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Three popular HomeKit devices for the smart home

  • Philips Hue: The quasi-standard for lighting
  • EVE: Simply pair Thread socket with HomePod
  • Ecobee: reliable heating control

The basics for the Apple smart home.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:52 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.

Smart home automation with Apple Home (previously called HomeKit) can be very convenient, but it can also bring some complexity. We’ve divided the products into blocks for a handy overview and recommend the best ones for you. In addition, there is a fold-out list for all available models. So you have a quick selection option and at the same time the complete overview.

Between the product blocks, we explain the technology and the connections. We also discuss which hubs you need if you don’t have any hardware at home and whether a stationary iPad is sufficient. There are explanations for everything, so that you can make a good decision yourself. And remember: there is no right and wrong, everything should be as you like it.

Which HomeKit smart plug to buy?

HomeKit compatible sockets are available for each wireless standard.

  • Already Philips Hue in the house? Stick with it.
  • Want Thread with the HomePod? Then buy EVE.
  • Only on/off? WiFi models from Meross are enough.
Philips Hue 552349 Smart Plug, 1 Count (Pack of 1), White*
Philips Hue 552349 Smart Plug, 1 Count (Pack of 1), White
 Price: $ 34.99 Buy on Amazon*
Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping
Last updated on 21. June 2022 at 12:09 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Hue Zigbee compatible
  • inexpensive, reliable

The Philips Hue socket runs via the Hue Zigbee hub and is therefore 100% HomeKit compatible. In addition, it is the best choice for everyone who already owns Hue devices: it is reliable, can be automated with the Hue motion detector within the system and is also inexpensive in comparison. So if you already have something from Hue, this socket is your first choice. In addition, the Hue model is one of the most compact and reliable.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:48 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Thread compatible
  • only HomePod necessary

If you would like to rely on the latest radio standard, then the Thread-compatible socket from Eve should be on the short list for you. So you only need one of the devices mentioned as a hub and you already have a mesh thread network. Due to the constant power supply, this socket also serves as a repeater in the network.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:53 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • only needs WLAN
  • cheap and easy

If you don’t attach much importance to automation but just want to switch on a socket and don’t want to use another hub, then cheap WiFi sockets with HomeKit compatibility will do the trick. Prices have now fallen so far that individual copies only cost between ten and fifteen Dollars. If you retrofit a hub later, they can of course be integrated into automations.

ImageNamePrice Shop
Lutron Caséta Weatherproof+ Outdoor Smart Plug On/Off Switch | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring, Apple HomeKit (smart hub required) | for Landscape and String Lighting | PD-15OUT-BL | BlackLutron Caséta Weatherproof+ Outdoor Smart Plug On/Off Switch | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring, Apple HomeKit (smart hub required) | for Landscape and String Lighting | PD-15OUT-BL | Black*
 Price: $ 79.95 Buy on Amazon*
Aqara Smart Plug, REQUIRES AQARA HUB, Zigbee, with Energy Monitoring, Overload Protection, Scheduling and Voice Control, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Apple HomeKit CompatibleAqara Smart Plug, REQUIRES AQARA HUB, Zigbee, with Energy Monitoring, Overload Protection, Scheduling and Voice Control, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Apple HomeKit Compatible*
 Price: $ 32.99 Buy on Amazon*
Eve Energy Strip - Apple HomeKit Smart Home Triple Outlet & Power Meter with Built-in Schedules & SwitchesEve Energy Strip - Apple HomeKit Smart Home Triple Outlet & Power Meter with Built-in Schedules & Switches*
 Price: $ 99.95 Buy on Amazon*
VOCOlinc Smart Plug Works with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Home, 2.4G WiFi Smart Outlet Devices Support Siri, Timer, No Hub Required, 15A, 4 PackVOCOlinc Smart Plug Works with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Home, 2.4G WiFi Smart Outlet Devices Support Siri, Timer, No Hub Required, 15A, 4 Pack*
 Price: $ 35.99 ($ 9.00 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
Wemo Smart Plug with Thread, Apple HomeKit Enabled for Smart Home Automation, NFC Set up, Compatible with Wemo Stage Scene Controller, Siri, iPhones, and MoreWemo Smart Plug with Thread, Apple HomeKit Enabled for Smart Home Automation, NFC Set up, Compatible with Wemo Stage Scene Controller, Siri, iPhones, and More*
 Price: $ 24.99 Buy on Amazon*
Smart Plug Mini HomeKit, Smart WiFi Outlet Socket Support Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant Voice Control Plug with Timer Function and Group Control Apple MFi Certified No Hub RequiredSmart Plug Mini HomeKit, Smart WiFi Outlet Socket Support Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant Voice Control Plug with Timer Function and Group Control Apple MFi Certified No Hub Required*
 Price: $ 22.99 ($ 11.50 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
TREATLIFE Outdoor Smart Plug, HomeKit Outdoor Plug with 2 Individual Control Outlets, IP64 for Outdoor String Lights, Compatible with Siri, Alexa, Google Home, 2.4GHz WiFi Only, Remote Control, TimerTREATLIFE Outdoor Smart Plug, HomeKit Outdoor Plug with 2 Individual Control Outlets, IP64 for Outdoor String Lights, Compatible with Siri, Alexa, Google Home, 2.4GHz WiFi Only, Remote Control, Timer*
 Price: $ 25.99 Buy on Amazon*
Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug Heavy Duty WiFi Plug-in Outlet, Remote Control, Compatible with Homekit Alexa Google Assistant, No Hub Required, Black(MP22WH)Minoston Outdoor Smart Plug Heavy Duty WiFi Plug-in Outlet, Remote Control, Compatible with Homekit Alexa Google Assistant, No Hub Required, Black(MP22WH)*
 Price: $ 25.99 Buy on Amazon*
Outdoor Smart Plug, meross Outdoor Wi-Fi Outlet with 3 Independent Sockets Compatible with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings, Voice & Remote Control, Timer, 2.4 GHz onlyOutdoor Smart Plug, meross Outdoor Wi-Fi Outlet with 3 Independent Sockets Compatible with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings, Voice & Remote Control, Timer, 2.4 GHz only*
 Price: $ 33.75 Buy on Amazon*
Meross Smart Dimmer Plug, Outdoor Smart Plug Works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, 2.4Ghz WiFi Outdoor Dimmer for String Lights with Voice & Remote Control, Schedule & Timer, WaterproofMeross Smart Dimmer Plug, Outdoor Smart Plug Works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, 2.4Ghz WiFi Outdoor Dimmer for String Lights with Voice & Remote Control, Schedule & Timer, Waterproof*
 Price: $ 28.99 Buy on Amazon*
Eve Energy Strip - Apple HomeKit Smart Home Triple Outlet & Power Meter with Built-in Schedules & SwitchesEve Energy Strip - Apple HomeKit Smart Home Triple Outlet & Power Meter with Built-in Schedules & Switches*
 Price: $ 99.95 Buy on Amazon*

I don’t want a hub!

