13 Superior Smart Home Tech for 2024

Introducing the future of smart home technology: 13 Superior Smart Home Tech for 2023. As the world hurtles towards advanced connectivity and automation, the realm of smart homes is undergoing a rapid evolution. With each passing year, new innovations are reshaping the way we live, enhancing our comfort, convenience, and security. In this article, we will explore thirteen cutting-edge smart home technologies that are set to revolutionize the way we interact with our living spaces. From intelligent home assistants to immersive virtual reality systems, these superior technologies promise to bring us ever closer to the futuristic and seamlessly integrated homes we've always dreamed of.

Overall Score: 8/10

The August Home Smart Keypad is a convenient and secure solution for granting access to your home. With unique keycodes, you can easily give friends, family, guests, and service people access to your home without the need for physical keys. This keypad pairs with your August Smart Lock via Bluetooth and can be mounted anywhere within Bluetooth range. It's perfect for Airbnb, vacation rentals, or home shares, eliminating the need for bulky combination lock boxes or hiding keys under the mat. The one-touch locking feature allows for easy locking even without a phone or keys. With easy installation and compatibility with most August Smart Locks, the August Home Smart Keypad offers an additional layer of security and convenience.

The August Home Smart Keypad is a reliable and user-friendly device that makes granting access to your home effortless. It offers the convenience of keyless entry with unique keycodes, eliminating the need for physical keys or cumbersome lockboxes. The keypad is easy to install and pairs seamlessly with your August Smart Lock via Bluetooth. While it may lack some durability, its compact design and one-touch locking feature make it a highly practical solution. Overall, the August Home Smart Keypad is a great addition to any home, providing both security and convenience.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is a versatile smart home Wi-Fi outlet that works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home, and IFTTT. With no hub required and remote control capabilities, this 2-pack of white smart plugs offers convenience and functionality. Add voice control to any outlet and control your home electronic appliances hands-free. Turn electronics on and off from anywhere with your smartphone using the Kasa app. Schedule your smart plug to automatically turn on and off appliances like lamps, fans, and Christmas lights. The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is easy to set up and use, and it is trusted and reliable, being UL certified for safety use.

The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is a reliable and convenient smart home Wi-Fi outlet. With voice control, remote access, and scheduling options, it offers the flexibility to control your home electronic appliances from anywhere. The easy setup and use make it a user-friendly choice. However, some users have reported issues with compatibility and durability, so it’s important to be aware of these potential limitations. Overall, for those looking to add smart capabilities to their homes, the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 is a solid choice, offering convenience, functionality, and the trusted reputation of the Kasa brand.

Overall Score: 8.5/10

The Bose TV Speaker is a small soundbar designed to improve TV sound quality. Its wide, natural sound and enhanced dialogue feature create a more realistic audio experience. With Bluetooth capability, it can also be used to wirelessly stream music and podcasts from your devices. The setup is simple, requiring only a single connection to the TV. The compact size allows for easy placement in front of the TV or wall mounting. The Bose TV Speaker comes with a remote control that enables dialogue mode and bass boost. It is also compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 for additional bass. Overall, this soundbar provides excellent sound quality in a compact and user-friendly design.

The Bose TV Speaker is a great solution for anyone looking to enhance their TV sound experience. With its wide, natural sound and enhanced dialogue feature, it provides a more immersive audio experience. The simple setup and compact size make it easy to install and place in any living room. The option to connect via Bluetooth allows for wireless streaming of music and podcasts. While it may get warm during use and the power light cannot be turned off, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the overall performance and quality of the soundbar. If you’re in need of better TV sound without the hassle of a complex setup, the Bose TV Speaker is a reliable choice.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a high-tech, secure and convenient solution for entry door access. With support for Apple Home and Home Key, you can easily unlock the door using your iPhone or Apple Watch, and manage guest access in Apple Home. The lock offers multiple ways to unlock, including fingerprint recognition, configurable passwords, and a mechanical key for emergencies. It is compatible with popular smart home ecosystems like Google Home, Alexa, and IFTTT, and can be integrated into various smart home automations. The lock also features auto-lock and do not disturb modes, providing extra convenience and peace of mind. With its durable construction and long battery life, the Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a reliable and secure biometric door lock. Overall, it is a versatile and feature-rich smart lock that offers convenience, security, and compatibility with Apple HomeKit and other smart home ecosystems.

