I’m shifting houses and want to convert my new bedroom into a smart-home bedroom. This includes smart lights, curtain closers, IR repeaters for AC, and other devices. I need a base platform and am considering Apple, Google, and Amazon. I’m looking for a budget-friendly setup and have noticed that many smart home devices work with Google Home and Alexa, but fewer and more expensive options are available for Apple HomeKit. Since I already use Apple’s services and don’t plan to switch (e.g., from Apple Music to Spotify), I’m leaning towards HomeKit despite the cost. Should I consider Google or Alexa instead, or is it worth investing in HomeKit-compatible brands like Hue or Aqara?
I opted for HomeKit because Apple doesn’t push advertising through its devices, which is a big plus for me.
If you’re already integrated into the Apple ecosystem, sticking with HomeKit makes sense. For more budget-friendly options, consider setting up HomeBridge, which can integrate non-HomeKit devices.
EmmanuelBrown said:
If you’re already integrated into the Apple ecosystem, sticking with HomeKit makes sense. For more budget-friendly options, consider setting up HomeBridge, which can integrate non-HomeKit devices.
With the upcoming support for Matter, even cheaper bulbs that are Matter-compatible can be integrated into HomeKit via a thread border router.
Consider starting with a versatile hub that can link to HomeKit. Managing multiple hubs for different protocols like Zigbee or Z-wave can be cumbersome. While HomeKit offers great integration, you might need additional equipment to connect devices outside Apple’s ecosystem. Home Assistant, Hubitat, SmartThings, and Homey Pro can centralize your smart home setup, eliminating the need for multiple hubs.
@Oliver
This is good advice. I started with a focus on HomeKit and Thread, but the slow release of new Thread devices led me to use Hubitat as a HomeKit bridge to Z-wave devices. It’s worked so well that I see no need to change.
I’ve been a longtime HomeKit user and it’s great for basic functions. However, for more advanced automation, I’ve been integrating Home Assistant, which unlocks much more potential.
Gracie said:
I’ve been a longtime HomeKit user and it’s great for basic functions. However, for more advanced automation, I’ve been integrating Home Assistant, which unlocks much more potential.
Hubitat offers even more local control than HomeKit and is easier for beginners than Home Assistant.
@Maximilian
Hubitat’s app requires an internet connection, which some might not consider fully local control.
Oliver said:
@Maximilian
Hubitat’s app requires an internet connection, which some might not consider fully local control.
Actually, local control refers to how the devices connect to the hub, not how you access the app. Hubitat operates locally over Z-Wave and Zigbee, which don’t require internet.
@Maximilian
My point is about accessing the hub’s interface without internet. There’s a video demonstrating this issue, but it might have been addressed in recent updates.
I recommend avoiding mainstream cloud services and opting for Hubitat or Home Assistant instead. They provide more robust local control with less reliance on cloud services.
Maximilian said:
I recommend avoiding mainstream cloud services and opting for Hubitat or Home Assistant instead. They provide more robust local control with less reliance on cloud services.
I use Home Assistant and wrap it with HomeKit for a seamless experience on iOS devices. It’s perfectly feasible to use both.
Maximilian said:
I recommend avoiding mainstream cloud services and opting for Hubitat or Home Assistant instead. They provide more robust local control with less reliance on cloud services.
While HomeKit offers local control, Home Assistant provides greater flexibility and is just as capable of operating locally, depending on your device setup.
@Kent
Home Assistant can function fully locally or connect to the cloud, and doesn’t lock you into a specific ecosystem. It allows for deep customization and control over your smart home.
Leah said:
@Kent
Home Assistant can function fully locally or connect to the cloud, and doesn’t lock you into a specific ecosystem. It allows for deep customization and control over your smart home.
Exactly, and prioritizing local devices within Home Assistant ensures privacy and quick response times.
We started with Google because it initially performed better than Alexa in our tests. Although I’ve considered switching to HomeKit, our investment in Nanoleaf lights after LifX’s decline keeps us with Google for now.
Google Home might be a good alternative if you want to stay within a budget and integrate with services you already use, like Apple Music, which is compatible with Google Home.
If budget isn’t a concern and you’re already embedded in the iOS ecosystem, go with HomeKit for its integration and privacy. However, keep in mind that compatible devices can be costly.
Why not use both? I’m bridging HomeKit with other platforms using HomeBridge, allowing for a more versatile setup.