the contenders

Hive Home (Starter Pack)

There’s no easier way to jump into the connected home way of life than with a starter kit, which is exactly what Hive Home offers. Highly Commended at the T3 Awards 2017, this starter pack is compatible with Alexa and includes a window/door sensor, a motion sensor, smart plug and a smart bulb.

Netgear Arlo Pro

One of the home security tech highlights of the year, revamped with a rechargeable battery, two-way audio comms and a 100-decibel siren. So of course it was nominated for a T3 Award. You can position the wireless, waterproof cameras anywhere, and keep tabs on your home via night vision and motion detection.

IKEA TRÅDFRI

IKEA came out swinging with its TRÅDFRI wireless remote control lighting range, starting at £9 for an LED bulb and £15 for a bulb and wireless dimmer. The TRÅDFRI range encompasses energyefficient LED bulbs, dimmer kits and lighting panels. There’s even an app for personalising your home lighting scene.

Google Home

The Amazon Echo won, but that doesn’t stop Google Home from being a seriously saucy smart speaker. Backed by Google Search it’ll answer most questions you ask it, and will play music and boss your smart home around. Crucially, it differentiates between your voice and your partner’s, replying with user-specific info.

Bosch Smart Home and Home Connect

When compiling this year’s smart living tech nominees we simply had to tip our hat to the impressive Bosch Smart Home Controller and Home Connect app. Together they’ll monitor your home, alerting you to any disturbances and enabling you to remotely trigger Bosch’s smoke detector and alarm as needed.