Philips Hue Gen 1 vs. Gen 2 vs. Gen 3

Philips Hue transforms lighting from ordinary to extraordinary. They’ve been in lighting forever and were one of the few companies which offered smart lighting solutions long ago. Hue’s color-changing bulbs were first introduced in October 2012; this 1st generation of Philips Hue gained a lot of success and was even called the Best Product of 2012.

Since then, Philips Hue has been updated twice: in both 2015 (2nd generation) and 2016 (3rd generation). All three Philips Hue generations are available on the market and are fully compatible with each other. So in this article, we’ll look at a few things: the differences between the Philips Hue bridge generations, Philips Hue light bulb generations 1 vs. 2 vs. 3, and we’ll also sidetrack a bit into Philips Hue Lux.

We’ve put together a ton of important info, however, if you just want the differences, feel free to jump to the differences section straightaway.

Best Z-Wave Doorbell Camera

Z-Wave is one of the newer type of wireless technology that smart devices use to communicate with each other. It’s quite similar to WiFi and Bluetooth, but Z-Wave also possesses its own unique capabilities that many users like.

With Z-Wave, you can expect less interference, fewer disconnections, and a quicker communication speed that you would with other types of wireless communication, plus many other benefits which you can read more about here: Z-Wave vs. Z-Wave Plus — What’s the Difference?

While not all models such as Ring Video Doorbell Pro and SkyBell HD come with an in-built Z-Wave radio, you can still integrate them into the Z-Wave ecosystem by using a hub such as SmartThings or Wink, or even the FortrezZ Z-Wave MIMOlite Motor Control which can turn almost any smart device into a Z-Wave compatible gadget.

Let’s check out some of the smart doorbell cameras (with the exception of Aeotec, which doesn’t have a camera) that you can integrate into your Z-Wave ecosystem!

Feel free to use our navigation system to skip down to any part you prefer.

Top 5 Smart Lightstrips For Your Home

When choosing the right Smart Lighstrip for your home, you want to make sure that you have a lightstrip that offers a good brightness level, a wide spectrum of colors and maybe even voice control.

Each product that we have picked out, has its own unique features that might suit your needs. Such as the ability to sync the lights with your music, as you can with the Philips Hue Lighstrip Plus. Or if you are even if you’re just looking for a more simple and affordable option, such as the Yeelight Aurora Lightstrip Plus with its manual control feature. We have you covered.

With so many products on the market today, we’d like to help you narrow it down more.

Please feel free to skip down to any part you wish, by using our navigation system:

Ring vs. Nest Security System

Ring and Nest are two brands that have built a name for themselves in the smart technology industry, offering multiple different products that add convenience and utility to your home. When comparing the Ring vs. Nest security system, it’s clear that both have a lot to offer. For those on a budget, the Ring security system just can’t be beat, while Nest Secure is better suited for those who already have a collection of Nest products.

At the most basic level, the Ring and Nest security systems offer the same great protection that will keep your home secure. When you start to get into the various features that they have to offer, however, it’s clear that the “best” decision is much more subjective, with your choice likely to be influenced by the factors that are most important to you. While Ring offers an affordable and capable product, Nest has a lot going for it too and is the clear choice for those already invested in that ecosystem.

Below we compare the Nest vs. Ring security system to help give you a sense of where these systems excel and where they fall short. If there’s something specific you’re looking for, however, feel free to use the navigation bar to jump directly to the sections that interest you most.

Skybell HD vs. August Doorbell Cam Pro

There are more options on the market than ever before when it comes to smart doorbells, which gives you a great degree of choice for adding security and convenience to your home. The Skybell HD and August Doorbell Cam Pro each have a lot to offer, although we feel that the Skybell model does a better job as a standalone doorbell.

While Skybell HD may be the stronger product on its own, it’s important to keep in mind that one of the greatest strengths that August Doorbell Cam Pro has to offer is integration with other smart products. If you’re interested in the August Smart Lock, the comparison becomes much less clear-cut due to the great collaboration the lock and doorbell add to your home.

Below we’ll compare the Skybell HD vs. August Doorbell Cam Pro to give you a sense of where these products excel and where they fall short. Feel free to read on for the full picture or use our navigation bar to jump directly to a specific section.

Ring Doorbell Pro vs. August Doorbell Cam Pro

Smart doorbells offer a great combination of security and convenience to your home. When comparing the Ring Doorbell Pro vs. August Doorbell Cam Pro, it’s clear that both doorbells have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. However, we feel that the is the better buy unless you’ve already invested in an August Smart Lock.

