Smart Home — AccessWiki

The Hub — Start Here

Amazon Alexa — The command center for everything

Before anything else on this page works together, you need an Alexa device as your central hub. Everything — your thermostat, locks, lights, blinds, bed, and TV — gets controlled through it. Two products are worth knowing: the Echo for general use, and the Fire TV Cube if TV control is a priority.

Control lights, locks, thermostat, TV, bed, and blinds by voice
Works with thousands of smart devices out of the box
Create routines — one command triggers multiple actions at once
Make phone calls, set reminders, play music — completely hands-free

Amazon Echo Show and Echo Dot with clock, modern Alexa smart speakers

Recommended for Smart Home

Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

The everyday Alexa device. Place one in your bedroom, living room, or wherever you spend the most time. Always-listening mic array, rich sound, and immediate response to voice commands.

Best for TV Control

Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)

The most powerful option for controlling your TV entirely by voice. Change channels, launch Netflix or YouTube, adjust volume, switch inputs — no remote ever needed. Also handles all smart home devices.

Prefer Google? — Works Just as Well

Google Home — The same idea, a different ecosystem

If you're more comfortable with Android, already use Google devices, or just prefer Google's assistant, everything on this page works through Google Home instead of Alexa — you don't need both. A Google Home Speaker or Google TV Streamer becomes your hub, and it controls the exact same things: thermostat, locks, lights, blinds, bed, and TV, all through Google's Gemini-powered assistant.

Control lights, locks, thermostat, TV, bed, and blinds by voice
Built-in Matter and Thread support connects certified smart home devices directly, no extra hub needed
Create routines — one command triggers multiple actions at once
Ask Gemini questions, set reminders, play music — completely hands-free

$Google Nest smart speakers, displays, and phone showing Google Home smart device controls$

Recommended for Smart Home

Google Home Speaker

Google's current everyday smart speaker, powered by Gemini. Place one in your bedroom, living room, or wherever you spend the most time. 360-degree sound, a light ring that shows when it's listening or thinking, and a physical mute switch for privacy.

Best for TV Control

Google TV Streamer (4K)

The most powerful option for controlling your TV entirely by voice through Google TV. Change channels, launch Netflix or YouTube, adjust volume, switch inputs — no remote ever needed. It also doubles as a Matter and Thread hub for the rest of your smart home devices.

Climate Control

Smart Thermostat — Temperature on demand

Never get stuck in an uncomfortable room waiting for someone to adjust the thermostat. A smart thermostat connects to Alexa or Google Assistant so you can say "Alexa, set the temperature to 72" or "Hey Google, set the temperature to 72" from anywhere in the house and it just happens. The Nest Learning Thermostat is a Google product, so it pairs especially well with Google Home, and it also learns your patterns and adjusts on its own over time.

Full voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant — instant response
Control from your phone via app when you're away from home
Set schedules — cooler at night, warmer in the morning
Energy-saving mode reduces electricity costs automatically

Installation note: Most smart thermostats need a C-wire (common wire) for power. If yours doesn't have one, the standard Nest Thermostat ($130) includes a power adapter that works in most homes. An electrician can add a C-wire for $50–$100 if needed.

Best Overall

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)

The gold standard in smart thermostats. Learns your schedule automatically over the first week, builds your preferences into a routine, and works flawlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant — it's a Google product, so Google Home integration is especially seamless. Sharp color display, multiple finish options.

Best Value

Google Nest Thermostat

The more affordable Nest option — same voice control and app access, simpler display. Includes a power adapter that works without a C-wire in most homes, which makes it the easiest to install yourself.

Schlage smart lock works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

Door Access

Smart Door Locks — Let people in without moving

Smart locks mean you never have to roll to the door. Say "Alexa, unlock the front door" and it's done — Google Assistant works too, though for security it can lock the door and check its status by voice, not unlock it (Google requires the app for that step). You can also give caregivers and visitors access codes, check lock status from your phone, and set auto-lock schedules.

Lock and unlock by voice through Alexa (Google Assistant can lock and check status by voice)
Give caregivers their own entry codes
Check lock status from your phone anywhere
Set auto-lock schedules so the door always locks at night

Top Pick

Schlage Encode Plus

Built-in Wi-Fi — no separate hub required. Works directly with Alexa and Google Assistant (Google can lock and check status by voice; Alexa can also unlock). Touchscreen keypad for backup codes. One of the most reliable smart locks available, with Apple Home Key support on the Plus model.

Runner Up

Yale Assure Lock 2

Clean keypad design with direct Alexa and Google Assistant integration — the Wi-Fi model works natively with both, no extra hub needed. Yale app shows access history, lets you create temporary codes for caregivers, and allows locking/unlocking from anywhere with your phone.

Easiest Install

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Attaches to your existing deadbolt from the inside — no new hardware on the outside, no drilling. You keep your existing exterior keys. Easiest installation of any smart lock, usually under 10 minutes.

