DIY Smart Home Automation Guide: 7 Best Smart Devices From Amazon
The DIY smart home automation route is the direction we’re heading into over the next few years, so read on to learn about some devices to kickstart turning your home into a smart home.
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7 Devices for Your Next DIY Smart Home Automation Project on Amazon
Smart Home Network Hubs
1. Amazon Echo Dot
If you’re a newbie to the smart home DIY route, then get the Amazon Echo Dot. This ultra-compact smart speaker (now on its third iteration) is the easiest gateway into the world of Smart Devices.
Think of the Echo Dot as your digital butler (who we’ll name Alexa). Ask any question you can think of, and Alexa has an answer.
You can also use the Echo Dot to control other smart devices (like the other items on this list). It also features Alexa skills you can teach the virtual assistant, like playing games or checking the latest flight information.
Basic Specs:
- Size: 3.9” x 3.9” x 1.7”
- Weight: 10.6 oz.
- Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 and 5 GHz) networks. Doesn’t support connecting to ad-hoc Wi-Fi networks.
- Bluetooth: Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) support for audio streaming. Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) for mobile device voice control.
- Audio: Built-in speaker, 3.5 mm stereo audio output for external speakers.
- Included: Echo Dot, 15W power adapter, Quick Start Guide.
Alexa Skill Definition: A new function users can “teach” Alexa by enabling them on the Alexa app. From there, the user simply has to activate the skill using voice prompts. Alexa skills range from practical, such as locking and unlocking smart locks, to the more novel ones, like having Alexa speak in Pikachu’s voice.
2. ecobee SmartThermostat
Need a way to control your home’s temperature, love the power of Alexa, and have some room in your budget? The ecobee SmartThermostat is the perfect device for you.
The ecobee SmartThermostat harnesses its proprietary SmartSensor technology and considers both temperature and room occupancy in its adjustments. This means better comfort and more savings on your power bill.
Place the sensors (the device comes with only one, but you can buy another separately if you need more) in multiple rooms where you need to adjust the temperature. Since it’s Alexa-compatible, you can also use it for other functions the virtual assistant can help with, such as inquiring about the weather and Alexa Calling.
Basic Specs:
- Dimensions: 4.3” x 4.3” x 1”
- Weight: 7 oz.
- Wi-Fi: 2.4GHz and 5GHz support
- Compatibility: Compatible with most HVAC systems. Humidifier, dehumidifier or ventilator support. Visit the Ecobee website for details.
- Included: ecobee SmartThermostat, mounting plate, SmartSensor with detachable stand, Install & QuickStart guide, Wire Labels, Large Trim Plate
DIY Smart Home Security Devices
3. Ring Door View Cam
If you’ve ever lived in an apartment, you know how limiting the restrictions can get if you want to install new items like video doorbells. The Ring Door View Cam solves that problem for you.
Unlike the traditional peepholes, this nifty digital doorbell requires no drilling and runs entirely on batteries. It’s designed to fit into a standard peephole and can work with Alexa to notify you when someone rings the bell or activates Ring’s motion sensors.
Basic Specs:
- Dimensions: 2.26″ x 4.40″ x 1.16″ (indoors), 1.85″ x 3.83″ x 0.78″ (outdoors)
- Video Resolution: 1080p FHD
- Battery: Rechargeable battery pack
- Field of View: 155° horizontal, 90° vertical
- Wi-Fi: 2.4Ghz
- Audio: Two-way talk w/ noise cancellation
- Included: Ring Door View Cam, Installation tools and hardware, Spare connector cable, Battery Pack, User manual, Security sticker, USB cable
4. August Smart Lock Pro
Keys are among the most common household objects people lose, but the August Smart Lock Pro can take care of that problem.
Connect these locks to your smart home, and you can start locking and unlocking your doors from anywhere using your voice when paired with an Alexa-powered device. Its DoorSense technology helps you know if your door is locked shut even if you’re away.
You can also give keyless access to family and friends, and even keep track of who comes and goes through the door. If you already have an existing deadbolt, the Smart Lock Pro can work with that too.
Basic Specs:
- Dimensions: 3.4” x 2.2” x 3.4”
- Weight: 13.9 oz.
- Installation Method: Retrofit deadbolt lock
- Included: August Smart Lock Pro, DoorSense Sensor, 4 AA Batteries, August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, Lock Adapter, Mounting Hardware
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DIY Smart Home Appliances
5. Winix AM90 Wi-Fi PlasmaWave Air Purifier
Those living in areas where the air quality is low may experience allergies more often than the average person. If you’re one of them, then the Winix AM90 Wi-Fi PlasmaWave Air Purifier should be on your smart home automation list.
This air purifier, which works in three stages, can capture up to 99.97% of airborne pollutants and catch particles as small as 0.3 microns. You can also connect it to a smart hub to command the purifier to work the way you want to and find out more information about the current air quality.
Basic Specs:
- Size: 15.1” x 8.7” x 23.5”
- Weight: 16.5 lbs
- Coverage Area: 360 sq. ft.
- CADR Rating: Smoke – 233, Dust – 240, Pollen – 230
6. TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini allows you to control your electronic devices anywhere using its companion app or through voice control (Amazon Alexa or Google Home). It plugs into any wall outlet, and is much smaller than other smart plugs so you don’t waste any precious space.
You can even schedule the smart plug to turn off your electronics so you can save energy when you’re out of the house, and power them on remotely so they’ll be ready once you arrive home.
Basic Specs:
- Dimensions: 3.4” x 3.5” x 5.5”
- Weight: 1.55 lbs.
- Design: Plug-In (occupies only 1 socket)
- Included: Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini, Quick Start Guide
7. Philips Hue White LED
Yes, even your lights can be smart! When the Philips Hue White LED bulbs connected to a smart hub, you can turn the lights on and off, and even set the light’s dimness through your voice.
You can also control your lights remotely using its iOS and Android apps. They’re available in various shapes and sizes and last as long as 25,000 hours so there’d be no need to replace your bulbs for a while.
Basic Specs:
- Dimensions: 2.2” x 2.2” x 4.2”
- Weight: 11.2 oz.
- Voltage:120V
- Wattage: 9.5W
- Included: 4 White Bulbs
Smart home gadgets to pair with Amazon Alexa in this video from Amazing Tech:
There are just some of the devices you can add to your DIY smart home automation project. We hope this list has helped you figure out how to make the most of technology to make your home life more convenient.
What other devices would you add to your smart home? Let us know in the comments below.
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