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a highly versatile and feature-rich smart lock that offers convenience, security, and compatibility with Apple HomeKit and other smart home ecosystems. With its integration with Apple Home and Home Key, multiple ways to unlock, automations with third-party devices, and durable construction, it provides a seamless and secure door access solution. While there are some minor concerns with the NFC card sold separately and the plastic quality of the inside part, the overall performance and functionality of the lock are commendable. With its long battery life, it ensures reliable and hassle-free usage. Whether you are an Apple user or a smart home enthusiast, the Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a top choice for enhancing your home security and convenience.

Overall Score: 7.5/10

My Smart Home for Seniors is a comprehensive book that provides general information about smart technologies, making it a valuable resource for those new to the subject. While it may be slightly out of date, published in 2017, it offers a basic understanding of smart home automation. The book covers various topics in great detail and includes ideas for implementation. However, it may not be ideal for the UK/EU market as some brand reviews might not be relevant. With a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, it has received positive reviews for its informative content. However, some readers found it to be lacking in senior-specific automation solutions. Overall, My Smart Home for Seniors is a useful guide for beginners looking to bring smart technology into their homes.

My Smart Home for Seniors is a comprehensive guide that offers valuable insights into smart technologies. While it may be slightly outdated, it still serves as a useful resource for beginners. The book covers a wide range of topics in detail, providing readers with a good understanding of smart home automation. However, it is important to note that it may not cater to the specific needs of seniors looking for automation solutions. Overall, if you’re new to the world of smart homes and are seeking a comprehensive introduction, My Smart Home for Seniors can be a helpful starting point.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Sifely Smart Lock is a keyless entry door lock that offers a range of convenient features for homeowners, rental hosts, and property managers. With its advanced 3D fingerprint technology, you can unlock the door in less than 0.3 seconds. The 5-in-1 keyless entry system includes fingerprint, passcode, fob, smartphone, and key access options. Installation is quick and easy, requiring only a Phillips screwdriver. The lock is reversible for both left and right-handed doors. With the optional Sifely WiFi Gateway, you can control the lock remotely and set up codes from anywhere. The app/software is free to use and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year product warranty. Overall, the Sifely Smart Lock offers convenience, security, and peace of mind for any smart home or rental property.

The Sifely Smart Lock is a reliable and convenient solution for homeowners, rental hosts, and property managers. With its advanced 3D fingerprint technology and multiple access options, it offers both security and ease of use. The easy installation process and reversible door handle make it accessible for anyone. The optional WiFi gateway provides remote control and access management, adding an extra layer of convenience. While there have been some reported issues with fingerprint recognition, overall the lock performs well and is backed by excellent customer support. With its satisfaction guarantee, the Sifely Smart Lock is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to upgrade their home or rental property security.

Overall Score: 8/10

The SCHLAGE Z-Wave Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt is a high-quality and secure deadbolt that offers convenience and peace of mind. It features a touch screen keypad and lock cylinder on the exterior, with a thumb turn interior. The deadbolt can store up to 30 personalized user codes at a time, making it perfect for households with multiple users. It also has a built-in alarm with 3 alert settings to enhance security. The deadbolt utilizes Z-wave technology, allowing you to remotely lock or unlock your door via the web or smartphone. With ANSI Grade 1 residential security, this deadbolt provides top-level protection. The durable resistive touchscreen with a matte finish ensures that it remains free from fingerprints and smudges. It is battery operated and compatible with standard door preparations. Overall, the SCHLAGE Z-Wave Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt is a reliable and advanced deadbolt for any home.

