Nothing threatens home peace of mind quite like little pests — but your smart home devices may be able to provide answers, including where roaches or mice are coming from. In addition to monitoring temperatures or listening for breaking glass, sensors can also pick up bugs and other activity. If you’ve got questions about how…
Amazon Resolution Those bright lights works best when paired with a camera with a high resolution that can capture a lot of detail. A 1080p will get the job done, but for the best clarity for these (often high-mounted) cameras, we prefer 2K resolutions, like a couple of our top picks. Brightness and customization Lumens…
It’s no longer futuristic to call out a request to a robot in our homes. Smart speakers have become so commonplace that many people have several. There are three main players in the smart speaker space: Amazon Echo, Google Nest and Apple HomePod, with the most common being from Amazon and Google. The two tech…
The October version of Amazon Prime Day ended yesterday, but there are still some deals available to shop, especially for Prime members. These lingering deals include smart home essentials such as this Satechi dual smart outlet for only $20, down from its regular price of $39. The only catch is that you have to be a…
Spooky season is nearly here, with Halloween fast approaching, which means you’re going to see plenty of homes with some extra ghouls and goblins. Whether or not these types of decorations are your style, your smart home could be the eerie secret ingredient you’ve been looking for. From creating special lighting to spooky sounds with…
For many, including myself, Amazon Echo smart speakers and smart displays have become essential parts of our homes and lives. From answering any and all questions to setting timers and controlling additional smart devices, Alexa can help with it all. But if you aren’t a tech aficionado, the idea of setting up an Amazon Echo…
My phone buzzes with a notification, catching me off-guard while I’m out in the backyard: Person detected, package detected. It’s my Google Nest Doorbell letting me know, via my iPhone’s lock screen, that someone’s dropped off a delivery (pet food and breakfast bars) at my front door. A minute later, I get another alert: Package…
A complete smart home is the dream, with increased security and convenience added to your everyday life. The prices of all the cool stuff needed to achieve that, however, can be daunting. To make sure you don’t miss out on the best deals, even as Prime Day is now fading in the rear-view mirror, we’ve…
The winter months are right around the corner. With the shorter and darker days approaching, smart lights become ever more important, especially if you plan on spending a lot of your time gaming. With that in mind, we found a deal on a Govee gaming light bar that drops the price to the lowest we’ve…
Monitoring your home’s safety, water usage and even indoor air quality has never been easier thanks to the growing number of reliable smart home devices on the market. If you’ve been searching for the right outdoor security cameras, water monitors and other smart home gadgets to help you stay organized and safe, then you might…
I’m trading my old traditional lighting this fall for smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now — it’s made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I needed something different than a smart bulb for…
Alarmo! Like a sudden ringtone, Nintendo’s latest surprise product emerged out of nowhere. The Switch 2 isn’t coming until 2025, but in the meantime, Nintendo has a novelty clock with musical themes and what looks like surprisingly advanced tech. Yes, it’s an alarm clock. It’s called Alarmo. It’s available now, and we’ve tried one out.…
$171 at Amazon Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd generation): $171 Save $78 $34 at Amazon Amazon Basics Smart A19 LED Light Bulb (4-pack): $27 Save $7 $116 at Amazon Philips Hue Indoor 6-Foot Smart LED Light Strip: $116 Save $64 $58 at Amazon Amazon Echo Dot with Jack Skellington Shell: $58 Save $27 Show more…
Although summer is a distant memory, that doesn’t mean you can neglect your yard and lawn. One of the most water-wise things you can do for your garden and your budget is to install an automatic irrigation system. The good news is, that’s easier than you think. The even better news? Thanks to the big…
I have smart lights at home, and I have several ways to control them. The simplest way is probably my smartphone or a smart speaker or display. And for the most part, that should be enough. But I was looking for another way to control my lights in their home that was easy and also…
It’s out with all my old traditional lighting this fall and in with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now — it’s made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I needed something different…
Amazon’s October Prime Day event is rapidly closing in, which means that you can save a lot of money on just about anything you could want. Case in point: Now’s a great time to grab our favorite Ring video doorbell, the Battery Doorbell Pro, while it’s at its lowest price ever of $150 on Amazon.…
Regardless of if you’re at home or away, home security is a must. You never know when you’re going to need to keep eyes on your house. But it shouldn’t break the bank or feel out of reach. Thankfully, Prime Day is only two days away and makes for a great time to snag some…
This fall, it’s out with all the traditional lighting in my pad and in with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now — it’s made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I needed…
$81 at Amazon Set it and forget it PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Programmable Dog & Cat Feeder View details $56 at Amazon Climate control you don’t have to think about Amazon Smart Thermostat View details $90 at Amazon Stay in the know Eufy Security Indoor Cam E220 2-Cam Kit View details $100 at Target…
I’m ditching all the traditional lighting in my pad and replacing it with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now — it’s made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I needed something different…
I’m a working mother of an 8-month-old and a 3-year-old. My husband also works full-time and we don’t have family nearby to offer additional support. On some days, it feels as though this is my crowning achievement: managing to feed, clothe, bathe and sustain both persons as well as myself while stringing together coherent sentences…
I recently committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing everything with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now and has made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I…
Sweltering temperatures have been plaguing the United States all summer long. Just because we’re on the cusp of fall doesn’t mean you’re off the hook when it comes to making dinner. The solution? Certainly not ordering takeout. You don’t have to suffer through ice-cold meals, either. You can still hustle about in the kitchen and put your stove to…
Amazon’s October Prime Day event is next week (Oct. 8 and 9), and you can expect some of the biggest deals of the year. If you don’t already have a Prime subscription, you can sign up for the free trial to get exclusive deals, but there are plenty of other perks that make it worth staying subscribed once…
Amazon’s October Prime Day sale is just a few days from now, but that hasn’t stopped the company from already dropping prices on some of its most popular devices. Back in July, Amazon announced a new generation of its Echo Spot smart alarm clock. Available in black, glacier white and ocean blue, it lists for…
