2025 The Best Smart Home Devices
These days, there’s a smart version of pretty much every home device you can think of. These products (usually) connect to the internet, so you can control them from your phone through a companion app. Most also work with various forms of voice control. What follows is a rundown of the best smart devices we’ve tested for every area of the house. There are so many products that we’ve arranged them by room to help keep things organized, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use most of these gadgets just about anywhere. Make sure to check back soon, as we’re regularly testing new products and adding them to this guide.
At the ultimate smart home, you’re met with technology before you even step through the front door. Some of the most useful connected home gadgets reside in the front yard, starting with outdoor security cameras. Our top pick overall for keeping tabs on your home from your phone is the TP-Link Tapo C120. This high-resolution, weather-resistant security camera not only captures motion-triggered video, but sends free intelligent alerts that differentiate between people, pets, vehicles, and other motion events. For a model with 2K video, color night vision, and built-in spotlights, you can’t beat its price.
For those times you want to check whether it’s a delivery person or an unwanted solicitor knocking on your door, a video doorbell will let you see who’s there without getting up from the couch. Beyond this convenience, video doorbells can serve as the first line of defense against property theft, home invasion, and porch pirates. They not only let you see and speak with the person outside, but they also record footage of visitors approaching your door while you’re away or unable to answer. Our favorite model, the Arlo Video Doorbell, delivers clear HD or 2K video with a wide 180-degree diagonal field of view, allows for either a wired or wireless setup, works with many third-party devices, and supports voice control.
Another piece of technology you might want on your front door is a smart lock. Arguably the most important part of a truly connected home, these devices offer both security and convenience, letting you come and go as you please, and monitor who is entering and leaving your home while you’re away. Our current top pick is the Ultraloq Bolt Fingerprint, which adds HomeKit support to our previous favorite while remaining a dependable and versatile smart lock that lets you gain entry or lock up with your voice and fingerprint, as well as via keypad, mobile app, or traditional keys.
If you want privacy but still like to let the sun in, the Feather River Doors Smart Glass offers the best of both worlds. This smart entry door switches between opaque and transparent glass at the push of a button or a voice command.
For the highest level of protection, consider a professionally monitored smart home security system. One of our top picks, ADT Command, is a hefty investment, but it offers virtually everything you need for maximum protection. Compared with Vivint, another Editors’ Choice winner, ADT is a bit pricier but offers superior customer service.
For a more affordable alternative, do-it-yourself smart home security systems are ideal for homeowners who want to save money by monitoring their homes themselves. The SimpliSafe Home Security System, our favorite DIY option, lets you secure and monitor your home from afar without spending a bundle or signing a long-term contract.
