The Amazon Smart Plug is a great way to bring some intelligence to some otherwise "dumb" appliances. Once a smart plug is set up, you can schedule a coffee maker to start, keep tabs on how much power ...

Smart plugs are a smart home staple for automating lamps, desk fans (or any other small appliances) quickly, easily and without spending much money. They add a ton of convenience and allow you to ...

Z-Wave smart plugs create reliable home automation networks that don't crash when your WiFi gets crowded. These devices use a dedicated 908.42MHz frequency to avoid interference from your router, ...

While the demand for smart homes is rising, cost is still a barrier. However, some devices can help you enjoy the benefits of smart technology without the trouble of a complete overhaul. You can use a ...

Have you ever wondered whether you left your hair straightener on? Or maybe you want an easier solution than those archaic manual timers for your holiday decorations? Or perhaps you wonder how much ...

If you're looking for a low-commitment way to add smarts to your home, consider the electrical outlets. Smart plugs and smart wall outlets add instant connectivity and remote control to anything ...

We might earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links. The McClatchy Commerce Content team, which is independent from our newsroom, oversees this content. Our guide to the 12 best ...

Maybe you love displaying giant inflatable ghosts, strings of spooky lights, fog machines, or strobe lights at this time of year. But programming light timers to turn everything on and off each night?

Amanda Blum is a freelancer who writes about smart home technology, gardening, and food preservation. Previously, Amanda has worked as a technology strategist specializing in problem solving and ...

As a longtime tech writer, I love all things tech, but I especially love smart devices. Smartphones, smart watches, and smart thermostats all make a ton of sense. They use technology to make our lives ...

John Carlsen has more than a decade of experience testing and reviewing home tech products, with a major focus on smart home security. He earned his BS in journalism from Utah Valley University. In ...