Parents and caregivers know what hard work is, and they know the value of delegating even small tasks. Trusty smart home devices can help with that. If your baby is still using bottles, you know how unpredictable their appetites and thirst can be. That’s why a smart bottle-feeding system can help ensure your baby’s next…
Our venture into vacation rentals started out as a romantic pipe dream of my husband’s, a way to invest our savings into something other than the stock market. We’d never owned a home of our own — we were living in a two-bedroom apartment in San Francisco — yet we were wildly optimistic about our…
These days, doorbells do much more than just informing that someone is at your house. The Battery Doorbell Pro is our favorite Ring video doorbell. It has a large field of view and advanced motion detection, plus all of the usual notifications and convenient two-way audio capability. Usually going for $230, it’s not the cheapest…
The only way to know your smoke alarm is functioning and ready (except for letting your turkey burn in the oven) is to test it. And tests don’t just confirm that smoke detectors have power — they can also tell you if you need to switch out batteries before your alarm throws a high-pitched fit.…
Video doorbells are an easy way to check who’s at the door no matter where you are. There are plenty of options to choose from these days, all at varying prices. Sometimes it all comes down to which is the best deal and, right now, Amazon is the place to be. Amazon’s Prime Big Deal…
The promise of a connected smart home is something that fans of sci-fi TV or movies have dreamed of for decades. But for the longest time, setting up a smart home was technical, expensive and not particularly intuitive. Much of this has changed as technology has improved both for hardware and internal software. These advancements…
I’m a working mother of two young children: one’s 8 months old; the other’s a 3-year-old. My husband also works full-time, and we don’t have family nearby to offer additional support. On some days, it feels as though this is my crowning achievement: managing to feed, clothe, bathe and sustain both persons as well as…
You could have a home chock full of the best smart home devices, but if you’re not utilizing automation, you’re missing out on a lot of what they can do. Google and Amazon have built-in the ability to create automation or “Alexa Routines,” as Amazon calls them, within the Alexa or Google Home app. The…
I recently committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing everything with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now and has made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I…
Video doorbells are a great way to check who’s at the door no matter where you are. There are plenty of options to choose from these days, all at varying prices. Sometimes it all comes down to which is the best deal, and right now, Best Buy is the place to be. The big box…
Amazon makes a lot of great items for those looking to upgrade or start their smart home. They make good smart lights, smart speakers and good smart displays as well. You can find some decent deals on those a lot of the time, but right now we’re getting a trickle through of some early October Prime…
Amazon Echo speakers come in all shapes, sizes and types, making these devices great for putting all around the house… or even the car. With so much flexibility for where you can use Alexa, it can be easy to slip up and place a speaker in an area that could end up disastrous for your smart…
Keeping a tidy home can be time-consuming and take up a lot of your energy, especially if you might need to sweep, mop or vacuum multiple times a day. If you have kids or pets, you might want to delegate some of these tasks to a device created to make life easier. Right now, you…
LEDs and smart lights are always cool. The multicolored lights can add a lot to a room, no matter the size. That’s why we’re highlighting a couple of great offers at Amazon today. The first is a Twinkly Squares starter kit for $170 that comes with six squares. While it’s not the lowest we’ve ever…
Nearly two years ago when I tested my first robot lawn mower, the Husqvarna Automower 430XH, I gained the power to control time and still get a beautiful lawn. OK, I don’t really control time, but the robot lawn mower takes on one of my biggest weekly chores and gives my family and me more…
When you’re setting up a new smart home, it’s important not to ignore the humble smart lock. They can improve security and make it more convenient when entering and leaving your home, but they can also be expensive. Thankfully, Best Buy has slashed the price of a Level Lock Plus Connect with keypad down to just…
As we edge closer to the winter months, the purpose of smart lights becomes ever more important. Sure candles can give a room some light and ambiance but having LED lights that can be switched to 16.8 million colors is even better, especially if you enjoy playing video games in the dark. With that, we’re…
If you’re bugged by growing roach problems (no apologies), you may be wondering if your smart home can help. Can you deploy sensors or even cameras to find pests like cockroaches and see if they’re causing trouble? Or could these bugs be causing problems for your home security systems like false alerts? Questions like these…
Vacuum type: Robot vs. cordless stick Tyler Lizenby/CNET Floor care is a broad category these days with seemingly a tool dedicated to nearly any way you want to get your floors sparkling. While there is still a place for a plug-in style vacuum, but with advances in battery technology, wire-free devices are far more convenient.…
Caring for houseplants is rewarding, even relaxing, when you have the time. But when life picks up and those neglected green leaves start to brown, your monsteras and money trees become one more chore you don’t have time for. And if you’re working with a sprawling collection of indoor plants, that can mean distributing several gallons…
A robot vacuum can make all the difference when it comes to chores day, and you might be surprised how little you have to pay to pick one up. If you’ve been wanting to treat yourself to one of these smart cleaning devices now is your chance to score a top model for its best…
The promise of a connected smart home is something that fans of sci-fi TV or movies have dreamed of for decades. But for the longest time, setting up a smart home was technical, expensive and not particularly intuitive. Much of this has changed as technology has improved both for hardware and internal software. These advancements…
Garage doors, those quintessential parts of residential neighborhoods, have a guilty secret: They’re one of the most common ways burglars find access to a home. Criminology and criminal justice professor James Lynch, at the University of Maryland, told CNET that many of us forget to lock garage side doors, or even leave garage doors open after a…
There’s no time quite like fall for a new hiking adventure, especially in my home, where the high desert meets the Cascade mountains. The heat of August has faded, there’s a crisp smell to the air, and the trails aren’t as crowded — it’s a perfect combination for a new trek or planning a big…
Grabbing yourself a smart lock can be a great way to help upgrade your security at work or at home, and it makes it simpler to let guests in, as well. While they can often cost a fair bit of money, you can occasionally find some really good deals on them. You can currently get…
Pellet grills have become extremely popular and are found on many backyard patios, from cooking hot dogs and burgers to brisket and pulled pork, thanks to their ability to hold specific temperatures for hours on end. With a wide range of different wood pellets to use as fuel, any food cooked in them comes out…
Adding smart lights to your home is the perfect way to liven up dark spaces or add a touch of ambiance to a room. If you’ve been building your smart home with smart speakers, video doorbells and other helpful tech, a set of smart lights can make an excellent addition, or even a good starting point for…
