Smart home devices: what are they and how do they work?
Key takeaways
Smart home devices connect to a network, allowing you to control, monitor or automate them using an app, voice assistant or other compatible device.
Common smart home devices include video doorbells, security cameras, speakers, lighting, plugs, thermostats, locks and household sensors.
Not all devices work together, so check compatibility with your apps, smart home platform and any hub before you buy.
Consider the full cost, including subscriptions and installation, as well as internet requirements, security updates and privacy.
What are smart home devices?
Smart home devices are connected products that let you control, monitor or automate parts of your home, usually through an app, voice assistant or another compatible device.
For example, a smart doorbell can alert you when someone is at your door, while a smart plug lets you switch a connected appliance on or off remotely. Some devices can also work automatically based on schedules, triggers or information from other compatible products.
Smart home devices are sometimes called connected devices or Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
How do smart home devices work?
Smart home devices connect and communicate using technology such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, either directly or through a compatible smart home hub. You’ll usually set them up and manage their features through an app.
Depending on the device, you may be able to:
control it from your phone or tablet
receive alerts when you’re away from home
set schedules and automated routines
use voice commands with a compatible smart speaker
connect it to other compatible smart home devices
Some features need an internet connection or paid subscription. If your broadband goes down, features such as remote access, notifications and cloud recording may stop working, while some basic or local functions could continue. Check how your chosen device works before buying.
What types of smart home devices can I buy?
There are lots of smart home devices available, from video doorbells and security cameras to smart lighting and heating controls. The right choice depends on what you want to control, monitor or automate around your home.
Type of device | What it can do | Examples |
|---|---|---|
Video doorbells | Let you see who’s at your door and, on compatible models, speak to visitors through an app | Ring Video Doorbells and other video doorbells |
Security cameras | Provide live video and motion alerts, with some models offering recorded clips | Indoor and outdoor smart cameras |
Smart speakers and displays | Play audio, answer questions and control compatible smart home devices | Amazon Echo, Google Nest and Apple HomePod products |
Smart lighting | Let you control, dim or schedule compatible lights | Smart bulbs, switches and lighting systems |
Smart plugs | Add app, schedule or voice controls to compatible plug-in appliances | Wi-Fi and platform-compatible smart plugs |
Smart heating | Let you control heating schedules and temperatures, including remotely on compatible systems | Smart thermostats and radiator controls |
Smart locks | Let you lock or unlock compatible doors electronically | Keypad and app-controlled smart locks |
Sensors | Detect events such as movement, doors or windows opening, or water leaks | Motion, contact and leak sensors |
Smart appliances | Add connected controls or automated features to household appliances | Robot vacuum cleaners, washing machines and kitchen appliances |
Features vary between products, even within the same category. For example, some cameras and video doorbells offer live viewing without a subscription but charge for cloud video recording or additional features. Check what’s included before you buy.
What should I consider when choosing a video doorbell?
Video doorbells can let you see and speak to visitors through an app, but products, subscriptions and compatibility can vary.
Some doorbells offer basic features, such as instant notifications, live viewing and two-way talk, without a subscription. However, video recording, cloud storage and more advanced alerts may require a paid plan.
Before choosing, compare:
the upfront cost
subscription costs and any minimum contract term
which features work without a subscription
video storage and retention periods
compatibility with your existing smart home devices
battery, wiring and installation requirements
warranty and software support
Prices, subscriptions and product ranges can change, so check the latest terms with the manufacturer or retailer before buying.
Do smart home devices require a subscription?
No, not all smart home devices require a subscription. Many work without a monthly fee, although the features available for free vary by product and brand. You may still be able to control your device through an app, receive notifications and access features such as live video.
Some smart home devices offer optional subscriptions that unlock extra features. Depending on the product, these could include:
cloud storage for video recordings
access to recorded footage or video history
more advanced or personalised alerts
When comparing smart home devices, consider both the upfront price and any ongoing subscription costs. One device might cost less initially but charge for features that another includes as standard.
Before buying, check which features are available without a subscription, what a paid plan adds and how much it costs. This can give you a clearer idea of the total cost of owning the device over time.
Do I need a smart home hub?
Not always. Many smart home devices connect directly to your Wi-Fi and can be controlled through an app, while others need a compatible hub or bridge to connect and communicate with other devices.
A smart home hub can be useful if you want several compatible devices to work together, but it may mean buying and powering an extra piece of equipment. Before you buy, check whether your chosen device needs a hub and whether one is included.