Lighting

Smart Lights — Control every bulb, hands-free

Smart bulbs screw right into your existing sockets and connect to Alexa or Google Assistant. Turn any light on or off, dim it, or change its color — completely by voice. No new wiring, no electrician. Say "Alexa, turn off all the lights" or "Hey Google, turn off all the lights" and the entire house shuts down in one command.

"Alexa, turn off the bedroom light" or "Hey Google, turn off the bedroom light" — instant response
Create routines — lights on at sunrise, dim to 20% at 9pm
Kasa smart plugs work on any lamp or device
Works in any standard socket — no wiring changes

Best Full System

Philips Hue Starter Kit

The most reliable smart lighting ecosystem. Starter kit includes a bridge (hub) and 2–4 bulbs. Full color options, exceptional Alexa and Google Assistant integration, and very long lifespan. Best choice if you want to light your whole home.

Best Value Bulb

Kasa Smart Bulb (KL125, A19)

No hub required — connects directly to your Wi-Fi, Alexa, and Google Assistant. Under $15 per bulb, dimmable white light, excellent app, and one of the most reviewed smart bulbs on Amazon. Great for single rooms.

For Lamps & Fans

Kasa Smart Plug (EP25)

Plug any lamp, fan, or device into this smart outlet and control it by voice. Perfect for lamps with non-standard bulbs, ceiling fans, and anything you want controlled by Alexa or Google Assistant without replacing hardware.

Smart Light Switches — Control your existing lights without replacing bulbs

Smart switches are a different approach than smart bulbs — instead of replacing the bulb, you replace the wall switch itself. The big advantage: your existing lights work exactly as before, but now every flip of that switch is also controllable by voice, app, or schedule. This is especially useful for ceiling lights, recessed lighting, and rooms where you already have the right bulbs installed.

Smart switches do require a neutral wire in your wall for most models — if you're not sure, an electrician can check in about 10 minutes. Once installed, they work the same as a normal switch for anyone else in the home, while you get full voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant.

Top Pick — Single Pole

Kasa Smart Light Switch (HS200)

The most straightforward smart switch available. Replaces your existing single-pole wall switch, connects directly to Wi-Fi, and works with Alexa and Google Assistant out of the box with no hub needed. Schedule it, set routines, or just say "Alexa, turn on the bedroom light" or "Hey Google, turn on the bedroom light." Easy install, extremely reliable, and one of the best-reviewed smart switches on Amazon.

With Dimming

Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch (KS220)

Same easy Wi-Fi setup as the HS200 but adds full dimming control. Tell Alexa or Google Assistant to set the lights to 40% for watching TV, or create a "movie mode" routine that dims every light in the room at once. Works with dimmable LED and incandescent bulbs. No hub required.

Premium Option

Lutron Caseta Smart Switch

The gold standard in smart switches. Lutron Caseta uses its own radio frequency instead of Wi-Fi, which means it's rock-solid reliable even when your internet goes down. Requires a small Lutron Smart Bridge hub, but the tradeoff is exceptional range, instant response, and compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit all at once.

Bulb vs. Switch — which is right for you? Smart bulbs are easiest to install (just screw them in) but the wall switch must always stay on for the bulb to work. Smart switches solve that problem — the switch works normally for anyone in the home, and you still get full voice control. For overhead lights and ceiling fixtures, a smart switch is usually the better long-term solution.

Ring Video Doorbell installed beside a front door

Front Door Access

Doorbell cameras — see and speak to visitors from your phone

Being able to check your front door, see a visitor, and talk to them from your phone is a genuine independence win. All four options below have two-way audio so you can speak directly to whoever's there — and the Ring pairs especially well with an Echo Show for completely hands-free viewing.

Pro tip — Ring + Echo Show combo: If you already have an Echo Show, say "Alexa, show me the front door" and the live camera feed pops up on screen instantly. No phone, no tapping — completely hands-free. This is one of the best accessibility pairings on this entire page. Google Home users get a similar option: a Nest Hub can show the same live Ring feed with "Hey Google, show the front door," though Ring's deeper voice controls are Alexa-only.

Top Pick

Ring Video Doorbell (4th Gen)

The most popular option for a reason. HD video, night vision, motion alerts to your phone, and two-way audio so you can hear and talk to visitors. Works with Alexa and pairs perfectly with an Echo Show for hands-free live viewing. Also works with Google Home — you can view the live feed on a Nest Hub — though Alexa integration goes deeper.

Budget Pick

Blink Video Doorbell

The most affordable option on this list — and it delivers where it counts. HD video, two-way audio, motion alerts, and solid Alexa integration (Blink is owned by Amazon). No monthly subscription required, which is a big win for long-term cost.

Best for Privacy

Eufy Security Video Doorbell E340

Dual cameras give you both a straight-on view and a wide downward angle — great for catching packages left at the door. Stores footage locally with no cloud subscription needed, ever. Works with Alexa and Google Home.

Best Image Quality

Reolink Video Doorbell

4K video at a budget price — no monthly fees, ever. Wide field of view, two-way audio, and a free app. If sharp, detailed video matters to you (reading license plates, package labels), Reolink punches well above its price point.

