Smart home devices, including smart lights, smart thermostats, smart coffee makers, and security cameras, have transformed the way we used to live! These gadgets have made our lives so much easier that we can control them on the go with taps and clicks on our smartphones.
If you are using any of these smart devices, you must be aware that you must control them individually, which is challenging.
But with the best smart home hubs, you can control these devices from a single interface. This article covers the best smart home hub reviews to ensure you get the perfect device to control your smart gadgets.
Best Smart Hubs Reviews
1. Wink Hub 2
Here is a compact and aesthetic smart hub or home automation system from Wink that will add sheer elegance to your abode. This easy-to-use smart hub has many connectivity options; you can connect up to 400+ smart gadgets.
Superior Compatibility
Wink Hub 2 is compatible with Kidde, Bluetooth LE, Z-Wave, ZigBee, and Clear Connect connectivity. With this intelligent hub, you can connect multiple devices, including smart lights, smart thermostats, and other such devices,
All-in-one Mobile App
The mobile application is available for Android and iOS users, and you can download it for free from the respective app store. Also, the mobile application has a dedicated option for lights, fans, cameras, thermostats, locks, and garage doors. You can access every device individually with the Wink mobile app.
Easy Customizations
With Wink 2 Hub, you can effortlessly customize and automate the working of every device. As mentioned above, every device has a separate option so that you can automate them per your requirements.
Your porch lights will turn on automatically on the set schedule, your smart speaker will play your favorite music whenever needed, and the thermostat will set the best temperature inside your home.
Multiple Device Connectivity
If your home is installed with various smart devices, then Wink 2 Hub is a perfect option. It can support up to 400+ smart devices, so you can easily connect all devices. Also, you can connect smart home devices that only work with dedicated protocols like Z-Wave and ZigBee.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Decent compatibility
- Works with Alexa
Cons:
- Unpredictable availability
Our Verdict
Wink Hub 2 will allow you to enjoy your freedom by rewarding you with easy controls at your fingertips. Moreover, you can control the hub with your verbal commands as it supports Alexa and Google Assistant (not included in the package).
Connect as many devices as you need and access them from anywhere with Wink 2 Smart Hub.
2. Amazon Echo Dot 5ht Gen
Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen is the latest smart hub and speaker launched by Amazon. This intelligent hub is affordable if you are unhappy with buying expensive devices. It is a compact hub that merely takes up space and requires no installation.
Versatile
You can use this smart home hub as a smart speaker as well. This device has better audio quality than the previous versions, so you can enjoy listening to your favorite music tracks. Also, it responds quickly, and you can control it using your voice commands.
Excellent Compatibility
Echo Dot 5 lets you connect cameras, thermostats, light bulbs, smart plugs, and other devices like speakers and garage door controllers. You can easily access these devices as the smart hub has built-in Alexa readily available to assist you.
Smart Alerts
Most of the best smart home hubs available in the market will send you smart alerts on your phone if you have opted for this feature. But the Echo Dot 5 is a bit advanced, as it can detect the sound of smoke alarms to ensure you are aware of what is happening inside your property. You must activate Alexa Guard with the app and are good to go.
Incredible Safety
Echo Dot 5 has multiple layers of safety features that fortify your privacy. You can turn off the microphone anytime when you need it. Also, you can listen to the previous recordings and delete them at your convenience.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to set up
- 3.5 mm audio jack
- It keeps you in sync with other devices
Cons:
- No ZigBee or Z-Wave protocol
Our Verdict
Amazon Echo Dot 5 is a pocket-friendly smart home hub that serves as a smart speaker and an interface between video doorbells and other devices requiring voice assistants. Also, it has dual-band Wi-Fi support to connect it to 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz networks easily.
3. Logitech Harmony Hub
You can access the control to various devices installed in your house or office with this budget-friendly smart hub from Logitech. This compact device can be placed anywhere inside your home without challenging installation. Moreover, it works with Alexa to control multiple devices with voice commands.
