Front runner smart home upgrades for 2025
Top 10 Picks
The best smart home gadgets of 2025 make lighting, security and comfort easier to control — without turning your home into a science project.
In this guide we’ve hand-picked 10 smart home devices that work great together: from displays and hubs to locks, cameras and thermostats. Many support the new Matter standard and all are available on Amazon.com, so you can upgrade your home with confidence.
These are truly some of the best smart home gadgets 2025 has to offer, combining performance, compatibility and long-term reliability.
Want to level up your TV setup too? Check our best TVs for movies & gaming in 2025 guide.
How to read this ranking: The order combines value, reliability and everyday ease of use. Our editor rating shows how strong each gadget is for its category, not the whole smart home market.
Smart Display
Highlights: Vibrant HD 8.7″ display • Spatial audio • Alexa+ Early Access • Matter (Zigbee/Thread) • Typical US price: $179.99
The newest Echo Show 8 is a versatile command center for your smart home. Its upgraded speakers deliver fuller sound for video calls and streaming, while the HD 8.7″ screen keeps widgets, cameras, and routines a tap away. Built-in Zigbee/Thread and Matter support expand compatibility, and Alexa routines let you automate lights, locks, and thermostats hands-free. It’s the easiest way to centralize control without a separate hub.
Pros
- Combines smart display, speaker and hub into a single device.
- Matter, Zigbee and Thread support give excellent future-proofing.
- Great for viewing cameras, routines and widgets at a glance.
Cons
- Deeply tied to the Alexa ecosystem — not ideal for Google-first homes.
- Built-in camera isn’t a full replacement for a dedicated security cam.
- Needs counter or shelf space; not as discreet as a puck-style speaker.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Acts as a convenient “face” for your smart home with visual controls and status.
- Reduces the need for separate hubs thanks to Matter and Zigbee/Thread radios.
- Perfect foundation if you’re building a smart home primarily around Alexa.
Perfect for: Households that want a central control point in the kitchen or living room for lights, cameras, thermostats and routines.
Lighting
Highlights: White & Color Ambiance • 800 lm • Bridge included • App/voice control • Typical US price: $99.35
Hue remains the gold standard for reliable, low-latency lighting. This starter kit includes a Bridge for rock-solid performance, richer scenes, and wide ecosystem support. Create circadian schedules, set movie or gaming moods, and control rooms by voice with Alexa, Google, or Apple. The system scales seamlessly as your home grows, and the Bridge helps future-proof your setup with Matter compatibility and dependable automations that don’t break.
Pros
- Extremely reliable and low-latency lighting with a dedicated Bridge.
- Huge ecosystem of bulbs, light strips and accessories.
- Excellent scene control, dimming and circadian/automation options.
Cons
- Higher price than many Wi-Fi only smart bulbs.
- Requires the Hue Bridge for full features and best performance.
- Color bulbs use more power than basic white-only LEDs.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Delivers some of the most reliable smart lighting on the market.
- Scales easily from two bulbs to full-home lighting without instability.
- Works well across Alexa, Google and Apple ecosystems.
Perfect for: Users who want rock-solid smart lighting that just works, with tons of scene customization and strong multi-platform support.
Smart Plug
Highlights: Apple HomeKit • Alexa/Google • Schedules & timers • UL-certified • Typical US price: $36.99
This compact 15A four-pack makes lamps, fans, and small appliances instantly smart. Control by app or voice, set on/off timers, and create schedules that match your routine. HomeKit support means Siri control on iOS, while Alexa and Google work great across platforms. The low profile avoids blocking adjacent outlets, and UL certification adds peace of mind for continuous use around the home.
Pros
- Excellent value with four plugs in one pack.
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit.
- Compact form factor that doesn’t block the second outlet.
Cons
- Wi-Fi based, so a very congested network can impact responsiveness.
- No physical dimming — simple on/off control only.
- Not ideal for very high-draw appliances beyond 15A.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Fast way to add smart control to multiple lamps and small appliances.
- Cross-platform support makes it easy to drop into existing setups.
- Great budget-friendly starter for smart home beginners.
Perfect for: Renters and beginners who want to smarten multiple outlets cheaply without changing bulbs or wiring.
Thermostat
Highlights: Learns your schedule • Multi-room sensor • Energy savings • Typical US price: $257.00
Nest learns your preferences, detects presence, and automatically fine-tunes heating and cooling to save energy without sacrificing comfort. The included Temperature Sensor lets you prioritize key rooms, solving hot/cold spots throughout the day. With Alexa and Google support, voice control is effortless, and the app makes scheduling, Eco modes, and seasonal tweaks simple. It’s a polished upgrade that pays for itself over time.
This model remains one of the best smart home gadgets 2025 buyers can choose for improving comfort, saving energy and optimizing temperature.
Pros
- Learning algorithms automatically optimize comfort and energy use.
- Remote sensor helps fix hot and cold spots in important rooms.