Some devices support Matter, a smart home standard designed to make it easier for compatible products and platforms to work together. However, Matter support doesn’t guarantee that every feature will work with every app, hub or voice assistant. Some devices may also need additional compatible hardware, so check the manufacturer's requirements before buying.
What should I look for when buying a smart home device?
Before buying a smart home device, consider whether it works with your existing technology, what it will cost over time and which features you’ll actually use.
Is it compatible with my smart home?
Check that the device works with your phone, home network and any smart home platform you already use. If you use Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home or another system, check the manufacturer's compatibility information rather than assuming devices will work together.
How much will it cost?
Look beyond the purchase price. Depending on the device, you may also need to pay for a subscription, professional installation, batteries, accessories or replacement parts. Check which features are included for free and which require an ongoing payment.
What internet and power does it need?
Check the broadband and Wi-Fi requirements, particularly for cameras and video doorbells. You should also find out whether the device uses batteries, needs wiring or requires a nearby power socket.
Which features will I use?
Focus on features that are useful to you. Depending on the device, these could include motion alerts, night vision, two-way audio, schedules, activity zones, household sharing or local storage.
What about privacy and security?
Check what security features are available, where your data is stored and how long the manufacturer will provide security updates. Look for features such as two-step verification and controls that let you manage your privacy and recording settings.
What support and accessibility does it offer?
Check the warranty and customer support, as well as whether the app and device controls meet your accessibility needs. If other people in your household will use the device, find out whether you can give them their own access rather than sharing your password.
How can I use smart home devices securely?
You can help keep your smart home devices secure by using their security features, installing updates and protecting the accounts connected to them.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recommends:
using a strong, unique password, or a passkey where available
turning on two-step verification where available
installing software and firmware updates promptly, or enabling automatic updates
reviewing privacy, recording and remote access settings
only giving account access to people you trust
resetting the device and deleting your personal data before selling or disposing of it
UK product security rules also set minimum requirements for consumer connectable products covered by the regulations. These include rules on default passwords and requirements for manufacturers to publish how security issues can be reported and how long the product will receive security updates.
These requirements can help you make a more informed choice, but you should still check and use the security settings available on your device.
What privacy rules apply to smart doorbells and cameras?
Where possible, position your smart doorbell or security camera so it only captures your own property.
If it records beyond your property boundary, such as a neighbour’s property, shared space or public pavement, data protection law applies. You’ll need to take steps to protect other people’s privacy, including putting up a sign to let people know recording is taking place and keeping recorded footage secure.
Check your camera angle and settings to avoid capturing more than you need. You should also consider whether audio recording is necessary and use privacy zones or masking features where available.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is currently reviewing its home CCTV guidance following changes introduced by the Data (Use and Access) Act. Check the latest ICO guidance if your camera or video doorbell records beyond your property boundary.
Can smart home devices help me save energy?
Yes, some smart home devices can help you reduce energy use, but they won’t automatically lower your energy bills.
For example, a smart thermostat can help you manage your heating schedule and temperature more easily, while smart plugs and lighting can automatically switch compatible devices off when you don’t need them.
How much energy or money you save will depend on the device, your home and how you use it. Remember to consider the cost of buying and running the smart device when deciding whether it could save you money overall.
Can I install smart home devices in a rented home?
Yes, you can usually use portable smart home devices, such as smart plugs, bulbs and speakers, without making permanent changes to a rented property.
If you want to install a wired doorbell, camera, smart lock, thermostat or another device that requires drilling or alters the property, check your tenancy agreement first. You may need permission from your landlord or managing agent, and you may need to return the property to its previous condition when you leave.
If you live in a flat, check any rules covering communal areas too. For cameras and video doorbells, consider your neighbours’ privacy and whether the device will record beyond the boundary of your home.
Are smart home devices worth it?
Smart home devices can be worth it if they make something you regularly do at home easier, safer or more convenient.
For example, you might want to answer your door remotely, manage your heating from your phone or automate your lights. But a smart device may offer less value if you rarely use its connected features or need extra subscriptions, apps or hubs to get the features you want.
Before buying, consider what you want the device to do, whether it works with technology you already own and its full cost, including any ongoing subscriptions.
Author
Elena Glynn
Head of Commercial
Elena is the Head of Commercial for Home Communications, where she leads a team dedicated to sourcing the best possible deals for customers. Working closely and directly with providers, her team...
