich color palettes; the new Bluetooth‑enabled bulbs also work without a hub for smaller setups. Nanoleaf’s modular panels and lines allow you to design custom shapes on your wall and react to music via the Rhythm module. Govee offers an extensive range of light strips and rope lights at budget‑friendly prices, with an app that supports scenes, timers and syncing with your TV via an optional camera.

• Philips Hue: Excellent color rendition, huge ecosystem of bulbs, lamps and accessories, supports Matter and HomeKit.
• Nanoleaf: Eye‑catching modular designs, music‑responsive modes, thread support for low‑latency control.
• Govee: Wallet‑friendly pricing, wide product range, no hub required.

Integrating your lighting with sensors and schedules can not only elevate ambiance but also save energy by ensuring lights are on only when needed. For ideas on how to automate your lighting, read our Automating Routines guide. If you’re starting from scratch, visit the Beginner’s Setup guide to understand the basics.