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The Best Smart Home Devices For 2023
With hundreds of incredible products available, it can be intimidating to piece together a smart home. From smart displays and thermostats to smart light bulbs and video doorbells, not only are there tons of categories to browse, but each category is filled with highly reviewed products that can be difficult to distinguish from one another. If you're in the market for a new smart home gadget or are just starting your smart home journey, there are tons of factors to consider.
If you need help navigating all the products, here's a look at the best smart home devices of 2023 across a wide variety of categories. It's hard to go wrong with products from big names like Ring, Arlo, Amazon, and Google, but if you need a bit more guidance, here are some of our top picks.
Voice assistantThe first thing you'll want to get is a virtual assistant to help you control your smart devices with just your voice. You can opt for a smart speaker, which only has audio, or you can go with a smart display, which has a touchscreen that lets you visually interact with your assistant as well.
The Amazon Echo is Amazon's smart speaker that features Alexa, Amazon's virtual assistant. The Echo 4th Generation has excellent sound quality, so you can clearly hear your playlist from music streaming services like Amazon Music, Apple Music, or iHeart Radio. The redesigned Echo 4 retails for $100, and it comes in charcoal, twilight blue, and glacier white. Amazon's latest smart speaker also functions as a Zigbee hub, allowing you to control other Zigbee-specific smart home gear, such as lights, locks, and cameras.
If you want a more affordable Echo speaker, the Echo Dot with Clock retails for only $60 and does almost everything the Echo does, except its speakers aren't quite as powerful and it doesn't have a Zigbee hub. The Dot with Clock has an LED display on the front face that can show you the time, the weather, or a timer. One of the reasons these gadgets should be on your smart home shopping list is that they work with many of the other products you buy. Alexa responds to short commands that make life easier and more fun. You can set alarms, ask questions, order pizza, shop, play games, and more — just by using your voice. Plus, compatible gadgets let you depend on Alexa to tweak aspects of your smart home by doing things like turning down the thermostat or turning on a light.
The Echo Pop is another solid option for shoppers on a budget. Clocking at just $40, it's the cheapest Echo smart speaker on the market. It may not sound as robust as others on this list (like the HomePod or Sonos One), but it's a great beginner smart speaker and works perfectly as a hub for your smart home.
If you'd prefer a smart display that has a screen and lets you make video calls, see song lyrics, and watch your security camera and video doorbell feeds, the Echo Show 5 is a great option because it's even more affordable than a regular Echo speaker. The Show 5 is a compact display, though. If you're looking for a larger screen, the Echo Show 15 may be a better option. Capable of being wall-mounted for either landscape or portrait viewing, Amazon's Show 15 features customizable widgets, interactive smart device controls, and a host of other great Alexa-powered tricks and abilities.
Between the Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 15 is the Echo Show 8. Consider giving it a look if you want something a bit larger than the Show 5 but still small enough to fit on a kitchen counter or desk. The latest model supports Spatial Audio, seamlessly syncs with other Alexa products, and offers impressive video calling abilities thanks to its 13 MP camera.
On the other hand, maybe you'd rather go with a smart speaker not associated with Amazon, but love the easy-to-move design of the Echo Dot. In that case, look no further than the streamlined Nest Mini. The Nest Mini (2nd Gen) has an eco-friendly design, and it comes in chalk, charcoal, a bright coral color, or a bright blue color. Similar in size and shape to the Echo Dot (3rd Gen), the Nest Mini 2 is
Then there's the Google Nest Audio, Google's bigger smart speaker. Featuring premium sound, adaptive audio, and an attractive design, you can find Google's premium smart speaker in chalk, charcoal, sage, sand, and sky. If you want a Google Assistant-powered smart display, we really like the Nest Hub Max. It has a 10-inch display, gesture control, built-in security features, and it even has a built-in Nest Cam.
If you're looking for the best sound possible out of your smart speaker, consider opting for the Sonos Era 100. Not only does it offer room-filling sound, but it comes with built-in Bluetooth support and can optimize its sound regardless of where it's placed in your home. It's a bit pricey, but it's bound to please even the most discerning audiophile.
And don't worry: We didn't forget the Apple devotees of our readership. If you want to run your smart home with Apple HomeKit and Siri, the HomePod mini is the way to go. Available in five colors, the mini adapts its sound to whatever room you place it in, can be paired with multiple HomePod minis for expanded audio, and includes a convenient hand-off feature that instantly transfers whatever is playing on the HomePod mini to your iPhone in seconds.
