

Using the Alexa app, you can set schedules and you can even set up If This Then That functions to make its capabilities more robust. The Amazon Smart Plug smart plug has a slim design, so you can fit two on a single outlet. Alexa compatibility is especially nice because you can ask her to turn on your reading lamp without having to get up from your chair. Whether you have a lamp with a busted or hard-to-reach switch, or you just tend to leave your coffee maker on, a connected plug can turn them on or off for you. Smart plugs are great for turning non-connected devices into things you can control remotely.
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You will need to install an included smart bridge for these bulbs to work. You can do all that with voice commands through Alexa and group them so you don’t have to turn off individual switches in succession. It takes a bit more effort, but Lutron Caséta in-wall dimmers are a reliable way to turn your lights on or off or get varying degrees of brightness.
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Sengled bulbs are another excellent bridgeless option, plus you can often find single bulbs for less than $20. If you want to explore other brands, we also highly recommend Kasa smart bulbs, which are both reliable and affordable as an alternative. The company also sells individual bulbs with options that don’t always require the Philips hub. Whether you’re opting for white bulbs, color, or light strips, there are a variety of Hue options - we are partial to this combo starter kit. Philips Hue has one of the most versatile lighting systems around and makes some of our favorite LEDs. But with Alexa integration, you can easily ask your speaker to turn them back on if you have one more Netflix episode to get through before you turn in. Typically, you can schedule most smart lights to turn off at a certain time every night. When you purchase a smart light bulb, the manufacturer will usually state whether or not a separate bridge is required. Some smart lights require an external bridge to connect to Alexa, but others just need to be screwed in like an ordinary bulb. LEDs are taking over the world, and they represent one of the easiest ways to start smartening up your home. You can display this bad boy in either landscape or portrait orientations, and it can even be mounted to a wall.

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These displays can also connect to compatible security cams and give you live feeds if you receive any alerts! The Echo Show 8 is a smaller model that can happily fit on a kitchen counter or desk, while the Echo Show 10 is a bold update with a swiveling base.Īnd for keeping up with the family via digital sticky notes and shared calendars, there’s also the Echo Show 15. Or maybe you’re looking for a smart display that adds a useful touchscreen to show updates, internet searches, or videos while you work. You can also opt for the Echo Dot with Clock, so you can see the time, the weather, or a countdown timer right on the front of the device.īut if you’re more serious about getting a smart speaker that can really fill the room with sound, then you should take a look at the regular Amazon Echo speaker (4th Gen), which is designed to broadcast 360-degree sound around the room, while using Alexa to control any smart devices around the home (and it’s compatible with Zigbee, too). If you’re simply looking for basic Alexa functionality and the ability to control your smart devices with your voice, the latest Echo Dot is an ideal choice because it’s cost-effective and it has a small profile. What budget are you working with? Do you want a smart speaker or a smart display? Do you want an Echo device with a hub built in? Do you want an Echo with exceptional sound quality, or do you plan on connecting an external speaker for music playback? The best Echo device for you depends on your situation. If you’re going all-in on the smart home, you’ll want a good speaker or smart display. The best Alexa smart speakers and displays You can make your life easier with an Alexa-powered home, and we’ll show you where to begin. In this guide, we review some of the best interactive Alexa hardware in the way of speakers, displays, lights, wall plugs, thermostats, smart locks, cameras, and appliances. The best Alexa-compatible security cameras.The best Alexa smart speakers and displays.
