The smart home industry is booming in 2024, with new products like the Amazon Echo Show 21 hitting the market. The good news is that smart home technology is no longer just for tech enthusiasts; it’s becoming mainstream. However, we still have a long way to go before all smart home ecosystems are fully integrated. While the Matter standard aims to unify smart home systems, it still has a ways to go, especially when it comes to certain categories like security cameras and video doorbells.
Best Video Doorbell for Alexa Users: Ring Battery Doorbell Plus
Ring Battery Doorbell Plus is a top choice for Alexa users, offering a wide range of features like a 150-degree field of view, package detection, and high-resolution video quality. It’s easy to install and can run on either battery or low-voltage power, making it a versatile option for smart homes.
Best Video Doorbell for Apple Home Users: Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
The Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 may seem quirky to some users, but it offers unique features like facial recognition and support for Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video. While it may not have the highest video resolution, its compatibility with Apple devices makes it a great choice for Apple Home users.
Best Video Doorbell in the Google Home Ecosystem: Nest Doorbell (Battery)
The Nest Doorbell (Battery) may have been released in 2021, but it still stands out as one of the best doorbells for Google Home users. With features like facial recognition and local image processing, it offers privacy and security for users in the Google ecosystem.
Best Smart Display for Alexa Users: Amazon Echo Show 8
The Amazon Echo Show 8 remains a top choice for Alexa users, thanks to its Matter compatibility and ability to control a wide range of smart home devices. With features like video calls and streaming capabilities, it’s a versatile smart display for any home.
Best Smart Display for Google Home Users: Google Nest Hub Max
Despite being a few years old, the Google Nest Hub Max is still a standout smart display for Google Home users. With features like face recognition and support for Thread devices, it offers convenience and functionality in a sleek design.
Best Smart Speaker for Alexa Users: Amazon Echo Spot (2024)
The Amazon Echo Spot is a fantastic smart speaker with a range of features, including Matter support and motion detection. It’s a great addition to any smart home, offering both smart home control and audio performance in one device.
Best Smart Speaker for Google Home Users: Google Nest Audio
The Google Nest Audio remains a top choice for Google Home users, offering high-quality sound and compatibility with a wide range of smart home devices. With the promise of a more conversational Google Assistant, it’s a great addition to any smart home setup.
Best Smart Lighting Ecosystem Overall: Philips Hue
Philips Hue continues to lead the way in smart lighting, offering a robust ecosystem and compatibility with all major smart home platforms. While the initial cost may be higher, the reliability and functionality of Philips Hue lights make them a worthwhile investment for any smart home.
Best Lighting-Control System Overall: Lutron Caséta
Lutron Caséta is a top choice for smart home enthusiasts looking for convenient lighting control. With compatibility across multiple smart home platforms and a range of devices, Lutron Caséta offers flexibility and convenience for users looking to upgrade their lighting systems.
Best Smart Thermostat Overall: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a top choice for smart home users, offering energy savings and convenience in one device. With compatibility across multiple smart home platforms and the ability to function as a hub for other devices, it’s a versatile addition to any smart home setup.
Best Smart Thermostat for Google Home Users: Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen)
The Nest Learning Thermostat is a top choice for Google Home users, offering Matter compatibility and a sleek design. With features like Dynamic Foresight technology, it offers convenience and energy savings for users looking to upgrade their thermostat.
Best Smart Lock Overall: Level Lock+
The Level Lock+ is a top choice for smart home users looking for convenience and security. With a discreet design and a range of access options, including touch, smartphone app, and NFC card, it offers flexibility and functionality for any smart home setup.
Best Home Security Camera Overall: Arlo Pro 5S 2K
The Arlo Pro 5S 2K is a top choice for home security, offering high-resolution video quality and compatibility across multiple smart home platforms. With features like color night vision and onboard storage options, it’s a versatile and reliable option for any home security setup.
Best Home Security Camera for Alexa Users: Ring Stick Up Cam Pro
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is a top choice for Alexa users, offering radar motion detection and color night vision. With multiple power options and integration with Ring Alarm Pro, it’s a versatile and reliable option for home security.
Best Home Security Camera for Google Home Users: Nest Cam
The Nest Cam is a top choice for Google Home users, offering a sleek design and easy installation. With features like facial recognition and high-resolution video quality, it’s a reliable and functional option for any home security setup.
Best Floodlight Camera Overall: Eufy Floodlight Cam E340
The Eufy Floodlight Camera E340 is a top choice for users looking for high-quality video and advanced features. With dual cameras and motion-tracking capabilities, it offers comprehensive coverage and security for any outdoor space.
Best Smart Home Hub Overall: Samsung SmartThings Station
The Samsung SmartThings Station is a top choice for users looking to build a smart home ecosystem. With compatibility with a wide range of smart home devices and easy installation, it offers convenience and functionality for users looking to upgrade their home.
Best DIY Home Security System Overall: Ring Alarm Pro
The Ring Alarm Pro is a top choice for users looking for a comprehensive home security system. With features like battery and cellular backup and Z-Wave support, it offers peace of mind and security for any home setup.
Best Smart Delivery Box: Loxx Boxx Classic
The Loxx Boxx Classic is a top choice for users looking to secure their deliveries. With features like Wi-Fi connectivity and cloud integration, it offers convenience and security for users looking to protect their packages from porch pirates.
In conclusion, the smart home industry is thriving in 2024, with a wide range of products and systems available to enhance convenience and security in the home. Whether you’re looking for a smart doorbell, security camera, lighting system, or smart speaker, there are plenty of options to choose from to create a fully integrated smart home ecosystem.