Need something with a bit more power than the tiny HomePod mini? Consider stepping up to the HomePod 2023, which offers all of the same great features, but with a better audio system.
Check out our picks for the best smart speakers
Smart lockWhen your home has a smart lock, there's no need to worry about fumbling for your keys when it's dark or having to leave a key under the mat for a pet sitter. Today's options install in minutes and offer convenience and peace of mind.
We're big fans of the August Smart Lock (4th Generation) for a number of reasons. The plug-and-play assembly allows you to slip the August lock directly onto your existing deadbolt, meaning you won't have to pull apart any of your existing door lock's hardware. You can also use the August app to assign temporary unlock codes to friends and family that are checking on your pets while you're vacationing. We also like the DoorSense feature, which allows you to see if your door is open, closed, locked, or unlocked through the Activity Feed tab in the August app.
Similar to the August Smart Lock, the Wyze Lock also retrofits over your existing deadbolt and can be configured to detect your phone when you're in range, automatically locking/unlocking your door when you're approaching. Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, you can even use voice commands to control the lock from indoors or with the Alexa/Google Home app.
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is another great option if you're seeking a premium device. Offered in a variety of styles (including keyless or with a touchpad), the Assure Lock 2 lets you customize different profiles for each member of the house or set up temporary accounts for guests. If you spring for the Wi-Fi version, you'll also benefit from the ability to remotely check in on your door to verify you locked it before heading out.
If you want something that looks futuristic and bundles in tons of cool features, consider checking out the Lockly Vision Elite. It costs a pretty penny, but besides the usual smart lock features, the Vision Elite doubles as a camera for your front door. You'll even find a solar panel on the device, which helps keep it charged up for nearly a year.
Check out our picks for the best smart locks
Security camera and video doorbellInvesting in a video doorbell lets you see who's knocking at the door without getting up from the couch. A security camera can provide added peace of mind too, as most outdoor models allow you to watch the happenings around your house from anywhere, all through an app on your phone. Many provide two-way audio, night vision, and motion alerts as well.
Nest is one of the leading brands in the smart home market and offers both indoor and outdoor security cameras. The Nest Cam (outdoor or indoor, battery) is one of the company's most versatile cameras, delivering a 130-degree field of view, a powerful digital zoom capability, smart motion capabilities, and voice assistant compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa households. Battery-powered and weather-resistant, you can put the Nest Cam on any interior or exterior surface and successfully operate the camera year-round.
The Arlo Pro 4 is our favorite camera overall though. The lens delivers crisp day and night images, a built-in speaker and microphone for natural two-way audio, and a weatherproof casing. You'll also want to consider the Arlo Pro 5S, which is a bit more generous with its battery life and comes with some nifty security features — although it is a bit more expensive. Our favorite video doorbell is the Ring Video Doorbell 3. The bell runs on battery power, detects motion, features two-way audio, and can be customized with the Ring app.
A new Ring Indoor Cam launched earlier this year, and it offers 1080p video capture, color night vision, two-way audio, and a built-in privacy shutter. You'll need to manually position the shutter (it can't be remotely controlled through the app), but at just $60, it's a solid option if you need something reliable that won't break the bank.
If you're a fan of Alexa, be sure to check out the Blink Outdoor 4. This camera works perfectly as either an indoor or outdoor security camera, thanks to its small footprint and waterproof design. Standout features include a 143-degree field of view, person detection, adjustable motion settings, and two-way audio. It's also built for full Alexa support, making it easy to get the camera up and running with other Alexa-compatible gadgets.
Check out our picks for the best video doorbells, best wireless security cameras, and best home security systems
Smart Floor WasherEcovacs really wanted us to emphasize the superior cleaning here, so that's what we'll do. This vacuum and mop combo cleans really well. Like really, really well. That's thanks to several features, including powerful 8,000 pascals of suction power, an extra-long roller brush, intelligent 15mm auto mop lifting – to keep your rugs and carpet from getting wet – and self-washing with hot water via the dock.
Additional features include AI-controlled AIVI 3D 2.0 obstacle avoidance, the industry's first dual-laser LiDAR navigation, and seamless interactions via YIKO 2.0, a built-in voice assistant. At any time, you can check in with live video monitoring thanks to the Starlight camera or two-way call with others, even if you're not home. Yes, that means you can tell your cats to get off the counters. We haven't even gotten to the best party yet. The Black Friday price is the ultimate holiday gift from Ecovacs, but it won't last long.