Works as a Remote
You can use this smart home hub as a remote for eight devices incorporating Roku, Apple TV, Sonos, and much more. You can connect the hub with gaming consoles, including Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PlayStation 3.
Moreover, you can change channels, adjust volume settings, and browse the list of movies with on-screen gestures using your smartphone.
Customized Activities
The device allows you to customize some activities according to your needs. You can tap on the “Day Night” option, and the smart hub will turn on the TV while launching Netflix, dimming the smart lights for an optimal viewing experience.
Also, you can customize many more activities and connected devices.
Easy to Set Up
Setting up the device is a breeze; you can do it with your smartphone or PC. This hub will automatically sync multiple commands with the connected devices so that you can control them without any interruptions. In short, using Logitech’s smart home hub is an effortless task.
Built-in IR Blaster
Logitech smart hub has an IR blaster device that makes it easier to control multiple devices requiring a remote control. You can control the TV or setup box even if fitted in a cabinet. IR blaster also works with gaming consoles and speakers.
Pros:
- Fairly priced
- Compatible with voice assistant
- Customized schedules
- User-friendly mobile app
Cons:
- You can only connect eight devices at a time
Our Verdict
If you are looking for the best smart hubs under $100 that work decently, then this device from Logitech is what you should get. It works as a remote and is compatible with multiple devices, including smart lights, thermostats, cameras, etc.
4. Samsung SmartThings Hub 3rd Generation
It is a wireless smart home hub that doesn’t need an Ethernet cable connection. You can set it up anywhere inside your home to enjoy seamless automation. Also, it has Z-Wave and ZigBee protocols to connect multiple devices, including Philips Hue smart lights.
Voice-Enabled
This Samsung smart home hub is compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Moreover, you can download the mobile app to use your voice commands without relying on any physical voice assistant.
The hub is smart enough to learn various tricks, like what to do when you are asleep and the devices to turn on when it is time to get up.
Excellent Wireless Connectivity
You can connect a multitude of devices wirelessly with this home hub. It can connect to devices that are even at a distance of up to 130 feet, depending on the construction and architecture of your house. You don’t need any other smart home hub when you have Samsung SmartThings.
Automated Routines
With Samsung SmartThings, you can automate your routines. The smart hub can detect the temperature and moisture level to adjust the best temperature using the thermostat. Also, it combines with other devices and makes them work in coordination, which is required to automate your smart devices.
Smart Alerts
You will get all the smart alerts on your phone, which will help you enhance your home’s security. From motion detection to turning the lights on and off, you will get every notification with SmartThings home hub.
Pros:
- No wired connection is required
- Handy mobile app
- Multiple protocols support
- 24/7 alerts
Cons:
- Not compatible with Nest, D-Link, and Sonos devices
Our Verdict
Samsung SmartThings is an excellent smart home hub that can serve you with many useful features. Also, the seat is affordable, and you can set it up wirelessly without connecting an Ethernet cable.
5. Brilliant Smart Home Control Automation HomeKit
The Brilliant Smart Home Control (4-Switch Panel) is a home automation device designed to centralize control of various smart home devices and systems.
It features a touchscreen display and is known for its compatibility with popular smart home platforms and devices like Alexa, Ring, Sonos, Philips Hue, Google Nest, Wemo, SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit.
It’s designed to replace traditional light switches and offers an intuitive interface for managing your smart home ecosystem.
Brilliant Smart Home Control (4-Switch Panel) Compatible
Alexa: The Brilliant Smart Home Control features Alexa built-in, allowing you to use voice commands to control your smart home devices and interact with Amazon’s voice assistant.
Ring: Integration with Ring lets you control your Ring doorbell and security cameras directly from the Brilliant panel.
Sonos: You can control your Sonos speakers and audio systems through the Brilliant panel, making it convenient for managing your home’s audio setup.
