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Latest by Jon Bitner

A person holding the SwitchBot K10+ robot vacuum.

The SwitchBot Mini Robot Vacuum K10+ is designed for cramped rooms and tight spaces

The SwitchBot Mini Robot Vacuum K10+ might not be as large as the competition, but it's not lacking in premium features. Here's a look at the quirky robot.
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen in the rain.

Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell: Which is best?

The new Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen is available in two formats, but is either one better than the existing Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell?
The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen mounted outside.

Arlo Essential 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Pro 4: is the Arlo Pro 4 worth it?

The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen Camera is a new addition to the Arlo catalog, but is it better than the existing Arlo Pro 4? Here's a closer look.
The Emporia Smart Plug with a cable attached.

Emporia resolves issue with Smart Plugs that spurred recall

A voluntary recall impacts a large portion of Emporia Smart Plugs, though there are currently no known injuries or damage caused by faulty products.
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera

Arlo Essential XL 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Pro 4: Which is the better security camera?

The new Arlo Essential XL 2nd Gen offers incredible battery life, but is it better than the Arlo Pro 4? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 installed near a front door.

Wyze Video Doorbell v2 vs. Wyze Video Doorbell Pro

The new Wyze Video Doorbell v2 is much cheaper than the Wyze Video Doorbell Pro, but is it actually a better product? Here's a closer look at both.
Several Ecobee security products on a green background.

Is an Ecobee Smart Security subscription worth it?

Ecobee offers two different plans for its security systems. But which one is best for your home? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
Apple HomePod 2023

Echo Pop vs. HomePod (Gen 2): is the HomePod worth its added cost?

Is the expensive Apple HomePod worth your money, or should you stick with the affordable Echo Pop? Here's a look at these two smart speakers to help you decide.
A blue Echo Pop sitting on a table.

Echo Pop vs. HomePod mini: which is the best smart speaker?

The Echo Pop is a great smart speaker for its price, but how does it compare to the premium HomePod mini? Here's a look at both to help guide your purchase.
The Ring Outdoor Smart Plug installed outside.

Can smart plugs be used outside?

Smart plugs are a great way to control exterior lights and decorations, but not all of them can be used outside. Here's what to know before using them outdoors.
iRobot Roomba j7 plus 7550 robot vacuum in charging dock by entryway.

How often should you replace your robot vacuum?

Robot vacuums are designed to last for several years, though their longevity relies on regular maintenance. Here's how often you should think about upgrading.
The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 installed near a front door.

New Wyze Video Doorbell v2 offers microSD card slot, 2K resolution for just $40

The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 is a big improvement over its predecessor, offering a microSD slot, 2K video capture, and a budget-friendly price.
A stylized version of a smart home with various rooms containing smart home gadgets.

Matter adds support for fridges, air purifiers, robot vacuums, and more with massive 1.2 update

The Matter 1.2 update is now available, bringing the interoperability standard to nine new device types -- including robot vacuums, air purifiers, and more.
Blueair Blue Pure 211 plus HEPA air purifier in living room.

Do air purifiers work?

Since you won't want to open doors and windows in the winter, air purifiers are a great way to keep your air fresh. But are they worth the investment?
Apple HomePod 2023

Alexa vs. HomeKit: Which smart home platform is best?

Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit are two of the best smart home platforms available, but which is best for your home? Here's a closer look to help you decide.
The Numi 2.0 Smart Toilet

The 5 weirdest smart home gadgets of 2023

From smart toilets to smart toasters, here's a look at five of the weirdest smart home gadgets you can purchase in 2023.
A Ring Video Doorbell next to Halloween decorations.

Ring celebrates Halloween by adding spooky Quick Replies to its video doorbells

Spooky Halloween Quick Replies are now available for Ring Video Doorbells, including a werewolf's howl and a witch brewing in a cauldron.
The Ecovacs Deebot X1 Omni cleaning hardwood floors.