The SCHLAGE Z-Wave Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt is a reliable and advanced deadbolt that offers convenience and top-level security. It is easy to install and allows for remote access via Z-wave technology. The built-in alarm and durable touchscreen add an extra layer of protection. However, there have been some reported issues with remote access and compatibility with certain hub systems. Additionally, some users have questioned the authenticity of the product they received. Overall, if you are looking for a reliable deadbolt with advanced features, the SCHLAGE Z-Wave Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt is a great choice for your home.

Overall Score: 8.5/10

The ULTRALOQ Latch 5 is a revolutionary built-in WiFi smart lock that combines multiple ways to unlock with convenient control from anywhere via the U-tec App. Its key features include fingerprint recognition, code access, mechanical key, and compatibility with WiFi, Bluetooth, and NFC. With its fast fingerprint response and sturdy zinc alloy construction, this smart lock is designed to handle the access of a busy household. It also offers easy installation without wiring or drilling, and comes with a 30-day return policy and lifetime mechanical warranty. The ULTRALOQ Latch 5 is a reliable and versatile smart lock that provides convenience, security, and peace of mind.

The ULTRALOQ Latch 5 is a reliable and feature-rich smart lock that offers a variety of unlocking methods and convenient control from anywhere. Its fast fingerprint response and sturdy build quality make it a great choice for busy households. The easy installation process and compatibility with WiFi, Bluetooth, and NFC add to its convenience. While there are minor drawbacks like the lack of a lever for easy settings change and the touch pad’s occasional unresponsiveness, overall, the ULTRALOQ Latch 5 provides excellent security and peace of mind. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing lock or seeking a reliable smart lock for your new home, the ULTRALOQ Latch 5 is a top contender.

Overall Score: 8.5/10

The ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Smart Lock is a 5-in-1 keyless entry door lock that offers multiple ways to access your home. With features like anti-peep keypad, smartphone control, auto unlock, auto lock, and mechanical key, this smart lock provides convenience and security. You can control and monitor your lock remotely using the smartphone app, and even share access with family, tenants, guests, or service people. The lock is easy to install and comes with a lifetime mechanical warranty and 18 months electronic warranty. It is rated as ANSI Grade 1 for highest security and durability. With its sleek design and satin nickel finish, this smart lock is a perfect addition to any front door.

The ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Smart Lock is a reliable and convenient solution for keyless entry. It offers multiple access options, remote control and monitoring, and easy installation. While there may be occasional issues with the auto unlock feature and some delay in the app response for unlocking, overall, this smart lock provides high security and durability. With its sleek design, it adds a modern touch to any front door. Whether you need a smart lock for your house, Airbnb, apartment, office, or hotel, the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Smart Lock is a great choice.

Overall Score: 8/10

The samtechT Smart Lock is a keyless entry door lock that offers various ways to unlock, including fingerprint, passcode, key card, wireless fob, smartphone, and key. With its code flexibility feature, you can generate different types of codes to satisfy your access needs. The smart lock app allows you to monitor access with its built-in access log, providing enhanced security. Say goodbye to losing keys, as you can assign fingerprint access, key cards, wireless key fobs, and share e-keys from your smartphone. The app/software is free to use forever, with no hidden charges. Installation is easy, and the lock comes with a 1-year product warranty and lifetime customer support. Overall, the samtechT Smart Lock offers convenience and security for your front door.

The samtechT Smart Lock offers a reliable and secure solution for keyless entry. With its multiple ways to unlock, including fingerprint and passcode, it provides convenience and flexibility. The smart lock app allows you to monitor access and easily share e-keys. Installation is easy, and the app/software is free to use forever. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the need for an additional gateway for remote access and occasional issues with the fingerprint reader, overall, this smart lock offers great value for its price. With a 1-year product warranty and lifetime customer support, the samtechT Smart Lock is a recommended choice for those looking to upgrade their front door security.