- Attractive design that looks premium on the wall.
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than basic smart thermostats.
- Some HVAC systems may need a C-wire or professional installation.
- Best features assume a fairly predictable routine.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Helps lower bills while maintaining comfort with minimal micromanagement.
- Easy to manage from the app when you’re away from home.
- Integrates smoothly into Google-powered smart homes and works with Alexa.
Perfect for: Homeowners who want a “set it and forget it” smart thermostat that automatically adjusts to lifestyle and seasons.
Alarm Kit
Highlights: Base station • Keypad • Entry sensors • Optional pro monitoring • Typical US price: $249.99
Ring’s 8-piece starter covers doors, windows, and main areas with quick, tool-light setup. The app is intuitive, arming and disarming is reliable, and optional professional monitoring adds 24/7 backup. Alexa routines can arm at night, trigger lights, or alert on sensor activity. Expand later with Ring cameras and doorbells to build a unified, easy-to-manage security ecosystem.
Pros
- Easy DIY setup with a clear, user-friendly app.
- Optional professional monitoring adds extra peace of mind.
- Integrates tightly with Ring cameras and Alexa routines.
Cons
- Best experience is within the Ring/Amazon ecosystem.
- Recurring monitoring fees if you choose pro monitoring.
- Not ideal for users who prefer fully local, non-cloud solutions.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Gives you a full starter security system in a single box.
- Scales easily with extra sensors, cameras and doorbells over time.
- Great balance between DIY simplicity and pro-level monitoring options.
Perfect for: Homeowners and renters who want a straightforward alarm system they can install themselves and expand later.
Security Cam
Highlights: 4K UHD • 360° pan/tilt • 8× hybrid zoom • Color night vision • Solar-ready • Typical US price: $299.99
Cover wide areas in crisp 4K with PTZ control and auto-tracking that follows people or vehicles. Triple-lens optics improve clarity across zoom ranges, while color night vision preserves detail after dark. Integration with HomeBase S380 enables smart detection and local storage, keeping monthly fees low. It’s a powerful, flexible outdoor camera for driveways, yards, and larger properties.
Pros
- 4K resolution with PTZ and triple-lens optics for excellent coverage.
- Color night vision for clearer detail after dark.
- Local storage via HomeBase reduces reliance on monthly cloud fees.
Cons
- Installation is more involved than a simple indoor camera.
- Best experience when paired with Eufy’s HomeBase ecosystem.
- Overkill if you only need basic indoor monitoring.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Provides serious, high-detail coverage for larger outdoor spaces.
- Local recording helps keep ongoing costs down.
- Great option if you want advanced tracking and zoom without a security installer.
Perfect for: Homeowners with driveways, yards or side alleys who want high-resolution, flexible monitoring without ongoing subscription dependence.
Smart Lock
Highlights: Auto-Unlock • App & remote access • Easy retrofit • Home & rentals • Typical US price: $159.00
Nuki upgrades your existing cylinder in minutes with no drilling required. Auto-Unlock recognizes your arrival for hands-free entry, and digital keys can be shared with guests or cleaners with time limits. Remote control checks the door from anywhere, and integrations with voice assistants enable lock/unlock routines. It’s a renter-friendly path to keyless convenience and better access management.
Pros
- Retrofits onto many existing locks with minimal tools.
- Auto-Unlock and digital keys make access management easy.
- Great for rentals, Airbnbs and multi-tenant homes.
Cons
- Battery-powered lock requires occasional recharging/changes.
- Not compatible with every lock type and door profile.
- Remote access depends on Wi-Fi stability and app connectivity.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Provides keyless entry without replacing your entire door hardware.
- Makes it simple to give and revoke access for guests or cleaners.
- Much easier and less invasive than many full lock replacements.
Perfect for: Renters, Airbnb hosts and families who want modern keyless entry with minimal modification to their existing doors.
Hub/Bridge
Highlights: Matter controller • Thread Border Router • Zigbee/BT/Wi-Fi/IR • PoE • Typical US price: $109.99
The M3 unifies mixed ecosystems with a fast, flexible automation brain. It bridges Zigbee devices into Matter, routes Thread traffic, and even handles IR remotes for TVs or AC units. PoE simplifies installation, while broad Alexa, Google, and Apple compatibility keeps options open. Power users and tinkerers will appreciate the robust rule engine and dependable local automations.
For power users, this hub is among the best smart home gadgets 2025 when you’re building mixed Matter, Zigbee, Thread and IR automations.
Pros
- Acts as a central brain for multi-protocol smart home setups.
- Matter controller + Thread, Zigbee and IR support cover many devices.
- Local automations reduce dependence on the cloud.
Cons
- More complex than a simple single-ecosystem hub.
- Best suited to users comfortable tweaking automation rules.
- Not necessary for very small or single-brand smart homes.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Ideal backbone for power users with mixed-brand smart home gear.