Google Assistant is something many of us have grown to rely on over the years. From setting reminders and timers to controlling media and smart home devices, the digital butler has become a valuable part of many people’s lives, including mine. If you’ve noticed a drop off in general reliability in the last couple of…
Plan on moving to a new home? Don’t let that stop you from buying home security systems. Not all home security installations are permanent: Actually, many security devices are made for renters, military transfers, house flippers and others that may want to pack and take that smart home tech with them. These portable devices use…
Laundry is an essential part of your weekly, if not daily, routine. This might include washing your sheets and bedding, doing your laundry according to those symbols on clothing tags and even cleaning your washing machine each week. You probably already know how useful Alexa is around the house, but have you ever used your Amazon Echo device…
Building a smart home doesn’t need to be expensive. By taking advantage of the best Amazon Labor Day deals across the weekend and Monday, you can save a ton of cash while also getting access to some of the latest tech. Just take this Amazon Echo Pop and smart bulb combo for only $23. It’s…
I recently committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing everything with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now and has made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I…
Caring for houseplants is such a rewarding experience because they do more than beautify your home. Watering sessions are particularly great for stress relief. As you water each plant, you can ponder new growth and admire its long-term development. But finding time to water houseplants gets trickier as your collection grows. For me, that means…
Amazon released the first Echo smart speaker over a decade ago — but CNET has been covering the smart home space for even longer. Since that time, CNET experts have been constantly reviewing the smart home landscape, which consists of smart lightbulbs and speakers to video doorbells and security cameras. There are far more smart devices than just those categories.…
Where I live in Bend, Oregon, the high desert of the West Coast cools down from its highs in August and makes September one of the best hiking months of the year. Time it right next to our Cascade mountains, and you can even hike to see changing fall colors while it’s still warm outside.…
Caring for houseplants is such a rewarding experience because they do more than beautify your home. Watering sessions are particularly great for stress relief. As you water each plant, you can ponder new growth and admire its long-term development. But finding time to water houseplants gets trickier as your collection grows. For me, that means…
I have so many ways to control my Philips Hue lights at home — my Google Nest Hub, my Pixel Watch 2 or Pixel 9 Pro XL — that you’d think I’d have no reason to look into any other device to control my lights, because, why? But when Philips released its Hue Wall Tap Dial…
Privacy rights advocates and the law can clash on certain issues. That’s true of home security camera recordings too. Police don’t have the right to look through private home camera live views, but they do have plenty of options to seize stored videos when investigating a potential crime. That includes both cloud video storage and…
Upgrading a home to a smart home doesn’t need to be a massive investment, with Amazon Labor Day deals now reducing the price of numerous Eve products to commemorate the holiday. We’re seeing discounts of up to 50% across various tech devices, including LED lamps, smart plugs and cameras. One example is this Eve LED…
Have you ever heard the phrase, “You’ll never know how much you miss something until it’s gone?” Well, it has hit my family unexpectedly in the past month. I am still in the process of moving homes, and my “new” home needs some pretty intense repairs before I can finalize the move. Because of this,…
With how many battery-powered devices we own, keeping them charged and ready to go is quite the task. A multiport charger is a straightforward answer, and among the many Labor Day deals this weekend, this price cut on the Belkin BoostCharge four-port USB power extender is one to grab. Originally priced at $25, you’ll save…
The Labor Day weekend deals are flowing, and there are plenty of ways to save money across all manner of categories. If you’re in the market for a new home security camera, you’d do well to take note of a deal that slashes the price of a HD TP-Link Tapo indoor security camera to just $15.…
Keeping track of everything going on in life can be quite overwhelming. Family. Friends. Work. Hobbies. Holidays. It’s easy to miss something. Well, that’s where Skylight Calander comes in. The digital Wi-Fi display that helps organize your schedule has a $30 discount available as part of Labor Day sales. Just use code ‘LD30’ to access…
I recently committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing it with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now and has made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I…
I have so many ways to control my Philips Hue lights at home — my Google Nest Hub, my Pixel Watch 2 or Pixel 9 Pro XL — that you’d think I’d have no reason to look into any other device to control my lights, because, why? But when the Philips Hue Wall Tap Dial…
Upgrading a home to a smart home doesn’t need to be a massive investment, with Amazon Labor Day deals now reducing the price of numerous Eve products. We’re seeing discounts of up to 50% across various tech, including LED lamps, smart plugs and cameras, among great tech. One example is this Eve LED light strip…
Whether you’ve got laminate, hardwood or even carpeted flooring, keeping these large surface areas clean can be a challenge, especially if there are pets or kids in the mix. Instead of hauling out the bucket and mop or spraying on loads of chemical cleaners, a multisurface tool like the Tineco S3 Pro Floor One can…
Sensory sensitivity is a common trait among neurodivergent individuals that can quickly turn a good day into a bad one. As an ADHDer, someone with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, I can attest to the role of sensory input in my life. In my case, sensory processing is like a metal detector shifting between under- and…
ADT’s new system and Trusted Neighbor features offer more integration than the brand once had. ADT If you’re shopping around for a home security system, you’ll quickly run across both the names ADT and Vivint, popular brands for whole security systems that include sensors, keypads, hubs and cameras. But this is more than a competition between…
Coffee fans will often go to a high-end coffee maker as their first major purchase when it comes to upgrading their home caffeine experience, and that’s a great idea. However, good coffee isn’t the only thing to figure out when drinking coffee at home; there’s also the never-ending issue of cold drinks. If you’re someone who likes…
If you’re kitting your home out with smart accessories, smart lights are a great way to get started. They can be relatively inexpensive, and they’re also easier to set up than things like smart thermostats. Govee is a brand that we’re big fans of, and right now you can pick up 48 feet of the…
CNET If you’re going to spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars on home security technology, it’s good to know your return on investment, especially if you can get a home value boost out of it. When it comes to the smart home, security devices are very high on the list of things buyers want: A…
Control temperature from app anywhere.
