A connected home device is a physical product used in a home that connects to the internet or communicates with other connected devices to exchange information or enable features such as remote control, monitoring, alerts, or automation. A thermostat controlled through an app, a networked light bulb, and an internet-connected security camera are all examples.
What makes a home device “connected”?
The defining feature is communication: the product can send or receive information over the internet or through a connection with other devices. That connection may let you control a device remotely, receive alerts, monitor what is happening, or automate an action. A product does not need a particular brand or platform to fit the description.
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This is a practical consumer definition, not a universal technical boundary. In a 2013 report, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) noted that there was no widely accepted definition of the broader term “Internet of Things” (IoT). FTC staff later described consumer IoT as devices or sensors—excluding computers, smartphones, and tablets—that connect, store, or transmit information with or between each other via the internet. That is one agency’s framing, not a rule that every organization applies. FTC summary of its 2015 report; FTC staff report on IoT privacy and security.
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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Smartphones commonly control connected devices, but that does not mean they are excluded from home networks. The distinction is only about whether a smartphone counts as an IoT device under the FTC’s cited definition.
#1 Best Overall
- Echo Hub — An easy-to-use smart home control panel redesigned for your home. Arrange controls on your dashboard to quickly adjust devices, view cameras, start routines, and more.
- Customize your dashboard — Arrange devices into sections and resize them to focus on what matters most. Create a personalized layout that matches how your family uses their connected devices.
- Reimagined for your home - With an Alexa+ and compatible Ring subscription (sold separately), get Ring camera event summaries to stay in the know. Search your Ring footage using simple voice commands. Create routines by voice, activate modes to manage multiple devices at once, and chat with Alexa to easily control your smart home.
- Home security for the whole family — Use Echo Hub to easily arm and disarm your compatible security system, making it easy for everyone in your family to manage home security. Use the Alexa app and compatible cameras, locks, alarms, and sensors to check in while you're out.
- Works with thousands of Alexa compatible devices — WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, Sidewalk, and Thread devices sync seamlessly with the built-in smart home hub.
Which devices are connected in a home?
Ordinary household products qualify when they have networked functions. Common examples include:
- Climate and energy: connected thermostats and appliances with networked energy features.
- Lighting and control: connected light bulbs and devices that manage home energy use.
- Safety and monitoring: smart security systems and IP cameras that provide remote video or audio feeds.
- Entertainment and assistance: smart TVs and voice assistants.
- Other appliances: household products that connect to the internet or participate in connected functions.
CISA’s Internet of Things (IoT) Tip Sheet describes IoT or smart devices broadly as objects connected to the internet and lists appliances, lighting, home assistants, and home security. The FTC also gives examples and home-security guidance in its articles on securing internet-connected devices at home and buying or selling a smart home.
Rank #2
- MEET ECHO SHOW 15 - A stunning 15.6" Full-HD (1080p) smart display that's perfect for your kitchen and ready to show you more. Use customizable widgets to keep your day on track, watch your favorite shows with Fire TV and powerful vibrant sound, and enjoy natural video calling, with 3.3x zoom and wide field of view.
- FAMILY ORGANIZATION HUB - See your top widgets at a glance, like your family’s calendars and to-do lists, local weather, smart home, and more.
- ALL YOUR FAVORITES, ALL RIGHT HERE - Built-in Fire TV unlocks endless entertainment, so you can enjoy your favorite content from thousands of apps like Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, and more (subscription may be required). Fire TV remote included. Plus, now you can quickly add a device to play music with Active Media - start playing a song in the kitchen, then add the living room and bedroom on the fly.
- SMART HOME CENTRAL - Control smart devices with your voice or a few taps using the smart home dashboard. Easily turn on all your living room lights at once or check live camera feeds to see what's happening around your home.
- YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES ON DISPLAY - Brighten your space (and your day) by turning your home screen into a photo slideshow that displays your favorite memories. Auto curate your images and show off your favorite family memories.
What does connectivity add—and what does it change?
Connectivity can make a device more convenient: you may be able to adjust a thermostat away from home, check a camera remotely, receive an alert, or have devices work together automatically. Some features may depend on an app, an internet connection, or a manufacturer’s cloud service; others may work locally. The details vary by product.
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Networked features can also involve collecting or transmitting information. That creates privacy and security considerations alongside the convenience. Before choosing a device, check what it can do locally versus through an app or online service, what information it collects and shares, what privacy controls it offers, and whether it remains useful if internet access or manufacturer support ends.
Rank #3
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
How to reduce security and privacy risks
Practical steps recommended by the FTC include:
- Change default usernames and passwords; use a unique password for each device or account.
- Turn on two-factor authentication when it is offered.
- Enable the device’s security features and install software or firmware updates.
- Disable features you do not use, or disconnect a device that is no longer in use.
- Before buying, check whether the maker states how long it plans to provide software updates. The FTC notes that support may end, potentially affecting smart functions or security. FTC guidance on smart-device update support.
What to do when a connected home changes hands
When buying or selling a home, treat connected devices and their accounts as part of the handover. Make an inventory, remove the previous owner’s administrative access and personal information, reset devices, and review privacy settings and permissions. Check whether warranties and support policies transfer; they may not. The FTC outlines these considerations in its smart-home buying and selling guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is a smart TV or thermostat a connected device?
Yes, when it connects to the internet or communicates with other devices to exchange information or provide networked features. A smart TV may use a connection for online services, while a connected thermostat may support remote control or automation. The important point is the product’s communication capability—not the word “smart” on its packaging.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- New size, more viewing area: The 11“ smart display features a vibrant Full-HD touchscreen with 60% more viewing area versus Echo Show 8 (2025 release), built-in smart home hub, AZ3 Pro chip for powerful performance, and Omnisense technology for highly personalized experiences.
- Content looks and sounds incredible: Watch shows on Prime Video, Netflix, and more on the vibrant Full-HD 11" screen and enjoy room-filling spatial audio, crisper vocals, wider sound stage, and up to 2x bass versus Echo Show 8 (2023 release). With Alexa+, find the name of that song you love and discover new shows based on your preferences.
- Your everyday assistant: The 11" display makes it easy to see recipes and calendars at a glance, find meal inspo, and manage your shopping lists. With Alexa+, find recipes based on foods you love, make reservations, order groceries, and more.
- Simple Smart Home control: Pair and control thousands of devices that work with Alexa without needing a separate smart home hub. Easily view your camera feeds. Manage lights, thermostats, and more using the display or your voice. With Omnisense technology, you can activate routines via temperature, presence, or visual ID detection.
- Crystal-clear video calls: Video calls feel natural on the vibrant 11" screen with a centered, auto-framing camera, 3.3x zoom, and noise reduction technology. Use live view to check in on your family, pets, and more while you're away.
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