Before delving into the 10 must-have smart home devices, let’s take a brief look at IoT technology generally, including what IoT technology is all about!
The term IoT stands for “Internet of Things” – which covers all interactive digital devices that can transmit data through a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer intervention. The growing IoT trends are somewhat amazing because it has drastically changed home automation systems in the world.
A lot of IoT gadgets emerge every year, which are mostly geared towards ensuring safety and keeping the home more organised.
We have researched the Top 10 Must-Have Smart Home Devices you need, particularly those that are expected to drive the next growth of smart home technology.
What is IoT technology?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a system of interrelated digital devices, both computational and mechanical, that can transmit data over a network without requiring human-to-computer or human-to-human interaction, equipped with unique identifiers (UIDs).
You cannot talk of a smart home without including IoT, as the technology behind the smart home, from communication protocols and sensors to APIs and algorithms like AI and machine learning.
When these devices send information to you, including the ability to respond to your commands, it is the basic concept of the smart home and modern home automation systems that all proud homeowners should consider.
10 Must-Have Smart Home Devices You Cannot Miss
Smart Home technology is simply home automation, and automation in exactly how to control all items around the home, from light bulbs to window shades, and even gadgets like TV and sound systems — with just the push of a button or simple voice command.
Find below the 10 must-have Smart Home devices for a modern home. This list has been arranged according to the highest number of reviews and ratings.
Disclaimer: All gadget details listed are based on the latest information available at the time this post was published.
1. Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 provides trustworthy protection with an added dimension thanks to its constant power. The wider view provided by the 1536p HD Head Toe Video on your Video Doorbell allows you to see more of whoever is at the door. The new Bird’s Eye View feature, which offers an overhead map view of your property and explains the historical context of the motion occurrence, is powered by 3D Motion Detection.
You can use the Ring app to connect to all of your Ring devices to monitor your home from anywhere, change your motion settings, and access Live View at any time.
Ready for a smarter, better, and more convenient home? Then go shopping and treat yourself or a loved one for a special occasion such as their anniversary or birthday!
Main Features
- 1536p HD Head-to-Toe Video
- 3D Motion Detection
- Two-Way Talk
- Customisable Privacy Settings
- Enhanced dual-band Wi-Fi
Website: https://en-uk.ring.com/
Price: £199.99
Ratings & Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars with 1664 reviews on Google.
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2. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The all-new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock offers unparalleled convenience and security for homeowners. With its seamless integration into existing deadbolts, users can easily upgrade their doors without sacrificing their original keys. By harnessing the power of built-in Wi-Fi, this smart lock enables remote locking and unlocking, door status monitoring, and guest access management from anywhere via the August app or compatible voice assistants.
Its advanced features, such as auto-locking and unlocking based on proximity, redefine the concept of home security. Moreover, August prioritises customer privacy and data security, implementing robust encryption and authentication measures to ensure peace of mind. Discover a smarter, safer way to manage your front door with the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock.
Main Features
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with DoorSense™ sensor
- Includes (2) CR123 batteries
- Lock adapter & mounting hardware included
- Requires free August app for iOS or Android smartphones
- Wi-Fi® internet connection (802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz) required
- Compatible with existing single-cylinder deadbolts
Website: https://august.com/
Price: $199
Ratings & Reviews: 4.3 out of 5 stars with 1924 reviews on Google.
Social Profile:
- Facebook: 31K Followers
- Twitter: 15.2K Followers
- Instagram: 11.2K Followers
- YouTube: 3.58K Subscribers
- Pinterest: 477 Followers
3. Echo Show 5
The Echo Show 5 is more than just a bedside companion; it’s a multifunctional device designed to enhance your daily routines and keep you connected. With its compact size, it seamlessly fits on your bedside table, offering a range of features to streamline your mornings and evenings. From setting alarms and timers to unwinding with your favourite playlists, the Echo Show 5 caters to your needs with voice-controlled convenience.
