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Smart Home - Page 2: Buying Advice, Tips, and News

Latest Smart Home Stories

For Black Friday, we are seeing big discounts on top-rated smart home security cameras. Find out which deals our smart home editor recommends from Blink, Ring, and more.

By Angela Moscaritolo
Expert-Approved Black Friday 2024 Deals on Home Security Cameras

A security camera lets you watch your home from anywhere and doesn't cost nearly as much as a full security system. These are the top indoor security cams we've tested.

By Angela Moscaritolo
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) with pirvacy shutter on

The top smart outdoor security cams we've tested can withstand the elements and record clear footage any time of the day or night.

By John R. Delaney
TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam

The best smart thermostats we've tested can control your home's heating and cooling with your phone or voice—and might help you save on energy costs.

By Will Greenwald  & John R. Delaney
smart thermostats

Looking for an alarm system to make you feel more secure? We've tested all the best professional and DIY home security systems to help you decide which is right to protect your family and property.

By Alex Colon  & John R. Delaney
Vivint Smart Home

Perfect for gifting, the best digital photo frames let you showcase your art and snapshots throughout your home.

By Will Greenwald
Samsung The Frame

The best smart displays we've tested can be your advanced alarm clock, countertop companion, or desk-side dashboard.

By Will Greenwald
Google Home Hub vs. Amazon Echo Show
3.5

With a Fire TV interface, Alexa voice control, and a camera for video calls and home monitoring, the Echo Show 21 is Amazon's largest smart display and all-in-one home hub.

By Will Greenwald
Amazon Echo Show 21 screen
3.5

The second generation of Amazon's Echo Show 15 smart display costs a bit more than its predecessor, but camera improvements help justify the higher price.

By Will Greenwald
Amazon Echo Show 15

A doorbell camera shows what's happening outside your home and lets you speak with whoever is out there. Smarten up your home security with the best video doorbells we've tested.

By John R. Delaney
Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)

Roombas are some of the best robot vacuums on the market, but they span a wide range of prices and features. Which Roomba is best for you? We've tested them all to help you decide.

The Best Roomba Vacuum

Retire your old mop and bucket. The best robot mops we've tested keep your floors spick-and-span with little effort on your part.

Bissell SpinWave Wet and Dry Robotic

Whether you're looking to avoid allergens or simply want to do as little housework as possible, these are the best self-emptying robot vacuums we've tested.

Robot vacuum dust bag

There are tons of robot vacuums on the market, but which ones are good for if you have pets? We've tested scores of models, and these are the best robot vacuums for pet hair.

Pet on vacuum

You can keep your floors clean without spending a lot of money. Check out the best affordable robot vacuums we've tested, all of which cost $300 or less.

iLife A4s Pro

The PetPivot and Neakasa M1 both eliminate the worst part of cat ownership, but do the M1's premium perks justify the higher price? My rescue cat Charlie puts them both to the test.

By Emily Dreibelbis Forlini
Charlie photo

If you've been waiting for a good time to grab an automated home helper, Black Friday is it. I've tested dozens of them and I'm here to help you decide which discounts are actually worth it, and which you can skip.

By Andrew Gebhart
Expert-Approved Early Black Friday 2024 Deals on Robot Vacuums

Installing a smart water sensor can save you a lot of money and hassle. The best models we've tested immediately alert you to leaks and even shut off your home's water supply.

By John R. Delaney
Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff

The best smart air purifiers can help you monitor indoor air quality and breathe more easily. From HEPA filtration to ionic technology, we help you understand your options and select the top model for your needs and budget.

By Angela Moscaritolo
Bradley with air purifiers

Want to keep your floors clean without lifting a finger? The best robot vacuums we've tested are more capable and affordable than ever.

Shark robot vacuum