Thermostats that know your ideal temperature, security cameras with facial recognition, and voice-controlled lightbulbs may seem like something out of a science-fiction movie. However, for many people, they’ve become a part of their everyday lives.
Smart products are becoming more and more popular, and are working to improve people’s lives in many ways. Yet with so many products on the market, choosing the right ones can be difficult. So what are some of the most useful smart products?
Keep reading for a guide that will fill you in on seven of the best smart home products that you should consider getting.
1. Amazon Alexa
Most people are familiar with Amazon Alexa as it’s one of the most popular virtual assistants. After its initial release in 2014, Alexa has evolved to make your life even easier in a number of different ways.
With an internet connection, Alexa can connect and provide you with information on just about anything. Ask her about the weather, sports, or to provide you with the latest news updates. She can also connect to Spotify and Amazon Music and play your tunes.
Aside from functioning as a helpful Bluetooth speaker, Alexa can also control many other smart devices in your home, including some of the ones on this list.
2. Google Nest
If you prefer Google over Amazon, you can take advantage of Google Nest, which comes with the company’s own virtual assistant, Google Assistant.
Adding a Google Nest to your home will allow you to enjoy many of the things that Alexa users get. Answers to questions, an easy way to play music, and control over other smart devices are some of the biggest draws.
Like Alexa, you’ll also have some different options to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for. The Google Home Max is great if you want high-quality audio, while other options like the Nest Mini and Nest Audio are smaller and more affordable.
3. Nest Thermostat
If you haven’t upgraded your traditional thermostat to a smart one yet, you’re missing out on a host of features that will make your life easier. You also might be spending more than you need to be on heating and cooling each month.
The Nest Thermostat is one of the most popular options. You can set temperature schedules, use your voice to set the temperature, and control everything from far away with your phone.
Nest just released their new Nest Thermostat, which sells for more than $100 less than their traditional Nest Learning Thermostat. The differences between the two are minimal, making the newer version one of the best smart thermostats on the market.
4. Smart Lightbulbs
Tired of having to get out of bed every night to turn the lights off? Make the upgrade to smart lightbulbs and you’ll never have to do that again.
Most modern smart bulbs work with all of the major virtual assistants, meaning that you’ll be able to control them with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. Aside from turning them off or on, you’ll also be able to dim them, and in some cases, switch the color.
But the convenience level doesn’t just stop there. You can also use apps to configure lighting schedules and effects, meaning that you’ll never struggle with getting out of bed in the morning again.
5. A Smart Scale
Stepping on the scale has never been an enjoyable thing for many people, but smart scales help you feel better about it.
Whether you’re trying to lose weight, gain weight, or put on muscle, a smart scale will provide you with clear information about how your fitness journey is going. They’re able to track everything from your BMI to your muscle mass and protein levels.
They’re also cheaper than you might expect. You can buy a quality smart scale from Amazon for less than $30.
6. A Smart Dog Camera
Do you feel like your four-legged companion is up to no good when you’re out of the house? The right smart home products will let you know for sure.
Modern cameras provide you with 1080p camera quality that lets you watch your pup day or night, in the light or the dark. They also come equipped with bark alerts, as well as two-way audio that lets you communicate back to them.
Some more advanced cameras even feature treat compartments. Press a button, and the device will toss a treat at your pup—but only if they’ve been good.
7. Smart Security Cameras
Speaking of cameras, you’ll also want to take advantage of all of the great smart security cameras on the market.
Smart security cameras provide you with 4k video quality, as well as a host of secret agent level features. Motion tracking, automatic zooming, a spotlight and siren, and 911 connectivity are some of the standouts.
Most of these cameras are easy to set up and install, meaning that you won’t have to worry too much about wiring or anything else. Some require subscription plans, but it’s worth it for peace of mind, right?
Take Advantage of These Best Smart Home Products
Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your current one, it’s never too late to take advantage of some of the seven best smart home products mentioned in this guide. All of them will help make your life safer, more convenient, and sometimes, more fun.
Do you now have a better understanding of the smart products that can help you live in a home of the future today? If you do, take a moment to check out some of our posts for more helpful guides and tips.
