The Ultimate List of Smart Home Essentials
Building a smart home can make daily life more convenient, secure, and enjoyable. With the right gadgets, you can automate routines, monitor your space from anywhere, and even reduce energy bills. But with so many devices available, it can be tough to know which ones are actually worth investing in. To make it easier, here’s the ultimate list of smart home essentials for creating a connected, modern home. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, these devices will form the foundation of a smart home that works for you.
Table of Contents
A list of smart devices that will turn your home into a smart house
1. Smart Speaker with Voice Assistant
A smart speaker with a built-in voice assistant is the backbone of most smart home setups. Not only does it let you play music, check the weather, or set reminders, but it also acts as a hub, allowing you to control other smart devices with simple voice commands.
Popular Options:
- Amazon Echo with Alexa
- Google Nest Hub with Google Assistant
- Apple HomePod Mini with Siri
2. Smart Lighting
Smart lighting lets you control brightness, color, and even scheduling from your smartphone or by voice. Set up automations to turn lights on or off based on time, room occupancy, or even sunrise and sunset. Some smart bulbs can even change colors, creating the perfect ambiance for any occasion.
Popular Options:
- Philips Hue (offers a wide color range and extensive app integration)
- Wyze Bulbs (affordable and versatile)
- LIFX Bulbs (bright, color-changing options without the need for a hub)
3. Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a must-have for energy-conscious homeowners. It learns your temperature preferences and adjusts automatically, helping to save on heating and cooling costs. You can also control it remotely, ensuring your home is always at the right temperature.
Popular Options:
- Nest Learning Thermostat (learns your routine and adjusts accordingly)
- ecobee SmartThermostat (includes room sensors for more precise control)
- Honeywell Home T9 (great for larger spaces with additional room sensors)
4. Smart Security Cameras
Smart security cameras allow you to monitor your home in real time, providing a live feed you can access from anywhere. Many models include motion detection and night vision, giving you peace of mind around the clock. Some even offer two-way audio, so you can communicate with visitors remotely.
Popular Options:
- Ring Stick Up Cam (indoor/outdoor use with motion-activated notifications)
- Arlo Pro (weather-resistant, high-quality video)
- Wyze Cam (budget-friendly with free cloud storage)
5. Smart Doorbell
A smart doorbell lets you see and talk to visitors at your door, whether you’re home or away. Many models feature motion detection, HD video, and two-way audio. This is a great security measure, allowing you to screen visitors and monitor package deliveries.
Popular Options:
- Ring Video Doorbell (various models with different features)
- Nest Doorbell (high-quality video and familiar face detection)
- Eufy Video Doorbell (budget-friendly with local storage options)
6. Smart Lock
A smart lock provides convenience and security, allowing you to lock and unlock your door remotely, set up access codes for guests, and receive notifications when someone enters. Many smart locks integrate seamlessly with voice assistants, letting you secure your home hands-free.
Popular Options:
- August Smart Lock (works with your existing deadbolt)
- Schlage Encode (built-in Wi-Fi and Alexa compatibility)
- Yale Assure Lock (works with various smart home systems)
7. Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are an affordable, flexible way to bring “smart” control to almost any device. They’re ideal for automating appliances like lamps, fans, or coffee makers, letting you turn them on or off remotely or set schedules for efficiency.
Popular Options:
- TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (easy to use, works without a hub)
- Wemo Smart Plug (compact design, compatible with multiple systems)
- Amazon Smart Plug (seamlessly integrates with Alexa)
8. Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety is a top priority, and smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can send alerts directly to your phone. Some models also integrate with other devices to trigger actions, like turning on lights or unlocking doors in case of an emergency.
Popular Options:
- Nest Protect (sends alerts and includes a self-test feature)
- First Alert Onelink (compatible with Apple HomeKit and Alexa)
- Kidde Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Detector (reliable and budget-friendly)
9. Smart Vacuum
A smart vacuum is an excellent addition for keeping your floors clean without lifting a finger. You can schedule cleanings, control it from your phone, and some models even have advanced mapping capabilities to cover every inch of your home.
Popular Options:
- iRobot Roomba i7+ (advanced mapping, self-emptying bin)
- Eufy RoboVac (affordable and effective for small spaces)
- Shark IQ Robot (self-emptying and Wi-Fi connected)
10. Smart Home Hub
If you have a mix of devices from different brands, a smart home hub can centralize control. Some hubs support various communication protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave, allowing devices to work together more smoothly. Many hubs are built into voice assistants, but standalone options also exist.
Popular Options:
- Samsung SmartThings Hub (supports multiple protocols)
- Amazon Echo (many models include built-in hubs)
- Apple HomePod (integrates with HomeKit)
11. Smart Blinds
Smart blinds offer a touch of luxury, allowing you to adjust window coverings with your voice or phone. You can set schedules for when to open and close blinds, letting in natural light during the day or adding privacy at night.
Popular Options:
- Lutron Serena Shades (compatible with various smart home systems)
- IKEA FYRTUR (affordable, battery-operated shades)
- SOMA Smart Shades (compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant)
12. Smart Kitchen Appliances
If you love cooking, smart kitchen appliances can make meal prep easier and more enjoyable. From Wi-Fi-connected ovens to coffee makers you can start from your phone, smart kitchen gadgets bring convenience to your cooking routine.
Popular Options:
- Instant Pot Smart WiFi (control cooking from your phone)
- June Oven (smart cooking modes and app integration)
- Anova Precision Cooker (Wi-Fi sous-vide cooking)
13. Smart Home Security System
A full smart home security system offers protection beyond cameras and doorbells, integrating sensors, alarms, and motion detectors that you can monitor from one app. Some systems also provide optional professional monitoring services for added peace of mind.
Popular Options:
- SimpliSafe (DIY installation, no contracts)
- Ring Alarm System (works with other Ring devices for full coverage)
- Abode (customizable with optional professional monitoring)
Getting Started with Your Smart Home Essentials
If you’re just starting out, focus on a few core devices like a smart speaker, lighting, and security cameras. These essentials provide convenience and security, laying the foundation for a more connected home. Over time, you can expand by adding devices like a smart thermostat, smart plugs, or even kitchen appliances, tailoring your setup to meet your needs.
Building Your Ultimate Smart Home
Creating a smart home doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. By starting with a few essentials and gradually adding devices, you can build a home that makes life easier, more secure, and more enjoyable. The right smart home setup will work seamlessly in the background, giving you more control, convenience, and peace of mind.