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Buying guide · Smart home

Your smart home starter kit, no electrician needed

Five simple upgrades that make home safer and easier, in the order we’d buy them.

By the Hommely editors · 3 min read · Updated October 13, 2026

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Hommely earns from qualifying purchases. Some links on Hommely are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more. Prices change often, so we show a budget guide ($, $$, $$$) instead of exact prices.

A smart home doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with one or two devices that solve a real problem, then add more.

Everything here plugs in or sticks on. No wiring.

Quick picks

FindBest forBudgetCode
Smart Plugs (Matter compatible)the first step$ Under $25HF-T01
Compact Smart Speakervoice control$$ Mid-rangeHF-T09
Smart Water Leak Sensorpeace of mind$$ Mid-rangeHF-T06
Sunrise Alarm Clockdarker winter mornings$$ Mid-rangeHF-T05
Video Doorbelldeliveries$$ Mid-rangeHF-T02
Smart Plugs (Matter compatible)

01 · HF-T01 · BEST FOR THE FIRST STEP

Smart Plugs (Matter compatible)

Turns any lamp or appliance into a smart one with schedules and voice control.

Why we like itCheapest way to start; works across major systems.
Good to knowCheck it supports your voice assistant.
$ Under $25Check price
Compact Smart Speaker

02 · HF-T09 · BEST FOR VOICE CONTROL

Compact Smart Speaker

A small speaker for music, timers and controlling your devices.

Why we like itTies everything together.
Good to knowNeeds reliable Wi-Fi.
$$ Mid-rangeCheck price
Smart Water Leak Sensor

03 · HF-T06 · BEST FOR PEACE OF MIND

Smart Water Leak Sensor

Alerts your phone when it detects water under a sink or water heater.

Why we like itSmall cost that can prevent big repair bills.
Good to knowSome models need a hub; check before buying.
$$ Mid-rangeCheck price
Sunrise Alarm Clock

04 · HF-T05 · BEST FOR DARKER WINTER MORNINGS

Sunrise Alarm Clock

Gradually brightens before your alarm.

Why we like itGentler wake-ups in winter.
Good to knowNot as bright as real daylight.
$$ Mid-rangeCheck price
Video Doorbell

05 · HF-T02 · BEST FOR DELIVERIES

Video Doorbell

See and talk to whoever is at the door from your phone.

Why we like itPackage alerts; easy DIY install on many models.
Good to knowSome features need a subscription.
$$ Mid-rangeCheck price

Which to buy first

Start with smart plugs for the lamps you use every day. Add a leak sensor near the water heater. Then a speaker to control it all by voice.

Questions people ask

What is the easiest smart home device to start with?

A smart plug. Plug it in, connect it in an app, and any lamp can run on a schedule.

Do I need a hub?

Many devices work over Wi-Fi with no hub. Some sensors need one, so check each listing.

Do smart devices work in Canada?

Most major brands sell Canadian versions. Buy from a Canadian retailer to be sure of compatibility and warranty.

Keep exploring

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