Plain-English smart home guides and gadget comparisons

A smarter home, minus the headaches.

Straightforward guides to smart plugs, doorbells, locks, assistants and Matter devices, with a focus on compatibility, privacy and real costs.

Latest guides

Setup Guides

Smart Home on a Budget: How to Start Without Overspending

How to build a smart home on a budget by choosing one ecosystem, starting with smart plugs and bulbs, avoiding subscriptions, using what you…
Setup Guides

Smart Thermostats Buying Guide: Compatibility, Features and Setup

How to choose a smart thermostat, including C-wire requirements, HVAC compatibility, learning vs. scheduling, remote sensors, energy features, utility rebates and installation tips.
Voice Assistants & Hubs

Smart Home Hubs Explained: Do You Need One?

What smart home hubs do, when you need one, the differences between Zigbee, Z-Wave, Thread and Matter, and options like SmartThings, Hubitat, Home Assistant…
Smart Locks

Smart Lock Installation Guide: Step-by-Step for Deadbolt Locks

A step-by-step guide to installing a smart deadbolt or retrofit smart lock, including tools, door measurements, alignment checks, app setup, calibration and troubleshooting.
Security & Cameras

Indoor Security Cameras and Privacy: How to Use Them Responsibly

How to choose and use indoor security cameras while protecting privacy, including privacy shutters, geofencing, local storage, encryption, placement and household consent.
Setup Guides

How to Secure Your Smart Home: A Practical Checklist

A practical smart home security checklist covering router settings, strong passwords, two-factor authentication, firmware updates, guest networks, privacy settings and buying secure devices.