Philips Hue: Compatible with Philips Hue smart lighting, you can control your Hue bulbs and lighting scenes.
Google Nest: Works with Google Nest devices, including thermostats, cameras, and smart displays.
Wemo: Supports Wemo smart plugs and switches for home automation.
SmartThings: Compatible with Samsung SmartThings, integrating various smart devices and sensors.
Apple HomeKit: The Brilliant Smart Home Control (4-Switch Panel) is HomeKit compatible, which means you can control HomeKit-enabled devices using the panel and Siri voice commands.
Pros:
- Compatibility: One of the standout features of the Brilliant Smart Home Control is its wide compatibility with many popular smart home platforms and devices. This can make it a central hub for controlling various aspects of your smart home.
- Voice Control: With Alexa built-in, you can use voice commands to control not only the Brilliant device itself but also other connected smart devices, adding a layer of convenience to your home automation setup.
- Stylish Design: The product features a sleek and modern design, making it an attractive addition to your home’s aesthetics. It can seamlessly replace standard light switches and blend into your home decor.
- Customizable Scenes: You can create and customize scenes to control multiple smart devices simultaneously with a single touch, making setting the mood or automating routines easy.
- Security: Integration with Ring and other security systems can enhance your home security setup by providing control and monitoring capabilities from a single device.
Cons:
- Price: Smart home control panels like the Brilliant Smart Home Control tend to be more expensive than traditional light switches, which can be a drawback if you have many buttons to replace.
- Installation: Installing the Brilliant Smart Home Control may require some electrical expertise and might not be a DIY project for everyone.
- Dependence on Wi-Fi: Like many smart home devices, it relies on a stable Wi-Fi connection. If your Wi-Fi network experiences issues, the device’s performance could be affected.
6. Securifi Smart Home Hub
You don’t need any additional PC or MAC to set up this smart home hub, as it has a built-in touch screen. Also, it has a great coverage area and is compatible with devices of most smart hub brands, including Nest, Philips Hue, Yale, and Amazon Echo.
Responsive Touch Screen
The touch screen has a decent size, and you can set up the home hub on the go without any hassles. The smart screen displays everything from the list of connected devices to the range extender option and wireless settings.
There is no need to get your hands on your smartphone as everything is controllable with the display itself.
Extensive Coverage
Suppose you have a big mansion or house over 1,300 sq ft. Then, you can connect multiple Almond 3 units to form a robust wireless network. Moreover, you can connect more smart home devices simply by using more units of this smart home hub.
Monitor and Block Devices
It is a smart hub cum smart Wi-Fi so that you can monitor all the active connections working with the primary internet connection. The hub will send you push notifications on the connected smartphone regarding new device connectivity.
As the admin, you can delete or block any device. Moreover, you can set Wi-Fi curfews and parental controls to stop your children from accessing internet content you don’t want.
Excellent Compatibility
Securifi smart home hub can communicate with various smart devices installed by setting up wireless connections. It has built-in ZigBee, and you can even pair devices only compatible with Z-Wave and ZigBee. Moreover, this fits your budget if you need the best smart home hub under $150.
Pros:
- Uncompromised security
- Works with multiple brands
- Alexa compatible
- Supports guest network
- Built-in siren and alarm
Cons:
- It would be best if you had various units for big homes
Our Verdict
With this Wi-Fi and smart home hub, you can manage everything in one place. It has a built-in alarm and siren so that you will be aware of something wrong. Installing this hub merely requires a few minutes, all thanks to the built-in display.
7. Google Nest Hub
Google Nest is a multipurpose device that works as a smart home hub, smart speaker, and voice assistant. The device has a 7-inch touchscreen display, and you can access everything in one place, even without your smartphone.
Built-in Assistant and Chromecast
This smart home hub has a built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant. You can easily stream online content without any additional device. Also, the device will allow you to control connected devices with voice commands easily.
