You might have heard the “smart home” catchphrase and want to get on the bandwagon.

So where do you start if you want to increase the IQ of your house?

Which smart rig should you get first?

smart home illustration with a smartphone that controls it all

Smart Hub

If you want to build your smart home, you must have at least onesmart home hub.

That’s because this acts as the central control center of your smart home.

While you could conceivably control your smart home on your smartphone, it’s not a convenient solution.

Google Smart Hubs

Image Credit:Google

After all, you don’t have your smartphone on you all the time when you’re home.

You could also opt to smarten the switches instead of the bulbs.

However, installing a hardwired smart switch is a bit more complicated.

zigbee hub and switch

Image Credit: Connectivity Standards Alliance/Wikimedia Commons

For example, you could use a smart outlet to control your desk lamp.

Another example is by using a smart outlet on your workstation.

you could use a smart outlet to control a workstation.

Smart Plug Connected to Electrical Outlet

So, you’re able to switch on or off an office desk with just a single command.

There’s no longer any need worry about overcharging a laptop or tablet.

And you don’t have to turn on each item individually when you start work.

Led outdoor lantern with motion sensor. Water resistant diod street lamp. Electricity savings

These small devices will detect movement, or the lack thereof, and deliver commands to your devices.

This small, usually battery-powered, machine can help you save power by turning off unneeded lights and appliances.

If you have a smart hub with a display, you’ll immediately see who’s at the door.

Amazon Ring press image

Image Credit:Ring

So, even if you’re away from home, you’ll see who’s arrived.

These devices can monitor your grounds and record what’s happening around them.

Smart Appliances

when you obtain the above all set up, consider getting other smart appliances.

Wired Google Nest Cams

Image Credit:Google

That’s why it’s a wise move to smarten your home by steps.

That way, you might control your expenses while slowly discovering the benefits and controls of your smart home.

Woman using smart home application on phone to control window blinds indoors, closeup

Smart phone with running mobile application to control smart devices in the kitchen. Female controlling coffee machine or electric teapot with phone at home. Smart home concept