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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 Home Automation Controllers

Best Home Automation Controllers

Ten home automation controllers compared by listing specs, from Home Assistant and Hubitat hubs to IR blasters and wall panels. Not hands-on tested.

Home Device Guide Editors Nov 1, 2026
Best Smart Ceiling Fans

Best Smart Ceiling Fans

These smart ceiling fan picks were chosen from listing specs, not hands-on testing. Compare app control, airflow, lighting, and noise before buying.

Home Device Guide Editors Oct 27, 2026
Best Smart Lamps for Bedrooms and Living Rooms

Best Smart Lamps for Bedrooms and Living Rooms

Best smart lamp choices for bedrooms and living rooms from five listings: RGB scenes, voice control, timers, charging ports, and floor or table forms.

Home Device Guide Editors Oct 27, 2026
Best Outdoor Smart Plugs for Lights and Decor

Best Outdoor Smart Plugs for Lights and Decor

Five outdoor smart plugs compared by listed specs, with weather ratings, outlet counts, voice compatibility, and scheduling features. No hands-on testing.

Home Device Guide Editors Oct 27, 2026
Best Smart Dimmer Switches

Best Smart Dimmer Switches

Five smart dimmer switches chosen from product listing specs. Match wiring, dimming range, and voice platform before you buy.

Home Device Guide Editors Oct 27, 2026
Best Wi-Fi Extenders for Smart Home Devices

Best Wi-Fi Extenders for Smart Home Devices

We compared the specs of five Wi-Fi extenders to find the best for smart home devices. See our picks for coverage, speed, and features.

Home Device Guide Editors Oct 26, 2026
Best Smart Door and Window Sensors

Best Smart Door and Window Sensors

We compared five smart door and window sensors by their listed specs. Find the best contact sensor for your home security and automation needs.

Home Device Guide Editors Oct 26, 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.