Featured · Cornerstone · 12 min read · May 2026
Smart Home Overview 2026: Matter, Thread, Platforms, and How to Sequence Your Build
The map of the smart-home landscape in 2026. Protocols explained, platform tradeoffs, eight device categories, and how to start.
Platforms · 13 min read · May 2026
Home Automation Platforms 2026: HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, IFTTT
Honest comparison of the major platforms. Where each wins, where each loses, and how Matter changes the math.
Devices · Echo · 10 min read · May 2026
Amazon Echo 2026: Devices, Generative Alexa, Privacy, and Real Use Cases
The Echo lineup explained — Dot, Show, Hub, Studio, Auto — plus generative Alexa and the privacy settings to change.
Security · Locks · 10 min read · May 2026
Smart Door Locks 2026: Grades and What Belongs on Your Front Door
ANSI/BHMA Grades 1, 2, 3 explained. Connectivity tradeoffs. Failure modes. What goes on which door.
Security · Cameras · 12 min read · May 2026
Home Security Cameras 2026: 4K PTZ, PoE, NVRs, and Battery Cams
Two paths through the camera market — pro-grade PoE with an NVR, or battery-powered Wi-Fi cams. What to pick.
Security · Doorbells · 10 min read · May 2026
Smart Doorbells 2026: Wired vs Battery, Resolution, AI Detection
Wired vs battery, tall aspect ratios, on-device AI, two-way audio, and the privacy considerations most reviews skip.
Climate · Thermostats · 10 min read · May 2026
Smart Thermostats 2026: HVAC Compatibility, C-Wire, and Real Savings
HVAC compatibility, the C-wire problem, geofencing accuracy, and what energy savings to actually expect.
Lighting · 11 min read · May 2026
Smart Lighting 2026: Bulbs vs Switches, Color Temperature, and Scenes
Bulbs vs switches, tunable white vs RGB, CRI, dimming and flicker, and scenes that survive past the novelty.
Sensors · 9 min read · May 2026
Smart Plugs and Sensors 2026: Motion, Contact, Leak, Temperature
The highest-ratio-of-usefulness-to-dollars category. Plugs, motion, door contacts, water leak, temp/humidity.