The opposite can make sense.

Many try to keep the number of technical devices low and want a solution without an additional hub. But that’s ironic on the one hand, if you equip the house with lots of new devices anyway, and on the other hand, you can’t hold out.

On the one hand, your WLAN router is already a hub – it translates from wired Internet to WLAN. A HomePod mini or Apple TV 4K is also a hub: a network is created here for Bluetooth and Thread. Even with a minimal solution (not counting the WiFi router), you always have at least one device that works due to the necessary translation to the wireless standards of Smart Home devices: In the smallest variant, that would be the HomePod mini, which switches from WiFi to Thread (or . Bluetooth).

If you buy something from Philips Hue or Aqara, then a Zigbee hub is added, with Homematic IP, Bosch and Tado a bridge that transmits at 886 MHz. Is that negative or positive?

Our experience now speaks for an additional hub, for several reasons. These clearly outweigh the counter-arguments such as additional power consumption (a few watts) or “an additional box” (just hide it behind the router):

1. Sometimes already installed

Some of the hubs are already hidden in other devices: be it the Thread capability found in the HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K or the Zigbee 3.0 hub in the Aqara G2H Pro security camera. The device is there anyway – if it’s also a hub, why not?

2. Negligible effort

Usually the hub is simply plugged into the router and that’s it. The devices then connect to the hub more easily than WLAN devices to the router, because the router or the mesh system sometimes cause problems. In our experience, separating the systems with regard to the wireless standard makes setup easier rather than more difficult. All devices will appear in the Home app anyway.

3. Reliability increases

If you want to use a lot of automations, it makes sense to keep them within one system if possible. Apple still hasn’t polished HomeKit enough for it to be 100% stable. So it’s good if as much as possible comes from a manufacturer that cares better than Apple, such as Hue. Lamps can then be switched on and off via motion detectors or controlled according to the time of day without even having to rely on HomeKit automation. This is an important criterion for anyone who attaches great importance to stability.

In our experience, this also applies to the Aqara ecosystem. Here, however, you have to use the app, which then also communicates with Chinese servers. However, with HomeKit, errors occur in waves from time to time, so that all accessories directly connected to the HomePod mini are then affected at the same time.

4. More devices can be connected

If you really want to automate your house to a large extent, then there are a lot of smart home devices. The Hue Hub is already busy with 50 devices. Aqara Hubs can handle 64 or 128 devices. It is an advantage that all the thermostats in the house run separately, for example via the tado Bridge. The HomePod mini also shows that thread networks are not infinitely scalable. Especially if you concentrate on one manufacturer, you will eventually run into the limitations of the system itself.

5. Reality leaves no choice

It is currently impossible to buy all devices from one manufacturer. The big advantage of HomeKit is that all devices work together. And that is necessary because every company, no matter how many devices it has on offer, has a product focus. So you can get by with just one manufacturer if you only want to control a few things. In reality, you need at least two standards for a comprehensive smart home, and three for some flexibility.

Which HomeKit buttons/switches to buy?

HomeKit compatible switches with Zigbee, Thread, Bluetooth.

  • Philips Hue offers different designs.
  • Thread with the HomePod works with EVE.
  • Meross switches are cheap.
Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 11:48 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Hue Zigbee compatible
  • with mounting plate

The Philips Hue button runs on Hue’s Zigbee Hub. It is not a dimmer, but can distinguish between single and multiple clicks. The battery is replaceable and in addition to the white plastic plate there is also an adhesive magnet so that it can be easily attached anywhere. Handy to have one under the table or on the sofa for adjustments.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:51 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Aqara Zigbee compatible
  • inexpensive

If you use the Aqara Hub, the Zigbee buttons from the same manufacturer can be considered. These are among the cheapest and you can stick them anywhere. In addition, the battery life is very long. The design is modern and unobtrusive. A good way to switch your smart home devices.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:53 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • WLAN compatible
  • wall mountable

If you also want to use thread for buttons, you have to go back to Eve. This switch connects directly to a HomePod. The switch itself is intended for wall mounting. So very inconspicuous but perhaps less flexible than the first two.

