Six gadgets that work with your smart speaker to automate your home

Google Home and Amazon Echo instantly transform ordinary homes into smart homes affordably. Entry-level models are often available for under $50. While impressive on their own, these smart speakers become even more powerful when paired with compatible third-party devices.

Controlling smart lights or thermostats via voice commands is straightforward. For Google Home, use the free Google Home app (Android and iOS) to add devices within the Home Control section. Amazon Echo users utilize the Alexa app (Android and iOS), enabling devices through the Skills section. This allows voice control of music, lighting, television, and even home security.

Numerous devices are compatible with Google Home or Amazon Echo, with more constantly being added. Both Google and Amazon maintain comprehensive lists of compatible devices. Choosing the right device can be challenging, so we've compiled six favorites to enhance your smart home.

For Television: Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV

Google Chromecast seamlessly integrates with Google Home. Simply voice commands like "Play Orange is the New Black on Netflix" to initiate playback. Setup involves the Google Home app, assigning a clear name (e.g., "living room") to your Chromecast. Voice control currently supports Netflix, Spotify, Google Play Music, and YouTube, with potential for future expansion.

Google Chromecast: $35 (standard) or $70 (4K)

Amazon Fire TV offers similar seamless integration with Amazon Echo. The latest models even include Alexa-enabled remotes. Pairing with an Echo allows voice control of movies, shows, photos, and music. Registration to the same Amazon account as your Echo automatically establishes this connection.

Note: Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV are not cross-compatible. Choose one ecosystem and stick with it.

Amazon Fire TV: $70 on Amazon

For Lighting: Philips Hue Smart Lights

Philips Hue offers a wide range of smart bulbs compatible with Google Home and Amazon Echo. Control lights with commands like "Alexa, turn off the lights" or "OK Google, dim the living room lights." A dedicated app (Android and iOS) provides additional features such as scheduling and custom color settings.

Philips Hue: $15 and up

For Switches: Wemo Insight Smart Plugs

Wemo Insight Smart Plugs offer a simple and affordable way to control various devices with voice commands. Configure them through the Wemo app (Android or iOS), then integrate with Google Home or Alexa apps. Each plug should be given a unique name for easy identification by your smart speaker. Belkin's Wemo line also includes motion sensors and light switches.

Wemo Insight Smart Plugs: $40 and up on Amazon

For Temperature: Ecobee4 Thermostat

The Ecobee4 thermostat works flawlessly with both Google and Amazon ecosystems. It offers standard smart thermostat features, including remote temperature control and zone targeting. Voice commands allow for temperature adjustments and mode changes. The Ecobee4 also features built-in Alexa, eliminating the need for a separate smart speaker.

Ecobee4: $200 on Amazon

For Security: August Smart Lock

Enhance home security with the August Smart Lock. Control locks via app or voice commands through Google Home or Amazon Echo. Features include remote unlocking, temporary access granting, and security status checks. Setup involves installing the lock and configuring it through the August Smart Lock app (Android or iOS), followed by integration with your chosen smart speaker.

August Smart Lock: $170 and up on Amazon

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