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Smart Home

Smart home devices explained with compatibility first: lighting, plugs, hubs, sensors, security devices, thermostats, speakers and displays, networking, automation, energy monitoring and the protocols that connect them.

389 articles
Reviewed every season
Best Energy Monitoring Smart Plugs

Best Energy Monitoring Smart Plugs

This guide compares energy monitoring smart plugs using listing specs and features, with notes on connectivity, app tracking, voice control and setup.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Smart Speaker Wall Mounts

Best Smart Speaker Wall Mounts

A spec-based look at smart speaker wall mounts, covering weight limits, Echo Dot and HomePod fit, cable routing and installation methods.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Multi-Room Speaker Systems

Best Multi-Room Speaker Systems

A comparison of multi-room speaker systems by connectivity, room coverage, battery, and app or voice control, based on listing specs rather than hands-on testing.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Smart Speakers

Best Smart Speakers

A comparison of smart speakers and connected portable speakers, chosen by reviewing listing specs and features rather than hands-on testing.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Smart AC Controllers

Best Smart AC Controllers

A comparison of smart AC controllers based on listing specs, covering IR and WiFi options, compatibility, sensors, voice control and warranty details.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Security Camera Mounts

Best Security Camera Mounts

Seven security camera mounts compared by listing specs, including wall, ceiling, pole and L-shaped brackets, weight limits, adjustment range and included hardware.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Smart Home Hubs

Best Smart Home Hubs

A comparison of smart home hubs based on listing specs, covering protocols, local automation, setup and voice assistant support. Check each listing for current details.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026

Smart Home: Device Guide

Smart home setup starts with understanding how devices communicate. See the compatibility and protocols guide to make sure your gear works together.

For a useful starting point, look through the smart home buying guides and home automation sections. You can also compare options in the smart home comparisons.