The built-in camera allows you to check in on your home, while the option to display your cherished photos adds a personal touch. With video calling capabilities and smart home device control, staying connected and in control has never been easier. Plus, with a focus on privacy, you can rest assured knowing that your data is protected with built-in privacy controls, including a mic/camera off button and a camera cover for added peace of mind.
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Main Features
- Dimensions: 147 mm x 82 mm x 91 mm; Weight: 456 g (may vary by manufacturing process).
- Display: 5.5” touch screen.
- Camera: 2 MP camera with built-in cover (photo quality/size may vary).
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi networks, does not support ad hoc Wi-Fi networks.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Supports A2DP for audio streaming and AVRCP for voice control of connected mobile devices; does not support hands-free voice control for Mac OS X devices or Bluetooth speakers requiring PIN codes.
- Audio: Full range 1.75” built-in speaker.
Price: £89.99
Website: https://www.amazon.co.uk/
Ratings & Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars with 1160 reviews on Google.
Social Profile:
- Facebook: 5.5M Followers
- Twitter: 1.5M Followers
- Instagram: 151K Followers
- LinkedIn: 31M Followers
- YouTube: 97.5K Subscribers
- Pinterest: 5M Followers
4. MI Smart Clock
The Mi Smart Clock offers a sleek and minimalist design with its pure white cover, seamlessly fitting into any room decor. With a selection of 10 clock face designs and customizable colour options, it effortlessly adapts to your style. Its versatility shines as it provides essential information at a glance, powered by Google’s assistance. Whether it’s setting up morning routines to stay organised with weather updates, calendar events, and news, or enjoying your favourite music or podcasts from platforms like YouTube Music or Spotify, the Mi Smart Clock simplifies daily tasks. With built-in Chromecast support, it extends its functionality to stream content on compatible devices with just a voice command. Simply saying “OK Google” initiates hands-free assistance, making waking up and winding down a breeze.
With the Mi Smart Clock, you can seamlessly integrate it with a smart camera to view live feeds directly on its screen, offering convenience and peace of mind. Whether you want to keep an eye on loved ones or monitor your doorstep, this feature enables quick access to what matters most. Moreover, the Mi Smart Clock serves as a central hub for your IoT devices, allowing you to effortlessly control various aspects of your smart home ecosystem.
Main Features
- Dimensions: 113mm x 68mm x 81.5mm
- Weight: 272g (actual weight may vary)
- Display: 4″ with a resolution of 800×480
- Microphone: 2-mic array
- Speaker: 1.5-inch full-range speaker
- Wireless: WiFi 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0
- Supported Systems: Android 4.4, iOS 9.0 and above
- Power Supply: 5V/2A
- Port: Micro-USB
Website: https://www.mi.com/uk
Price: £49.99
Ratings & Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars with 620 reviews on Google.
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5. Wyze Bulb Colour
The upgraded Wyze Bulb White is a budget-friendly lighting solution that enhances any space with its advanced features. With a seamless setup process, users can effortlessly integrate the bulbs into their smart home ecosystem. Its precise colour control capabilities, accessible through the Wyze app, allow users to set the perfect ambience for any occasion, whether it’s a lively game day or a cosy wine night. Custom presets enable quick scene changes with just a tap, offering options like Fort Night, Blue Light, Extra Bright, or Warmer Light.
Additionally, the bulb provides white light temperature control, allowing users to adjust between cool and warm settings for optimal focus or relaxation. With a high CRI rating of 90+, colours appear truer and more vibrant, enhancing the overall aesthetic of any room. Furthermore, users can leverage brilliant notifications to create visual reminders or alerts, ensuring important tasks are never overlooked. Thanks to integration with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, controlling the lights is as simple as issuing a voice command, offering unparalleled convenience and accessibility. The Wyze Bulb White combines affordability with advanced functionality, making it a versatile choice for any smart home setup.
Main Features
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with DoorSense™ sensor
- Includes (2) CR123 batteries
- Lock adapter & mounting hardware included
- Requires free August app for iOS or Android smartphones
- Wi-Fi® internet connection (802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz) required
- Compatible with existing single-cylinder deadbolts
Website: https://www.wyze.com/
Price: $22.99 for a pack of 2.