- Helps bridge older Zigbee devices into modern Matter ecosystems.
- Supports advanced, local-first automations that still work if the internet drops.
Perfect for: Enthusiasts and power users who want one hub to coordinate mixed Zigbee, Thread, Matter and IR devices under a single automation engine.
Air Purifier
Highlights: HEPA filtration • Real-time air quality • App control • Cooling fan • Typical US price: $359.00
Dyson’s TP10 combines purification and cooling in a sleek tower. Real-time sensors track particulates and gases, automatically adjusting fan speed to maintain cleaner indoor air. The app provides detailed air-quality history and remote control, while night mode keeps operation quiet. It’s a strong pick for allergy season, city apartments, or any space where comfort and cleaner air matter.
Pros
- Combines HEPA air purification with effective room cooling.
- Real-time air quality monitoring and automatic adjustment.
- App control with scheduling and detailed air-quality history.
Cons
- Higher price than many basic purifiers or fans.
- Filter replacements add ongoing cost.
- Large footprint compared to compact bedroom purifiers.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Improves both comfort and air quality with one device.
- Ideal for allergy sufferers and urban apartments with poor air.
- Looks premium and unobtrusive in living spaces.
Perfect for: Allergy sufferers, city dwellers and anyone wanting cleaner air plus cooling in living rooms or bedrooms.
Irrigation
Highlights: App-based scheduling • Local Weather Intelligence • Rain Skips • Easy DIY install • Typical US price: $190.99
Rachio helps you save water and keep lawns healthy by using local forecasts to skip watering before rain and adjust for heat waves. The app makes zones, seasonal schedules, and manual runs simple, and Alexa/Google support enables voice-controlled starts and stops. For homeowners in drought-prone regions, it’s a smart, convenient way to automate irrigation responsibly.
Pros
- Weather-based intelligence helps avoid wasting water.
- Easy DIY replacement for many traditional controllers.
- Detailed control per zone with app-based scheduling.
Cons
- Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection and good weather data.
- Primarily useful for homes with existing in-ground irrigation.
- Initial setup and zone mapping take some time and attention.
Why it’s a strong pick:
- Smartly reduces water use and bills while keeping lawns and gardens healthy.
- Much more flexible and data-driven than basic timer-based controllers.
- Great long-term upgrade for yards in hot or drought-prone regions.
Perfect for: Homeowners with in-ground sprinklers who want to save water, time and money while keeping their yard in top shape.
Want more deals? Browse Amazon best-sellers by category:
Best Smart Home Gadgets 2025 — Comparison Table
| # | Device | Category | Key Feature | Works With | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amazon Echo Show 8 (Newest model, 2025) | Smart Display & Hub | Spatial audio + Matter | Alexa | $179.99 |
| 2 | Philips Hue Starter Kit (Bridge + 2× A19) | Smart Lighting | Color scenes + Bridge | Alexa / Google / HomeKit* | $99.35 |
| 3 | Kasa Smart Plug Mini EP25P4 (4-Pack) | Smart Plugs | HomeKit + Schedules/Timers | Alexa / Google / Siri | $36.99 |
| 4 | Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) + Sensor | Climate | Adaptive schedules | Alexa / Google | $257.00 |
| 5 | Ring Alarm 8-Piece (Newest) | Security System | DIY sensors + app | Alexa | $249.99 |
| 6 | Eufy eufyCam S4 | Security Camera | 4K PTZ + tracking | Alexa / Google | $299.99 |
| 7 | Nuki Smart Lock (Wi-Fi) | Smart Lock | Auto-Unlock + remote | Alexa / Google | $159.00 |
| 8 | Aqara Hub M3 | Hub/Bridge | Matter + Thread + Zigbee | Alexa / Google / HomeKit | $109.99 |
| 9 | Dyson Purifier Cool Gen1 TP10 | Air Purifier | HEPA + app control | Alexa / App | $359.00 |
| 10 | Rachio Smart Sprinkler (8-Zone) | Outdoor | Weather-aware watering | Alexa / Google | $190.99 |
How We Pick the Best Smart Home Devices
- Matter support: Future-proof your setup so devices work across ecosystems.
- Latency & reliability: Lights/plugs should respond instantly; hubs should keep routines stable.
- Privacy & storage: Prefer cameras with local storage and granular alert controls.
- Energy impact: Thermostats, plugs, and lighting should help lower bills, not add complexity.
- App quality: Clear UI, fast pairing, and routine builders save time every day.
Final Verdict: Best Smart Home Gadgets 2025
The best smart home gadgets 2025 buyers should consider start with a solid foundation: Echo Show 8 (hub/display) + Philips Hue (lighting) + Kasa EP25 (plugs) delivers instant value and hands-free control. For security, add Ring Alarm and the eufyCam S4. Want smarter comfort and lower bills? Choose Nest Thermostat and Dyson TP10. Power users with mixed brands should anchor automations with the Aqara Hub M3.