Nothing feels smoother than asking Alexa or Siri to turn down the lights… except for that part where you have to shush all your dinner guests first before doing so. Not a good look. Voices Meet industry creators, contributors and emerging thought leaders that have paired with CNET’s award-winning editorial team to provide you with…
Keeping your home clean is a never-ending task, and depending on your living situation you might need to sweep, mop or vacuum more than once a day. That’s why a little bit of help can go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable at home, especially if you have kids or pets. Right…
CNET A session of van life lets you get out on the road, save some money and travel to your favorite destinations while still having access to all your own stuff — it’s no surprise that van life has become so popular. But along with that, van break-ins and theft have also grown, which is…
Today’s latest security devices have many advantages that old systems can’t provide. Arlo Resolution A higher resolution makes it easy to see important details like what people are carrying or their faces, which is usually a priority for businesses. Our cam picks are generally in the 2K to 4K range, the highest available for the…
Not only does a smart lock improve security it can also bring in some added convenience. The problem is adapting to this technology isn’t the cheapest. Thankfully, Best Buy has cut the price of a Level Lock Plus Connect with keypad to $299. That’s a $130 saving from its usual asking price of $429, so…
I recently committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing it with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now and has made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. I…
If you’re looking to upgrade your smart home, or turn your normal home into one, starting off with some smart lights is an excellent choice. It can be quite easy to end up splashing out a fair bit of money on them though, especially if you’re looking for individual bulbs. Thankfully, there’s a great deal…
With iOS 18 currently in the third beta and set to become available to everyone this fall, we’ve had plenty of time to see just what’s new with smart home management, including Apple Home and HomeKit-compatible devices. It turns out Apple Home is getting several key updates that are going to affect how Apple users…
Whether you’re a gamer, a content creator or just someone who likes RGB lighting, then you’ll already know all about how effective the best smart lights can be when it comes to setting a specific mood or vibe. While some smart lights are for more general use, others are for specific purposes. The Govee neon…
Keeping your home or other spaces safe is serious business, but it doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. There are many smart home options that can help you keep your loved ones and belongings secure. One example of new tech you can use to make sure your home is safe is the Eufy smart…
Whether you’re away from home a lot or just want to always know who is around, a good security camera is important and can offer a whole lot of peace of mind. Great cameras can be expensive and either wiring them in or charging batteries can be a pain, though. That’s why this two-pack of the…
Dorms and other small living spaces are known for being on the drab side, but a plant can add life and color to these spaces and even help you grow something tasty. Not everyone has a green thumb or the time necessary to develop this skill. For those who want to keep plants or cultivate…
Battery-powered, wireless security cams have serious advantages but also come with major caveats. On the giveth side, they let you mount a security cam nearly anyway and are super-DIY friendly without any cables to wire in. On the taketh away side, those batteries need extra management, and if you put the cam in a high…
Google Assistant is something many of us have grown to rely on over the years. From setting reminders and timers to controlling media and smart home devices, the digital butler has become a valuable part of many people’s lives, including mine. If you’ve noticed a drop off in general reliability in the last couple of…
CNET It’s easy to think that home security is about the “big” events, like house fires or a full-fledged burglary. But home security technology also makes an impact in smaller ways, and that can save serious dollars when you adopt a new security system. We ran through the calculations, studied expense estimates and found out…
To say I had a lightbulb moment recently while testing Ikea’s smart lights would be silly — so I won’t. But it was revelatory to learn there are perfectly capable smart lights for 25% less than the cost of Philips Hue. Ikea may not be known for smart lighting but maybe that should change. Ikea…
There are a lot of amazing smart lights out there. While some are good to light whole rooms, and others are good as standard light bulb upgrades, there are also some options that serve more specific purposes. One of our favorite examples of this is the Twinkly Squares starter kit, which includes a total of…
Video doorbell camera.
