Blog

Best SmartThings Alternatives: Smart Home Hubs That Actually Deliver

My Smart Home After 5 Years: What I'd Do Differently

Five years of smart home building has taught me more from mistakes than successes. Here are the things I would change if I started over today.

Mesh WiFi and Smart Homes: Getting Your Network Right

A reliable network is the backbone of every smart home. Here is how to set up mesh WiFi properly for dozens of connected devices.

Google Home Not Finding Your Devices? Fixes for Every Situation

Zigbee vs Z-Wave in 2024: Does It Even Matter Anymore?

With Matter and Thread on the rise, is the Zigbee vs Z-Wave debate still relevant? Here is where each protocol stands in 2024.

Best Smart Speakers for 2024: Sound Quality Meets Smart Home Control

The Apartment Renter's Guide to Smart Home Automation

You don't need to own your home to automate it. Here's how to build a fully-featured smart home in a rental apartment without modifying anything.

Why Your Security Cameras Might Be Your Biggest Privacy Risk

Most smart security cameras send video to the cloud by default. Here is what that means for your privacy and what you can do about it.

Water Leak Sensors: The $30 Device That Can Save You Thousands

Water damage is the most common and costly homeowner insurance claim, but a simple smart sensor costing as little as $14 can alert you before a small drip becomes a catastrophic flood.