Multi-Room Audio
Google Nest is also a smart speaker; you can connect multiple speakers to access all of them in sync. Whether you want to make dinner announcements or want your kids to fall asleep, you can use this hub as an intercom with multiple speakers.
Ambient Light Sensor
Adjust the best brightness settings according to the darkness inside your house with this smart hub. You can adjust the brightness of the smart lights by using the ambient sensor. Moreover, all the connected devices are displayed on the screen so that you can access them with a tap.
Smart Frame and Clock
After detecting minutes of inactivity, the hub turns into a smart clock and frames by displaying your favorite pictures or clock screen. You can connect it to your Google Drive or Pictures to let the device access some of your favorite clicks.
Pros:
- Responsive touch screen
- Built-in microphone
- Visual cues for a better experience
- Ambient light sensor
Cons:
- Audio quality is not that great
- Expensive
Our Verdict
Google Nest Hub can offer additional features like Chromecast support, unavailable in other home smart hubs. Overall, it is a decent device that is handy and easy to set up.
8. Echo Show 5
Echo Show 5 is another smart home hub or controller with a built-in capacitive touch screen. Moreover, the device has built-in Alexa and Echo voice assistant support to control connected devices without lifting a finger.
It works well with most trending apps, including Amazon Prime, Spotify, etc.
Easy to Set Up
You can set up this home hub cum smart speaker on the go without any PC or smartphone. The touch screen is crisp and responds to the touch immediately. You can add or delete connected devices anytime with some clicks.
Built-in Camera
The device comes with a built-in camera, which you can use to make video calls. Not all smart home hubs allow you to make calls, but the Echo Show 5 is an excellent option if you need a multifunctional compact seat.
Superior Privacy
Echo Show 5 has multiple layers of security that ensure uncompromised privacy. You can also turn off the microphone and camera with the switch available on the device. It has a dedicated shutter for the camera that covers the entire camera lens.
View Everything on the Display
When you have Amazon Echo Show 5, you can see what’s happening outside your door. Just say, “Alexa, Show Me the Front Door,” this best smart hub for Alexa will turn on the doorbell camera if connected. Similarly, you can view the recordings of your home CCTV and security system without any additional display.
Pros:
- Value for money
- Camera shutter protects your privacy
- Excellent privacy
- Smart frame and clock
Cons:
- Audio quality is not up to the mark
- Screen is small
Our Verdict
You can enjoy the benefits of a smart hub, a smart speaker, and a tablet with Echo Show 5. The device is compact and lightweight so you can take it anywhere. This smart home hub is available in two colors: Charcoal and Sandstone.
9. TP-Link Smart Hub
TP-Link is an integrated smart hub and Wi-Fi mesh system. With this device, you don’t need a separate router; you can save some extra bucks if you plan to buy one. It is a pack of two devices that can cover a considerable square foot area.
High-Performance Connection
After combining these two smart home hubs, you will get a high-performance connection inside your home that covers almost all corners and avoids dead zones. As a result, you can even connect the smart devices that are located in a separate hub.
Built-in ZigBee Protocol
The ZigBee protocol lets you connect various devices with the smart hub. The list of devices includes smart lights, smart thermostats, security cameras, and much more. You need a TP-Link mobile app for Android and iOS users to control the devices.
Self-Healing Technology
There is a possibility that one of the Wi-Fi systems disrupts or stops working due to any unforeseen circumstances. The TP-Link smart hub avoids such a situation with its self-healing technology. It sends a strong network signal to the disrupted unit to maintain a robust connection.
So you will never lose connection with your smart gadgets with the TP-Link smart hub.
Fantastic Network Security
With this smart home hub, you will get the functionality to monitor the Wi-Fi connection. You can add or block any device with immediate effect. Also, you can use parental control and antivirus to keep the network protected at all times.
