Best Home Automation Systems of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
For an easy side-by-side view, take a look at this table that shows all of the home automation systems at a glance. Individuals can take a look at the features that matter most to them and see which gadgets rise to the top.
Provider | Total Score | Price | BBB Rating | DIY instal | Trial Period | Battery Backup | Detection Range | Energy Saver | HD Quality | Integrations | Mobile Alerts | Night Vision | Two-Way Audio | Voice Commands |
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1. ADT Pulse | 9.6/10 | $99 | A+ | NO | 30 days | No | 30 ft | No | 720p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
2. Echo Dot | 9.5/10 | $22+ | A- | YES | 90 day | No | N/A | Yes | N/A | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
3. August Lock | 9.2/10 | $119 | A+ | YES | NO | No | ~10 ft | No | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | Yes |
4. Ring Doorbell | 8.8/10 | $199 | C | YES | 30 days | Yes | 30 ft | No | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
5. Sonos One | 8.8/10 | $169 | A+ | YES | 100 days | No | ~10 ft | No | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | Yes |
6. Samsung TV | 8.6/10 | $599.99+ | A+ | YES | 7 days | No | N/A | Yes | 4K | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | Yes |
7. Philips Hue | 8.6/10 | $27.99+ | A- | YES | 7 days | Yes | N/A | Yes | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | Yes |
8. Nest Hello | 8.4/10 | $229 | B- | YES | 30 days | Yes | 15 ft | No | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
9. Nest Therm | 8.3/10 | $139 | B- | YES | 30 days | Yes | 50 ft | Yes | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | No |
10. Ecobee Therm | 8.1/10 | $199.99 | F | YES | 30 days | Yes | 45 ft | Yes | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | Yes |
Factors to Consider When Building a Smart Home Device
Creating the ideal integrated system takes time, so be sure to use these tips to get started. Consider the following factors to ensure that the project is affordable but also accessible.
1. System Preference
It’s best to have a product that works together with an automated system or hub, rather than functioning on its own.
2. Blackouts
Just because the power goes out, it doesn’t mean that the entire system needs to shut down. Look for cellular or battery backup.
3. Connectivity & Security
Not only does the network need to be strong, but it should be encrypted so hackers can’t get in.
4. User-Friendliness
There’s no point in having advanced technology if it’s not intuitive and responsive.
5. Equipment & Other Costs
Be sure to consider the initial fee as well as additional charges for installation or activation.
The Best Smart Home Device Features To Look for
Now that the basic idea is covered, here are the key benefits to look for in any automation system. Things like being able to turn the gadget on and off with a single word or investing in a product for long-term savings. It makes a world of difference.
- Efficiency (saves time, cuts bills, etc.)
- Spoken Commands (hands-free, Alexa compatibility, etc.)
- Mobile App Control (remote arm/disarm, view video history, etc.)
- Device Syncing (third-party integrations, mobile compatibility, power hub)
- Cut Energy Use (power-saver mode, automatic shut-off, etc.)
- Quick Connect (access the system while away, text alerts)
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the Best Smart Home Hub?
First, it’s a good idea to narrow down the categories of smart home gadgets. For instance, there are cameras, lights, and entire control panels. Moreover, these options aren’t one-size-fits-all. Consumers should consider their primary concerns when shopping around. They may value live-streaming footage, or perhaps they want accurate motion detection. Others may prefer the ability to control their appliances while they’re out of town. This list is the best place to start the search.
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Are Smart Home Devices Safe?
Yes, especially since most smart home systems come with unique privacy settings and customized modes that give consumers power over their systems. Lots of accessories are password-protected, and others encrypt user data to prevent hacks. That said, it’s always important to practice common sense and refrain from giving out passcodes and other sensitive details.
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Do Smart Homes Require a Hub?
Not all the time. Some of the best home automation kits work without a primary power source or panel. They may function together with other appliances or on their own. It depends on the provider or brand. On the other hand, some units require a hub to allow all of the accessories to communicate with each other.
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Can Smart Home Devices be Hacked?
Yes, but this is very uncommon in 2021. These days, the large majority of smart home products have encrypted passwords and advanced privacy protection. Plus, those that have 24/7 monitoring have the extra backup of expert technicians. To prevent hackers, families should keep passcodes to themselves and change the default settings once they receive the kit.
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What is the Benefit of a Smart Home Hub?
Some home automation devices work on their own, but others require connection with a hub or base station. This is like the brains of the entire operation and can serve as an all-in-one product. It’s convenient because it can sync with the system’s other appliances to create a more robust protection plan. That said, it’s not always necessary to purchase a base, as many items can work fine by themselves.
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Are Smart Homes a Good Idea?
Yes, especially as more products and services go online. Today, there are plenty of ways for people to make their properties work for them. For instance, intelligent bulbs and lights can ensure that individuals use energy wisely. Moreover, surveillance cameras and motion detectors keep young kids safer. Plus, all of this is accessible straight from a phone.
A Last Look at 2021`s Winners
These 10 home automation devices are worth checking out, especially for those who want to feel safer in the new year. Not only can these appliances make life easier, but they can help reduce bills and make monotonous tasks a bit more enjoyable. Whether someone is living alone or with a large family, there’s a perfect kit waiting for them.