How to fix a robot vacuum that stops moving

There are several reasons your robot vacuum might not be moving. From checking its wheels to updating its software, here are all the ways to fix the problem.
The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera install near a door.

Ecobee takes on Ring, Arlo with its first smart doorbell camera

The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is the company's first video doorbell, featuring a generous viewing angle and premium materials.
The iRobot j9+ cleaning a floor and retracting its mop.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni vs. iRobot Roomba Combo j9+: Which premium robot vacuum is best?

If you're looking for a premium robot vacuum and mop combo, the Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni and iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ fit the bill. But which is best?
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra in a kitchen.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni vs. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra: Which is the best robot vacuum?

It's impossible to go wrong with either the Ecovacs X2 Omni or Roborock S8 Pro Ultra, but is one better for your smart home than the other? Here's what to know.
nanoleaf reveals matter smart lamps cono lamp

Nanoleaf reveals four new Matter devices, including two smart lamps

Nanoleaf is launching two Matter-enabled smart lamps in the coming months, as well as two other products for its Essentials lineup.
The X2 Omni dock up against a wall.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni vs. Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni: Is the new X2 Omni worth it?

The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is a better robot vacuum than the Deebot T20 Omni, but does it justify its hefty price tag? Here's what you need to know.
The X2 Omni on grey carpet.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni review: hitting the ceiling

The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is one of the best robot vacuums on the market, even if it only makes incremental improvements over the existing T20 Omni.
A person opening the Yale Assure Lock 2 with their Apple Watch.

Are keyless smart locks safe?

Keyless smart locks are incredibly safe, but they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here's a closer look at these smart home gadgets.
Controlling smart blinds with a remote.

Are smart blinds worth it?

Smart blinds give you remote access to your window coverings, allowing you to schedule their performance and save money on your bills. But are they worth it?
Lockly lock installed on a door and person uses the smartphone app.

What is a smart lock and how does it work?

A smart lock brings added versatility to your door, letting you open it using a keypad or smartphone app. Here's everything you need to know about smart locks.
The Roomba Combo j7+ mopping wood floors.

iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ vs. iRobot Roomba Combo j7+: Which is the better robot vacuum?

The newer iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is more affordable than the older iRobot Roomba Combo j7+, but is it actually a better robot vacuum? Here's what to know.
Nanoleaf's Matter-enabled holiday lights on a staircase.

Nanoleaf gets into the holiday spirit with Matter-enabled string lights

The Nanoleaf Matter Smart Holiday String Lights feature 250 LED bulbs and nine preset scenes, and are rated for outdoor use. They begin shipping in mid-October.
The Blink Outdoor 4 installed on a fence

Blink Outdoor 4 vs. Blink Outdoor 3: Which is the better security camera?

The Blink Outdoor 4 and Blink Outdoor 3 are both budget-minded security cameras. But is the newer (and more expensive) Outdoor 4 worth making an upgrade?
A bin that's been removed from the j5 Plus.

iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ vs. iRobot Roomba Combo j5+: Which is best?

The Roomba Combo j9+ and Roomba Combo j5+ are new members to iRobot's robot vacuum lineup. But what's the difference between the two? Here's what to know.
Blink Mini Indoor 1080p wireless security camera on a counter showing video capture on an Echo Show display.

How to save Blink videos to USB

If you don't want to pay for a Blink Plan, you can save videos locally to a USB drive. Here's how to get the cool feature working.
A person opening the Yale Assure Lock 2 with their Apple Watch.

New Yale Assure Lock 2 models get fingerprint scanner, support for Apple Home keys

The new Yale Assure Lock 2 models add a fingerprint scanner and support for Apple Home keys. Here's a look at the Assure Lock 2 Touch and Assure Lock 2 Plus.
The X2 Omni clenaing under a bed.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni boasts a new square design and improved vacuuming skills

The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is getting a big upgrade compared to the X1 Omni, thanks to a square design, improved charging station, and 8,000 Pa of suction.