Smart Home Starter Guide: The Best Devices to Buy First
Starting a smart home is overwhelming — hundreds of devices, multiple ecosystems, and confusing compatibility. This guide cuts through the noise: here’s exactly what to buy first to get the most value for your money.
The Smart Home Starter Kit — In Order of Priority
| Device | Why Buy First | Recommended Pick | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Speaker | Controls everything else via voice | Amazon Echo (4th Gen) | ~$99 |
| Smart Bulbs | Instant impact, easy setup, low cost | Philips Hue Starter Kit | ~$79 |
| Smart Plug | Makes any device “smart” | Amazon Smart Plug | ~$19 |
| Video Doorbell | Security + convenience | Ring Video Doorbell 4 | ~$99 |
| Smart Thermostat | Best ROI — pays for itself in savings | Google Nest Thermostat | ~$129 |
| Robot Vacuum | Biggest time saver | Roborock Q5 Pro | ~$279 |
Step 1: Pick Your Ecosystem First
The most important decision is which ecosystem to build around — Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. Use the same brand as your phone: iPhone users get the most from Apple HomeKit and Siri. Android users benefit from Google Home’s deep integration. Everyone else will find Amazon Alexa’s sheer device compatibility the safest choice — it works with over 100,000 compatible devices.
Step 2: Start With Smart Lighting
Smart bulbs are the easiest and most satisfying entry point. The Philips Hue starter kit includes a bridge hub and three color bulbs — set them up in under 10 minutes. Once you experience waking up to a gentle sunrise simulation or setting a movie scene with one voice command, you’ll be hooked. Govee LED strips are a cheaper alternative at $20 for under-cabinet or TV backlighting.
Step 3: Smart Plugs for Everything Else
Smart plugs ($15-25 each) are the cheapest way to make any device voice-controlled or schedule-automated. Turn your coffee maker on before you wake up, automatically turn off lamps at midnight, or check remotely if you left the iron on. Amazon Smart Plugs work out of the box with Alexa and are often on sale for $10.
The Best ROI: Smart Thermostat
A Google Nest or Ecobee thermostat typically pays for itself within 1-2 years through energy savings. The Nest learns your schedule automatically and can save 10-15% on heating and cooling bills. If your HVAC system is compatible (most are), this is the highest-return smart home upgrade available.