Window Treatments

Motorized Zebra Blinds — Block the sun by voice

Zebra blinds alternate between sheer and opaque fabric panels, giving you beautiful, adjustable light and privacy control. Motorized versions pair with Alexa and Google Assistant so you can open, close, or adjust every blind in the house without touching anything.

This is one of those upgrades that sounds like a luxury but quickly becomes essential. Dealing with glare, managing privacy, or closing the blinds for bed — all without asking anyone or trying to reach a cord.

"Alexa, close the living room blinds" or "Hey Google, close the living room blinds" — done instantly
Set sunrise and sunset schedules for automatic operation
Group multiple blinds together for one-command control
Available in dozens of colors, patterns, and blackout levels
Custom cut to your exact window size when ordered

Installation: Motorized blinds install the same way as regular blinds — brackets inside the window frame. Most take 15–30 minutes per window. No wiring needed if you choose rechargeable motor models.

Motorized zebra blinds with Alexa and Google Home smart control

Recommended

American Blinds — EZ-A Motorized Zebra Shades

American Blinds offers custom motorized zebra shades that work with Alexa and Google Home. Custom-cut to your exact window dimensions with a wide color selection, and available with rechargeable or hardwired motors.

Alt Option

SwitchBot Blind Tilt — Automate Blinds You Already Have

SwitchBot Blind Tilt attaches to your existing horizontal blinds and motorizes them — no replacement needed. It clips onto the tilt rod and works with Alexa, Google, and Siri. A great budget-friendly option if you want voice control without buying new blinds altogether.

Automatic Door Opener

Open Sesame — Open any door completely independently

Open Sesame is a motorized door opener that attaches to any standard door and opens or closes it automatically using whichever switch you already use — a wall button, wireless remote, sip-and-puff, head switch, or foot pedal.

Power wheelchair user going through Open Sesame automatic door opener

How it works

Open Sesame installs directly onto your existing door — no door replacement, no frame modification. A low-profile arm attaches to the door and slowly pushes or pulls it open on command. The motor holds the door open long enough for you to pass through, then gently closes it behind you.

What sets Open Sesame apart is the switch compatibility. It works with virtually any assistive switch you already use, so you don't have to buy new hardware just to operate it.

Compatible with sip-and-puff, head switch, foot switch, wireless remote, and wall buttons
Opens door and holds for timed passage, then auto-closes
Works on standard interior and exterior doors
No structural modifications to door or frame
Low-profile hardware — looks clean on the door
May be covered by Louisiana NOW/ROW waiver as AT

Visit OpenSesame ↗

Control your home
without lifting a finger

Amazon Alexa — The command center for everything

Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)

Google Home — The same idea, a different ecosystem

Google Home Speaker

Google TV Streamer (4K)

Smart Thermostat — Temperature on demand

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)

Google Nest Thermostat

Smart Door Locks — Let people in without moving

Schlage Encode Plus

Yale Assure Lock 2

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Smart Lights — Control every bulb, hands-free

Philips Hue Starter Kit

Kasa Smart Bulb (KL125, A19)

Kasa Smart Plug (EP25)

Smart Light Switches — Control your existing lights without replacing bulbs

Kasa Smart Light Switch (HS200)

Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch (KS220)

Lutron Caseta Smart Switch

Doorbell cameras — see and speak to visitors from your phone

Ring Video Doorbell (4th Gen)

Blink Video Doorbell

Eufy Security Video Doorbell E340

Reolink Video Doorbell

Motorized Zebra Blinds — Block the sun by voice

American Blinds — EZ-A Motorized Zebra Shades

SwitchBot Blind Tilt — Automate Blinds You Already Have

Open Sesame — Open any door completely independently

How it works

Tempur-Pedic Ergo Smart Base

Control your homewithout lifting a finger

Amazon Alexa — The command center for everything

Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)

Google Home — The same idea, a different ecosystem

Google Home Speaker

Google TV Streamer (4K)

Smart Thermostat — Temperature on demand

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)

Google Nest Thermostat

Smart Door Locks — Let people in without moving

Schlage Encode Plus

Yale Assure Lock 2

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Smart Lights — Control every bulb, hands-free

Philips Hue Starter Kit

Kasa Smart Bulb (KL125, A19)

Kasa Smart Plug (EP25)

Smart Light Switches — Control your existing lights without replacing bulbs

Kasa Smart Light Switch (HS200)

Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch (KS220)

Lutron Caseta Smart Switch

Doorbell cameras — see and speak to visitors from your phone

Ring Video Doorbell (4th Gen)

Blink Video Doorbell

Eufy Security Video Doorbell E340

Reolink Video Doorbell

Motorized Zebra Blinds — Block the sun by voice

American Blinds — EZ-A Motorized Zebra Shades

SwitchBot Blind Tilt — Automate Blinds You Already Have

Open Sesame — Open any door completely independently

How it works

Tempur-Pedic Ergo Smart Base

Control your home
without lifting a finger