Home automation turns your house into a system that works for you — lights that dim automatically, locks you can control from anywhere, and energy systems that learn your schedule. This hub covers the gear and platforms you need to build it right.
Start With a Hub
A smart home hub is the brain of your automation system. It connects devices from different brands and lets them work together. The best platforms right now are Matter (the new universal standard), Home Assistant (open-source and self-hosted), SmartThings (Samsung), and Apple Home. If you’re starting fresh, Matter-compatible devices offer the most flexibility.
Core Automation Categories
- Smart Lighting — Philips Hue, LIFX, Govee, and Nanoleaf offer everything from basic on/off scheduling to full color scenes.
- Smart Thermostats — Ecobee and Google Nest Learning Thermostat are the top picks for energy savings and comfort.
- Smart Locks — August, Schlage Encode, and Yale Assure offer keyless entry, remote access, and auto-lock features.
- Smart Plugs & Switches — The easiest way to automate non-smart devices without rewiring anything.
Our Home Automation Reviews
Browse our in-depth reviews and setup guides below. We focus on real-world usability — not just spec sheets.