Best Google-compatible gadgets

Lutron Smart Lighting

Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

The good: Lutron’s in-wall smart switches are reliable performers that work with Alexa, Nest, IFTTT, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, to name a few. The app is easy to use, and such helpful features as geofencing, scene management and a security mode that will help make it look like you’re home when you’re not. The bad: It won’t let you program your lights to fade on or off over a custom length of time, and the Lutron Bridge requires a hardwired Ethernet connection to your router. The cost: $120 The bottom line: These are well worth the money if you’re serious about connected lighting.

Nest Hello

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5 The good: The video doorbell looks great and works consistently well. Its optional facial-recognition feature and advanced integrations with the Nest Cam IQ Indoor and Google Home speakers set this above the rest.

The bad: A seemingly unnecessary “chime connector” accessory is included, and is a required part of the installation for “power management” purposes, whether you have a manual or a digital doorbell chime. There’s no free video clip storage. The cost: $200 to $230 The bottom line: The Nest Hello is the smartest video doorbell available, and a really solid choice for anyone — but it’s especially appealing if you’re sold on a broader Google/Nest smart home.

Philips Hue White LED Starter Kit

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5

The good: The basic version of Philips Hue’s smart LEDs don’t change color, but they do enjoy all of the benefits of Hue’s well-connected platform. They’re also bright, good-looking bulbs with easy-to-use smarts, and you can add extras to your setup for just $15 each. The bad: At $70, the two-bulb starter kit comes with a fair share of sticker shock. The cost: $70 The bottom line: Philips Hue is one of the best-developed smart-home systems money can buy, and this whitelight starter kit is the most affordable entry point. It’s practically a must-buy if you’re serious about smart lighting.

Google Home

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5

The good: It accurately answers almost any question you can think of. It’s has cool features that allow it to make calls, control your smart home, help in the kitchen and more. It even sounds pretty good when playing music, and it can control your TV. The bad: The speaker can’t perform some basic tasks, such as take notes. Its sound won’t be good enough for audiophiles. Google Home has caught up, but still doesn’t work with as many gadgets as the Amazon Echo. The cost: $130 The bottom line: Google Home is a great smart speaker with a ton of capabilities, but there are so many smartspeaker options out there that it’s hard to give it a clear endorsement.