Reviews
- Google Home Speaker Review: Gemini's First Home (2026) — Google Home Speaker review: Gemini's first dedicated device. Is the audio downgrade worth the AI upgrade? Honest take after testing.
- Philips Hue Wired Switches: Smart Control Without Rewiring (2026) — Philips Hue wired wall switches finally here. Control existing lights from Hue app without smart bulbs. Full review and setup guide.
- Sonoff Basic Gen5 and TX Gen2: Do These Matter Switches Replace Shelly? — Sonoff's new Matter switches cost $6 each and work locally. I run Shelly relays and Zigbee switches. Here's whether these give me a reason to switch.
- Aqara Thermostat Hub W200: Zigbee Climate Control Review (2026) — Aqara Thermostat Hub W200 review from a Zigbee purist. It's a thermostat, Matter controller, AND Zigbee hub in one device for $160. But does it work locally?
- Dreame L50 Ultra: Mid-Range Robot Vacuum Review (2026) — Dreame L50 Ultra fills the gap between budget and flagship. 19,500Pa suction, ProLeap legs, and self-cleaning for under $800. My review after 2 months.
- Nest Thermostat in a Family Home: What I Wish I Knew (2026) — I've had the Nest Thermostat for 2 years with three kids in the house. Here's what the learning actually does and what drives me crazy about it.
- Niko Home Control: Honest Review After 3 Years (2026) — I've lived with Niko Home Control for 3 years. Wired switches, motor controls, and a central unit. Here's what's great and what's not worth it.
- Smart Lock for Renters: I Found One That Actually Works — I installed a smart lock in my rental without any permanent changes. SwitchBot Lock Pro attaches with adhesive and my landlord has no idea. Full review.
- WiZ Lights Review: Best Budget Smart Bulbs? (2026) — I've been running WiZ bulbs for over a year. At €10 per bulb with Matter support, they're hard to beat on value. But there are tradeoffs. My honest review.
- Dreame X60 Pro: First Robot Vacuum with Matter Support — Dreame X60 Pro series launches with Matter and Apple Home support. The first robot vacuum that integrates into Matter smart home ecosystems.
- Schlage Sense Pro: First UWB Smart Lock Launches June 29 — Schlage Sense Pro launches June 29 at $399 with UWB hands-free unlock, Matter over Thread, and Aliro. The first smart lock you don't have to touch.
- Sonoff NSPanel Pro Gen2: Matter Bridge + Dual Relays — Sonoff NSPanel Pro Gen2 adds dual relays and Matter bridging. Control Zigbee devices from Apple Home and manage your smart home from a wall panel.
- SwitchBot Lock Vision: Is Facial Recognition Safe? (Review) — SwitchBot Lock Vision uses 3D facial recognition to unlock your door. Is it safe? How does it work? Full review with privacy and security analysis.
- ZemiSmart Matter Curtain Motor: Budget Smart Blinds Review — ZemiSmart's Matter over Thread curtain motor brings automated blinds to budget smart homes. Setup, compatibility, and real-world performance reviewed.