ImageNamePrice Shop
Philips Hue 473371 Hue Wireless Dimmer Switch with Remote, 1 Count (Pack of 1)Philips Hue 473371 Hue Wireless Dimmer Switch with Remote, 1 Count (Pack of 1)*
 Price: $ 40.49 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue 578807 Tap Dial Switch, 1-Pack, WhitePhilips Hue 578807 Tap Dial Switch, 1-Pack, White*
 Price: $ 49.99 Buy on Amazon*
DoHome Homekit WiFi Relay Switch, Smart Relay Wireless Remote Control Light Switch Voice Control Outlet Timer Work with Apple HomeKit, Alexa and Google Assistant DIY Your Home 2 PackDoHome Homekit WiFi Relay Switch, Smart Relay Wireless Remote Control Light Switch Voice Control Outlet Timer Work with Apple HomeKit, Alexa and Google Assistant DIY Your Home 2 Pack*
 Price: $ 10.99 ($ 5.50 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
Athom Homekit Mini DIY WiFi Relay Module 3-Way Siri Voice Control 16A Smart Wall Switch Smart Home Automation Module, No Hub Required, Works with Apple Homekit, WhiteAthom Homekit Mini DIY WiFi Relay Module 3-Way Siri Voice Control 16A Smart Wall Switch Smart Home Automation Module, No Hub Required, Works with Apple Homekit, White*
 Price: $ 12.99 Buy on Amazon*
WiFi Relay Timer Smart Wireless Light Switch Module DIY WiFi Voice App Control Remote Timer Switch Timmer to Home Automation for iOS Homekit Assistant AC 110-230V 10A Universal (A-2 Pack)WiFi Relay Timer Smart Wireless Light Switch Module DIY WiFi Voice App Control Remote Timer Switch Timmer to Home Automation for iOS Homekit Assistant AC 110-230V 10A Universal (A-2 Pack)*
 Price: $ 22.99 Buy on Amazon*
EVVR No Neutral Required in-Wall Relay Switch for Any Wall Switches and Lightings, Works with HomeKit, No Hub Required, 3/4 Way Control, Up to 4-Gang Switch, 2.4GHz WiFiEVVR No Neutral Required in-Wall Relay Switch for Any Wall Switches and Lightings, Works with HomeKit, No Hub Required, 3/4 Way Control, Up to 4-Gang Switch, 2.4GHz WiFi*
 Price: $ 49.99 Buy on Amazon*
DoHome Homekit WiFi Relay Switch, Smart Relay Wireless Remote Control Light Switch Voice Control Outlet Timer Work with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant DIY Your Home 2 Pack (Square)DoHome Homekit WiFi Relay Switch, Smart Relay Wireless Remote Control Light Switch Voice Control Outlet Timer Work with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant DIY Your Home 2 Pack (Square)*
 Price: $ 22.99 ($ 11.50 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
2 Pack HomeKit WiFi Relay Switch, Smart Mini Relay Wireless Light Switch Remote Control Voice Control Outlet Timer Work with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant DIY Your Home 16 A2 Pack HomeKit WiFi Relay Switch, Smart Mini Relay Wireless Light Switch Remote Control Voice Control Outlet Timer Work with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant DIY Your Home 16 A*
 Price: $ 22.99 ($ 11.50 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
meross Smart Dimmer Switch & Smart Plug Mini 2 Pack Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThingsmeross Smart Dimmer Switch & Smart Plug Mini 2 Pack Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings*
 Price: $ 63.88 Buy on Amazon*
meross 3 Way Smart Dimmer Switch Kit & Smart Garage Door Opener Remote Supports Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistantmeross 3 Way Smart Dimmer Switch Kit & Smart Garage Door Opener Remote Supports Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant*
 Price: $ 95.38 Buy on Amazon*
3 Way Smart Switch, Meross Smart Light Switch Compatible with Apple Homekit,Siri,Alexa,Google Home & SmartThings,2.4Ghz Wi-Fi Light Switch Remote Control Schedule,Neutral Wire Required 2Pack3 Way Smart Switch, Meross Smart Light Switch Compatible with Apple Homekit,Siri,Alexa,Google Home & SmartThings,2.4Ghz Wi-Fi Light Switch Remote Control Schedule,Neutral Wire Required 2Pack*
 Price: $ 38.66 ($ 19.33 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
meross Smart Dimmer Switch with Remote for LED Light, Single Pole, Neutral Wire Required, Compatible with Alexa, Hey Google and SmartThings, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Remote and Voice Control, No Hub Requiredmeross Smart Dimmer Switch with Remote for LED Light, Single Pole, Neutral Wire Required, Compatible with Alexa, Hey Google and SmartThings, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Remote and Voice Control, No Hub Required*
 Price: $ 29.99 Buy on Amazon*
meross Smart Dimmer Switch with Remote, Single Pole, Neutral Wire Required, Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Hey Google and SmartThings, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Remote and Voice Control, No Hub Requiredmeross Smart Dimmer Switch with Remote, Single Pole, Neutral Wire Required, Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Hey Google and SmartThings, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Remote and Voice Control, No Hub Required*
 Price: $ 39.99 Buy on Amazon*
Smart Dimmer Switch Single Pole - meross Smart 2.4GHz WiFi Light Switch for Dimmable LED, Compatible with Alexa Google Assistant and SmartThings, Neutral Wire Required, Remote Control Schedule,1 PackSmart Dimmer Switch Single Pole - meross Smart 2.4GHz WiFi Light Switch for Dimmable LED, Compatible with Alexa Google Assistant and SmartThings, Neutral Wire Required, Remote Control Schedule,1 Pack*
 Price: $ 20.99 Buy on Amazon*
3 Way Smart dimmer Switch Kit, Meross Smart Light Switch Supports Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant & SmartThings, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Light Switch, Neutral Wire Required, Remote Control Schedule3 Way Smart dimmer Switch Kit, Meross Smart Light Switch Supports Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant & SmartThings, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Light Switch, Neutral Wire Required, Remote Control Schedule*
 Price: $ 55.99 Buy on Amazon*

You need at least two systems if you mean business

In this example, serious means: you want to switch on a lamp and a socket using a wireless switch, motion detector and door/window contact.

Door/window contacts are not available at Philips Hue and Ikea Tradfri, for example. At Aqara it is, but there is a lack of a wide selection in the lighting area. And this circumstance runs through all brands and product areas.

For example, an Aqara Gateway is very cheap for sensors. The Zigbee-based system is still affordable even with many sensors and switches. If you are still missing something, simply retrofit it: if it is perhaps just a thermostat, then buy a WiFi copy from Meross or one from EVE with thread.

If you already have a system, such as Philips Hue and a HomePod, and if data protection is also important to you, then you can combine the products of these two standards (Zigbee, Thread) and combine them into one system. Lighting, sockets and motion sensors from Hue and window/water sensor, cameras and thermostats from EVE.

In the overview table in the following block you can see which manufacturer covers which products. Based on the hardware you already have or your application scenario, you can then set priorities and fill in the gaps with other brands.

Which HomeKit lighting to buy?

Philips Hue is the unofficial lighting standard.

  • Philips Hue offers an incredible selection of light sources and lamps.
  • The selection for Thread products is still quite limited.
  • WLAN lamps, e.g. from Yeelight, are cheap.
Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 12:04 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Hue Zigbee compatible
  • nice indirect light

The Philips Hue Iris is a lamp for indirect lighting. You place them on your shelf or sideboard and then align them so that they scatter their light over the wall. Due to the pleasant light scenes and the high brightness, you can immerse the whole room in pleasant light. It is surprising how much the indirect lighting has an influence on the atmosphere.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:51 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • WLAN compatible
  • bright and rich colors

If you don’t value HomeKit-compatible lighting that much, but have a room that needs colorful lighting, LIFX is an option. The lamps can be connected directly via WLAN. In addition, they have a very high brightness and one of the best colors of all LED lamps. Very practical if you want to use the home network and also value good colors.

Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 12:11 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Hue Zigbee compatible
  • beautiful design and pleasant light

Filament lamps are very elegant, and the LED version is even more energy-efficient. With the Hue variants you can elegantly equip lamps where the E27 lamps are exposed – then you can see the elegant design of the Hue models particularly well. A little extra: the rest of the case is black and contributes to the elegant design.

ImageNamePrice Shop
Philips Hue White Ambiance Adore Smart Lighted Mirror with Dimmer Switch (Requires Hue Hub, Works with Amazon Alexa, HomeKit & Google Assistant)Philips Hue White Ambiance Adore Smart Lighted Mirror with Dimmer Switch (Requires Hue Hub, Works with Amazon Alexa, HomeKit & Google Assistant)*
 Price: $ 249.99 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Extra Bright Dimmable Recessed LED Smart 6" Downlight for Retrofit Cans Compatible with Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant - 4 Pack (578674)Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Extra Bright Dimmable Recessed LED Smart 6" Downlight for Retrofit Cans Compatible with Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant - 4 Pack (578674)*
 Price: $ 219.99 ($ 55.00 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance LED Smart Light Bulb Starter Kit, 3 A19 Smart Bulbs & 1 Hue Hub (Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit & Google Assistant)Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance LED Smart Light Bulb Starter Kit, 3 A19 Smart Bulbs & 1 Hue Hub (Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit & Google Assistant)*
 Price: $ 199.99 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, BlackPhilips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, Black*
 Price: $ 219.95 Buy on Amazon*
Original Xiaomi LED Desk Lamp Smart Remote Control Dimmable Table Lamps Desklight Support Mobile Phone App Control 4 Lighting Mode,Flicker-free LightOriginal Xiaomi LED Desk Lamp Smart Remote Control Dimmable Table Lamps Desklight Support Mobile Phone App Control 4 Lighting Mode,Flicker-free Light*
 Price: $ 74.99 ($ 74.99 / Count) Buy on Amazon*
YEELIGHT LED Floor Lamp, Modern Floor Lamp with Smart RGBW Bulb, Supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google, Adjustable Gooseneck, 800LM Super Bright Dimmable Floor Lamp for Bedroom, Living Room, Office - BlackYEELIGHT LED Floor Lamp, Modern Floor Lamp with Smart RGBW Bulb, Supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google, Adjustable Gooseneck, 800LM Super Bright Dimmable Floor Lamp for Bedroom, Living Room, Office - Black*
 Price: $ 59.99 Buy on Amazon*
YEELIGHT Smart Table Lamp, Siri Voice Control Bedside Lamp with Music Sync, Dimmable Night Light Touch lamp, RGBW Smart Lamp for Bedroom, Living Room, Works with HomeKit, Razer Chroma, Alexa & GoogleYEELIGHT Smart Table Lamp, Siri Voice Control Bedside Lamp with Music Sync, Dimmable Night Light Touch lamp, RGBW Smart Lamp for Bedroom, Living Room, Works with HomeKit, Razer Chroma, Alexa & Google*
 Price: $ 39.99 Buy on Amazon*
HomeKit Smart LED Ceiling Lights RGBCW Color Changing Ceiling Light Work with Apple HomeKit, Alexa Google Home Flush Mount Ceiling Lamp 24W Dimmable for Living Room, Bedroom, Home UseHomeKit Smart LED Ceiling Lights RGBCW Color Changing Ceiling Light Work with Apple HomeKit, Alexa Google Home Flush Mount Ceiling Lamp 24W Dimmable for Living Room, Bedroom, Home Use*
 Price: $ 69.99 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Go White and Color Portable Dimmable LED Smart Light Table Lamp (Requires Hue Hub, Works with Alexa, HomeKit and Google Assistant)Philips Hue Go White and Color Portable Dimmable LED Smart Light Table Lamp (Requires Hue Hub, Works with Alexa, HomeKit and Google Assistant)*
 Price: $ 98.04 Buy on Amazon*
YEELIGHT Table Lamp with Wireless Charger, Dimmable Bedside Lamp Night Light for Bedroom Living Room Kids Room & Office, Smart Desk Lamp Works with HomeKit, Alexa SmartThings & Google AssistantYEELIGHT Table Lamp with Wireless Charger, Dimmable Bedside Lamp Night Light for Bedroom Living Room Kids Room & Office, Smart Desk Lamp Works with HomeKit, Alexa SmartThings & Google Assistant*
 Price: $ 49.99 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, BlackPhilips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, Black*
 Price: $ 219.95 Buy on Amazon*
Eve Flare - Apple HomeKit Smart Home Portable LED Lamp, IP65 Water Resistant, Wireless ChargingEve Flare - Apple HomeKit Smart Home Portable LED Lamp, IP65 Water Resistant, Wireless Charging*
 Price: $ 98.35 ($ 98.35 / count) Buy on Amazon*
Meross Smart LED Desk Light, Metal LED Desk Lamp Works with HomeKit, Alexa and Google Home, WiFi Eye-Caring Smart LED Desk Lamp for Home Office with Tunable White, Remote Control, Schedule and TimerMeross Smart LED Desk Light, Metal LED Desk Lamp Works with HomeKit, Alexa and Google Home, WiFi Eye-Caring Smart LED Desk Lamp for Home Office with Tunable White, Remote Control, Schedule and Timer*
 Price: $ 39.59 Buy on Amazon*
Meross Smart WiFi Table Lamp, LED Bedside Lamp Support Apple Homekit, Alexa and Google Assistant,Tunable White & Multi-Color, Nightstand Lamp for Bedroom,Touch Control, Voice and APP ControlMeross Smart WiFi Table Lamp, LED Bedside Lamp Support Apple Homekit, Alexa and Google Assistant,Tunable White & Multi-Color, Nightstand Lamp for Bedroom,Touch Control, Voice and APP Control*
 Price: $ 32.99 Buy on Amazon*
Meross Smart LED Floor Lamp, Dimmable Floor Lamp Supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, 3-in-1 Standing LED Floor Lamp for Living Room, Bedroom with Gooseneck, Tunable White, Remote & App ControlMeross Smart LED Floor Lamp, Dimmable Floor Lamp Supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, 3-in-1 Standing LED Floor Lamp for Living Room, Bedroom with Gooseneck, Tunable White, Remote & App Control*
 Price: $ 69.99 Buy on Amazon*
Smart WiFi Table Lamp, Bedside Lamp, Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings, Tunable White and Multi-Color, Touch Control, Voice and APP ControlSmart WiFi Table Lamp, Bedside Lamp, Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings, Tunable White and Multi-Color, Touch Control, Voice and APP Control*
 Price: $ 39.99 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box, HDMI 4K Splitter, 4 HDMI in 1 Out, Philips Hue Smart Hub and Philips Hue Colored Smart Lights RequiredPhilips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box, HDMI 4K Splitter, 4 HDMI in 1 Out, Philips Hue Smart Hub and Philips Hue Colored Smart Lights Required*
 Price: $ 389.24 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, BlackPhilips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant, Black*
 Price: $ 219.95 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Gradient Tube / CMP/ Black,Compact,569129Philips Hue Gradient Tube / CMP/ Black,Compact,569129*
 Price: $ 199.99 Buy on Amazon*
ImageNamePrice Shop
