Top 5 Smart Devices That Will Change the Security Capabilities of Your Home
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Home security is a paramount concern for every homeowner. With the rise of smart devices, protecting your home has become more accessible, efficient, and intelligent than ever before. These devices not only enhance the security capabilities of your home, but also deliver a higher level of convenience and control, transforming the way you live.
As an added benefit, installing smart home devices can help lower your homeowners insurance premiums, given their potential to minimize risks. Here are the top five smart devices that can dramatically transform your home’s security capabilities.
1. Smart Security Cameras
Smart security cameras are the cornerstone of any intelligent home security system. Unlike traditional security cameras, smart cameras offer advanced features such as motion detection, facial recognition, and real-time notifications on your smartphone or other devices. Two noteworthy examples are the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor and the Arlo Pro 4.
The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is a weatherproof, outdoor camera that offers high-definition video, a powerful zoom function, and familiar face alerts. With its superior image quality and advanced analytics, it provides homeowners with more than just footage – it gives them knowledge and insight.
On the other hand, the Arlo Pro 4 offers color night vision, a built-in siren that can be triggered remotely, and a wide viewing angle for maximum coverage. Both cameras offer cloud storage options for recorded footage, ensuring that evidence is safely stored even if the camera itself is damaged or stolen.
2. Smart Door Locks
Smart door locks increase security while adding convenience. With these devices, you can lock or unlock your doors remotely, grant temporary access to guests, and receive alerts when doors are left unlocked. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock are two top picks in this category.
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock allows you to control and monitor your door from anywhere. It fits over your existing deadbolt, making it easy to install. It even features auto-lock and auto-unlock based on your proximity to your home.
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi Smart Lock offers built-in Wi-Fi, as well as compatibility with major smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It can manage up to 100 different access codes, making it ideal for homeowners who frequently have guests or service providers, or receive regular deliveries.
3. Smart Alarms
Smart alarms provide a robust security solution that goes beyond traditional alarm systems. They not only sound an alarm when a breach occurs, but also notify you instantly on your phone. The SimpliSafe Essentials and the Ring Alarm 5-piece kit are excellent options.
SimpliSafe offers a comprehensive home security system with a base station, keypad, motion sensors, and door/window sensors. It includes a 24/7 professional monitoring service that can dispatch emergency services if needed.
Ring Alarm, meanwhile, integrates seamlessly with other Ring devices and Amazon Alexa. Its mobile app allows you to manage all your devices from one place, giving you full control over your home’s security wherever you are.
4. Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for every home, and their smart counterparts offer even more safety features. Nest Protect and First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound are notable products in this arena.
Nest Protect not only sounds an alarm but also speaks to you with a human voice, giving an early warning and telling you exactly where the danger is. Additionally, it sends alerts to your phone if it detects any issues, or if its batteries are running low.
First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound combines a smoke and carbon monoxide detector with a premium speaker and a built-in Alexa assistant. This allows it to alert you about any danger in your home while also offering smart speaker capabilities for music, news, and more.
5. Smart Doorbell Cameras
Smart doorbell cameras add an extra layer of security to your home by letting you see, hear, and speak to anyone at your door, from anywhere. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro and Google Nest Hello are two leading models.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro offers 1080p HD video, infrared night vision, and customizable motion sensors. Its two-way audio with noise cancellation lets you speak with visitors from your phone, tablet, or PC.
Google Nest Hello stands out with its 24/7 streaming, HDR imaging, and facial recognition capabilities. It sends you notifications not just when someone presses the doorbell, but also when it spots a person, so you’re always aware of who’s at your doorstep.
Investing in these smart devices can revolutionize the security of your home by providing real-time alerts, remote access, and a seamless integration of all your security devices. Not to mention, they can help save money in the long run by potentially lowering your homeowners insurance premiums due to reduced risk. Smart home security devices offer a brilliant blend of safety, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, truly transforming the way we protect our homes.