Ratings & Reviews: 4.3 out of 5 stars with 679 reviews on Google.
Social Profile:
6. ECOVACS DEEBOT X1 OMNI
The first All-in-One OMNI Station in the industry is included with DEEBOT X1 OMNI to provide you with a completely hands-free experience. An ideal hands-free solution that can replenish clean water on its own, separate clean water from sewage, and enable the automatic washing and drying of mop cloths. The OMNI Station doesn’t require frequent disassembly and washing because it can clean itself with just one tap.
After cleaning, the heating appliance may quickly dry the cleaned mopping pad to stop bacteria and odour. The DEEBOT X1 OMNI delivers combined sweep, suction, and strong mop for a deep and efficient clean, guaranteeing no persistent stains remain. It is outfitted with Dual Side Brushes, 5000Pa Suction Power, a Floating Main Brush, and the OZMO Turbo 2.0 Rotating Mopping System.
Main Features
- Suction power: 5000 Pa.
- Rejuvenate your daily life with a thorough cleansing.
- Uses TrueMapping and cutting-edge AIVI 3D technology.
- An immersive YIKO voice assistant that has been given a human touch.
- A beautiful, specifically tailored design created by JACOB JENSEN DESIGN.
Website: https://www.ecovacs.com/uk
Price: £699
Ratings & Reviews: 4.3 out of 5 stars with 538 reviews on Google.
Social Profile:
- Facebook: 738K Followers
- Twitter: 3K Followers
- Instagram: 1.1K Followers
- Linkedin: 5K Followers
- YouTube: 2K Subscribers
7. Instant Pot Pro Plus
The Instant Pot Pro Plus revolutionises cooking with its blend of convenience, efficiency, and versatility. Its wireless connectivity through the Instant Brands Connect app allows users to control it remotely, liberating them from kitchen constraints. With over 1400 recipes available on the app, meal planning becomes effortless, while the energy-efficient design helps save on utility bills. Its ability to cook up to 70% faster than conventional methods makes weekday dinners a breeze.
Even novice home cooks can navigate its 10 functions with ease, from pressure cooking to sous vide. The sleek design and touchscreen display add a modern touch to any kitchen counter. Moreover, features like NutriBoost ensure healthier meals, while safety mechanisms like the easy seal locking lid and pre-programmed steam release alleviate any pressure cooking concerns. With a generous 6-portion capacity, it’s ideal for families and entertaining. With enhanced power and pressure suitable for canning, the Instant Pot Pro Plus sets a new standard in culinary innovation.
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Main Features
- Weight: 7.05 kg
- Product Type: Electric Pressure Cooker
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Size: 5.7L – Air Fryers and Instant Pots
- Special Features: WIFI Connectivity, Programmable
- Dishwasher Safe
- Max Pressure: 15 PSI
- Power Supply: 220-240 V ~ 50-60 Hz
- Wattage: 1200W – Air Fryers and Instant Pots
Website: https://uk.instantbrands.com/
Price: £199.99
Ratings & Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars with 111 reviews on Google.
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8. Kasa Smart WiFi Plug Slim with Energy Monitoring
With its comprehensive features and user-friendly design, the smart plug from Kasa Smart offers unparalleled convenience and safety in managing connected devices. Users can remotely control their appliances and gadgets through their smartphones, ensuring energy efficiency and preventing electrical hazards even when away from home.
The ability to monitor real-time energy consumption empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their usage patterns, ultimately leading to cost savings and reduced environmental impact. Moreover, the plug’s compact design allows for efficient use of outlets, while its guaranteed reliability, including a fireproof shell and UL certification, instils confidence in its safety. Whether it’s setting schedules, grouping devices for seamless control, or simply ensuring peace of mind by double-checking status remotely, the Kasa Smart plug offers a versatile solution for modern living.
