Smart home devices are one of the best things about the Internet of Things (IoT) revolution. You can purchase a number of different connected products that make your home cleaner, safer, and more convenient. Some even help you save money. Fortunately for you, we’ve reviewed the best smart home devices, so you don’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find out which products work as advertised.
Amazon Echo Dot with Clock
Alexa is essentially the brain behind the Echo Dot with Clock, and she’s always getting smarter. With four far-field microphones, Echo Dot can hear you across the room, even while music is playing. With this device, you can call or message your family and friends who have an Echo device or the Alexa App, get the news with a video flash briefing, see your Prime Photos, shop with your voice, see lyrics with Amazon Music, browse and listen to Audible audiobooks, and more. You also get to personalize your Dot by choosing a clock face to match your room style.
Arlo Q
Keep an eye on all the things that matter the most to you with the Arlo Q, a 1080p HD security camera that is customizable and simple to set up. Use your existing wiring to extend your Arlo system with a powerline adapter. You can position powerline adapters in any room where you want your cameras and Arlo’s base station to be located. You can easily monitor all your Arlo cameras using the Arlo app on your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. If you want to preserve those videos, though, cloud storage plans start at $3 per month.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee’s fourth-generation smart thermostat is quicker to install than any of its rivals and comes with Alexa built-in, so you get to control it using both your voice and an app on your phone. The SmartThermostat has lots to distinguish itself from Nest and Honeywell. It also works with Apple’s HomeKit platform; it uses home-awareness sensors to detect whether anyone is home (and, if not, turns down the temperature). Also, it costs about $80 less than the competition.