Pros:
- Robust network and coverage
- Easy to configure
- Antivirus and parental controls included
- Tri-band Wi-Fi
Cons:
- Not compatible with all smart home devices
Our Verdict
You can connect the smart home hub with voice assistants like Alexa (not included in the package). Also, it works as a router, and you can click the existing routers with this device. The mobile app is handy; managing or configuring the hub will be a breeze.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Smart Home Hub?
Choosing a smart home hub or controller may seem like a child’s play, but it involves some critical factors that need your attention. To enjoy a seamless experience with these smart devices, you must buy something that fulfills your requirements.
What is a Smart Home Hub?
A smart home hub is an easy-to-use device that lets you connect most of the smart gadgets of your home for ease of control. It is an IoT (Internet of Things) device that generally has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options, and you can pair your smartphone with it for better home automation.
Smart home hubs are also termed smart home bridges. In short, a smart hub is the core device to control other smart appliances installed in your home remotely.
Types of Smart Home Hubs
There is a multitude of different smart home hubs available out there. We have explained these different types of smart home hubs in detail for your ease.
1. Traditional Smart Home Hubs
Traditional smart home hubs are the general ones that come equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. You can use these hubs to control lights, smart thermostats, and other devices that don’t require their ecosystem.
The most common examples of traditional smart home hubs are Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat, and Wink. These are easy to use, and you can connect multiple devices on the go.
2. Voice Assistant Hubs
With verbal commands, you can control the connected devices with voice assistant smart home hubs. Smart hubs like Google Home and Amazon Echo are becoming popular among buyers because they find it easier to control the devices with voice commands.
Voice assistant hubs are not ideal in the case of sophisticated automation devices. But if you want to experience ultimate ease, then these devices are perfect for you.
3. Software-only Hubs
Installing a piece of hardware in your home is not mandatory if you need a smart home hub. Some brands offer mobile applications; you can use the smart home hub virtually just with your phone.
These virtual devices have some downsides, as you cannot control them remotely from anywhere. You need to install a separate hardware device, which will cost extra bucks.
4. Ecosystem Hubs
Some smart hubs for home devices like Philips Hue and Hive need their ecosystem to work as these are based on Zigbee or Z-Wave protocols. So, you cannot connect them to a traditional smart home hub.
Also, there are some limitations to ecosystem hubs, and you have to install a traditional seat for using other devices that are not compatible with it.
Benefits of Home Automation Hubs
A long list of benefits is associated with using a smart home hub. Please have a look at a few of them.
1. Ultimate Convenience
Undeniably, you must download a separate mobile application for every smart device installed in your home or office. And using a different app will only make your life hectic. But with a smart home hub, you can access multiple devices with a single interface.
From smart lights to smart speakers and smart thermostats, you can use many different devices conveniently when you have a smart hub connected to them.
2. Automated Tasks
You can set schedules and timers using the mobile app with a smart hub. Let us take an example of a smart coffee maker. Using a smart hub, you can prepare your favorite coffee at a particular program.
Just set the dedicated timer and automate your tasks like never before.
3. Customization
Smart hubs allow you to customize the settings for every device separately. You can set a different schedule for the smart light and a different one for the smart thermostat. Moreover, you can add or remove a particular device anytime without any hassles.
4. Energy Conservation and Monitoring
With smart home hubs, you can monitor and conserve energy. These smart devices can turn off the devices that are not in use, and thus, you can save a considerable amount of money on your next energy bill.
Also, these smart hubs can maintain an ideal temperature in your home, so you do most of your tasks without intervening.
5. Ease of Use
Lastly, smart home hubs are easy to use. Even your kids can use these devices to automate their tasks. You can carry out the installation process independently, as these devices have an effortless installation process.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Smart Home Hub
1. Compatibility
The first and foremost thing is compatibility. If a smart home hub is not compatible with your devices, then buying it is pointless. Also, checking the range of allowed devices before purchasing the best smart home hub for home automation is ideal.