Staying organized can be a struggle, but there are various tech products and services to help you stay on top of your daily life. Smart displays are one such example, and the Skylight Calendar is a unique example that’s focused on those with busy lives. And right now, you can get $40 off the 15-inch and…
We may be halfway to fall, but it’s never too late to turn your al fresco hang space into a mid summer’s dream. Fortifying your deck, patio or backyard with comforts will ensure you get the most out of your precious outdoor space during the precious time you can use it. CNET As a recovering…
$80 at Walmart Best overall and best smart display Google Nest Hub (2nd gen) View details $250 at Arlo Best outdoor smart camera Arlo Pro 4 View details $180 at Google Best video doorbell Nest Doorbell (battery) View details $17 at Wyze Best smart light Wyze Bulb White View details $15 at Target Best smart…
Google TV Streamer Integrates Entertainment and Home in a Refreshed Design Aug 6, 2024 Media Streamers Google just announced a new streaming device called the Google TV streamer. I took a look at it and it’s Lux, but let’s talk about what it can do before this Google had chromecast and the TV streamer builds…
There are lots of interesting smart lights out there that can help you change up the feel of any of your rooms. While there are plenty of good options, one of our favorite brands for adding ambiance via smart lighting is Govee. And if you want to make a big impact, a TV light bar…
Loxx Boxx offers a package delivery box to deter porch pirates but with a twist: App controls and smart monitoring options so you can get immediate updates about your deliveries and control access remotely. That’s an interesting option for those who don’t have a video doorbell or businesses that need to keep a particularly close eye on…
I first learned about atmospheric pressure’s effect on the weather as a kid while doing a summer science project. It involved making an aneroid barometer with a balloon, pencil and an empty jar. As the season shifted into fall, I obsessed over the pencil’s reactions to daily weather patterns and learned little by little how…
Scorching temperatures have been plaguing the United States all summer long. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook when it comes to making dinner. The solution? Not ordering takeout. And you don’t have to suffer through ice cold meals, either. You can still hustle about in the kitchen and put your stove to use when you use…
Video doorbells are an ideal way to screen visitors to your home, allowing you to answer the door less frequently to door-to-door salespeople or unwanted visitors. They’re also great for chatting to delivery drivers, even when you’re away from home. There are a lot of amazing options out there, and while you can spend a…
Hurricanes, floods and fires are dangerous. But data from the National Weather Service shows that heat waves kill more Americans than any other major weather event. The human body simply can’t deal when it comes to staying in high temperatures. Commonsense tips to follow during heat waves include staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activity, and you should also, of course,…
Think of your home security system like one big appliance, similar to your washing machine or AC unit. It can last for years, but at some point you have to evaluate if it’s too old to work properly anymore, seriously outclassed by newer features or if you can benefit from a change. Sometimes it takes…
Amazon Motion detection A 4K resolution doesn’t do much good unless the camera can alert and record when something is happening. The best motion detection includes object recognition for humans, animals and cars. We like to see object recognition for free, but more and more brands are charging for it. We also like to see…
The Echo Dot is a powerful smart speaker in disguise. The small form factor could easily fool someone into thinking it is low powered and won’t have much oomph for playing tunes. That’s not true. While it isn’t the speaker for the next blowout party, it is plenty for a dorm or bedroom. Plus, with…
Forget hurricanes, floods or fires. Data from the National Weather Service shows that heat waves kill more Americans than any other major weather event. Our bodies struggle to deal with prolonged high temperatures — and our homes have serious problems with it, too. These heat waves can increase the risk of fires, aggravate asthma or allergy issues,…
Having to vacuum yourself is a thing of the past with a good robot vacuum. Most people know that, but did you know you can get models that mop as well? The Roborock S8 is one such device and it claimed the crown of best midrange robot vacuum following our testing of several options, and…
Between our own phones and our friend’s phones, we’re accumulating more images than ever, but printing photos out to frame isn’t always practical. For some, social media is the way to swap photos, but not every family member or friend is online, not to mention some of the privacy concerns that come into play with…
Back to school is a crazy season, and you already have a lot to do, so I’ll keep this short: My absolute top tip that will last you all school year is putting together a secure, high-tech backpack for your children. The right backpack tech can help your kids out of tech snafus, let them…
Amazon Echo speakers come in all shapes, sizes and types, making these devices great for putting all around the house… or even the car. With so much flexibility for where you can use Alexa, it can be easy to slip up and place a speaker in an area that could end up disastrous for your smart…
Though Amazon released the first Echo smart speaker over a decade ago, CNET has been covering the smart home space for even longer. Since that time we at CNET are constantly reviewing the smart home landscape, which consists of smart lightbulbs and speakers to video doorbells and security cameras. . But, of course, there is far more smart devices…
Vibe Pixie String Lights were great on a recent camping trip. John Carlsen/CNET My track record with dollar-store tech is abysmal since they rarely offer much in the way of interesting smart lighting tech. Usually, you’ll find forgettable lights that are perfect for a cheap gift but don’t amount to more than novelties. Still, the…
We all have a bunch of devices to keep powered up on the go, from our phones and tablets to e-readers and accessories like earbuds and power banks. A multi-port charger that extends the capability of one plug can be a lifesaver at home or away. Right now, you can get the Belkin BoostCharge 4-Port USB…
There are so many smart security cameras out there, but the Blink Mini 2 is one of our favorite indoor options. It’s already a very affordable camera at its full price of $40, but thanks to this limited-time deal at Woot, you can grab a pair of the indoors cams for just $50, dropping them down to only $25 each.…
It began as just a few isolated episodes where burglars acted suspiciously smart. Then it started happening again: from Boston and Baltimore to Detroit, and then Phoenix, and then Los Angeles and on and on. Burglars known as “crime tourists” have begun spying back on homeowners with private, camouflaged security cams, waiting for the right…
Pet cams help keep tabs on pets, but it’s important to test your pets reactions first. undefined undefined via Getty Resolution A higher resolution gives you more information about what your pet is up to. A 1080p resolution is usually sufficient for indoor cams, although we do like picks like Eufy’s, which bumps that up…
A smart lock can add some extra security and convenience to your daily life. And for a limited time, you can get one without breaking the bank. As a part of the remaining deals from Best Buy’s Great Summer sale, the Level Lock Plus Connect with keypad is down to only $299. It normally retails for…
Search for the best security camera recommendations, including many of our own picks, and you’ll see a theme: They need a Wi-Fi network — or at least an internet connection — to work. That’s a problem for people who live off the grid, or have off-grid getaways like cabins or decked-out Sprinter vans, without Wi-Fi…
Until now, I’ve never seen Bluetooth light strips with RGBIC support for less than $10.
