Tech giant Google was once known for just being a search engine, next was the introduction of their phones. The latest innovation came with the Google Home, a smart speaker. The Google Home was released during the middle of 2016, to be a competitor of the famous Amazon Echo.
Using the same AI as Android phones, Google Assistant, the Google Home provides a virtual assistant in everyday life. With the ability to control compatible devices in your home, set reminders and alarms and brief you on the latest news, this device does everything you want plus more. With the rise of advanced AIs, many companies have flourished with smart home devices. These companies have developed smart lights, plugs, thermostats and even locks which helped Google sell more speakers. TechWalls has chosen these devices as the best options for Google Homes.
Light Bulbs
Having the ability to turn lights on and off when laying is an awesome experience. With the new technology, the lights also act as energy savers compared to traditional bulbs. The connection between the lights and Google Home is quick and painless. Listed are TechWalls top two choices in the bulb category.
Philips Hue
The most recommended light bulbs from TechWalls is the magnificent Philip Hues. The best-seller starter kit provides a beginner in home automation an easy way to access lights. Philip Hues require a hub which communicates with the Google Home. Some key features are the ease of dimming the lights, or checking to see if a bulb may have been left on. In addition, users have the ability to have the lights come on or turn off with the schedule feature. The hub allows up to 50 lights according to Philips.
Yeelight
The second choice for smart bulbs compatible with the trusty Google Home is the Yeelight by Xiaomi. These smart bulbs have WiFi built-in, meaning no hub is needed to use them. Therefore, the price of the bulbs is a bit less than the Philips Hue. The linked model has the ability to change colors to help set an ambiance in any room. A neat feature with the Yeelight is the customized moods. This helps set up the lights for an appropriate environment for things like movies, date night or bedtime reading.
Also, for larger spaces, consider the Ceiling Light by Xiaomi which was reviewed earlier on TechWalls.
Smart Locks
Everyone uses some sort of locking method to protect their homes from unwanted intruders. Due to the rise of smart home products, locks were innovated to be controlled by AI. Allowing doors to be open while sitting at work, or locking up after forgetting to several hundred miles away. These reasons plus more make smart locks appealing. Both of the choices listed provide this security with additional features.
August
One of the most rated smart locks, August provides a very efficient and easy way to control locks on your door. Simplistic setup and an appealing app are the main selling points for the August lock. Furthermore, it comes equipped with DoorSense, an intuitive aspect that notifies if a door is locked or unlocked, similar to the aforementioned Philips Hue lights. Built-in is a feature that will lock when leaving and open up when you approach with the help of their app. The price may seem high but the August provides a well-developed product.
Yale
Yale, a product similar to August, is also a great option for enthusiasts installing a lock in their home. Displaying a touch pad, the Yale locks quietly locks and sends notifications of any activity with the door. Therefore, this is great if away on a trip, or an unsuspecting individual is attempting to break in. Comparing the two locks, Yale avoids dead battery issues by utilizing a 9V terminal. Yale is currently a cheaper alternative to the August lock.
Thermostats
Ever went to sleep feeling warm then woke up the next morning to an ice box? If the answer was yes, WiFi-connected thermostats could help resolve this issue. Showcasing their great scheduling feature and excellent quality, these two thermostats provide a homeowner with a next level thermostat experience.
Nest Learning Thermostat
From the creators of the Google Home, comes the top in its class thermostat, Nest Learning. This energy-saving thermostat is definitely one of a kind. It comes jam-packed of advancements never seen before. Some of these being Farsight, an intuitive design which spots movements and displays the screen. Nest also provides alerts to warn of the furnace not functioning. Lastly, the thermostat can integrate with other smart home devices such as light bulbs. Hands down, this is the best thermostat money can buy.
Nest E
As you can tell by now, Nest has a very great grasp of thermostats. The E model is a more budget-friendly thermostat than its older brother. Sacrificing some add-on from the next model, the Nest E still provides a futuristic way of setting an area’s temperature. If the Nest Learning is out of your price range, this cheaper alternative provides you with a smart thermostat.
Plugs
Smart plugs allow for quick access to turning on certain devices, may it be a coffee pot or even your bedroom TV. As the cheapest item on the list, the plugs allow for an easy jump start in automating one’s home or office. These are the best-recommended plugs.
Wemo
Developed by Belkin, Wemo is an attractive and sleek device. Coming in under $30, this plug is great for new Google Home users. With the ability to schedule a lamp or TV to go on, this plug helps all crowds. The Wemo plug also can pair with the Nest thermostat. The device is very compact making your outlets less bulky.
TP-Link
The Kasa Smart Plug is very similar to the Wemo. The Kasa can be purchased for under $20 and allows for one device to be used. The away feature allows for lights to be programmed to act as if someone is in the home. The app is well developed and easy to control.
Final Thought
These were some of the best devices to accompany a Google home, although there is many out there. Each individual has different goals, budgets and skill levels leading to many products being built. What device do you own that is not listed here? How do you like it?
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