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ThermostatYour heating and cooling system is probably a part of your home that you don't think about too often — until the temperature's not quite right. A smart thermostat could better integrate climate controls into your life.
Our favorite smart thermostat is the Amazon Smart Thermostat. Developed in partnership with Resideo, the makers of Honeywell Home Thermostat Technology, the sleek and simple interface allows you to adjust the temperature from the thermostat by using the Alexa app. Speaking of Alexa: Amazon's intuitive voice assistant will study your temperature preferences so it can automatically raise and lower the temp — even while you're away. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the $60 price makes it one of the least expensive thermostats on the market.
For the Google lovers of the smart realm, the Nest Thermostat (2020) is another solid pick. An attractive aesthetic that blends in with all kinds of home decor, the $130 thermostat can be controlled with the Google Home app, Google Assistant voice commands, and the tried-and-true method of using human fingertips to make adjustments. We also love that the Nest allows you to monitor the energy efficiency of your entire HVAC operation, letting you use this intel to create automated schedules for heating and cooling your home.
Check out our picks for the best smart thermostats
Light bulb or switchYou may already use energy-efficient light bulbs in your home, so installing smart bulbs is the next logical step. Besides saving money, they let you customize the way your home looks and even turn lights on and off from another location, as long as you have internet access and the complementing app.
Philips Hue bulbs respond to voice commands and settings changes from your smartphone app. Some bulbs, like Sengled A19 smart bulbs don't require a hub, which can make it easier (and cheaper) to set up smart lighting in your home.
Looking for something with Matter support? Then check out the Nanoleaf Essentials A19 Light Bulb, which is now compatible with the interoperability standard. A single bulb costs $20, and it gives you access to millions of colors along with a simple-to-use smartphone app.
You don't have to opt for light bulbs with smart technology to get some "smart" features. Combine regular bulbs with smart light switches instead. With this switch, you can turn lights on and off using voice commands, and you can avoid the trouble of having to switch out smart bulbs.
One of our favorite light switch ecosystems is sold by Lutron Caseta. Once you've connected the switch to Wi-Fi, you can download the Caseta app to control your lighting on the go, create customized schedules, and more. We also love that the Lutron Caseta switch can be integrated with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Ring, Serena shades, and Sonos wireless audio systems.
If you install smart plugs around your house, you'll be able to use your voice to control all of your connected devices. Users love this feature and find it can be extremely handy in different circumstances.
Read more about our picks for the best smart light bulbs, best LED light bulbs, and best smart plugs for inside the home
Robot vacuumIt might sound like an unnecessary luxury, but we certainly recommend adding a robot vacuum into your cleaning routine based on the time it will save you alone.
One of the best robot vacuums on the market is the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra. It's not cheap, but it truly does offer a fully automated cleaning experience. The device can vacuum and mop in a single run, includes a dust reservoir that can go weeks before needing a change, and it can even clean (and dry) its mophead. It's also great at mapping out your floors and avoiding any obstacles that get in its way. Best of all, its smartphone app is intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to set cleaning schedules,set up restricted zones, or check in on its cleaning status.
Beyond Roborock, consider checking out the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ and Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni. Both products are also capable of mopping and vacuuming in a single run, making them great alternatives to the S8 Pro Ultra. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled during shopping holidays, as all three tend to see generous price cuts. The X2 Omni is particularly enticing, as it'll clean and dry its mop after each cleaning cycle — making it one of the most autonomous robots around.
And for those of us shopping on a bit of a budget, there's the iRobot Roomba 694. Compared to the flagship s9+ model, the 694 lacks some of the more advanced cleaning features of its top-dollar elder, but you're still getting a number of key Roomba features, including three-stage filtration and Dirt Detect Technology, which keeps the Roomba cleaning in areas that need a more thorough sweeping.
Check out our picks for the best robot vacuums
Streaming deviceLast but not least is smart connectivity for the one device in the home that everyone gathers around — the TV. When it comes to watching your family's favorite shows and movies, one of the best smart TV accessories you can get is the incredible and affordable Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
Unlike traditional streaming devices, the Fire TV Stick occupies no space in an entertainment center. Instead, it connects directly to an available HDMI input on a flatscreen and is light enough to hang out of the port. Once setup is complete and you're connected to Wi-Fi, you can use the Fire TV Stick to stream movies, shows, and music from a number of popular platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video. And, as the name indicates, you get to enjoy these flicks and episodes in full UHD resolution (where 4K streaming is available).
