Most modern smart bulbs don’t need a hub: Wi-Fi and many Matter bulbs connect straight to your network. Zigbee and Thread bulbs do need a hub or compatible Echo. Here is how to tell which is which, and when a hub is worth it.
The best smart bulbs without a hub are the Kasa KL125 multicolor 4-pack: full color, wide white range, Alexa and Google support. Here are 5 hub-free Wi-Fi bulbs compared for color, value and setup.
Video doorbells work in winter, but cold drains lithium-ion batteries fast and can stop charging below freezing. Here is what temperatures to expect, which doorbells cope best, and 7 tips to keep yours running.
Local storage saves camera footage on a microSD card or base station with no monthly fee; cloud storage keeps it on remote servers for a subscription. Here is how they compare on cost, privacy, reliability and theft.
You don’t need doorbell wiring to install a video doorbell. Here is the step-by-step method for battery doorbells, including no-drill options for renters, the right mounting height, and how to get a chime indoors.
Battery doorbells install in minutes and suit renters; wired doorbells never need charging, react faster and ring your existing chime. Here is how to choose, plus why hybrid doorbells are often the best answer.
Almost every smart video doorbell needs Wi-Fi for alerts, live view and two-way talk. Here is what still works offline, which alternatives exist, and how to get a strong signal to your front door.
The best video doorbell without a subscription is the aosu 5MP, with 60 days of built-in local storage and no monthly fee. Here are 5 no-fee doorbells compared, from budget microSD models to long-battery picks.
Most smart plug makers advise against using them with space heaters. Here’s why a 1,500W heater stresses a standard plug, how to check the ratings yourself, and the safer ways to warm a room on a schedule.
A smart plug controls one plug-in device with zero wiring; a smart switch replaces your wall switch to control hardwired lights. Here’s how to pick the right one — plus where smart bulbs fit in.
Smart plugs only save energy when they cut power to devices that would otherwise waste it. Here’s how much a smart plug uses itself, how to calculate real savings, and which devices are worth automating.
A smart plug puts a wirelessly controlled relay between your outlet and your device. Here’s what’s inside one, how it connects to your phone and Alexa, and which devices it can — and can’t — control.