Prime Day has been over for a week, but there are still lingering discounts on Amazon and at competitors such as Best Buy, which is having its Great Summer Sale until Sunday, July 28. You can find major discounts across tech, beauty, kitchen and smart home devices. This includes smart lighting options from Philips Hue,…
Amazon Prime Day deals ended a few days ago, but there are many retailers continuing to offer discounts on tech, games and smart home items. If you’ve been wanting to upgrade your home with some smart switches, lights or outlets, you can now score devices from TP-Link for up to 40% off at Best Buy…
There are so many benefits to investing in a smart lock. Not only can you keep your home or business safe and secure, but you can also seamlessly let your guests into your space. A smart lock is a keyless lock that uses a pin to open to lock. Unfortunately, these high-tech gadgets can cost…
Amazon Prime Day wrapped up this past Wednesday, but there are still plenty of deals still available across all categories. This includes smart home deals on items such as Rachio hose timers and sprinkler system controls that can help you keep your lawn and garden keep looking great while you take care of other tasks.…
Summer is in full swing and that means many are spending more time outside enjoying the warmer weather. OK, so warm may not be the best descriptor for the blazing and humid heat that is sweeping the nation, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s a cookout…
8.2/ 10 SCORE Lockly Smart Safe Pros Great biometric access options Strong defense against forced access Mounting kit included Straightforward app Fireproof inlay Internal lining and LED light Cons Too small for some home uses Fire protection could be better Side covers are more vulnerable than the rest of the safe Overall score: 8.2/10 Performance:…
Smart bird feeder w/ lifetime AI.
Amazon Prime Day ended yesterday, but you can still find a few deals here and there. CNET has been hard at work scouring the site to find every last Prime Day deal still available so you can keep saving if you didn’t have time to browse the astounding number of offers during the big sale.…
Grow lights can help your indoor plants overcome poor lighting conditions. John Carlsen/CNET Many traditional houseplants come from the shaded understory of tropical forests, meaning they typically don’t require more than a bright window to thrive. Still, indoor plant collections tend to grow over time — new plants will compete for limited space near your windows.…
Smart lighting has changed a lot in the last five or so years, and there’s a lot more out there than just basic color-changing bulbs. The Nanoleaf brand has made a name for itself by offering a variety of unique smart lighting panels that can add some serious personality to your bedroom, living room, or…
I recently committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing it with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now, and has made a name for itself as an affordable alternative to other smart lighting brands, like Philips Hue. It…
The next big Amazon Prime Day sale hasn’t quite gotten started yet but there are already some deals to be had if you know where to look. If you’re in the market for a new home security camera you’d do well to take note of a deal that slashes the price of a HD TP-Link…
The Blink Mini 2 is a popular and well-rounded smart security camera, and it’s a reasonably priced one at that. And right now, Amazon is offering the camera for half the original $40 price as an early Prime Day deal, listing it at just $20. That’s the lowest price we’ve seen, and it’s just one…
When pets are stuck alone at home, anxiety can thrive on both sides, leading to torn pillows or gnawed shoes (and your pets might do something bad, too). But if you want to keep an eye on furry friends, especially in key bonding phases, home security has a solution: dedicated smart pet cams. These cams…
Smart lights are a fun way to brighten up your home, and right now many of our favorite options are on sale ahead of Amazon Prime Day. While Prime Day doesn’t officially kick off until July 16, there are a plethora of early deals available to shop now, including deep discounts on Govee smart lights…
Summer is in full swing and that means mowing the lawn is just a bit more challenging. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Amazon Prime Day officially starts on July 16 and lasts until July 17, but we’re already seeing some incredible deals on everything you need for your home. That includes $450…
$100 at Amazon Lorex 2K indoor/outdoor spotlight camera: $100 Save $70 $150 at Amazon Lorex 2K wired Wi-Fi smart video doorbell: $100 Save $50 See at Amazon SimpliSafe Security Kit deals SimpliSafe is offering big deals for Prime Day Show more (10 items) Ring/CNET With Amazon Prime Day arriving on July 16 and 17, we welcome…
Ring’s video doorbells routinely make the list of the best video doorbells around. And for Prime Day, you can snag the 1080p Ring video doorbell for a flat 50% discount. That brings the price down to just $50, an astonishing $50 savings over the $99 list price. While the price matches the lowest we’ve seen…
When people ask me what smart home device they should buy first, I usually suggest a smart speaker. Its convenience is undeniable, especially for setting timers, listening to music and making quick measurement conversions in the kitchen. You can also find smart speakers on any budget. But the killer feature is the vast ecosystem of…
Scorching temperatures are blazing across the United States this summer with no end in sight. You’ve still got to make dinner, though. If you don’t want to empty your bank account ordering takeout all the time and are not a fan of cold meals, here’s what you can do to still use your stove and…
2K resolution, no monthly fees, requires existing doorbell wires.
