Although it might take a few years for some people to get on board with new technology, they can’t ignore that smart home devices are making life more convenient. We have come a long way since The Clapper. Now, you can use apps and voice commands to turn on your lights, play music, and change your thermostat.
The best smart devices of 2019 are easy to use and can even be networked together, so you can perform multiple functions.
Ring Video Doorbell 2
The Ring Video Doorbell 2 has a sleek design, performs well, and is easy to install. It doesn’t need to be hardwired. As such, you can set it up within minutes.
After you receive the device, set up the mobile app. It will walk you through the installation steps. You can wire the Ring Video Doorbell 2 to your existing doorbell. On the other hand, you can use it independently, but you might need to use a device such as Ring Chime Pro. This extends your Wi-Fi signal, so you hear the doorbell throughout your home.
The Ring Video Doorbell 2 detects motion and monitors your home. You can access the live video through the mobile app, even if you’re not on the property. You’ll receive alerts when someone rings the doorbell or moves in front of the device. Users can view, hear, and talk to visitors from a tablet, phone, or computer.
Some of the best features of this smart home device include:
- Alexa compatibility;
- Two-way talk;
- Motion-activated alerts;
- 1080HD video with live view, and;
- Quick-release battery.
This Ring Video Doorbell 2 is currently on sale for $165 at Newegg.
Amazon Echo Dot
The Amazon Echo Dot is a smart speaker that works with Alexa. The speaker plays 360-degree audio with dynamic, crisp sound. You can use your voice to control the music that you play via Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, SiriusXM, Pandora, and other services.
However, the speaker does more than play music. You can use the voice control features to manage other integrated smart devices around the house. If you have more than one Echo, you can use the devices as intercoms to communicate with other family members in your house.
Alexa also has skills that extend its functionality. You can make grocery lists, play games, answer trivia questions, and make announcements. The Echo can even be set up to make and receive phone calls.
Some of the best features of this device include:
- Clear sound;
- Voice controls;
- Easy to use with the Alexa app;
- Hundreds of Alexa skills, and;
- Privacy features.
The third-generation Amazon Echo Dot is currently on sale for $29.99 at Best Buy. That’s a savings of $20.
Nest Thermostat E
The Nest Thermostat E looks clean and simple on the wall. Even though it’s packed with features, it’s easy to use. This is the ideal smart thermostat for people who are just getting used to the technology because it’s streamlined and simple to understand.
As long as your HVAC system is compatible with the Nest Thermostat E, the device is easy to install. Simply remove your old thermostat and attach the wires to the new one accordingly. Once it’s connected to the app, the thermostat can be controlled remotely. With it set, you can set a schedule for heating and cooling throughout the week.
One of the features that make this device so smart is that it learns your routine. Just start using it for a few weeks. Eventually, the device will understand your patterns and adjust automatically.
Some of the best features of this device include:
- Proximity sensor shows temperature information when you approach the device;
- Home/Away Assist adjusts the thermostat based on your location;
- Saves money on your heating bills, and;
- Compatible with many smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa and Google Home.
The Nest Thermostat E is currently on sale at Walmart for $169.
Belkin WeMo Insight Smart Plug
The Belkin WeMo Insight is a small box that plugs into a regular outlet. This smart plug regulates the devices that are plugged into it. It even monitors your energy usage, which can be a valuable benefit if you’re trying to save money on your power bill.
Once you set up the device, you can control it via an app. This means you can turn devices on and off without getting up. Plus, you can schedule connected electronics to turn on and off.
This smart plug integrates with the Nest Thermostat to adjust device power based on your schedule. In addition to working with Nest, the gadget is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. If you buy the WeMo Bridge, you can use it with the Apple HomeKit.
This Belkin WeMo Insight is currently on sale at Amazon for $32.99.
August Smart Lock Pro
The August Smart Lock Pro is a sturdy, secure smart lock that lets you use your old key. It fits over the deadbolt.
Installation is simple. Use a screwdriver to put the lock on your door and set up the device via the app. The app controls the lock and unlock function of the device. If you don’t have your phone handy, you can use a key.
The app allows you to automate functions. For example, you can set the device to lock when you leave a specific radius around your home. It can unlock when you arrive home, which prevents you from having to dig out your keys when your hands are full.
Although the August Smart Lock Pro is compatible with many smart home systems, you need to install the Connect Wi-Fi adapter to use it with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Some off the best features of this device include:
- Smart alerts tell you whether the door is locked or unlocked;
- Automated locking and unlocking based on your location, and;
- Tracks doorstep activity around the clock.
This device is currently on sale at Amazon for $194, which is about $36 in savings.
Conclusion
Smart home devices can make your life easier and more comfortable. Although they’re not necessary, they can save you time. Some of these gadgets, like the smart thermostat and plug, can even save you money.
Find the best deals by comparing prices online and make sure that the tool suits your needs by reading reviews.