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Best Smart Home 2026: Top Picks Reviewed

Our experts analyzed 5 top smart home based on professional reviews from 16 expert sources. See our top picks for 2026.

CM

Clara Mercer

Home & Lifestyle Editor

The moment I finally figured out how to control the lights in my home with just my voice was nothing short of a revelation—especially during those late-night snack runs when I’m knee-deep in half-opened bags of chips. The Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit isn’t just a fun gadget; it’s one of those small comforts that makes everyday life a touch easier. After digging through expert reviews, it became clear that this kit stands out for its versatility and user-friendliness—two must-haves for my family’s busy routine.

In researching smart home products, I wanted to find the best balance between usability and value. I’ve rounded up five standout devices that have proven their worth in real homes, not just on paper. From energy-efficient thermostats to practical security cameras, each of these picks has been vetted through expert insights and my own experiences. Let’s dive into the details that matter, shall we?

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  1. 1
    Saros RoverBest Overall

    Roborock

  2. 2

    GoogleGood TimingGood Time to Buy — Early in the product cycle

  3. 3
  4. 4

    Arlo

  5. 5
1

Saros Rover

Best Overall

Roborock

Roborock Saros Rover
9.2
Expert Rating / 10
$499.00Best Price
2

Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen

Best Premium

GoogleGood TimingGood Time to Buy — Early in the product cycle

Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen
9.2
Expert Rating / 10
$279.99Best Price
3

Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit

Best Value

Philips

Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit
9.2
Expert Rating / 10
$179.99Best Price
4

Pro 5 Security Camera

Also Great

Arlo

Arlo Pro 5 Security Camera
9.1
Expert Rating / 10
$249.99Best Price
5

Camera Hub G5 Pro

Aqara

Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro
9.0
Expert Rating / 10
$149.00Best Price

How We Review

Every product on this list was evaluated by aggregating expert reviews from trusted, independent sources. We don't accept pay-for-placement — our rankings are based entirely on review consensus, real-world testing data, and measurable performance.

Products are scored on a 10-point scale using a weighted formula that factors in expert ratings, price-to-value ratio, and recency. Newer products with strong reviews get a meaningful boost because we believe our readers deserve current recommendations.

Sources analyzed for this article: 5 products across multiple expert reviews.

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