Vacations should be fun, but worrying about your home while you’re away can be a headache. Smart tech has made this much easier: From cameras that can send smart alerts when they recognize humans in specific areas to smart locks that you can control from afar or share passes to, your home is still at…
Amazon’s Prime Day sale is just a week away, where you’ll find some of the online deals of the year. The Prime-exclusive sale is definitely worth signing up for the free trial, but there’s a host of other perks you get with a Prime that are worth staying subscribed. There are so many Prime perks…
When people ask me what smart home device they should buy first, I usually suggest a smart speaker. Its convenience is undeniable, especially for setting timers, listening to music and making quick measurement conversions in the kitchen. You can also find smart speakers on any budget. But the killer feature is the vast ecosystem of…
The next big Amazon Prime Day sale hasn’t quite gotten started yet but there are already some deals to be had if you know where to look. If you’re in the market for a new home security camera you’d do well to take note of a deal that slashes the price of a HD TP-Link…
Amazon Prime Day doesn’t start until July 16 and runs for two days instead of one, but Amazon already has an early Prime Day deal on its just-announced 2nd-gen Echo Spot smart alarm clock. Available in black, glacier white and ocean blue, it lists for $80, but Prime members can get it for $45 through…
Google/Sengle/Arlo/CNET Over the past week, Fourth of July deals have made it easy to jump right in and snag some incredible savings on all kinds home upgrades, from outdoor decor to new appliances. Sometimes, though, it’s the little things that count, like smart home devices that make your life easier and more secure. Fortunately, deals are…
Many of this year’s top Fourth of July sales are still available to shop this weekend. While there are tons of incredible savings opportunities, those on the hunt for a great Fourth of July smart home deal need look no further. Govee is currently offering discounts on a slew of smart lights, light strips and other…
Wondering about the most dangerous natural disaster? Forget hurricanes, floods or fires. According to data from the National Weather Service, extreme heat waves kill far more people than any other type of weather event. The human body can’t withstand prolonged high temperatures, and our houses don’t like it either. Add common health conditions like asthma,…
$109 at Walmart Cync smart programmable thermostat: $120 Save $20 with Plus Google/Sengle/Arlo/CNET Are you looking to upgrade your home with smart devices? Over the past week, Fourth of July deals have made it easy to jump right in and snag some incredible savings. Fortunately, some of these are still available across top retailers like Amazon…
Deciding how you want to light your home doesn’t have to be boring. That’s why I committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing it with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now, so it made plenty of sense to…
Want your home to be more secure? Looking for convenience in your everyday life? Amazon has a smart device that can help you do just that, but without breaking the bank. Right now, you can get your hands on Amazon’s smart devices for less. Now through Oct. 2, Woot has a selection of new and…
Deciding how you want to light your home doesn’t have to be boring. That’s why I committed to ditching all the traditional lighting at my place and replacing it with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business right now, so it made plenty of sense to…
With summer heatwaves picking up, it’s harder than ever to keep your home cool, even if you do have central air conditioning. Pets, plants, kids and the elderly can all suffer if home temperatures get too hot, and extra fans can be an energy sink without always cooling effectively. What does make a difference is…
Arlo/Shark/Sengled/CNET Upgrading your home with smart solutions can make day-to-day life easier and leave more time for fun. But smart home devices can be pricey. Thankfully, this year’s Fourth of July sales are here, making it possible for you to snag some of the latest smart home tech for less. Whether you’re looking to score new smart…
Heading out of town for an extended holiday? Your smart home devices make management and monitoring easier than ever, so with the right settings your home can practically run itself, even for days or weeks away. And once you’ve created those modes, you can switch them back on whenever the road beckons again. Let’s look…
Lighting your home doesn’t have to be boring, which is why I committed to ditching my traditional lighting and replacing them with smart bulbs, panels and switches. Govee is one of the best brands in the smart lighting business, so it made plenty of sense to check out the company’s wares for my latest home lighting…
If you’re looking to add some smart upgrades to your home, look no further. Fourth of July has brought us some great savings. This includes some great discounts at Ecobee. Famously known for its smart thermostats and mesh routers, Ecobee offers a wide range of great home accessories you can grab. The devices integrate well with each other,…
A smart lock is a great way to help keep your space secure and protected. It also provides easy access for you or an approved guest using keyless entry. These smart locks can be pricey, but finding a deal like this can help you save serious money. The Yale Assure Lock 2 is now on…
If you’re an infrequent hot beverage drinker, you probably have a can of grounds or a box of tea bags on your shelf that’s been there forever. After three to six months coffee goes bad. An tea starts to lose it’s potency after a year or so, even if it’s sealed and stored properly. If…
When you think video doorbells, you probably imagine one from Ring, right? While there are so many options on the market now, the Ring Video Doorbell really kickstarted the market for smart doorbells and has become synonymous with the category. And if you’ve been wanting to get your hands on one, you don’t have to wait…
I live in the high desert, where winter brings its share of home issues when temperatures drop below freezing in the cold months. That spells trouble for old pipes, which are in danger of freezing, forcing water inside to expand and crack pipes or break valves, leading to hidden leaks. Keeping those pipes thawed out…
Our venture into vacation rentals started out as a romantic pipe dream of my husband’s, a way to invest our savings into something other than the stock market. We’d never owned a home of our own — we were living in a two-bedroom apartment in San Francisco — yet we were wildly optimistic about our…
Amazon’s Prime Day sale will be here before you know it, and having an Amazon Prime membership gives you access to many benefits regular shoppers don’t get. That means you’ll want to make sure you’re using those benefits when you shop Amazon deals. If you find it hard to keep up with all the Amazon perks, you’re not…
When is the last time you thought about the location of your Amazon Echo speaker? You might not think it matters where you place your Alexa smart speakers and smart displays, but there are some spots that can cause major problems. You might know that putting your Alexa device near water isn’t safe, but did you…
Getting your blender sparkling clean can take some elbow grease, but not with this sneaky method. Even residue from sticky blends such as peanut butter and honey is no match for this simple blender cleaning hack. While many blenders are dishwasher-safe, some aren’t and you can do real damage by running blender parts through that…
WiFi thermometer, hygrometer, smart remote & light sensor.
Prime Day doesn’t get underway for a few weeks yet, but Amazon is already slashing prices on its own hardware. Right now, Prime members can snag a bundle including the Blink Video Doorbell and an Echo Pop smart speaker for just $35. That’s a huge 68% discount versus the usual price for the pair and a super…
Smart light, pairs w/ Alexa devices, color changing.