August and Ring both have a pretty impressive lineup of products, but Ring got their start in doorbell and it really shows. The brand has only continued to improve their offerings with the release of the Ring Doorbell Pro, and we feel it deserves that top spot when compared to the August model. However, August is a great brand for smart locks as well, and the interaction between the doorbell and camera might give it the edge it needs to be a superior option overall.

Below we’ll detail the similarities and differences between the two doorbells to help give you a better sense of what each brand has to offer. Read on for the full picture, or use our navigation bar to jump directly to the sections that interest you most.

Luma vs. Google WiFi

We spend more time online than ever before. From gaming on desktops and laptops to streaming Netflix and Hulu on our mobile devices, a large part of our entertainment in 2018 relies on the internet. Add to that the wealth of information available on pretty much any topic, and the convenience and utility offered by smart devices and it becomes clear that a fast connection is extremely important.

The speed of your internet package is important, but do you have the equipment to really take full advantage of the connection you’re getting from your ISP? Smart WiFi routers have a significant advantage over traditional wireless equipment, and below we take a look at the Luma vs. Google WiFi — two popular routers with some pretty significant differences.

When it comes to delivering reliable internet to your home, not all routers are created equal. Let’s break down the similarities and differences to help you figure out which router is right for you.

Wink vs. SmartThings Gen 3

Smart technology is more prevalent than ever before, and products that were once reserved for the wealthy techie have become accessible to pretty much any homeowner. Now more than ever before, it’s a real possibility to have a home that is connected, convenient, and that responds to your whims.

There are hundreds of smart products on the market that offer utility or entertainment to your home, but what really separates a smart home from a jumble of technology is the smart home hubs. These bases communicate with your different technology and allow them to work together seamlessly, providing a cohesive experience rather than forcing you to deal with a bunch of self-contained devices.

Below we take a look at the Wink vs. SmartThings Gen 3 to help you get a sense of which smart home controller might be best for your home. Each brand offers their own take on the connected home, but is one better than the other? The answer might not be so simple.

Read on below for a detailed breakdown of what each device has to offer.

Nest Yale vs. Schlage Connect

Your front door is the main entryway to your home, and it’s important that it’s adequately secured to keep you and your family protected. The surge of smart locks onto the market give you a convenient way to protect your home while adding a wide variety of convenient features, but how do you know that they’re secure enough to replace a traditional deadbolt?

In this comparison, we look at the Nest Yale vs. Schlage Connect — two brands with a significant history in creating valuable products. Nest approaches smart locks from a technology and convenience angle, creating a deadbolt that integrates seamlessly with the rest of their ecosystem. Schlage, on the other hand, is a lock company first and foremost — taking advantage of nearly a century of experience and adding in some modern tech on top of their premium locks.

So who does it better? The tech company turned locksmith? Or a reputable lock company dabbling in smart technology?

Both brands have their benefits and drawbacks, and it’s an incredibly close battle. Read on below to get a sense of their similarities and differences to figure out which one is right for your home.

Rachio vs. Rain Bird

With the advent of smart sprinkler technology, the dream of an environmentally-conscious and green lawn with a low energy bill has finally become a reality. There are a number of different brands vying for the top spot of this exciting new industry, but which models are really worth your time?

There are many options to choose from when it comes to keeping your lawn watered conveniently and efficiently, and our Rachio vs. Rain Bird comparison goes deep into the details on some of the best.

Are you looking for a premium experience at all costs? Or will a smart system that is easy on the wallet be your top choice?

Let’s go into what sets these brands apart from one another to help make your shopping decision just a little bit easier.

Spruce vs. Rachio

Keeping your lawn healthy and happy has never been easier than ever before. The past couple years have seen a huge surge in smart sprinkler control systems that take the guesswork out of watering.

Comparing the Spruce vs. Rachio is a tall order since they’re both so excellent, but it really comes down to how much you value smart home integration. Either system offers a significant amount of control over your watering while simultaneously making your life more convenient and stress free, and both cover pretty much all the bases when it comes to your lawn’s health. Combine your sprinkler system with a smart mower like the Husqvarna 315, and you’ll have a yard that essentially takes are of itself.

Let’s cover what these controllers do right and where they fall short so you can make the decision that’s right for you and your home.

Rachio vs. Blossom

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a surge in smart products that make it easier than ever before to add convenience to your home operation — and in some cases there can be some significant savings as well. While most people might think of smart lighting or smart speakers when it comes to home automation, smart sprinkler controllers have exploded onto the market and offer an excellent combination of easy-operation and water savings that is more than worth the initial investment.

The Rachio and Blossom are two popular smart sprinkler control systems that use intelligent scheduling to save you hassle and money. Are the two devices on equal footing? Or is one the clear winner?

