Verify current prices and subscription costs. Prices change often, and some smart home devices need a monthly subscription for key features. Check before you buy.
1. Choosing a tablet
A tablet is great for video calls, reading, photos, games, and browsing from the couch. It's usually easier to learn than a laptop.
| Type | Good for | Think about |
|---|---|---|
| iPad (Apple) | Simple, long software support, works well with iPhones. | Usually costs more. |
| Android tablets | Many sizes and prices. Works well with Android phones. | Check how many years of updates the maker promises. |
| Low-cost store-brand tablets | Reading, streaming, and basic browsing on a budget. | Fewer apps may be available, and they can show ads. Check before buying. |
- Size: a 10–11 inch screen is a comfortable middle ground. Smaller ones are lighter to hold.
- Wi-Fi only is fine for most people at home. Cellular models cost more and need a data plan.
- A case with a stand makes video calls much easier.
2. What "smart home" means
"Smart" devices connect to your Wi-Fi so you can control them with your voice or a phone app. Most work with one of three big systems: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home. Try to stick with one so everything works together. Look for the "Matter" label, a newer standard meant to help devices from different brands work together.
3. Popular smart devices
- Smart speaker or display: ask for the weather, set medicine reminders, play music, or make hands-free calls. Displays with a screen can do video calls.
- Video doorbell: see who's at the door from your phone. Many need a monthly subscription to save recordings.
- Smart plugs: the easiest start. Turn a lamp on by voice or on a schedule.
- Smart lights: schedules and voice control help with falls at night.
- Smart thermostat: can save energy. Check that it works with your heating system first.
- Ask your doctor or care team before relying on any device for medical alerts.
4. Privacy and safety
- Use a strong, unique password for each device's account, and turn on two-step verification.
- Smart speakers have a microphone mute button. Use it when you want privacy.
- Keep devices updated, and change any default passwords, including your Wi-Fi router's.
- Smart home works best on solid Wi-Fi. A weak signal causes most problems.
- Buy from known brands and stores. Very cheap no-name cameras can be a privacy risk.
5. Checklist
- Tablet: iPad / Android / budget. Size: ____ inches
- Case with stand
- Smart system: Alexa / Google / Apple (pick one)
- Subscription costs checked (doorbells and cameras)
- My Wi-Fi reaches where the device will go
- Return policy: ____ days
Get help buying
Still not sure? Book a single session and we will go over your needs together, compare a few options, and set up your new device when it arrives, in your home or by video or phone.