We explain exactly what's meant by the term smart devices and what they've got to offer. And we've got tips to help you turn your household into a smart home, too.
What are smart devices?
A smart device is a gadget or home appliance that connects to the internet, typically over Wi-Fi, and can communicate with other smart devices. Collectively, these internet-enabled gadgets form what’s often called The Internet of Things.
Examples of smart devices include: smartphones, tablets, fitness trackers, smart fridges, smart locks, smartwatches, smart washing machines, smart doorbells, smart security cameras, smart speakers and smart thermostats.
Do smart devices need an internet connection?
Yes, for the most part. In the majority of instances, smart devices are dependent on an internet connection to work or to ensure they’re functioning optimally.
It’s also important to connect smart devices to the internet because only then will they able to get security updates and bug fixes. If you don’t update your smart devices’ software, they could be vulnerable to hackers.
Some smart gadgets, however, don't need an internet connection. But they may still need to connect to another device (such as your phone) via your Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth.
What can smart devices do?
We’re often told that smart devices will save us money, give us more control over our homes and make us feel more secure. But how? We take a look at some of the key selling points of the most common smart devices below:
- Smart washing machines. Can troubleshoot problems and flag them, and lets you start, pause and stop cycles remotely from your smartphone. Some can also assess the load and add the correct amount of detergent automatically
- Smart fridges. These can monitor the food you buy and make suggestions to buy more if you’re running low. Some models also allow you to view inside the fridge from your smartphone while you’re in the supermarket, so you don’t buy foodstuffs you already have
- Smart security cameras. Allow you to monitor access points in your house, such as doors and windows, as well as keep an eye on garages and gardens, and view the footage from your smartphone. You can also set them up indoors to check up on the safety of an elderly relative
- Smart thermostat. This will automatically adjust your heating settings to be as energy-efficient as possible. You can also allow you to set up a schedule for your heating that suits your lifestyle and control your heating remotely via your smartphone
- Smart speakers. Devices such as the Amazon Echo let you control your other smart devices using voice commands. They’re especially useful for anyone who has impaired mobility
How many homes in the UK have smart devices?
As of 2024, about 39% of UK households have smart devices – according to GreenMatch. Among the most commonly owned devices are smart speakers, smart thermostats and internet-enabled security systems.
It’s forecast that adoption of smart home technology will continue to grow steadily in the next few years, with around 50.2% of UK homes due to own smart home devices by 2027.
How to get started with smart devices
Converting your house into a fully equipped smart home doesn’t happen overnight. We’d suggest the best way to get started is to start small by identifying the facet of your home you’d most like upgrade with smart technology.
That could mean kicking off with relatively simple upgrades to your lighting or heating. Which can give you some quick wins when it comes to keeping your bills down.
And the really good thing is that set-up in in these instances is very easy. All you need to do invest in the smart gadget of your choosing (a smart thermostat or smart lightbulb) and connect it your Wi-Fi.
Thereafter, it should then be just a case of grabbing the manufacturer’s app, downloading it to your smartphone or tablet and pairing it to your smart home device.
Tips for setting up a smart home
Ready to take the next steps? Here's some things to bear in mind...
Make sure your broadband is up to the job
If you’re planning to install smart home tech in your household, you’ll need a good broadband connection.
It’s generally recommended you have a broadband speed of at least 25Mbps. Because you’re unlikely to be able to get these speeds with a standard ADSL broadband service, it’s best to plump for a fibre broadband package.
You can test your speed with handy broadband speed checker. And if you think your existing speed could use a boost, check our tipsheet for improving your broadband speed.
Get a primary system that works for you
If you’re planning to go beyond having a few smart devices in your home, you’ll probably want to get a primary system that enables you to control multiple devices from a single app.
The main ones to choose from are Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s HomeKit and Google Home, all of which are available on smartphone apps for iPhones and Android.
When you’re weighing up your options, it’s a good idea to think ahead and consider whether the system is compatible with any smart home gadgets you’re planning to buy in future.
Keep your devices updated
The more up-to-date your devices’ software is, the more secure they’re likely to be. Not keeping your kit updated could also mean you miss out on any new features or service improvements.
Check reviews and do your research
While some smart devices are relatively cheap, others can blow a sizeable hole in your wallet. So before you commit money to a bigger purchase, make sure check consumer tech sites for reviews and compatibility.
How much do smart home devices cost?
Naturally, that depends on the brand you choose and the level of functionality they offer. But as a rule of thumb you should expect to pay:
- Smart lightbulb – about £15 each
- Smart thermostats – between £100-£250
- Smart doorbells – between £180-£330
- Smart speaker – between £60-£300
- Smart washing machine – around £400
- Smart fridge - £700-£4,500
