Guide to Your First Smart Home

Start your smart home journey with ease! Discover how the right devices can enhance comfort, security, and save energy. This guide will show you what you need and how to begin.

Ready to make your home smarter? Select your action!

I want to enhance home security

Security Cameras

Monitor your spaces in real time

Smart Doorbells

See who’s at your door, no matter where you are

Motion Sensors

Detect movement and alert you instantly

Motion Sensors

Detect movement and alert you instantly

I want to save energy

Smart Thermostats

Automatically adjust the temperature to save energy

Smart Plugs

Turn off devices remotely, monitor usage, and reduce energy consumption

Smart Switches

Control lights and devices to lower electricity costs

Consumption Monitors

Track electricity usage and eliminate unnecessary expenses

I want more comfort and automation

Hubs and Control Panels

Connect all your smart devices into a unified syste

Smart Remote Controls

Control multiple devices with just one remote

Temperature and Humidity Sensors

Monitor home conditions for optimal comfort

Smart Curtains and Blinds

Automatically adjust light and privacy

Protect my garden and garage

Outdoor Cameras

Monitor your garden, yard, and garage from anywhere

Smart Irrigation Systems

Effortlessly keep your garden hydrated with weather- and time-based automation

Make your existing ambient lights smart

Transform your existing lights into smart ones with simple controllers

Smart Garage Openers

Conveniently control your garage doors and other electronic doors remotely, with real-time status update

Prevent accidents

Flood Sensors

Detect water leaks and alert you instantly to prevent damage

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Stay safe with early warnings for smoke and harmful gases

Vibration Sensors

Get real-time alerts for unusual vibrations, whether it’s a window, door, or appliance, to keep your home safe and secure

Overload Protection

Keep your appliances safe with smart systems that instantly detect and stop overloads, ensuring reliable and efficient power use

Everything you need to know about our smart products – in 5 minutes!

Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Bluetooth... Which connection is right for you?

Wi-Fi

Advantages: High data transfer speed; wide compatibility with devices; works standalone, no need for a hub.
Disadvantages: Consumes more energy, making it less suitable for battery-powered devices that require long operating times, as frequent charging would be needed.

Zigbee

Advantages: Low energy consumption; allows multiple devices to connect in a network.
Disadvantages: Requires a central unit (hub); limited signal range.

Infrared Connection (IR)

Advantages: Simple and cost-effective; suitable for direct device control.
Disadvantages: Requires direct line of sight; limited range.

Radio Frequency (RF)

Advantages: Good range; does not require direct line of sight.
Disadvantages: Can experience interference with other RF devices; limited compatibility.

Bluetooth (including BLE)

Advantages: Low energy consumption (BLE); easy pairing with mobile devices.
Disadvantages: Limited range; not suitable for large number of devices.

Ethernet

Advantages: Reliable and fast connection; stable communication.
Disadvantages: Requires wiring; less flexible device placement.

Thread

Advantages: Low energy consumption; automatically creates a network among devices.
Disadvantages: Relatively new technology; limited compatibility with existing devices.

Matter

Advantages: Standardized platform for compatibility across different manufacturers; simplified device management.
Disadvantages: Still under development; limited support in current devices.

Z-Wave

Advantages: Low energy consumption; good network coverage.
Disadvantages: Requires a central unit (hub); fewer device options compared to other standards.

Applications and Software for Smart Homes: Which One is Right for You?

When choosing a platform to manage your smart home, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option. Here’s an overview of popular applications and software:

eWeLink

Device Compatibility: Primarily supports Sonoff, SmartWise, and certain other devices.
User Experience: Intuitive and user-friendly interface, suitable for beginners.
Operation Mode: Cloud-based operation; local control is limited to advanced setups.
Advanced Features: Limited automation capabilities, focused on basic functions.
Technical Requirements: Low; setup is straightforward.
Platform Compatibility: Supports Google Home, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, IFTTT, Home Assistant, and more.

Aqara

Device Compatibility: Specialized for Zigbee devices, requires Aqara hub; works well with Aqara sensors and devices.
User Experience: Stable and user-friendly interface, suitable for beginners.
Operation Mode: Operates locally via the hub; certain features require cloud connectivity.
Advanced Features: Advanced automations within the Aqara ecosystem, limited outside of it.
Technical Requirements: Moderate; requires basic technical knowledge.
Platform Compatibility: Excellent support for Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and SmartThings.

Shelly

Device Compatibility: Supports a wide range of Wi-Fi devices without requiring a hub.
User Experience: Interface is less intuitive for beginners but allows extensive customization.
Operation Mode: Fully local operation without cloud dependency; integrates with MQTT and REST API.
Advanced Features: Enables flexible automations and advanced integration options.
Technical Requirements: High; suitable for technically skilled users.
Platform Compatibility: Compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and SmartThings (with additional configuration).