Overall Score: 8.5/10

Upgrade to the Amazon Smart Thermostat and experience a convenient and energy-efficient way to control your home's temperature. This ENERGY STAR certified thermostat is easy to install and works seamlessly with Alexa, allowing you to control it from anywhere using voice commands or the Alexa app. With its automatic comfort feature, Alexa will adjust the temperature for you, ensuring your comfort at all times. Plus, you can save money on your energy bills with the energy-saving capabilities of this thermostat. The sleek design and reliable performance make it a great addition to any home.

The Amazon Smart Thermostat is a top choice for those looking to upgrade their home’s heating and cooling system. Its easy installation, seamless integration with Alexa, and energy-saving features make it a reliable and efficient choice. With the ability to control the thermostat from anywhere using voice commands or the Alexa app, you can always maintain a comfortable indoor environment. While it may have some limitations in terms of temperature schedule settings and technical support, the overall performance and functionality of this thermostat are excellent. Plus, its sleek design adds a touch of modernity to any home. If you’re looking for a smart thermostat that combines convenience, energy efficiency, and reliability, the Amazon Smart Thermostat is a great option.

Overall Score: 8.2/10

The Ultimate Book of Home Plans is a comprehensive guide that offers over 680 home plans in full color. Whether you're looking for high-end designs or cost-effective options, this book has something for everyone. It serves as a great starting point to explore different floor plans and gather ideas for your dream home. The book is well-organized and includes detailed information, making it perfect for planning and note-taking. While some readers find the floor plans to be small and repetitive, others appreciate the variety and level of detail provided. Overall, it's a valuable resource for anyone embarking on the journey of building their own home.

The Ultimate Book of Home Plans is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to design their dream home. With its extensive collection of over 680 home plans in full color, it offers a wide range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. The book’s detailed information and well-organized format make it easy to explore floor plans and take notes for future reference. While there may be some limitations in terms of floor plan size and variety in smaller homes, the overall value and inspiration provided by this book make it a must-have for anyone interested in home design and construction. Start planning your dream home today with the Ultimate Book of Home Plans!

Overall Score: 7.8/10

The Brilliant Smart Home Plug allows you to control your floor lamps, fans, coffee makers, and more. It brings voice control to any outlet via Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. With the Brilliant app for iOS and Android, you can access your smart home from anywhere. Setting up and using this plug is simple, just plug it in, download the Brilliant app, and control your home with touch, voice, motion, and app. The plug comes in a sleek white color with dimensions of 2.00Lx2.00Wx2.00H.

The Brilliant Smart Home Plug is a convenient device that enhances your smart home experience. It seamlessly integrates with the Brilliant panel and offers a simple setup process. With voice and touch control options, you can easily manage your devices from anywhere using the Brilliant app. While the plug’s compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit is a major advantage, the requirement of a separate hub may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the higher price and occasional connectivity issues should be considered. Overall, if you are already invested in the Brilliant ecosystem, this plug is a valuable addition to your smart home setup.

Buyer's Guide: Smart Home Tech

So you're ready to turn your humble abode into a smart home haven? Well, you're in luck! With the rapid advancements in technology, turning your house into a smart home has never been easier. From voice assistants to smart locks, the options are endless. But before you jump in and start decking out your home with cutting-edge tech, let's take a closer look at everything you need to consider. Here's our ultimate buyer's guide to smart home tech:

Table of Contents

1. Voice Assistants
2. Smart Lighting
3. Smart Security Systems
4. Smart Thermostats
5. Smart Appliances
6. Smart Home Hubs
7. Smart Entertainment Systems
8. Smart Cameras
9. Smart Doorbells
10. Smart Sensors
11. Smart Switches
12. Smart Blinds and Curtains
13. Smart Water Systems
14. Smart Pet Gadgets
15. Smart Garden Devices
16. Smart Furniture
17. Smart Health and Wellness
18. Smart Cleaning Devices
19. Compatibility and Integration
20. Consideration Factors

