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Best Way To Make Your House A Smart Home

Alex Chen

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

Looking for the best way to make your house a smart home? We tested Outlet, Aeotec, EIGHTREE and 2 more top brands.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Outlet Extender with Night Light, HANYCONY Multi Plug Outlet, USB Wall Charger Surge Protector 4 USB Ports(1 USB C), Power Strip Electrical Outlet Splitter Expander for Home Office Dorm Room, ETL

★★★★★★4.8

Outlet & Port Count:5 Outlets 4 USB

Surge Protection Rating:Surge Protection Included

USB Charging Power:3.1A Total USB Output

Smart Features:Auto Night Light

Physical Design:360 Degree Rotatable Design

Safety Certifications:ETL Safety Certified

Expand your charging options with five outlets and a built-in night light for ultimate convenience.

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Best Value

Aeotec Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter Gateway, Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, WiFi

★★★★★★4.7

Outlet & Port Count:Multiple Protocol Support

Surge Protection Rating:No Integrated Surge

USB Charging Power:Powered by USB

Smart Features:Local Automation Processing

Physical Design:Compact Modular Design

Safety Certifications:SmartThings Certified

Future-proof your smart home with this versatile hub supporting Matter, Zigbee, and Z-Wave protocols.

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Best Premium

EIGHTREE Smart Plug, WiFi Outlet Works with Alexa & Google Home, Smart Home Socket with Remote Control & Timer Function, 2.4GHz WiFi Only, 4 Packs

★★★★★★4.6

Outlet & Port Count:1 Outlet Per Unit

Surge Protection Rating:Standard Electrical Rating

USB Charging Power:WiFi Direct Power

Smart Features:App and Voice Control

Physical Design:Compact Horizontal Design

Safety Certifications:ETL Safety Listed

Effortlessly automate your home with these easy-to-setup smart plugs requiring no additional hub.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Way To Make Your House A Smart Home

Outlet & Port Count

Determines how many devices can be connected simultaneously, maximizing utility and reducing the need for multiple adapters in a single location.

Surge Protection Rating

Indicates the level of protection against voltage spikes, safeguard expensive electronics from damage and ensuring user safety.

USB Charging Power

Specifies the amperage and wattage output of USB ports, ensuring fast and efficient charging for smartphones and tablets without wall adapters.

Smart Features

Includes automation like motion sensors, light sensors, or app control, adding convenience and energy efficiency to the home environment.

Physical Design

covers outlet spacing and plug orientation, ensuring large power bricks do not block adjacent sockets and fit in tight spaces.

Safety Certifications

Verifies the product meets strict electrical safety standards like ETL or UL, preventing fire hazards and ensuring reliable operation.

by Outlet

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Outlet Extender with Night Light, HANYCONY Multi Plug Outlet, USB Wall Charger Surge Protector 4 USB Ports(1 USB C), Power Strip Electrical Outlet Splitter Expander for Home Office Dorm Room, ETL

BEST OVERALL

This outlet extender is an essential addition for any modern home setup. It converts a single socket into five widely spaced outlets and four USB ports, which is perfect for charging multiple devices simultaneously. The built-in night light is a thoughtful touch that activates automatically in low light. It creates a convenient charging station for bedrooms or offices without cluttering space with bulky adapters.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓5 Outlets 4 USB

Surge Protection Rating

✓Surge Protection Included

USB Charging Power

✓3.1A Total USB Output

Smart Features

✓Auto Night Light

Physical Design

✓360 Degree Rotatable Design

Safety Certifications

✓ETL Safety Certified

Reasons to Buy

✓Expands outlet capacity significantly
✓Automatic night light feature
✓Wide spacing for large plugs
✓USB C port included

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Blocks both wall outlets
✗USB C voltage is limited

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by Aeotec

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Aeotec Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter Gateway, Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, WiFi

BEST VALUE

The Aeotec hub acts as the central brain for a connected home, supporting Z-Wave, Zigbee, and the new Matter standard. It replicates the SmartThings experience perfectly, allowing users to create complex automations that link hundreds of different devices. The ability to run automations locally improves speed and reliability. It is an excellent choice for building a robust, future proof smart home system.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓Multiple Protocol Support

Surge Protection Rating

✓No Integrated Surge

USB Charging Power

✓Powered by USB

Smart Features

✓Local Automation Processing

Physical Design

✓Compact Modular Design

Safety Certifications

✓SmartThings Certified

Reasons to Buy

✓Supports Matter protocol
✓Local automation processing
✓Works with many brands
✓Future proof technology

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Requires external power
✗Setup can be complex

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by EIGHTREE

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

EIGHTREE Smart Plug, WiFi Outlet Works with Alexa & Google Home, Smart Home Socket with Remote Control & Timer Function, 2.4GHz WiFi Only, 4 Packs

