Which devices are most commonly controlled in a smart home?

The most common smart home connected devices fall into four categories: lighting, climate control, entertainment, and security.

Here’s how automation works in each of those categories.

1. Smart Lighting

Smart lightbulbs and related accessories tend to be fairly easy to install and use. They also offer advantages such as timers, schedulers, and motion-sensing capabilities.

Homeowners with smart home lighting can set the lights to turn on and off at certain times of day or in response to particular events.

For example, you might want your smart lighting to turn on when you arrive home from work. Rather than setting the lights to run on a timer—which might not always line up with your arrival—set the lights to trigger based on another smart device, like a smart garage door opener. The lighting system will receive an alert when the garage door opens and automatically turn on the hallway and kitchen lights.

2. Smart Thermostats

Thermostats are also commonly automated, as attested to by products like the Nest and ecobee3. Most people have heard of the smart thermostats, even if they don’t own one themselves. Like smart lightbulbs, smart thermostats are relatively easy to install and use on a regular basis. They also automatically adapt to your temperature preferences and schedule, resulting in a home environment with pitch-perfect climate.

3. Smart Entertainment Devices

Smart home connected devices in the entertainment category run the gamut. They include smart speakers, smart televisions, and even smart movie projectors. Some of these devices come with hefty price tags, while others are available at affordable price points.

4. Smart Security

Smart home connected devices for security also span the spectrum. You might purchase a smart security system in its entirety from a single provider, or you might cobble one together with smart security cameras, locks, and motion sensors from several different companies.

5. Don’t Forget the Smart Hub

Homeowners who purchase smart home connected devices in more than one category typically end up purchasing a home automation hub, too. Common hubs include Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Echo, and Google Home. These hubs simplify day-to-day use and management.