Voice Assistants

• Offers hands-free control of your smart home devices
• Supports voice commands to perform various tasks
• Can provide you with news, weather updates, and answer your questions

Smart Lighting

• Allows you to control the lights using your smartphone or voice commands
• Enhances energy efficiency with features like dimming and scheduling
• Provides customizable lighting options to match your mood

Smart Security Systems

• Equips your home with features like door/window sensors, motion detectors, and alarms
• Sends real-time notifications to your smartphone when an event is detected
• Offers remote monitoring and control for added peace of mind

Smart Thermostats

• Learns your preferences and adjusts the temperature accordingly for energy savings
• Allows you to control the thermostat remotely using your smartphone
• Offers intelligent scheduling options for optimizing comfort and savings

Smart Appliances

• Enables you to control and monitor appliances like refrigerators, washers, and ovens remotely
• Provides energy usage data and suggests ways to optimize consumption
• Alerts you when maintenance or repairs are required

Smart Home Hubs

• Acts as the central control unit for all your smart devices
• Integrates various protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave) for seamless communication
• Allows for automation and control of multiple devices through a single interface

Smart Entertainment Systems

• Lets you stream music, movies, and TV shows directly to your smart speakers or TV
• Provides voice control for selecting content, adjusting volume, and more
• Offers multi-room audio and video synchronization for an immersive experience

Smart Cameras

• Offers real-time video monitoring and recording for enhanced security
• Sends alerts when motion or unexpected events are detected
• Provides remote viewing and two-way audio communication

Smart Doorbells

• Incorporates a doorbell with a camera and intercom system
• Allows you to see and communicate with visitors from anywhere using your smartphone
• Provides motion detection and video recording capabilities

Smart Sensors

• Detects changes in temperature, light, humidity, and more
• Triggers automated actions like turning on lights or adjusting the thermostat
• Enables you to monitor environmental conditions remotely

Smart Switches

• Replaces traditional light switches with smart switches for remote control
• Provides scheduling and automation options for energy savings
• Works with voice assistants for hands-free operation

Smart Blinds and Curtains

• Automates the opening and closing of blinds and curtains
• Offers scheduling options for privacy and energy efficiency
• Provides control via smartphone or voice commands

Smart Water Systems

• Monitors water usage and detects leaks or abnormal usage patterns
• Enables remote control of sprinkler systems and water flow
• Suggests ways to conserve water and reduce your bills

Smart Pet Gadgets

• Allows for remote monitoring and interaction with your furry friends
• Offers features like automatic feeding, treat dispensing, and video communication
• Provides activity tracking and health insights for your pets

Smart Garden Devices

• Automates irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and plant needs
• Monitors soil moisture, sunlight levels, and fertilizer requirements
• Sends alerts and suggestions for optimal plant care

Smart Furniture

• Incorporates technological features like built-in speakers, wireless charging, and hidden compartments
• Adjusts ergonomic settings based on user preferences
• Adds a modern and futuristic touch to your living space

Smart Health and Wellness

• Tracks fitness activity, sleep patterns, vital signs, and more
• Provides personalized recommendations for a healthier lifestyle
• Offers integration with smart home devices for seamless control

Smart Cleaning Devices

• Automates household cleaning tasks like vacuuming and mopping
• Offers scheduling options and different cleaning modes
• Provides remote control and monitoring via smartphone

Compatibility and Integration

• Ensure the smart home devices you choose are compatible with each other
• Choose devices that support integration with popular voice assistants and smart home platforms
• Consider investing in a smart home hub for streamlined control and automation

Consideration Factors

• Cost: Set a budget and consider the overall cost of devices and ongoing expenses
• Scalability: Choose devices that can be easily expanded or integrated with future additions
• Security: Opt for devices with robust security features to protect your privacy and data
• Ease of Use: Select devices that offer user-friendly interfaces and setup processes
• Customer Reviews: Research and read reviews to gauge the reliability and performance of devices