In terms of other streaming options, there's the traditional Google Chromecast, as well as the Chromecast with Google TV. The former is a dongle-based device that connects to an HDMI input on your TV. Then, you grab your smartphone, fire up apps like Netflix and Spotify, and "cast" video and audio content from your mobile device to the TV. The O.G. Chromecast is also one of the least expensive streaming devices you can buy.
The Chromecast with Google TV offers the casting capabilities of the original Chromecast, but with an entirely new, remote-navigable interface that recommends content based on your movie and TV watching history.
Apple fans and those looking for a rock-solid 4K streaming device should set their sights on the Apple TV 4K. The 2021 version of this awesome hardware features a redesigned Siri remote, support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and lightning-fast performance thanks to Apple's A12 Bionic chip.
Then there are Roku streaming devices. Offering thousands of apps (known as Channels), the Roku marketplace is your one-stop shop for major services like Netflix and Hulu, as well as a bounty of third-party services. Like Westerns? There are several apps for just Western content. Horror movies? Same deal. And hey, did you know that Roku also makes great TVs?
One of our favorite Roku devices is the Roku Streaming Stick+. Offering 4K and HDR support, this model is one of the best inexpensive streaming devices for both picture quality, performance speed, and content availability.
Check out our picks for the best streaming devices
Editors' RecommendationsOur Favorite Tech Gifts: Stocking Stuffers, Kitchen Gadgets, And Gaming Galore
Miller Kern is a New York City-based Deputy Reviews Editor at Mashable, where she writes and edits reviews of tech products including headphones, skincare devices, laptops, sex toys, e-readers, robot vacuums, and more. She has five years of experience writing buying guides, gift guides, and deals, and covering shopping holidays like Prime Day and Black Friday. Miller can tell you which products are actually worth your money. She also explores trends in the shopping sphere, such as dupes and viral TikTok moments.
The Best Smart Locks For 2023
The best smart locks of 2023 come from popular brands like Yale, Wyze, August, and Lockly, and they offer tons of cool features you won't find on traditional deadbolts. From the ability to check the status of your lock remotely to being able to set up temporary profiles for guests, there's a reason these smart home gadgets continue to grow in popularity.
Picking the right smart lock for your needs, however, is no small task. Not all smart locks are worthy of your time and money, and installing a bad smart lock could cause you plenty of headaches. Thankfully, there's a product for every purpose. Whether you're setting up a rental property, need something robust for a large family, or want to do away with your keys entirely, there's bound to be a smart lock with your name on it.
Here's a look at the best smart locks of 2023, including full deadbolt replacements and deadbolt adapters. Our picks span plenty of price ranges too, making it easy to find something great for your front door that fits your budget.
Lockly Flex Touch
The best smart lock for fingerprint access
Jump to details Show 2 more itemsPros
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Yale knows how to make a great lock, and the Assure Lock 2 proves it. Available in a wide variety of formats (including lockless and touchscreen), there are plenty of ways to customize this unique device.
One of the best formats includes a module that lets you access the door remotely, giving you peace of mind that you locked up before leaving for work. You can also create temporary passwords for guests, check out the activity history to see when it was last opened, or remotely open the door for a friend who is locked out.
But most importantly, it looks stunning – with premium materials and a slim design offering a decidedly modern aesthetic. It's also one of the few smart locks with a flash red variant, as the Yale x Pantone model in Viva Magenta brings a maximalist flair to your front door.
If you're an Apple user, you can spring for the Assure Lock 2 Plus, which offers Apple Home Key support. This allows you to use either or iPhone or Apple Watch to open the door without needing to enter your passcode. It costs a bit more (the Wi-Fi model is $290), but no doubt it's a cool feature.
Yale Assure Lock 2
The best smart lock
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There's nothing better than quick and painless. Wyze's entire suite of smart home products — from lightbulbs to cameras — is designed for the DIY weekend warrior … and the Wyze Lock is no exception. Setup is just a matter of retrofitting your existing deadbolt. The Wyze hardware pops right onto the inside thumb latch, and installation necessitates nothing more than a screwdriver and working Wi-Fi.
With the Wyze app, you can lock and unlock the door from pretty much anywhere. For those not looking to whip their phone out every time they return home, there's Auto Lock/Unlock. Once configured, the Wyze Lock detects your phone when you're approaching the door, unlocking it so you can step in and then locking it behind you once you're inside. We also love the Simple Sharing function, which lets you grant guests access to your home and log their entries and exits.
