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Smart Home Guides

Ecobee smart thermostat installed on wall next to woman walking down staircase.

How do smart thermostats work?

If you've been wondering how a smart thermostat works, we explain all the features and mechanisms at play.
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum cleans carpet and wood flooring.

8 tips and tricks for your robot vacuum

Robot vacuums are much more automated than traditional vacuums, but they still require some attention. Here are 8 tips and tricks to optimize your robot vacuum.
Echo 4th Gen on table.

The best Amazon Echo tips and tricks

Making the most of Amazon's virtual assistant, Alexa, isn't that tough. We've compiled a list of the top Echo speaker tips and tricks that everyone should know.
Two people waving in front of a Ring Video Doorbell Wired

How to customize your Ring doorbell for Thanksgiving

Deck out your Ring doorbell by adding festive Ring Quick Replies and Chime Tones. Follow our step-by-step guide to up your holiday game.
LG CordZero Power Mop

LG CordZero vs Samsung Bespoke Jet vaccum

Both the LG CordZero and the Samsung Bespoke Jet are excellent cordless vacuum options for a quick clean around the home: Here's how they match up.
Nest devices grouped together on a counter.

9 ways Google Assistant can help with Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving can be hectic, but Google Assistant and the Google Home app have some clever ways to make things easier. Here's how they can help.
irobot roomba spraying water on wood floor with vacuum Roomba in dock behind it.

How to clean your robot mop

Robot mops can help keep hardwood floors clean, but they need maintenance, too. Here are some easy steps to keep them clean and working effectively.
The Echo Dot Kids Owl and Dragon designs on a table.

Should you give a smart speaker as a holiday gift?

Smart speakers are versatile assistant devices that could be the perfect gift — but only for the right person. Here's how to know if it's a good idea.
Amazon Echo Show 15 lifestyle image.

How to track devices with Echo Show 15

Lost your keys, wallet, or phone? Amazon's Alexa assistant can help you find them if you ask. Learn how to set it up.
Nest Audio on a table.

How to clean the fabric on your smart speaker

Smart speaker fabric is ubiquitous, and it does get dusty over time. Here's how to clean it the right way, no matter which speaker you're using.
Somebody using a Withings Smart Thermometer with their smartphone.

What is a smart fever thermometer?

A smart thermometer makes it easy to know if you're running a fever, and it can even recommend treatment options or tell you if a doctor's visit is necessary.
Ring Video Doorbell installed on a home.

Ring Video Doorbell 4 vs. Nest Doorbell Wired

The Ring Video Doorbell 4 and Nest Doorbell Wired are two of the best video doorbells available. Here's a closer look to figure out which is best for your home.
Jack O lantion in the grass at night.

How to use your smart speaker to scare people for Halloween

Looking for an easy way to scare people with a voice assistant? Here's how to set up those Halloween smart features for maximum chills and thrills.
The Sony Bravia XR-X92 mounted above a fireplace.

The fall smart home checklist: How to prepare for cooler weather

It's fall, which means that smart homes need several important updates to improve safety, save money, and get ready for colder months. Here's what to do.
Some scary teens in The Midnight Club.

How to find ghosts with Alexa (and other scary skills)

Far more than a smart home controller, many Alexa devices can also be used for some truly ghoulish fun. Here are some of our favorite frightening Alexa skills.
Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights strung up on a house at night for Halloween.

How to program your smart hub to scare the pants off of you

It's the Halloween season, and your smart hubs are ready to help you celebrate. Here are ideas for how your smart home can help you stir up some frights.
Stay warm with space heaters

Best cheap space heater deals for October 2022

Avoid cold spots and keep warm without breaking the bank. We've found the best deals on efficient space heaters.
Ring Spotlight Cam Pro on a wall.

Nest Cam with Floodlight vs. Ring Spotlight Cam Pro

Spotlight features made DIY home security cams even more useful. Let's compare Google's Nest Cam floodlight model with Amazon's latest Ring Spotlight Cam Pro.
The Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock.

Nest Mini (2nd-gen) vs. Amazon Echo Dot (5th-gen)

Looking for a little smart speaker for your desk or bedside? The latest versions of the Nest Mini and the Amazon Echo Dot are both great. See which one wins.
Two people waving in front of a Ring Video Doorbell Wired

History of Ring devices

Ring's suite of smart security cams and video doorbells is immense. Let's take a look at where the models stand and what important differences mark them.
roku streambar ultra 2020 side angle closer

Amazon Devices & Services livestream: Alternatives to every announced product

Tons of Amazon smart home devices are heading our way later this year, but if you don't want to wait, here are some great alternatives you should consider.
Amazon Echo sitting on a sidetable.

The history of the Amazon Echo

The Amazon Echo smart speaker has had a varied history covering all kinds of devices. Let's look at how far things have come since the first Echo in 2014.
Pouring water into Breville coffeemaker.

Breville Precision Brewer Thermal vs. Technivorm Moccamaster

Interested in the best high-tech drip coffee? Both Breville and Technivorm have high-end options for coffee fiends. Here's how the two coffee makers compare.
Super Bowl commercial featuring Amazon Alexa.

How to set up geofencing for Alexa

Did you know Alexa can run routines based on your location? Here's how geofencing works with Alexa devices, what you can do, and how to set it up for your home.
Nest Audio on Table.

How to set up geofencing for Google

Geofencing with Google Assistant and Google Home allows you to set Home and Away routines based on location, among other tricks. Here's how you can use it!
Best IFTT Recipes

IFTTT routines for fall

As the days get shorter and the weather becomes less predictable, use IFTTT to alert you to important news and to make your routines easier.
Vont smart bulb with Alexa voice control support.

The best Alexa Routines for every lifestyle

Here are a few Alexa routines that can help organize your days, keep you healthy, and get tasks done.
A smart kitchen.

How to build a smart kitchen

Are you getting ready for a new or renovated kitchen? It's a perfect time to add smart tech and appliances. Here are the upgrades to watch for when building.
The Echo Show 15 is the largest smart display yet.

How to sell your parents on a smart assistant

Are you trying to convince your doubtful or budget-minded folks to invest in a smart assistant like Alexa or Siri? Here are some pointers for your argument.
Person holding smartphone with IFTTT screen visible.

Best IFTTT Applets

Wish your smart home devices talked to each other better? IFTTT can help. Here's what to know about automating your life easily and the applets to help.
Photo of modern house is pictured on the display of an Echo Show 8.

How to see your photos and albums on an Echo Show display

Tired of uninspiring stock photos appearing on your Echo Show? Why not view family, friends, pets, and your trips instead? Here's how to do it.
best instant pot accessories chili

The best Instant Pot accessories for 2022

We've done the research for you and rounded up the best Instant Pot accessories to complement your favorite all-in-one appliance.
Dyson V10 Cordless Vacuum used in a living room.

Comparison of Dyson Cyclone v8 vs. v10

Looking for a powerful Dyson vacuum that's on the more affordable side? Both the v8 and v10 stick vac models are good choices. Here are the key differences.
Woman lifting the Dyson v11.

Dyson V10 vs. Dyson V11: A head-to-head breakdown of Dyson’s stick vacuums

Trying to make up your mind about some of Dyson's most advanced battery vacuum models? Here's everything you should know about the v10 vs. the v11 vacuums.