Smart Life / Tuya

Device Compatibility: Broad compatibility with devices from various manufacturers; widely adopted ecosystem.
User Experience: Easy to use; beginner-friendly.
Operation Mode: Primarily cloud-based; limited local control options.
Advanced Features: Basic automations; limited options for advanced customizations.
Technical Requirements: Low; setup is simple.
Platform Compatibility: Supports Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and limited SmartThings integration.

Tedee

Device Compatibility: Limited to Tedee smart locks.
User Experience: Elegant and intuitive interface, ideal for straightforward use.
Operation Mode: Requires cloud connection or Bluetooth bridge for advanced features.
Advanced Features: Focused on lock functionality; no broader automations.
Technical Requirements: Low; suitable for beginners.
Platform Compatibility: Compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit.

SmartThings

Device Compatibility: Broad support for various devices and protocols (Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave).
User Experience: Beginner-friendly interface, but also allows advanced customizations.
Operation Mode: Combination of local and cloud-based operation.
Advanced Features: Offers robust automations and integrations.
Technical Requirements: Moderate; advanced features require more expertise.
Platform Compatibility: Compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and many other ecosystems.

WLED Firmware

Device Compatibility: Specialized for smart LED strips and lighting.
User Experience: Requires technical knowledge for installation and use.
Operation Mode: Operates locally without cloud dependency.
Advanced Features: Extensive customization of lighting effects and full control over illumination.
Technical Requirements: High; suitable for advanced users.
Platform Compatibility: Integrates with Home Assistant; limited support for Google Home and Amazon Alexa.

Homey

Device Compatibility: Supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, BLE, IR, and 433 MHz. Compatible with over 50,000 devices and brands.
User Experience: Intuitive interface and "Flow" feature for easy automation without programming.
Operation Mode: Local and cloud-based for speed and remote access.
Advanced Features: Integrations with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT; "Insights" for analytics and energy tracking.
Technical Requirements: Plug-and-play for beginners, expandable for advanced users.

Tasmota

Device Compatibility: Supports a wide range of Wi-Fi devices, including Sonoff, Tuya, and other ESP8266/ESP32-based devices.
User Experience: Requires technical knowledge for setup and use; less beginner-friendly.
Operation Mode: Fully local operation without the need for a cloud connection, ensuring greater privacy and speed.
Advanced Features: Allows customization with MQTT, Home Assistant integration, and complex automations.
Technical Requirements: High; suitable for technically skilled users.

Home Assistant

Device Compatibility: Extensive support for numerous devices and protocols (Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, MQTT).
User Experience: Requires time to learn; less suitable for beginners.
Operation Mode: Fully local control without cloud dependency.
Advanced Features: Supports complex automations and extensive customization.
Technical Requirements: High; requires advanced technical knowledge and maintenance.
Platform Compatibility: Compatible with Amazon Alexa, ecobee, ESPHome, Google Assistant, Google Cast, HomeKit Bridge, IKEA TRÅDFRI, KNX, Leviton Z-Wave, Lutron Caséta, MQTT, Philips Hue, Plex Media Server, Shelly, SmartThings, Sonos, Z-Wave, and Zigbee Home Automation.

Summary

For beginners and simple solutions: Smart Life/Tuya, eWeLink, Aqara, or SmartThings.
For advanced users and greater flexibility: Home Assistant, Shelly, or WLED Firmware.
For specific devices (e.g., locks): Tedee is ideal.

10 Smart Tips for a Better Smart Home

Use Powerline Wi-Fi Extenders
If you have weak Wi-Fi signals in certain parts of your home, use powerline Wi-Fi extenders. These devices use your home's electrical network to extend the internet connection to hard-to-reach areas, without the need for additional cables.
Customize Routines Based on Time and Location
With apps like Google Home or Alexa, set up automations that operate based on your location (geofencing) or time – for example, turning off the lights when you leave home, or turning on the heating before you arrive.
Smart Sensors for Energy Savings
Install motion sensors in rooms where you often forget to turn off the lights. These lights automatically turn off when no one is present, helping to save energy.
Integrate Multiple Devices into One Platform
Use a central system like Home Assistant or Homey to manage all your smart devices from one app, even if they are from different manufacturers.
Replace Switches with Smart Dimmers
Instead of traditional switches, use smart switches with dimmers. These allow you to adjust brightness according to mood or time of day.
Smart Blinds for Temperature Control
Add smart motors to blinds or curtains that open and close based on the sun. This helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
"Presence" Security Mode
Smart lights, speakers, and TVs can simulate your presence when you are on vacation, deterring potential burglars. Set a schedule in apps like SmartThings or Tuya.
Smart Plugs for Energy Monitoring
Use smart plugs that measure energy consumption. This allows you to quickly identify which devices are energy-intensive and either replace them or limit their use.
Upgrade Old Technology
Add IR or RF smart controllers, like BroadLink, to manage old devices such as air conditioners or TVs via your phone.
Regularly Update Firmware
Ensure your smart devices are updated to the latest version. Updates often include security improvements, new features, or performance optimizations.