LIFX Color A19 800 lumens, Billions of Colors and Whites, Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, No bridge required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and Siri.LIFX Color A19 800 lumens, Billions of Colors and Whites, Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, No bridge required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and Siri.*
 Price: $ 24.99 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX Nightvision, A19 1100 lumens, Wi-Fi Smart Infrared LED Light Bulb, Billions of Colors and Whites, No Bridge Required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and SiriLIFX Nightvision, A19 1100 lumens, Wi-Fi Smart Infrared LED Light Bulb, Billions of Colors and Whites, No Bridge Required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and Siri*
 Price: $ 59.98 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX L3A19LW06E26CA White, A19 Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Warm, Dimmable, No Bridge Required, Works with Amazon Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKitLIFX L3A19LW06E26CA White, A19 Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Warm, Dimmable, No Bridge Required, Works with Amazon Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit*
 Price: $ 9.99 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX Mini White (A19) Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Dimmable, Warm White, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and the Google AssistantLIFX Mini White (A19) Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Dimmable, Warm White, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and the Google Assistant*
 Price: $ 16.25 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX Color, BR30 1100 lumens, Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Billions of Colors and Whites, No Bridge Required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and SiriLIFX Color, BR30 1100 lumens, Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Billions of Colors and Whites, No Bridge Required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and Siri*
 Price: $ 39.99 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX White, A19 Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Warm, Dimmable, No Bridge Required, Works with Amazon Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit (2 Pack)LIFX White, A19 Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Warm, Dimmable, No Bridge Required, Works with Amazon Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit (2 Pack)*
 Price: $ 19.99 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX Beam Seamless Light Module, Color Changing, Dimmable, No Hub Required, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana - Pack of 6 Beams and One Corner KitLIFX Beam Seamless Light Module, Color Changing, Dimmable, No Hub Required, Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana - Pack of 6 Beams and One Corner Kit*
 Price not available Buy on Amazon*
LIFX 1100-Lumen, 11W Dimmable A19 LED Light Bulb (LHA19E26UC10) Multi Colored - 75W - NewLIFX 1100-Lumen, 11W Dimmable A19 LED Light Bulb (LHA19E26UC10) Multi Colored - 75W - New*
 Price: $ 66.86 Buy on Amazon*
LIFX Color, A19 1100 lumens, Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Billions of Colors and Whites, No Bridge Required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and SiriLIFX Color, A19 1100 lumens, Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Billions of Colors and Whites, No Bridge Required, Works with Alexa, Hey Google, HomeKit and Siri*
 Price: $ 39.99 Buy on Amazon*
Smart Light Bulb, Meross BR30 Flood WiFi LED Bulbs Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant & SmartThings, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2700K-6500K RGBCW, 1300 Lumens 100W Equivalent, 2 PackSmart Light Bulb, Meross BR30 Flood WiFi LED Bulbs Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant & SmartThings, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2700K-6500K RGBCW, 1300 Lumens 100W Equivalent, 2 Pack*
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Smart Light Bulb, meross Dimmable WiFi LED Bulb Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, A19 E26 Warm White 2700K, 810 Lumens 9W 60W Equivalent, No Hub Required, 2 PackSmart Light Bulb, meross Dimmable WiFi LED Bulb Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, A19 E26 Warm White 2700K, 810 Lumens 9W 60W Equivalent, No Hub Required, 2 Pack*
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Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 E26 LED Smart Bulb, Bluetooth & Zigbee Compatible (Hue Hub Optional), Works with Alexa & Google Assistant – A Certified for Humans Device (562785),3 PackPhilips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 E26 LED Smart Bulb, Bluetooth & Zigbee Compatible (Hue Hub Optional), Works with Alexa & Google Assistant – A Certified for Humans Device (562785),3 Pack*
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meross Smart LED Light Bulb, Smart WiFi LED Bulbs Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Home & SmartThings, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2700K-6500K RGBWW, 810 Lumens 60W Equivalent,2Packmeross Smart LED Light Bulb, Smart WiFi LED Bulbs Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Home & SmartThings, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2700K-6500K RGBWW, 810 Lumens 60W Equivalent,2Pack*
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Smart Light Bulb, meross Smart WiFi LED Bulbs Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2700K-6500K RGBCW, 810 Lumens 60W Equivalent, 4 PackSmart Light Bulb, meross Smart WiFi LED Bulbs Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2700K-6500K RGBCW, 810 Lumens 60W Equivalent, 4 Pack*
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VOCOlinc Smart Light Bulbs, BR30 Flood WiFi LED Bulb, RGBW Color Changing Light Bulb Works with Alexa, Apple Homekit and Google Home, 2200K-7000K Dimmable, 800 Lumens 9.5W (60W Equivalent) E26, 2PACKVOCOlinc Smart Light Bulbs, BR30 Flood WiFi LED Bulb, RGBW Color Changing Light Bulb Works with Alexa, Apple Homekit and Google Home, 2200K-7000K Dimmable, 800 Lumens 9.5W (60W Equivalent) E26, 2PACK*
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VOCOlinc Smart Light Bulbs,White & RGBW Ambiance LED Smart Bulbs,WiFi LED Light Bulb Work with Alexa Google Home & Apple HomeKit,A21/E26 9.5W, 850LM 60W Equivalent,No Hub Required,2.4GHz Only(3PACK)VOCOlinc Smart Light Bulbs,White & RGBW Ambiance LED Smart Bulbs,WiFi LED Light Bulb Work with Alexa Google Home & Apple HomeKit,A21/E26 9.5W, 850LM 60W Equivalent,No Hub Required,2.4GHz Only(3PACK)*
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VOCOlinc Smart Light Bulbs Work with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Home, 60 Watt WiFi LED Light Bulb, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2200K-7000K RGBW, A21, 8.8W, 806 Lumens,3 PackVOCOlinc Smart Light Bulbs Work with Apple Homekit, Alexa, Google Home, 60 Watt WiFi LED Light Bulb, Dimmable E26 Multicolor 2200K-7000K RGBW, A21, 8.8W, 806 Lumens,3 Pack*
 Price: $ 38.99 ($ 13.00 / Count) Buy on Amazon*

