Discover the smartest home upgrades for 2025. From intuitive lighting to next-gen security, here are 10 devices I personally tested and recommend.
If you’re anything like me, you love the feeling of coming home and having your environment respond exactly the way you want—lights fading on, the thermostat dialed in just right, and a robot vacuum quietly handling the crumbs you’d rather pretend don’t exist. Over the past year, I’ve tested dozens of smart devices in search of the ones that make the biggest difference in daily life.
Below are the 10 that impressed me most. For each, I’ll share what it’s like to live with it, who I think it suits best, and a few reasons it may not be for everyone.
1. Amazon Echo Show 15
When I first mounted the Echo Show 15 in my kitchen, it felt like installing the command center of the USS Enterprise. The crisp, 15-inch display became the family bulletin board overnight—recipes playing while I cooked, reminders popping up about school pickups, and a rolling slideshow of photos that made the space feel more personal.
If you’re part of a busy household, you’ll love how it pulls together calendars, shopping lists, and entertainment in one place. I’ve found it especially handy during meal prep and when I’m too lazy to yell across the house that dinner’s ready.
That said, not everyone will appreciate having a big screen on the wall. If you’re a minimalist or feel squeamish about cameras in shared spaces, you might prefer a smaller smart speaker without video.
Still, for me, this device has made daily routines smoother and a lot more fun.
2. Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
Before trying the Nest Learning Thermostat, I didn’t think much about heating and cooling. But within a week, it learned my schedule—when I wake up, leave for work, and go to bed—and started adjusting temperatures automatically.
It felt like my house had developed a little intelligence of its own. Mornings are cozier, and I don’t have to worry about wasting energy when I’m out. Over time, I’ve seen my energy bills drop, which makes the investment easy to justify.
Homeowners and eco-conscious folks will love how effortless it is to save energy. But if you rent or have an older HVAC system that’s tricky to wire up, it might be more hassle than it’s worth.
Still, if you want comfort without thinking about it, Nest is an excellent upgrade.
3. Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip
One evening, I stuck the Philips Hue Gradient Lightstrip behind my TV, turned on the lights, and queued up an action movie. As soon as the colors started to dance across the wall, I knew I was hooked.
The lightstrip creates an immersive atmosphere that changes in real time with whatever you’re watching. It also doubles as ambient mood lighting when I’m reading or listening to music.
Gamers, movie buffs, and anyone who loves creating a vibe will appreciate how it elevates a space. But if you prefer simple white light or don’t want to fiddle with an app, you might find it overkill.
For me, it’s one of those small luxuries that makes every night feel special.
4. Arlo Pro 5S 2K Security Camera
The first time the Arlo Pro 5S pinged my phone, it was a delivery driver dropping off a package. I opened the app, and there he was, waving at the camera in crisp 2K video.
Over the months, it’s been a reliable set of eyes—day or night. It notifies me when a person or vehicle approaches, and I can even talk through it if needed.
If you travel a lot or just want peace of mind, the Arlo is a fantastic companion. On the flip side, some people may not love the idea of installing cameras around the property, or they might balk at the subscription fees for cloud storage.
Personally, knowing I can check in anytime has made me feel much more secure.
5. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Installing the August Smart Lock was a revelation. No more frantic key searches or wondering whether I locked the door.
The first time I walked up to the house and heard the lock disengage automatically, I felt like I was living in the future. I also love being able to unlock the door remotely if a friend arrives early or the dog walker needs to get in.
If you’ve got a busy household or host guests frequently, it’s hard to beat the convenience. However, if you’re uneasy about controlling your lock via phone or you rent and can’t modify your door hardware, you may want to stick with traditional keys.
For me, it’s added both security and simplicity to everyday life.
6. iRobot Roomba j9+
Watching the Roomba j9+ navigate my living room for the first time was mesmerizing. It mapped the space methodically, zig-zagged under chairs, and even emptied itself into the docking station when full.
As a pet owner, I’ve been amazed at how it keeps the fur at bay without any intervention. I set a schedule in the app, and the Roomba does the rest—even when I’m not home.
People who value a spotless floor but hate vacuuming will fall in love. If you have lots of clutter or thick rugs, you may have to do a little prep work. But overall, it’s freed up hours of my week.
7. Nanoleaf Lines Smart Light Bars
I installed Nanoleaf Lines in my home office, and the effect is striking—like a futuristic art installation that also happens to light up the room.
These modular bars are endlessly customizable. I’ve created designs that sync with my playlists, shift colors throughout the day, and react to notifications.
Creative types and gamers will love how these lights transform plain walls into something special. If your style is more classic or you don’t like visible tech, they may feel out of place.
But for anyone who wants to make a room feel unique, Nanoleaf Lines are worth every penny.
8. Samsung SmartThings Station
Bringing different brands of smart devices under one roof used to be complicated. That’s why the SmartThings Station stood out for me—it just works.
In one afternoon, I connected sensors, plugs, lights, and thermostats. The Station became the nerve center of my home, automating routines and keeping everything in sync. It even doubles as a wireless charger for my phone.
If you’re building a smart home from scratch or juggling gadgets from different ecosystems, you’ll appreciate the simplicity. If you only use a couple of devices, it might be more hub than you need.
For me, it’s made controlling everything seamless and stress-free.
9. Ecobee Smart Video Doorbell
The first time I tested the Ecobee Doorbell, I was impressed by how sharp the video looked—even at night. It’s a small detail, but when you’re trying to identify a delivery or visitor, clarity matters.
This doorbell also integrates beautifully with Apple HomeKit, making it easy to monitor and respond via my phone or watch.
Frequent online shoppers and Apple households will love it. If you rent or prefer battery-powered devices, you might want to consider alternatives.
Overall, it’s made me feel more in control of who comes and goes, which is priceless.
10. Govee Smart Air Quality Monitor
I didn’t realize how much indoor air quality fluctuates until I plugged in the Govee Monitor. Suddenly, I had real-time data on CO2, particulates, and humidity.
On days when the readings were high, I opened windows or turned on a purifier—simple actions that made my home feel fresher.
Parents, allergy sufferers, or anyone who cares about wellness will find it invaluable. If you don’t like tracking metrics or prefer simpler devices, this might not be your cup of tea.
For me, it’s reassuring to know exactly what I’m breathing.
Key Takeaways
Every one of these products has improved my daily life in ways I didn’t expect—from saving time and energy to creating an atmosphere that feels more welcoming. Whether you’re building your smart home piece by piece or looking for a few upgrades to make life simpler, these are the devices I recommend most in 2025.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my testing and recommendations.