Below we go into the similarities and differences of the Rachio vs Blossom to give you a sense of which product is a winner and which one might be worth a pass.

Skydrop Halo vs. Rachio 3

While most people think of lighting or thermostats when it comes to a connected home, there is a growing industry of smart sprinkler control systems that are better for the environment — and better for your wallet.

Below we dive deep into the details and compare the Skydrop Halo vs. Rachio 3. Both systems are excellent in their own right, but which is better for your home?

Rachio vs. RainMachine

When it comes to keeping your lawn green, smart sprinkler control systems are the way of the future. Pollution, water wastage, drought, and climate change have become serious problems, and systems like the Rachio and RainMachine offer an intelligent solution to these issues.

By purchasing a system with access to detailed weather information and the ability to turn sprinklers on and off only as needed, you’ll see a significant difference in your water bill and majorly help out the environment. Let’s face it: keeping your lawn green throughout the summer uses a significant amount of resources, and whichever you choose between the Rachio vs. RainMachine, you’ll be just as “green” as your grass.

Let’s go into detail on the similarities and differences between these two smart sprinkler systems, so you can figure out which is best for you and your home.

Rachio Gen 2 vs. Gen 3

When it comes to keeping your lawn green, it’s easier than ever before to let a smart sprinkler system shoulder the brunt of the work.

The Rachio Gen 2 and Gen 3 represent the two latest models from this top sprinkler system seller, but what exactly sets one apart from the other. Do you need to spend extra on the Gen 3? Or will the Gen 2 get the job done just fine?

Both models are excellent systems, but let’s dive into the differences of the Rachio Gen 2 vs. Gen 3 to really help you decide which sprinkler is the best choice for your home.

Rachio Gen 1 vs. Gen 2

When it comes to watering your lawn, there are more options than ever before that can save you time and money. Smart sprinkler systems have become more and more advanced over the past few years, and two excellent options come from Rachio.

If we take a look at the Rachio Gen 1 vs. Gen 2, is the newer model really worth the extra cost? What sort of features does each model have that can help you save on your water bill and make keeping your lawn green as easy and convenient as possible?

We get into these details and more in our comprehensive comparison. Read on below!

Philips Hue vs. Lutron Caseta Wireless

Choosing between Philips Hue vs. Lutron Caseta Wireless is basically choosing between smart bulbs vs. smart switches. However, there’s a little bit more to it!

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons between Philips Hue and the Lutron Caseta Wireless to help you figure out which option is better suited for you and your home.

Lutron Smart Bridge vs. Wink 2

When it comes to comparing the Lutron Smart Bridge vs. Wink 2, they are both suitable options for use with Caseta Wireless dimmers and switches.

However, there are some major differences between the two devices when it comes to smart home integration. While Lutron Smart Bridge is the top pick for HomeKit support and space-saving design, the Wink 2’s third-party support is also extremely impressive.

Below, we detail what exactly sets these two devices apart and break down what the better product will be for your situation.

Kwikset Kevo vs. Schlage Connect

Only one of the locks come with a built-in alarm and Grade 1 (the best residential grade) deadbolt to keep your home safe and secure. However, when comparing Kwikset Kevo vs. Schlage Connect a few other differences are important to mention. Feel free to navigate this article to learn more about Kwikset and Schlage smart locks.

Kwikset Kevo vs. August Smart Lock Pro

What makes a good smart lock? Is it keyless convenience, simple access sharing, or the total control of your front door at your fingertips? With so many smart locks on the market, it’s hard to figure out which one will be the best fit for your home. So, today we’ll compare Kwikset Kevo vs. August Smart Lock Pro to help you with your choice.

Schlage Connect vs. Sense vs. Connected Keypad

Ever wondered how to pronounce Schlage? We did — it’s /ˈʃleɪɡ/ (or “shlayguh”).
The locks are just as hard to pronounce as they are to break.


With a smart lock, you’ll never miss a visitor. It brings security, safety, and peace of mind by giving you total control of your entrance door at your fingertips. With a great variety of smart locks, we know how hard it is to find the right one. So, today we’ll compare Schlage Connect vs. Sense vs. Connected Keypad to help you choose the right smart lock for your home.

Honeywell Lyric T5 vs. Nest Learning Thermostat

The utility of a smart home can extend far beyond comfort, and actually save homeowners money in the long run. For a small initial investment, a smart thermostat can go a long way towards some serious savings on your monthly energy bill. There are several features that can accomplish this goal, and one of the most exciting is the idea of “geofencing”.