Product focus of different HomeKit manufacturers

HueAqaraEveMerossTadoNetatmoBoschHomematic
Lightsyesyesyesyesnononono
Switchesyesyesyesyesnonoyesyes
Socketsyesyesyesyesnonoyesyes
Motion Sensorsyesyesyesnononoyesyes
Door/Window sensorsnoyesyesnononoyesyes
Water Sensorsnoyesyesnonononono
Vibration Sensorsnoyesnononononono
Heatingnonoyesyesyesyesyesyes
Camerasnoyesyesnonoyesyesyes
Smoke Detectorsnoyesnoyesnoyesyesyes
Weather Stationsnononeinnonoyesnono
Garden Technonoyesnonononono
Wall mountableyesyesnoyesnonoyesyes
Door Locksnonononononoyesyes
Garage Doornononoyesnonoyesyes

Which HomeKit motion detector to buy?

HomeKit compatible motion detectors enable automatic switching.

  • A great addition to Philips Hue.
  • Current version of EVE thread compatible.
  • Aqara’s Zigbee version is slightly cheaper than the rest.
Philips Hue 570977 Hue Motion Sensor, White*
Philips Hue 570977 Hue Motion Sensor, White
 Price: $ 42.95 Buy on Amazon*
Price incl. VAT., Excl. Shipping
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  • Hue Zigbee compatible
  • incl. brightness sensor

The motion sensor for the Philips Hue system in the Zigbee standard is one of the best extensions. The sensor not only detects movements, so that the light can be switched on automatically, for example, it also knows the current brightness so that it can be taken into account in the automation.

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  • Aqara Zigbee compatible
  • very compact

The Aqara sensors have two advantages: they are cheap and compact. So if you need a lot of sensors and don’t want to spend a lot of money or want to install them as invisibly as possible, then the Aqara models are a good choice. The included battery can be replaced.

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  • Bluetooth compatible
  • Thread version coming

The motion sensor from Eve with Bluetooth and can directly be connected to an Apple hub. The coming new version will also offer Thread support. Both are handy if you want to get by with an Apple hub as much as possible.

What goes with which hub?

HomeKit systems are often described with the words “no hub necessary”. While Zigbee-based systems always need a small hub to be able to display the other radio standard, this is actually not necessary for HomeKit elements that are based on Bluetooth or WLAN for pure control. However, if you want to automate, i.e. define processes such as “the light goes on at half past seven”, a hub is essential. This can either be an Apple TV, a HomePod or an iPad (which of course has to be at home, not the one you work with on the go).

The current Apple TV and the HomePod mini are not only automation centers, but also hubs: they offer the Thread radio standard for connected devices for accessory devices, older hardware is integrated via Bluetooth.

Be careful when updating to Thread under iOS 16 if you are using an iPad as the control panel: do not update to the new Thread function then. Because iPads cannot thread and then fail as a central unit. So if you want to keep your system (without a thread), it’s very simple: don’t turn on the new option in the Home app.

balolo Real Wood Tripod for HomePod Mini (Black Walnut)*
balolo Real Wood Tripod for HomePod Mini (Black Walnut)
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In the Philips Hue system there are lamps, motion detectors and switches, as well as sockets and door/window sensors. It is a very mature system and is maintained throughout by Philips. In addition, Philips has promised to make the bridge Matter-capable with an update and thus compatible for the standard of the upcoming Smart Home future.

Since the system comes with its own bridge, you can cover automations that affect all Hue devices without a HomePod or Apple TV. Due to the unreliability of the Apple devices mentioned, this is often even an advantage. There are also many third-party products that can be connected to the Hue Bridge. However, check the compatibility beforehand – but you will have to do without updating the firmware of the third-party products in any case.

If you only want to switch two sockets or lamps, you don’t have to start with Hue, simpler WLAN solutions will do the job too. But if you have a lamp in every room, an LED strip and a few sockets, then the Philips system is a very good investment because of its reliability and constant updates.

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The HomeKit-compatible gateway from Aqara also uses the Zigbee standard. The hub itself and all buttons and sensors are cheap. If you need lots of door/window sensors, small switches and motion detectors, then this is the system to play around with. In fact, it’s so cheap that it’s worth buying the sensors as an addition to a Hue system, as some of the components are much cheaper.

The M2 shown here is just one of the many hubs that Aqara offers. The HomeKit camera G2H Pro, which we have already tested here, is particularly interesting. This also serves as a hub. That’s double because it’s cheap to buy and consume less electricity – you save yourself an additional device. Among other things, the G2H Pro has also promised Aqara a Matter update.

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Ikea also relies on Zigbee mesh wireless technology – the new hub will support Thread. Compared to the Philips variant, it is somewhat more limited in terms of software. So if you’re buying new, it’s better to go for the Philips model. If you are only concerned with turning the light on and off when someone enters the room, then you are also well served with the Ikea model. There are probably Ikea things in the household because they were taken there, not because the system is so reliable.

The nice thing about Ikea is the switches and dimmers, which, like most lamps, are fairly cheap. There is also a motion detector. But there are no light bulbs with different colors. There are also extremely cheap switchable sockets.

New version coming!

Which HomeKit door/window sensor to buy?

HomeKit compatible door and window sensors are often a sensible purchase.

  • EVE’s Thread Sensor is a classic.
  • If you need a lot, Aqara should be considered.
  • VocoLinc for separate installation.
Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:53 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Thread compatible
  • quite big

Eve offers Thread compatible door/window sensors. The design is quite large due to the included CR123 battery, but should also ensure a very long runtime. The price is quite high compared to the Aqara models, but the quality and reliability are at the top level.

