You’ve probably gotten used to some level of “smart” technology in your daily life. Maybe you wear a smart watch every day or have a car with keyless entry. Smart devices like these simplify our day-to-day lives, and if you’re dreaming of living life a little smarter, then learning more about a few of the best smart home devices might be worth your while.
There are lots of devices you’ve probably used for years that now come with new “smart” functionality add ons, but which ones could really change your life and your home? Here are a few of our picks for the best smart home devices on the market now.
Best Smart Home Devices: Voice Control
Smart assistants with voice control make you feel like you’re truly living in the future. They’re basically interactive, connected speakers with artificial intelligence. Voice control is revolutionizing our daily lives by making searching for answers easier.
Smart assistants can play and control music from music streaming apps on your phone, make and answer phone calls, order pizza, predict your commute time, call you an Uber, tell you a joke, help you spell a word, find you a recipe, or recommend a restaurant — all you have to do is talk to them. The more smart devices in your home the more your smart assistant can control: turning off lights, helping find your phone, or preheating the oven. And the list of tricks keeps growing.
Best Smart Home Devices: Smart Locks
A smart lock might not be the flashiest home improvement, but it can be incredibly useful. Opening your door without taking your keys out of your pocket is actually the least they can do. A smart lock allows you to send an electronic key to a friend or family member, or remotely unlock your door for a nanny or dog walker. You can pair your smart lock with a doorbell camera to keep track of exactly who’s coming and going, too.
Best Smart Home Devices: Smart TVs
These days, people seem to be staying away from bulky entertainment centers that house a TV, DVD player, DVR and stereo. Instead, they are opting to stream their favorite television shows and movies through smart technology that’s already built in. One smart TV can seamlessly integrate your local channels, cable stations, streaming platforms (Netflix, HBO Go, Amazon, Hulu, YouTube, and more), music, online videos — pretty much anything and everything that entertains you.