Whilst you may be aware of the popular Google Home and Amazon’s Alexa-enabled devices, you may not realise that smart devices now include everything from light bulbs to thermostats, televisions and sprinklers — all allowing users to monitor their usage and control all settings even when they’re not at home.
For those who are unaware, a smart home means placing a home automation system that can sync your entertainment, lighting, climate and security devices into one singular hub. This technological advancement encourages an easier lifestyle where you can change settings around your home with an instant click and without having to even get up to do so.
In 2020, we are already seeing some of the best devices that could give your home the update it desperately needs. If you are intrigued and ready to start your journey to a smart home, here are five, easy-to-install devices that every home should feature.
Philips Hue Starter Kit, £149.95
If you dislike coming home to a dark room, then a smart lightbulb could be the answer to your troubles. The Philips Hue Starter Kit allows you to use your voice to ask your hub to turn the lights on — simple and effective.
One of the benefits of a smart lightbulb — apart from the simplicity — is that you can also brighten, set the mood and even place a timer by using your phone. The Phillips Hue is the best brand on the market for smart lightbulbs, which is why anyone interested should invest in their very own starter kit.
An array of benefits spring to mind, as installing a smart lighting system can save you money on your future electricity bills, it’s bulbs last more than 25,000 hours, keeps noisy neighbours and intruders at bay when you’re away from home, and you can control the ambience of your home with a quick swipe on your phone — is there anything better?
Sonos One Smart Speaker, £199
Arguably the best smart speaker on the market, Sonos One is the perfect blend of the ever-improving Alexa and Sonos, which offers multi-room smart technology and unrivalled sound performance.
With the Sonos One, you can ask the Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa to help you with a question, check the news, play music and podcasts, set alarms and much more, completely hands-free.
The compact modern design will allow you to place it anywhere, even in the bathroom as it is humidity-resistant. The setup will only take minutes and you can control it easily from the Sonos app, AirPlay 2, and your voice.
Ring Video Doorbell 2, £179
Whether you’re someone who is at home regularly or constantly away travelling, a Ring Video Doorbell certainly comes in handy.
Pair it with your WiFi to answer the door remotely from wherever you may be or communicate with visitors via the built-in microphone and two-way talk. Similarly, the Ring will send you alerts to your phone when someone approaches your door — perfect for keeping an eye on deliveries and to detect any unexpected activity.
Google Nest Thermostat, £205
Simply control your home’s temperature from your phone or voice assistant — wonderfully innovated. This will not only make your life easier, but it will also help you save plenty of energy and money.
The Google Nest app on your phone can easily help you control and adjust the settings to your desired temps so no need to panic if you’ve left your home in a hurry and forgot to turn the heat down. Imagine being able to warm your home in the winter whilst you’re out so that you can enter a cosy environment when you walk through the door.
LG OLED C9, £1,499
There has never been a better time to invest in a Smart TV, as improvements in the last few years have developed its technology to a fantastic level. If you are in search of better streaming potential and advanced voice control, then the LG OLED C9 is the one for you.
With a minimalist design and very intuitive smart algorithm, this smart TV offers the latest apps that can help you have a breathtaking experience. Featuring an excellent performance thanks to its flawless picture quality, excellent voice control and the perfect cinematic experience, this is the best smart TV on the market, specifically in streaming.