Last updated on 8. February 2022 at 18:53 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Aqara Zigbee compatible
  • inexpensive

The Aqara sensors have two advantages: they are cheap and compact. So if you need a lot of sensors and don’t want to spend a lot of money or want to install them as invisibly as possible, then the Aqara models are a good choice. The included button cell battery can be replaced. In our experience, however, the running time is extremely long.

Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 14:14 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Bluetooth compatible
  • fair price

The VocoLink sensors are HomeKit compatible via a Bluetooth connection. They offer a low price point but a reliable detection.

Bosch, HomeMatic, Home Assistant?

Want more than one HomePod with a few connected devices? And you’re concerned that if you invest thousands of Dollars, things won’t run smoothly? The risk of doing this is actually quite high. There are enough reports that Apple still hasn’t quite got HomeKit under control.

So if you require stability, we would always use a solution with our own bridge. Bosch is a good choice here if you value HomeKit compatibility. HomeMatic IP is also highly recommended due to the large number of components and at least has the option of supporting Matter in the future, but it is not HomeKit-compatible. The question is, should that care? Once you’ve set up the heating, alarm system, etc., you won’t mess around with it using Siri anyway. And for the lighting you might still have Philips Hue anyway.

Perhaps you have also built a new one and had everything wired with KNX – then your engineer should give you a few more tips. Also a problem: Bosch and Homematic IP might not be available in your country and/or very costly.

The Home Assistant software is a great way to create your own smart home hub : It makes it possible to combine all standards in one solution and to create automations that are not possible in HomeKit. So it doesn’t matter whether it supports HomeKit, Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home: if the device communicates somehow, it can also be controlled, across all manufacturer boundaries.

The system can also be set up in such a way that no external server is required. You can only run it at home. If you want to get involved, you will get the almost perfect solution. Of course there are other interesting solutions.

Smart Home Software:

Which HomeKit thermostat to buy?

HomeKit compatible thermostats control your heating automatically.

  • Ecobee: established.
  • Kono: cool design
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  • reliable

The Ecobee thermostat is more or less a standard if you want to control your house HomeKit-compatible with Siri. The design is laid back an fits every surrounding and it also works reliably.

Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 14:39 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • cool looking

Kono has a more standing out design and is also not as long in business as Ecobee’s model. So this is your choice if you like new stuff and the design. Check for compatibility before installing it.

Smart home radio standards and protocols explained

If you want to use the most common type of radio technology, you can do so with sockets and light bulbs that can be connected via WLAN. This offers the advantage that you can simply continue to use the existing infrastructure and no further configuration steps are necessary apart from registering in the WLAN.

It’s also practical that you can simply add a hub like the HomePod mini later to carry out automations. Without a hub, you can simply switch the devices on and off via Siri. Alternatively, an iPad can also be used as a hub if you don’t use a thread.

The disadvantage is that you have to update the devices manually – and if there aren’t any security gaps in the devices can also cause problems for the rest of the network.

Also limiting: if there are a large number of WLAN devices, your router has to keep up and the response time can decrease.

Thread is the name of the new connection standard which, together with the Matter protocol, will represent the future of the smart home. Thread refers to the radio standard, such as WLAN, for example. Since this is an independent radio technology, a hub – at Thread this is called a border router – must always be available. The big advantage of Thread is that it creates a mesh network in which the devices pass on the signals to each other.

There are currently two border routers from Apple: the Apple TV 4K and the HomePod mini dominate Thread. End devices are currently only available from a few manufacturers, EVE for example or NanoLeaf. So if you want to get into the smart home now, you can’t fully rely on Thread, because there are simply hardly any devices for it.

Thread is the new mesh radio standard and is in line with WLAN, Bluetooth and Zigbee.

Matter, on the other hand, is the communication protocol used, which the end devices must be able to understand. They are not dependent on Thread: Matter devices can also be connected to the network via WLAN or even via cable. This fact is interesting for existing installations such as Hue or Aqara, which work with a hub: There, compatibility with Matter is retrospectively established for some devices that are already on the market, but only for the bridge. From the bridge, Zigbee and the old protocol are still used. And why not: it works really well too.

However, Matter should not mean that all devices are compatible with each other. Ideally, of course, yes, but we assume that there will be distortions, as with Zigbee, that it does not necessarily work across manufacturers. Security cameras that want to save their recordings in Apple’s iCloud via Secure Video must continue to be HomeKit-compatible, because a class for security cameras is not defined in the new standard.

The question arises, where are devices with Bluetooth? With HomeKit, Apple relied on two well-known radio standards: WLAN and Bluetooth 4 LE. That’s good and bad at the same time. It is cheap and simply furnished. The disadvantage is that the Bluetooth devices do not transmit very far, for example a house often causes problems because the Bluetooth standard used cannot mesh.

It is also practical that WLAN and Bluetooth devices can work together with an iPad as a control center. In this case, however, you will have to do without Thread Update under iOS 16 and of course you will not be able to use Thread-based devices with an iPad as a hub in the future either.

But don’t worry about existing installations: border routers that can handle Thread can also use Bluetooth. From now on you can equip your network with modern Thread devices and simply continue to use the Bluetooth devices. As before, they are simply controlled separately from the HomePod – logically still with a limited range.

Zigbee is a radio standard that is a bit older, but has found the ideal application in the age of IoT. It is very energy efficient and has mesh functionality. This means that the individual devices can forward the signals to each other, so not every single element has to be in the radio range of the hub. This is practical in larger apartments and houses, where the switching signals are simply passed on without having to resort to another Zigbee hub, for example. However, one is always necessary, but this also controls the automation functions.

But be careful: just because a manufacturer uses the Zigbee standard does not mean that they are compatible with a manufacturer who also uses Zigbee! Different implementations are often used.

In the meantime, however, it is possible to use Ikea and Hue lamps on the other hub and Ikea lamps on the Aqara hub. So the compatibilities will be expanded, but you should first check (or ask) what the current status of development is.

If such a system is advertised as HomeKit-compatible, it should work. The connected sensors and lamps are then made available to the HomeKit system via the hub in the network.

The hubs and systems from Ikea, Philips and Aqara mentioned can also be integrated into a professional system with Home Assistant. Hue and Aqara have also announced that they will support the Matter Protocol with an update.

The 868 MHz technology is used by bridges that want to achieve a long range. Since the frequency is lower than that of WiFi, the signal is not attenuated as much and has a longer range.

Brands that use this technology include Tado and HomeMatic IP.

Which HomeKit water sensors to buy?

Wassersensoren can protect against expensive water damage.