Some devices only allow limited devices, whereas some smart hubs enable you to connect many devices simultaneously.
2. Mobile App
The mobile application lets you easily control the smart hub and connected devices. Most of the smart home hubs in the market have smartphone applications for Android and iOS users.
But checking app availability before closing the deal is a wise idea.
3. Voice Control
With a voice control-enabled smart home hub, you can turn on/off your devices without even lifting a finger. A voice command is enough to turn off the lights, and you can even give orders if you are in a different room.
Not all smart hubs have voice control functionality, so you must check whether you need one or are happy with a regular smart home hub. You need to check the list of home hubs that work with Google Home in case you already have a Google Home device, and the same goes for Alexa.
4. Connectivity
Top smart home hubs come loaded with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi options, but sometimes, you will not get optimal performance with these devices. We recommend you buy smart seats with Z-wave and Zigbee connectivity options, as these work even better.
Ultimately, the choice is up to you, as smart hubs with Z-Wave and Zigbee are a bit pricey.
5. Versatility
The main purpose of a smart home automation hub is to let you control all the devices on the go, but some smart seats are more than that! These hubs have built-in speakers, so you can listen to your favorite music anytime without buying a smart speaker.
6. Budget
The price of a smart home hub can start from a few dollars and go up to hundreds of dollars, and if you want to avoid any confusion while buying, then it is better to make up your budget. These devices are affordable, so you can even buy a smart home hub with a tight budget.
FAQs
Can I use more than one Smart Home Hub in one Location?
Yes, you can use more than one smart home hub at one Location, but you cannot connect one device to two seats at a time. If you use smart lights with Hub 1, you cannot touch them with Hub 2. So this is the downside of using two hubs in one Location.
However, if you have a big mansion, you can install more than one smart hub to control different devices.
Which Smart Home Hubs are compatible with Alexa?
Nowadays, many smart hubs available are compatible with Alexa and Google Home. If you want one compatible with Alexa, you can go with Amazon Echo Dot 3 or Wink Hub 2. These are compatible with Alexa, so you can use voice commands to access multiple devices with these smart home hubs.
What are the key differences between a Smart Hub and a Smart Speaker?
Most buyers get confused when it comes to smart hubs and smart speakers; some of them even feel that there is no difference in these. But smart seats are different from smart speakers. Here’s how?
With a smart speaker, you can perform voice-operated operations like controlling multiple devices, turning on/off the lights, or scheduling meetings. Also, you can listen to your favorite tracks with these devices.
But a smart home hub is different. It is a master control unit that allows you to access various devices installed in your home with optimal control. From scheduling the lights to setting the timer for your smart thermostat, you can do anything with a smart hub, which is impossible with a smart speaker.
Some manufacturers are selling smart hubs and speakers combined, like Amazon Echo Dot 3. It is a hub and a speaker so you can use it for both purposes.
Can I use my Smart Hub when there is no active Internet Connection?
The answer is NO! But you can do preconfigured automation like turning on/off the devices when you are physically inside your home. If you want to control these devices remotely, an active internet connection is necessary.
Smart security system or Smart Hub, Which is Better?
A smart hub and a smart security system have merits and demerits based on your requirements. Also, you can use an intelligent security system as a smart hub, as it allows you to connect some devices.
However, to enjoy the ultimate freedom and ease of use, we advise pairing a smart hub with a smart security system. These devices can work in sync, and you can connect multiple devices for better home automation.
How many devices can I pair with a Smart Hub?
It entirely depends on what smart hub you are buying. Some seats have limited device connectivity, while others allow you to connect up to 400 devices. The choice is up to you and your requirements.
Final Thoughts
Using one of the best smart home hubs will make your life hassle-free, and you can control all connected devices remotely! It will help reduce energy bills, making your home safer and protected.
The best smart home hub in this list is Wink HUB 2, and if you have a tight budget, you can go with Amazon Echo Dot 3.