12 Jun 2025 By Admin .
Adding smart gadgets to your home is as easy as it gets. You can start small, keep things simple, and still enjoy real improvements in comfort and security. Over the past year, I’ve tested several devices in my own home that were great. Below I tell you some which’ve actually made my daily life easier.
I started with a TP-Link Tapo smart plug. It's a basic device, but surprisingly useful. I use it to switch on a lamp in the hallway and the kettle before I get out of bed. You control it through an app or by voice if you’re using Alexa or Google Assistant.
Setup was easy, no hub required, no technical know-how needed. If you’re buying one, stick to trusted brands. I’ve tried cheaper ones and ran into connection issues and terrible apps.
I’ve been using the Amazon Echo (5th Gen) and it quickly became part of my routine. I use it for music, weather updates, reminders, and most importantly, controlling other smart devices. It responds even when there’s background noise, and the voice recognition is pretty solid.
If you’ve less space, the Echo Dot will be just fine for you. It’s a good way to centralise everything without overcomplicating things.
Swapping to Philips Hue bulbs felt like a small change at first, but it made the room feel more flexible. During the day, I go for brighter, cooler light. In the evenings, I switch to a warmer tone. It sets the mood automatically without me having to think about it.
I grouped bulbs by room and created presets like “Reading” and “Relax.” It’s more than just on/off, it’s about getting the lighting right without those messy switches all the time.
We installed a Google Nest Thermostat to get better control over heating. It adjusts based on whether we’re home or out and can be tweaked from a phone, which is handy when your plans change.
The interface is clean and simple. Since installing it, the heating feels less wasteful, and we’ve cut down on unnecessary use without even noticing.
I wasn’t sure about the Ring Video Doorbell at first. But now I use it almost daily, especially when I’m not home. Whether it’s a delivery, someone at the door, or just motion outside, it sends a quick alert. The camera is clear and lets you talk to people directly from your phone. Wow!
Its battery powered, easy to install, and doesn’t require wiring unless you want it.
The SwitchBot Curtain has been one of my favourite additions. It attaches to your existing curtain rail and opens or closes the curtains on a schedule. I set mine to open just after sunrise and close in the evening.
There’s something nice about not having to touch the curtains, especially in winter when it’s cold and dark early.
The Yale Keyless Connected Smart Lock fits most of the doors in the UK. I installed it to avoid carrying keys all the time. You can unlock the door with a code, a key tag, or your phone. It also lets you create temporary codes for guests or deliveries.
For anyone who runs a rental or just wants more flexible access, it’s a good step up from traditional locks and fun too!
One thing that made everything easier was sticking to one system. I chose Alexa, so I try to buy gear that works with it. That way, I’m not switching between apps.
Let me give you a good time: give your devices simple names. Instead of “Plug 3,” I name them things like “Desk Lamp” or “Bedroom Heater.” It makes voice commands a lot smoother.
And if you use routines, it really ties things together. I have one for bedtime that dims lights, locks the door, and lowers the heating. It feels seamless once it’s set up.
I didn’t plan to build a smart home. It just happened one gadget at a time. Most of these devices didn’t feel like big changes, but together they’ve made everyday life more comfortable, and in some cases, a bit more secure, efficient and fun too.
If you’re thinking about adding smart tech to your home, I suggest you do it now to have that feeling of comfort inside you and your family.