  • Maximum coverage? EVE.
  • Minimal cost? Aqara.
  • A compromise? Fibaro.
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  • good detection with a long sensor cable
  • Thread compatible

The water detector from EVE is a bit more expensive, but has two major advantages: it can handle Thread and thus runs directly on the HomePod mini. And for water detection, a longer cable is used that can be laid over a larger area. In this way, every leak is guaranteed to be detected.

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  • Aqara Zigbee compatible
  • attractively priced

The Aqara sensors are so cheap that you can easily set up several sensors in an area to be monitored. Remember that you need an Aqara Hub for the connection. But even with the hub, the most favorable warning in the event of a water leak

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  • Bluetooth compatible
  • good sensor pins on the bottom

The Fibaro variant comes in a high-quality housing with the sensor pins on the underside. If you stand in the water, you immediately sound the alarm. The connection is made via Bluetooth and therefore also runs on an iPad as a control center.

I already have… What do I buy now?

The first new product category apart from all the Philips Hue lamps is likely to be a Hue socket: you stay in the same ecosystem, they have low standby consumption and are reliable .

The best: they are not expensive at all and expand the control of your smart home very easily.

Since Philips Hue is limited to lighting and sockets, you need another manufacturer to integrate HomeKit into your heating system, for example.

Ecobee offers reliable solutions here – control units are available for almost all A/C systems.

Philips Hue 552349 Smart Plug, 1 Count (Pack of 1), White*
Philips Hue 552349 Smart Plug, 1 Count (Pack of 1), White
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The EVE Waterguard can protect you from severe water damage, especially in an apartment building. The device is well thought out: the sensor cable is long and detects moisture over its entire length and can therefore detect water over a large area.
The only Thread Lightstrip out there comes from NanoLeaf. This allows you to connect directly to the HomePod mini and saves you other configuration work. Instead, you can take care of the coloring.
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Which HomeKit Smart Lock door lock to buy?

Auomatically unlock the front door via HomeKit.

  • Nuki is the most reliable.
  • A separate bridge is usually necessary.
Last updated on 9. June 2022 at 14:08 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • easy to install
  • reliable

The Yale gets very good reviews and is easy to install. In addition to the HomeKit connection you also get a keypad for manual code entry.

Last updated on 9. June 2022 at 14:07 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • very small
  • works as deadbolt

The Level Lock is very small and looks nice. Be aware that is works as a deadbolt, so check before installation if that is suitable for your door.

Last updated on 9. June 2022 at 14:07 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • works as deadbolt
  • fair price

The Level Bolt also works as a deadbolt and is therefore fair prices. If you have the need for it, you also buy a package with an additional keypad.

How long does it last? Is it safe? Is it stable?

You are on the safe side with HomeKit devices: Even if the manufacturer goes bankrupt and there is no longer a cloud connection, the devices can still be controlled locally. An excellent regulation from Apple that will serve to be able to use the devices until they actually give up the ghost of their own accord. It should be even better with the new Thread devices: since the open standard is manufacturer-independent, devices that can no longer be controlled at some point are a rarity (updates for any security gaps are not taken into account).

When it comes to security, you should make sure that ideally you have a second WiFi network for devices that represent your smart home, so that a hacked light bulb does not allow access to your work computer. Or you only buy things that come with a bridge and are regularly updated by the manufacturers, such as Hue, tado, Bosch, HomeMatic, or that are directly attached to the HomePod mini via a thread, such as EVE. You should keep in mind: Nothing is 100% secure, but separate networks, high-quality products and regular updates help to keep the risk small.

Can you fully rely on the automations? From our own experience we can say: Absolutely not. We have automations that sometimes don’t work at all, sometimes they just turn on or don’t turn off again. That’s not so bad with things like the lighting, even if the light is on for three weeks while on vacation. But under no circumstances should you, for example, switch on fan heaters or other devices that could pose a serious safety risk unattended. Think carefully about what you want to control without supervision. If something goes wrong, in the best case only your electricity bill will increase, in the worst case the place will burn down.

Which HomeKit garden tech to buy?

Water the garden or now the lawn? No problem.

  • Gardena offers high-quality garden technology.
  • Want your thread with the HomePod? Then buy EVE.
  • With Netatmo you can document the weather.
Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 15:06 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • good quality

Gardena offers good technology for the garden that is compatible with a Bridge HomeKit (currently not available in the US). Not only the water control is very reliable, but also the lawn mower robots. These come at a price, but get the job done with no problems. If the garden is your thing, you should reach for Gardena.

Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 15:04 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • Thread compatible

The EVE Aqua connects directly to the HomePod mini. Although mechanically more reliable than the previous model, it is still not 100% reliable. If this is going to be your only gardening tool – buy it. Otherwise look at Gardena.

Last updated on 14. October 2022 at 15:02 - Image source: Amazon Affiliate Program. All statements without guarantee.
  • good App

If you are interested in the weather and want to create statistics, you can use the Netatmo weather station. This allows the wind speed to be measured and recorded.

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Philips Hue Econic Outdoor White & Color Wall & Ceiling Light Fixture (Hue Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Apple Homekit & Google Assistant)Philips Hue Econic Outdoor White & Color Wall & Ceiling Light Fixture (Hue Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Apple Homekit & Google Assistant)*
 Price: $ 159.70 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue 100W Outdoor No Power Supply Included, Weather Proof, BlackPhilips Hue 100W Outdoor No Power Supply Included, Weather Proof, Black*
 Price: $ 91.86 Buy on Amazon*
Philips Hue Lily White & Color Outdoor Spot Light Base kit (Hue Hub Required), 3 Spot Lights with Power Supply + Mount, Compatible with Alexa, HomeKit & Google Assistant , Black (New)Philips Hue Lily White & Color Outdoor Spot Light Base kit (Hue Hub Required), 3 Spot Lights with Power Supply + Mount, Compatible with Alexa, HomeKit & Google Assistant , Black (New)*
 Price: $ 299.97 Buy on Amazon*

Estimated life cycle: HomeKit devices should be able to be used until the hardware gives up. The advantage is that Apple has designed the HomeKit standard in such a way that the devices can also be controlled when there is no internet connection. This is an advantage if a manufacturer goes bankrupt and any control via the cloud is no longer possible. The limiting factor is then no longer taking place security updates – for this reason we generally advise to operate all smart home devices in a separate WLAN.

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