New to smart home gear? Answer six questions below. The plan updates as you choose, and your answers stay in your browser.
Build your smart home starter plan
Six questions. You get the app to build around, what to buy first, what to check before you buy, and what to leave for later.
Build around
Buy in this order
Check on the box
Leave for later
Read next
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How the plan is worked out
The app to build around comes from the phones in your house and any speaker or hub you already own. An all-iPhone home is pointed to Apple Home, an all-Android home to Google Home, and a mixed home to Amazon Alexa, because the Alexa app works the same on both. If you want local control and are happy to tinker, the plan suggests Home Assistant.
The shopping order comes from your goals, your budget and whether you rent. Renters are not shown hardwired switches or thermostats. The budget sets how many items appear, so the first ones on the list are the ones to buy first.
The tool recommends types of device, not specific models. Links marked “See options” are Amazon search links, and we may earn a commission if you buy through them. For a full walkthrough, read the smart home setup guide for beginners.