Main Features
- System Requirements: iOS 10 or higher, Android 5.0 or higher
- Wireless Type: 2.4 GHz WiFi
- Operating Environment: Temperature: 0 ºC ~ 40 ºC (32°F ~ 104°F), Humidity: 5%~90% RH, Non-condensing
- Dimensions: 66.5 x 38 x 40 mm (without pin)
- Material: UL 94-V0 Flame Retardant PC
- Buttons: Switch/Reset Button
- Input: 100-120 V~, 50/60 Hz
- Maximum Load: 15 A, 1.8 KW for 120 V
Website: https://www.tp-link.com/uk/
Price: £12.99
Ratings & Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars with 39 reviews on Google.
Social Profile:
- Facebook: 2M Followers
- Twitter: 9K Followers
- Instagram: 5.3 Followers
- Linkedin: 5K Followers
- YouTube: 1.83K Subscribers
9. Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Hi-Fi
The sensor mirror hi-fi with Alexa built-in revolutionises the makeup routine, offering not only impeccable lighting with its true-lux system but also an immersive audio experience through its custom-designed high-fidelity speaker. Users can seamlessly integrate their favourite music or podcasts into their morning routine, setting the perfect ambience for the day ahead.
With intuitive controls and the convenience of Alexa, adjusting the volume or selecting playlists becomes effortless, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable preparation process. Additionally, the mirror’s 5x magnification provides exceptional detail without sacrificing the overall view of the face, making it an indispensable tool for achieving flawless makeup application.
Main Features
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Power Source: Plug-in
- Magnification: 5x
- Brightness: 100-800 lux
- Colour-rendering index: 95 CRI
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth®️ 4.2, AirPlay®️ 2, Spotify Connect
- Mirror Glass: Ultra-clear, high-quality glass backed by high-quality aluminium coating
Website: https://www.simplehuman.co.uk/
Price: £349.95
Ratings & Reviews: 3.8 out of 5 stars with 35 reviews on Google.
Social Profile:
- Facebook: 108K Followers
- Instagram: 217K Followers
- Twitter: 4.5K Followers
- YouTube: 3.94K Subscribers
- Pinterest: 5K Follower
10. Reolink Duo Floodlight PoE
Reolink Duo Floodlight PoE is an excellent video monitoring system, electrical power source, or Wi-Fi access. A pair of 15 W reflectors with 1800 lumens and 4200K brightness are mounted on the dual-lens camera. This camera’s 180° field of view, two lenses, and reflectors enable it to illuminate and watch over any part of your land. This reflex camera’s 8-megapixel high resolution enables it to catch every detail and deliver stunning 4K footage.
Keep an eye on your house as though you were there. This camera is capable of precisely detecting both people and cars as well as animals. The lights and siren are automatically turned on when something questionable is discovered. You can respond to circumstances instantly thanks to an integrated microphone and speaker.
Main Features
- Outdoor PoE IP Camera with 180° Ultra-Wide Angle
- Human/Vehicle/Pet Detection
- 1800 Lumen Floodlight
- Waterproof
- Two Way Talk
- Duo Floodlight PoE
Website: https://reolink.com/gb/
Price: £139.39
Ratings & Reviews: 4.4 out of 5 stars with 9 reviews on Google
Social Profile:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolution of IoT technology has propelled the advancement of smart home devices, revolutionising the way we interact with our living spaces. From intelligent assistants like the Amazon Echo Dot and Lenovo Smart Clock to innovative security solutions such as the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, these devices offer unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Moreover, the integration of advanced features like AI, machine learning, and voice control enhances the functionality and accessibility of these devices, empowering users to streamline their daily routines and create personalised environments tailored to their preferences.
As we continue to witness the rapid expansion of the IoT ecosystem, it’s clear that smart home technology will play an increasingly integral role in shaping the future of modern living. Whether it’s enhancing comfort, improving security, or promoting energy efficiency, these must-have smart home devices represent the pinnacle of innovation in home automation.
Ultimately, investing in these devices isn’t just about embracing the latest tech trends—it’s about creating a more connected, efficient, and enjoyable home environment for years to come. So why wait? Embrace the future of smart living today and elevate your home to new heights of sophistication and convenience.
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