Arlo / Shark / Sengled / CNET Fourth of July sales are on the horizon, but you don’t have to wait to score deals on smart home tech. Whether you’re looking to grab some additional smart speakers or put together your own DIY home security system, there are bargains worth bagging in the leadup to…
There are many different ways to smarten up your home and a smart lock is one option. It makes getting in and out of your home easier and in some cases you just need to use your phone or smartwatch to lock and unlock it. The Level Lock Plus Connect is a premium lock with…
Many spots are sweltering, and the summer heat shows no sign of relenting. There are ways to lower the temperature in your home that don’t invovle splurging on a monster AC and heat pump. If you’re looking for ways to cool your home during a heat wave, start with the kitchen. The oven is just…
Forget hurricanes, floods or fires — according to data from the National Weather Service, heatwaves kill far more people than floods, tornados, winter storms and other types of weather disasters. The human body can’t easily withstand prolonged high temperatures, and our houses don’t like it much, either. Add common health conditions like asthma, and heatwaves…
Jazzing up your home with some smart lighting is one of the easiest ways to personalize and customize any room in your house, and it doesn’t have to be super expensive. Right now, at Best Buy, you can score $30 off a set of Govee curtain lights. Normally retailing for $130, these lights are now just $100. If…
Between the daily grind and summer travel, sometimes it can feel like we’re hardly at home. Instead of worrying about your property while you’re away, you can get a little peace of mind with a home security camera. Whole-house systems can be really pricey, which is why we love this deal on a two-pack of…
For small spaces.
Before the final flurry of vacation prep hits, you should spare a little time to keep your home safe while you’re gone. Good news: With today’s AI-powered smart home devices, that job’s far easier. Home security systems, smart lights and video doorbells can all help keep watch while nobody’s home — without relying on your…
Video doorbells are a great way to stay safe and keep track of your packages. There are many choices for these handy devices, so understandably, making a decision can be tough. That’s why a steep discount can help you make the tough calls. Right now, Best Buy is offering the Blink video doorbell for only $42.…
There are a few surefire ways to beat the heat this summer and keeping your kitchen cool is one of them. The oven is a major culprit for an overheated home but there are smart ways to limit your stove and oven use and keep the temps lower in your cooking space. Even better, keeping…
When we reviewed Arlo’s home security system, we found it both versatile and affordable. The secret was the all-in-one sensors, which combine a heady eight detection functions in one device you can put — well, anywhere, whether you want to monitor for leaks, track temperature, or detect motion. It remains one of our top picks…
Food waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gasses and accounts for roughly one third of the food meant for human consumption. Composting is the process by which food is converted into a nutrient-rich, biologically-stable soil for your yard and garden and keeps it out of landfills where it produces Carbon Dioxide, or CO2, emissions. This…
Improved motion detection & easy installation.
Grabbing yourself a robot vacuum is a one-way trip into the future. Not a bad future either, rather one of the good ones where you get to take a nap and the vacuuming still gets done. While the very best robot vacuums will set you back a fair chunk of money, there are many budget options…
Echo (4th Gen) w/ Sengled bluetooth bulb.
My phone buzzes with a notification, catching me off-guard while I’m out in the backyard: Person detected, package detected. It’s my Google Nest Doorbell letting me know, via my iPhone’s lock screen, that someone’s dropped off a delivery (pet food and breakfast bars) at my front door. A minute later, I get another alert: Package…
A good security system can offer peace of mind and, more importantly, improved confidence that you, your loved ones and your home will be safer. This Ring Video Doorbell and Stick Up Cam Battery bundle is an excellent way to get started with this technology, and right now, it can be yours at almost half off,…
When you’re on the go and low on battery, deciding between charging your laptop or your phone is not practical. A port charger that extends the capability of one plug can be a lifesaver, not to mention a space saver. And right now, you can get the Belkin BoostCharge 4-Port USB power extender for just $20 on Amazon. …
When it comes to robot vacuums, the Roomba line from iRobot is one of the most popular around. Roombas tend to be great devices, and they make frequent appearances on our list of the best robot vacuums you can buy. However, they’re certainly not the cheapest option available today, so it’s nice when you can…
These days, seeing a robot rolling around a home to clean the floors isn’t out of the ordinary. But seeing robots roaming around someone’s yard is a bit more uncommon. However, this may change in the not-so-distant future as robot lawn mowers become more affordable and far more capable. While robot lawn mowers aren’t exactly…
Amazon Motion detection A 4K resolution doesn’t do much good unless the camera can alert and record when something is happening. The best motion detection includes object recognition for humans, animals and cars. We like to see object recognition for free, but more and more brands are charging for it. We also like to see…
If you need a hand around the home, then these Memorial Day sales have something special for you. We’ve got some codes you can use on some truly exceptional iRobot Roombas, which are amongst the best robot vacuums you can buy. Our favorite option is the iRobot Roomba Combo j7 which is down to $674…
Having equipment that helps keep your household and belongings safe — like doorbell cameras and other monitoring gear —can offer you much peace of mind. So we monitor (heh) online deals, to help you pick up the items you want at a good price. This Ring video doorbell and indoor camera bundle is now available…
Privacy is a priority for most homeowners investing in smart home security devices, especially when it comes to worries about hacking or data theft. That’s why some buyers are wary of trusting cloud video storage, which places private home footage out of their hands. But another common concern is access from law enforcement. In other…
If you’ve been looking for a way to secure your spaces, a smart lock is a great option. They’re also a great way to offer keyless access to yourself and trusted individuals, saving you time and energy. Smart locks can be costly, but finding a deal can help you save serious money. The Yale Assure…
With Memorial Day behind us, summer is just about here, and for many homeowners, that comes with the joys of perfecting their lawn or garden so it’s ready to greet friends, neighbors, kids and family headed over for sunny barbecues. Instead of having to wake up and fret about someone catching you in your robe as…
One of my favorite parts of winter changing to spring is when the grass begins to grow and it’s time for the first cut of the season. However, when it takes about two and a half hours to mow all of my lawn, it quickly becomes a big time drain with a busy family. But…