This article focuses on a comparison of the Honeywell Lyric T5 and the Nest Learning Thermostat — two devices that feature the technology to adjust temperature control on the fly. With the ability for schedule planning or reactive adaptation, both thermostats offer a truly “hands-off” experience that offers optimal comfort and great savings.

Below, we’ll go over some of the key differences and try to give you a sense of which product is right for you and your lifestyle. Let’s get started!

Honeywell Smart Thermostat vs. Nest

As technology continues to advance, so too do the applications of “smart” devices. It’s now more realistic than ever before to build a house that’s totally automated and anticipates your whims. Light bulbs that react to your presence, security systems that provide real-time updates, and smart hubs to control each aspect of your home environment make for the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

Smart homes had a reputation for being relatively expensive, but are now getting more and more affordable. Though there’s a decent amount of setup involved to achieve a comfortable level of automation and convenience, the setup is well worth the cost. And automating your home may actually save you money in the long run. Which brings us to smart thermostats.

We’re going to look at two popular smart thermostats: the Honeywell Smart Thermostat and the Nest. We’ll take a look at the major differences, and try to give you a sense of which device is right for your needs. So, let’s get into it!

Nest E vs. ecobee4

When considering a new thermostat to add to your home, there are a lot of different aspects to consider. Do you go with a traditional thermostat? Their upfront cost is a lot lower, and we’ve all used these devices for years. But in 2017, there are many more options available that take advantage of the recent progress in smart technology. While these thermostats may look more expensive up front, they can often save homeowners significant amounts of money on heating and cooling bills over the course of the product’s lifetime.

After just a few months, these smart thermostats will often pay for themselves. Add to that the convenience of smart home integration, and you have a recipe for an automated and more efficient home.

So, let’s take a look at two popular devices: the Nest E vs. the ecobee4. Both of these products have their advantages and disadvantages, and by the end of this article you’ll have a much better sense of which thermostat works best for your home and your lifestyle.

Lutron Caseta vs. Maestro Wireless

Lutron was one of the first companies to offer smart home lighting. Besides standard dimmers and switches, Lutron has two wireless collections for smart homes — Caseta Wireless and Maestro Wireless. Products from both collections use Lutron Clear Connect technology to provide comfortable remote control of dimmers and switches. And while the two collections are very similar, there are some major differences between them. We’ve compared the differences of Lutron Caseta vs. Maestro Wireless to help you choose the right one for your home.

LIFX Z vs. Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus

Finding the right lighting for your home can be tough task. There are so many spaces where traditional light just doesn’t quite fit. You want something more than functional, and at the right price. Lightstrips are an option away from traditional lamps in the corner of a room or bulbs hanging from the ceiling. And they can provide (offer?) excellent light in areas most can’t even imagine, with added features that only smart lighting can provide.

With so many smart lights to choose from, this article is going to help you to compare and contrast the features of two lightstrips: the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus vs. LIFX Z. We’ll take a look at the features and differences to help guide you on the better choice for your home.

Both products are fantastic for under cabinets, television stands, computer desks, and basically anywhere your imagination says, “Yeah, lighting there would be a huge plus.” After going over the differences, we’ve put together a table that will show the products and their features side-by-side, followed by a sort of wrap up. So, with that all said, let’s look at both the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus and the LIFX Z.

Wink vs. SmartThings

Choosing between Wink vs. SmartThings is like choosing between iOS and Android — they’re both great and offer a lot of smart features. But, there are a few minor differences between the two that we think are worth being mentioned.

Ecobee3 vs. Ecobee4 vs. Nest

As of May 2017, Ecobee has moved on from the ecobee3 thermostat, and has released the all-new ecobee4 thermostat. And now that Nest has become a household name, we felt the need to compare these three smart thermostats to find out the differences between them. So, let’s compare ecobee3 vs. ecobee4 vs. Nest to help you choose the right smart thermostat for your smart home.

ilumi vs. Hue

The Internet of Things offers a great variety of smart home lighting solutions. Whether it’s a smart bulb or a smart dimmer, the first time you get to enjoy the fascinating experience of controlling the lights at your home from your smartphone, you know you’ll never go back to a normal lighting setup. But with such a great variety of products and features, it might be a bit hard to choose the right lighting solution for you. So in this guide, we’ll compare ilumi vs. Hue to help you pick the better choice for your home.

Wink vs. Hue

If you’re like most homeowners, once you start upgrading your home to include smart home devices, it’s incredibly hard to stop. The idea of complete remote control over your home is fascinating. And smart home lighting is one of the easiest ways to start with smart home automation. Both Philips Hue and Wink offer great features when it comes to lighting, and most likely you’ll end up getting both of them. But for now, let us guide you into smart home automation by helping you choose between Wink vs. Hue.