The Wyze Lock is now compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, which means you can lock and unlock your door from the comfort of your couch. Assistant control is also great for those of us who would rather do our on-the-go unlocking with the Alexa or Google Home app. Read our in-depth Wyze Lock review.
Wyze Lock
The best budget smart lock
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The fourth-generation August Smart Lock breaks free from the bonds of its predecessors' need for a bridge to operate remotely. Thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi connection, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock connects to your home's wireless network without the need for a bridge or other additional hardware.
Beyond that, it's one of the simplest smart locks to install and set up. Plus, it's able to retain your existing lock — so you don't need new keys. What's impressive is that the company adds in the Wi-Fi connection, while shrinking the overall size of the lock. It is 45% smaller in volume and 20% slimmer, making it a sleek little lock, and comes in either silver or matte black plastic.
In addition to using the app to remotely operate the lock, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple's Siri. Meaning that it integrates nicely with just about any smart home platform. There are also some advanced features that make it a premier offering, like virtual keys that work on a set schedule, and automatic lock/unlock as you approach or leave your home. Read our in-depth August Wi-Fi Smart Lock review.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The best minimal smart lock
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Lockly already had a phenomenal offering with the Vision, but its follow-up model takes it one step further. The Lockly Vision Elite has everything that Airbnb hosts crave — from its ability to unlock via fingerprint, pin code, or even through a phone, there are plenty of options.
Guests that do plan on staying at your home or Airbnb residence can be given temporary key codes that they can punch into the touchscreen keypad when they arrive, which can also be made time-sensitive for additional security. Once their stay is complete, you can have another set of codes for the next guest.
Everything is tracked by the app, which can tell you the method that was used to unlock the lock — including if it's the old fashion way with a key! What makes the Lockly Vision Elite even more appealing is its integrated video camera, which allows it to act a lot like a video doorbell camera. An integrated solar panel helps keep the lithium-ion batteries charged for the long haul, too.
Lockly Vision Elite
The most versatile smart lock
Pros
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If you're a fan of smart locks but wish they had a more traditional appearance, consider checking out the Lockly Flex Touch. This smart home gadget forgoes the large touchscreen pads found on most smart locks, and instead uses a small fingerprint sensor to let you quickly and securely open (or lock) your front door.
You can also access the lock via Bluetooth using a smartphone app, which lets you track its history or set up unique user profiles for each member of your home.
Toss in support for traditional keys and the ability to power the unit with a 9V battery if it dies while you're on vacation, and there's a good chance the Lockly Flex Touch is a great fit for your home.
Lockly Flex Touch
The best smart lock for fingerprint access
Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do smart locks work?
A traditional lock typically contains internal pins. When you insert the proper key, it puts the exact right amount of pressure on each pin until the lock opens. Smart locks are electronic, and they work using a keypad, touchpad, or other means.
Can I install a smart lock myself?
This depends on the smart lock you purchase and your DIY skills. Some locks, like the August Smart Lock, retrofit over your existing deadbolt. This makes them incredibly easy to install and only takes about 10 minutes. Other locks require a bit more effort.
Can Alexa or Google Assistant control smart locks?
Smart locks typically have a corresponding app, which is compatible with Alexa, HomeKit, or one of the other voice assistants. This allows you to use voice commands like, "Alexa, lock the door," or "Alexa, is my door locked?" To find out specific voice assistant compatibility, visit the manufacturer's website.
Are smart locks secure?
As with any Wi-Fi-connected device, there's always a small risk the device will be hacked if the user doesn't take steps to protect themselves. However, there's also a risk that someone can breach or pick a regular (non-smart) door lock.
Do smart locks also work with a key?
Some smart locks work with a key and some don't. Smart locks typically allow you to remotely control your lock via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-wave. So, you can operate the lock without a key, and perhaps even when you're away from your home.
Can smart locks work with geofencing?
Some smart locks, like the August Smart Lock, have geofencing. If you set up the geofencing feature, it can detect when you're nearby and unlock the door when you approach.
Do I need a smart doorbell with my smart lock?
A smart lock can help you to prevent or grant access to your home, and it acts as a barrier to entry. However, few smart locks (few good ones at least) have cameras, and a smart lock doesn't provide the same features as a video doorbell, which acts as a sort of digital doorman.
Does a smart lock require a smart home hub?
If you want to use your compatible smart lock with Alexa or Google Assistant, you typically just need any Amazon Echo or Google Home speaker. You shouldn't require a smart home Hub with most locks.
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