Reviewer Picks 5 Smart Home Gadgets, From $11 Plugs to a $350 Smart Lock

3 articles · Updated · ZDNet · Jul 14

Five devices made the reviewer's long-term keep list after testing dozens of smart-home products: the Kasa Smart Plug, Aqara T2 bulb, Eufy E340 doorbell, Ting sensor and Lockly Visage Zeno lock.
Prices span from $11 for the Kasa plug to $350 for the Lockly lock, with the recommendations centered on reliability, automation and features that worked consistently in daily use.
The Eufy E340 stood out for dual cameras, 2K video, package tracking and no required monthly fee, while the Ting sensor was highlighted for detecting early electrical hazards and sending fast outage alerts.
The Aqara bulb was favored for dependable performance and Matter compatibility via an Aqara hub, and the Lockly lock for facial recognition, local encrypted data storage and multiple entry options.
The reviewer said beginners can start with a central hub such as Echo, HomePod or Google Home, then add devices gradually to avoid Wi-Fi congestion and improve cross-device control.