Smart Living Room: 11 Devices You Need to Optimize Your Living Space
Smart devices are everywhere nowadays, becoming a regular part of our daily lives. But if you’re new to this whole smart home thing, figuring out where to start can feel a bit overwhelming.
Whether you’re just dipping your toes into smart home tech or looking to upgrade your living room setup, here are 11 must-have gadgets to make your space smarter and more comfortable.
1. Smart TV
Smart TVs have really evolved over the past few years. Almost every home has at least one now, even those without a fully smart setup. Usually, these are the first smart devices people buy.
Here are some top smart TV options:
| Model | Sizes Available | Screen Type | Operating System | Voice Assistant Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung QN85C | 55”, 65”, 75”, 85” | QLED | Tizen OS | Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings |
| LG UR9000 | 43”, 50”, 55”, 65”, 75” | LED | WebOS | Alexa |
| Amazon Fire TV 4-Series | 43”, 50”, 55” | LED | Fire OS | Alexa |
2. Streaming Stick or Streaming Box
Not quite ready to buy a new TV? No worries! You can turn your current TV into a smart one with a streaming stick or box.
Some popular choices are:
- Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (works with Alexa, uses Fire OS)
- Roku Express 4K+ (works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri; uses Roku OS)
- Apple TV 4K (works with Siri, uses tvOS)
All you need is a TV with an HDMI port, and you’re good to go. Once plugged in, just download your favorite streaming apps.
3. Smart Speakers
Love having music on during game night or dinner without messing with cables? Smart speakers are your best friends.
They connect to music services so you can play songs or playlists with just your voice. Some also act as hubs to control other smart devices.
Here are some favorites:
| Speaker | Voice Assistant | Music Services Supported | Bluetooth Speaker? | Smart Hub? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Echo Studio | Alexa | Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and more | Yes | Yes |
| Google Nest Audio | Google Assistant | Apple Music, Spotify, SiriusXM, and more | Yes | Yes |
| Apple HomePod | Siri | Apple Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio (no Spotify or Amazon Music with Siri) | No | Yes |
| Sonos One | Alexa, Google, SmartThings, Apple HomeKit | Apple Music, Spotify, SoundCloud, Amazon Music | No | No |
4. Smart Light Switches
Forget to turn off the lights before bed? Hate walking into a dark room? Smart light switches are an easy fix.
Our top picks: TP-Link Kasa and Lutron.
| Switch Brand | Voice Assistant Compatibility | Dimmer Available? | Hub Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Kasa | Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Apple HomeKit | Yes | No |
| Lutron Caseta | Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings | Yes | Yes |
5. Smart Bulbs
If swapping all your switches feels like too much, smart bulbs are a simple way to upgrade your lighting.
Just screw one in, then control the lights with your voice or phone app — turn them on/off, set schedules, even change colors!
Our favorite smart bulbs come from Philips Hue (starter kit includes the Hue Bridge) and Sengled Smart LED Daylight bulbs.
They work with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.
6. Smart Plugs
Want to save on your electricity bill after adding all these gadgets? Smart plugs are the way to go.
Plug them into any outlet, then control whatever’s plugged into the smart plug from your phone. Some let you set schedules, monitor energy use, or automatically cut power to fully charged devices.
We love TP-Link Kasa smart plugs — they work with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and even offer outdoor versions and power strips.
7. Smart Cleaning Devices
Once you’ve automated some basics, why not let tech handle cleaning too?
There are smart devices for:
- Vacuuming
- Mopping
- Window cleaning
Here’s what we recommend:
| Task | Best Device | Voice Assistant Compatibility | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vacuuming | iRobot Roomba j5 | Alexa, Google Assistant | Optional mopping, obstacle avoidance, pet-friendly |
| Mopping | iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ | Alexa, Google Assistant | Auto switches between vacuuming and mopping, obstacle avoidance, pet-friendly |
| Window Cleaning | ECOVACS Winbot W1 Pro | None | Path planning, dual spray, app control |
8. Smart Displays
Smart displays can be art, family planners, or your voice-activated assistant all in one.
Use them to:
- Show photos as room decor
- View family schedules at a glance
- Set reminders by voice
- Make video calls without grabbing your phone
Two favorites:
| Model | Screen Size | Display Type | Voice Assistant | Best Features | Camera? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Echo Show 15 | 15.6” | Mounted | Alexa | Calendar, reminders, photos | Yes |
| Google Nest Hub Max | 10” | Countertop | Google Assistant | Photos, calendar, reminders | Yes |
9. Smart Ceiling Fans
Did you know smart ceiling fans exist? I didn’t until recently!
The Haiku Home L Series 52″ is the top pick. Control it via Alexa, Google Home, mobile app, or remote. The built-in light has 16 dimmable settings.
10. Smart Thermostats
Tired of fiddling with the thermostat or dreading high electric bills? Smart thermostats learn your routines, track weather, and send energy reports to save you money.
Top choices:
| Thermostat | Voice Assistant Compatibility | Compatible Systems | C-Wire Needed? | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium | Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, Apple HomeKit | Not for electric baseboard heating | No | Air quality monitor, smoke alarm detection, Energy Star certified |
| Nest Learning Thermostat | Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings | Limited system compatibility | No | Learns your habits, energy reports, HVAC monitoring |
11. Smart Indoor Cameras
Want to keep an eye on your living room when you’re away or check on your puppy?
We recommend the Ring Indoor Cam and Ring Stick Up Cam — the main difference is that the Indoor Cam needs to be plugged in, while the Stick Up Cam runs on battery.
Both offer:
- Built-in siren
- Two-way audio
- Live view via the Ring app
- Video recording (with a Ring Protect Plan)
Ring Indoor Cam works with Alexa only; Stick Up Cam also works with SmartThings.
If you use Google Home or Apple HomeKit, consider:
| Camera | Voice Assistant Compatibility | Power Source | Two-Way Audio | Video Recording |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nest Indoor Cam | Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings | AC power | Yes | Yes, up to 3 hours without subscription |
| Nest Indoor & Outdoor Cam | Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings | Battery | Yes | Yes, up to 3 hours without subscription |
| eufySecurity 2K Indoor Cam | Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit | AC power | Yes | Yes |
Bonus for pet owners:
The Furbo 360° Pet Camera lets you watch your furry friend roam around. It even has a speaker and microphone so you can calm your dog or toss treats remotely. Perfect for anxious pets!
Optimize Your Living Space Today!
Whether you’re just starting out or a smart home pro, there are devices for almost every part of your home. This list is just a glimpse—tech keeps getting better, so jump in and make your home smarter!
FAQs
How much does it cost to use smart home devices?
Besides the upfront price, there aren’t many ongoing costs. Some devices may charge monthly for premium features, but overall, smart tech usually helps you save money.
Do I need professional installation?
Most smart home gear is DIY-friendly. But for some things like smart thermostats, light switches, or ceiling fans, you might want a pro if you’re not comfortable handling electrical stuff.
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