The smart home category covers smart switches and relay modules, bulbs, sensors, thermostats, security systems, door locks and control hubs. It suits anyone who wants to automate lighting, heating or security. Our range includes over 900 products, with devices from eQ-3, Shelly, Aqara, OSRAM and Ajax among the leading brands.
How to choose smart home devices
Protocol and compatibility. Devices using different protocols (Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth or a manufacturer's own system such as Homematic IP) do not talk to each other without a common hub. Settle on one ecosystem first, then check whether the device supports Matter or your voice assistant: Apple Home, Google Home or Amazon Alexa.
Hub. Wi-Fi devices usually need only an app and your router, while Zigbee and Z-Wave devices need a separate hub (gateway). It is an extra purchase, but one hub can manage many sensors without loading your home Wi-Fi network.
Power and installation. Battery-powered sensors can be fixed in place without tools. Relay modules sit in the wall box behind an existing switch and connect to 230 V mains, so the work is best left to an electrician. Before buying, check that the wall box has a neutral wire, as some modules need one.
Purpose. Lighting needs only bulbs or relays, heating calls for thermostats or radiator valve heads, and security means an alarm system with a siren plus motion and door sensors. Start with one task and expand the system gradually.
Brands in our range
- eQ-3: a German manufacturer known for Homematic IP, which runs on its own radio protocol and is controlled through its own hub.
- Shelly: makes small Wi-Fi relays and modules that can be hidden behind an existing switch.
- Aqara: Zigbee sensors, switches and hubs designed to automate a home from a single app.
- OSRAM: a lighting manufacturer known for LED bulbs and light strips.
- Ajax: wireless security systems with a hub, sensors and sirens.
- Fibaro: Z-Wave modules and sensors that connect to hubs using the same protocol.
- Netatmo: a French brand known for weather stations and smart thermostats.
- TP-Link: Tapo smart plugs, bulbs and cameras controlled over Wi-Fi.
- Aeotec: Z-Wave sensors and hubs that suit SmartThings setups.
- Yale: a door lock manufacturer that also makes smart locks.
Also in our range: Qoltec, ALLNET.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Zigbee, Z-Wave and Wi-Fi smart devices?
Wi-Fi devices connect straight to your home network, so they often need no extra hub. Zigbee and Z-Wave use a low-power mesh network that needs a hub, and battery-powered sensors on it can last a long time. Devices on different protocols do not connect to each other unless Matter or a shared hub links them.
Do I need a hub for a smart home?
Not always. Wi-Fi bulbs, plugs and relays usually work with just an app. A hub is needed for Zigbee, Z-Wave and most alarm systems, and it is convenient once you have many devices.
Do smart home devices work without the internet?
It depends on the system. Many devices paired with a local hub can run scheduled automations without internet, although cloud-based features such as remote control stop working. Ask the manufacturer which functions run locally before buying.
Where should I start with a smart home?
Start with one clear task, such as controlling lighting or heating. Choose an ecosystem supported by your phone and voice assistant, then buy a starter kit or hub with a few devices. You can add sensors, locks or security equipment later.