BEST PREMIUM

These smart plugs offer a straightforward entry point into home automation without requiring a hub. The setup process is simplified by Bluetooth discovery on the Smart Life app. Users can control lamps or fans remotely and create schedules to manage energy use. Voice control integration works smoothly once linked. They are reliable and cost effective for upgrading standard electronics to smart devices.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓1 Outlet Per Unit

Surge Protection Rating

✓Standard Electrical Rating

USB Charging Power

✓WiFi Direct Power

Smart Features

✓App and Voice Control

Physical Design

✓Compact Horizontal Design

Safety Certifications

✓ETL Safety Listed

Reasons to Buy

✓Easy Bluetooth setup
✓Works with voice assistants
✓No hub required
✓Schedule and timer features

Reasons Not to Buy

✗2.4GHz WiFi only
✗Requires Smart Life app

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Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, Remote Control, 15 Amp, UL Certified, 4-Pack, White

by Kasa

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, Remote Control, 15 Amp, UL Certified, 4-Pack, White

BEST RUNNER UP

Kasa delivers a reliable smart plug that integrates seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant. The Kasa app is intuitive, making it easy to control devices from anywhere or set schedules for daily routines. With a 15 amp rating, it handles heavier appliances safely. It is a solid choice for users looking for a trusted brand with UL certification for safety and consistent performance.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓1 Outlet Per Plug

Surge Protection Rating

✓15 Amp Maximum Load

USB Charging Power

✓Powered by WiFi

Smart Features

✓Remote App Access

Physical Design

✓Compact Space Saving

Safety Certifications

✓UL Safety Certified

Reasons to Buy

✓High 15 amp capacity
✓Reliable Kasa app
✓UL safety certified
✓No hub required

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Only 2.4GHz network
✗Bulky for tight spaces

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Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display, Designed for Alexa+, 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal

by Amazon

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Amazon Echo Show 5 (newest model), Smart display, Designed for Alexa+, 2x the bass and clearer sound, Charcoal

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The Echo Show 5 is an excellent entry point for anyone new to smart home technology. Its compact 5.5 inch display fits perfectly on a nightstand or desk without taking up too much space. The sound quality is surprisingly robust for its size, offering deeper bass and clearer vocals than previous models. It serves as a central hub to control lights and thermostats effortlessly. While the screen is small for watching videos, it is ideal for video calls and checking the weather at a glance.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓1 Audio Outlet

Surge Protection Rating

✓No Surge Protection

USB Charging Power

✓No USB Ports

Smart Features

✓Alexa Voice Control

Physical Design

✓Compact 5.5 Display

Safety Certifications

✓Amazon Privacy Features

Reasons to Buy

✓Compact and stylish design
✓Improved bass and sound clarity
✓Easy smart home control
✓Affordable smart display option

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Screen size limits video watching
✗Camera requires manual slider cover

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Amazon Echo Show 15 (newest model), Full HD 15.6" kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV, Designed for Alexa+

by Amazon

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Amazon Echo Show 15 (newest model), Full HD 15.6" kitchen hub for home organization, with built-in Fire TV, Designed for Alexa+

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The Echo Show 15 transforms your kitchen into a high tech command center with its stunning 15.6 inch Full HD display. It functions as a family organization hub, displaying calendars, to-do lists, and smart home controls with customizable widgets. The built-in Fire TV integration provides endless entertainment options from thousands of apps. It is perfect for streaming shows while cooking or making natural video calls with its wide field of view. This device blends utility and entertainment seamlessly for the modern connected home.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓1 HDMI Output

Surge Protection Rating

✓Basic Surge Protection

USB Charging Power

✓No USB Charging

Smart Features

✓Fire TV and Widgets

Physical Design

✓Wall Mountable Frame

Safety Certifications

✓Includes Privacy Shutter

Reasons to Buy

✓Large and vibrant Full HD display
✓Excellent Fire TV entertainment integration
✓Robust smart home control widgets
✓Sleek and modern kitchen aesthetic

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point than smaller displays
✗Requires wall mounting for best use

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Govee Smart Light Bulbs, Color Changing Light Bulb, Work with Alexa and Google Assistant, 16 Million Colors RGBWW, WiFi & Bluetooth LED Light Bulbs, Music Sync, A19, 800 Lumens, 4 Pack

by Govee

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Govee Smart Light Bulbs, Color Changing Light Bulb, Work with Alexa and Google Assistant, 16 Million Colors RGBWW, WiFi & Bluetooth LED Light Bulbs, Music Sync, A19, 800 Lumens, 4 Pack

BEST BUDGET

These Govee smart bulbs are a fantastic way to introduce vibrant lighting to your home without spending a fortune. With 16 million colors and 54 preset scene modes, you can easily match any mood or occasion. The music sync feature is fun for parties, reacting to sounds via your phone microphone. Setup is straightforward using the Govee Home App, and voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant works reliably. Note that these bulbs do not support 5G WiFi, which might limit some users.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓Standard E26 Base

Surge Protection Rating

✓No Surge Protection

USB Charging Power

✓WiFi and Bluetooth

Smart Features

✓Voice Control Capable

Physical Design

✓Standard A19 Bulb Shape

Safety Certifications

✓Energy Star Certified

Reasons to Buy

✓Vast color selection options
✓Responsive music sync mode
✓Seamless smart assistant integration
✓Great value for a 4 pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Does not support 5G networks
✗Requires stable WiFi connection

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EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station, 2000mAh Rechargeable Wireless Motion Sensor Lights, 3 Color Temps, Dimmable, Timer, Magnetic, with Remote Control for Kitchen, Closet, Stair

by EZVALO

X Score

X Score is TechXFinder's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station, 2000mAh Rechargeable Wireless Motion Sensor Lights, 3 Color Temps, Dimmable, Timer, Magnetic, with Remote Control for Kitchen, Closet, Stair

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The EZVALO under cabinet lighting system offers a premium solution for detailed task lighting needs. With three color temperatures and stepless dimming, you can achieve perfect illumination for cooking or working. The motion sensor is highly responsive, detecting movement within 10 feet, and the rechargeable battery lasts up to 40 days in auto mode. The included USB C charging dock reduces clutter and can even charge other devices. This kit is ideal for users who demand flexibility and performance.

Key Specifications

Outlet & Port Count

✓3 USB C Ports

Surge Protection Rating

✓Internal Battery Backup

USB Charging Power

✓USB C Charging Dock

Smart Features

✓Motion and Remote Control

Physical Design

✓Wireless Magnetic Mount

Safety Certifications

✓Multiple Safety Protections

Reasons to Buy

✓Long lasting rechargeable battery
✓Versatile motion sensor modes
✓Includes convenient charging station
✓Three adjustable color temperatures

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Installation requires planning
✗Higher cost than basic lights

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

Prioritize ecosystem compatibility to ensure all devices communicate seamlessly; choosing a primary hub like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit is essential. Look for devices supporting Matter or Zigbee protocols rather than proprietary Wi-Fi, which offers better stability and reduces network congestion. Critical security features include end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication to protect your privacy. Additionally, consider devices with local control capabilities, allowing core automations to function even during internet outages.

Budget Recommendations

Entry-level setups ($100–$300) should focus on a central hub and smart speakers, along with a few key smart plugs or bulbs to test the waters. Mid-range budgets ($500–$1,500) allow for comprehensive coverage, including smart locks, a video doorbell, and a programmable thermostat. High-end installations ($2,500+) integrate advanced solutions like hardwired lighting control, comprehensive security camera systems, and motorized blinds, requiring professional installation for a truly seamless experience.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid purchasing devices from multiple incompatible ecosystems, which leads to fragmented control and frustration. Do not neglect your Wi-Fi infrastructure; a modern smart home requires a robust mesh network to handle dozens of connected devices without lag. Finally, resist the urge to automate everything immediately; prioritize high-impact areas like entryways and climate control first. Failing to research subscription fees for cloud storage or professional monitoring can also lead to unexpected long-term costs.

How We Test Best Way To Make Your House A Smart Home

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating way to make your house a smart home across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with way to make your house a smart home and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

Busy parents

Smart locks and cameras provide peace of mind by allowing them to monitor children and control home access remotely.

Seniors aging in place

Voice-controlled devices and automated lighting reduce physical strain and enhance safety without requiring complex interactions.

Eco-conscious homeowners

Smart thermostats and energy monitors allow for precise control of consumption, significantly lowering utility bills and carbon footprints.

Frequent travelers

Remote access to security systems and lighting creates a 'lived-in' appearance to deter burglars and allows monitoring from anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step to making my house a smart home?

The best first step is to choose a primary ecosystem or hub, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. Deciding on a central platform early ensures that all the devices you buy later—lights, locks, thermostats—will be compatible and controllable from a single app, preventing fragmentation.

Do I need to replace all my devices at once?

No, it is actually better to start small and expand gradually. Begin with an entry-level device like a smart speaker or a few smart bulbs to learn how the technology fits your daily routine. This approach allows you to budget effectively and troubleshoot issues without overwhelming yourself or your home network.

How important is my internet connection for a smart home?

A strong, reliable Wi-Fi network is the backbone of any smart home. Because many smart devices rely on cloud connectivity, you should ensure you have a modern router capable of handling multiple simultaneous connections. For larger homes, a mesh Wi-Fi system is highly recommended to eliminate dead zones where smart devices might fail to connect.

What are the benefits of using smart hubs or bridges?

While many devices connect directly to Wi-Fi, using hubs or bridges (like Zigbee or Z-Wave hubs) can improve stability and battery life. They allow devices to communicate with each other locally rather than solely through the cloud, resulting in faster response times and functionality even if your internet service goes down temporarily.

Are smart homes secure from hackers?

Smart homes can be secure if proper precautions are taken. Best practices include creating a separate guest network specifically for your IoT (Internet of Things) devices, using strong unique passwords for every device account, and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to prevent unauthorized access.