Smart Living Room: 9 Devices You Need to Optimize Your Living Space

Smart devices are everywhere and have become part of our everyday lives.  When you are ready to upgrade your living space with smart technology, you may be surprised at the number of options available.  It can be easy to become overwhelmed.  Well, we hope to keep that from happening. 

We have taken the time to build out the perfect smart living room, but what does optimizing a smart home really entail?

Optimizing a living space with smart devices gives users the ability to add some efficiency to their lives, making them more convenient.  Devices such as Smart TVs, lighting, security alarms, doorbells, and cleaning appliances offer energy savings, increased productivity, and connectivity.

We’ve got you covered.  We’ll share some of the most common types of smart technology and breakdown 9 of the top smart devices that you need to optimize your living space. 

These are the smart devices you need to bring your living spaces to the next level!

Smart TVs

Smart TVs have come a long way in the last few years.  Today you can get Smart TVs with integrated Bluetooth technology and instant access (with reliable internet) to your favorite streaming services, music, and more.

Smart TVs also offer the capability to connect to other smart devices to view images sent from your Ring Doorbell, home security system, or even a baby monitor right on your television. 

Brand	Toshiba 4K UHD Smart LED TV -Fire TV edition	TCL 4K Smart LED Roku TV
Connectivity	Built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet	Built-in Wi-Fi
Screen Size	49.5	50 in
Display Type	LED	LED
Dimensions	10.7 x 44.6 x 27.8 in	44.1 x 8 x 28 in
Weight	30.6 lbs.	23.6 lbs.
Refresh Rate	60 hertz	120 hertz
Resolution	4K	4K
Total HDMI inputs	3	3
Price	Check Amazon	Check Amazon

Toshiba 4K UHD Smart TV – Fire TV Edition

With the Toshiba 4K UHD Smart TV – Fire TV Edition your favorite shows will be brought to life in stunning 4K Ultra High Definition. Built in Fire TV allows you to enjoy your favorite live streaming with the assistance of Alexa’s voice control technology. 

Use your new Toshiba 4K UHD Smart TV to control other smart home devices, music, security, and other connected devices. 

TCL 50S425 50-inch 4K Smart LED Roku TV

The TCL 50S425 50 inch 4K Smart LED Roku TV offers you access to all of your favorite Roku content built right into the TV.  The 4K Ultra HD offers the highest picture quality for lifelike pictures. The Roku TV remote is designed for easy usability with only 20 buttons.

Use your smartphone as a fully functional remote with the Roku TV app. You can even listen to your TV audio through headphones connected to your smartphone or tablet!

Add Smart Tech to Your TV

If you are not ready to purchase a new TV then you can add many of the advantages of a Smart TV with the purchase of a Fire TV Stick 4K.  The Fire TV Stick comes with an Alexa Voice Remote and offers all the streaming advantages that you will find in a Smart TV at a fraction of the price.  If you are considering switching from cable to premium streaming services such as Sling TV, Netflix, and Hulu, then the Fire TV Stick 4K is a great first step.

Voice Control Lighting

Have you ever wanted to control the lighting in your home with just your voice?  Now you can with voice control lighting options.  The power of light is now as easy as asking for it.  With options ranging from smart bulbs to lamps to LED light strips, you can control the atmosphere of your entire home.

Smart Bulbs

No need to go out and purchase fancy lamps or special equipment with Sengled Smart LED Daylight A19 Bulb.  Simply replace any existing bulb you already use and sync with Alexa, Google Assistant, or SmartThings and you have complete control over the light. 

The A19 Bulb is equivalent to any 5000k 60W bulb, but because they use LED light technology, they will save 80% over traditional incandescent lighting. This 8 pack of bulbs is sure to save you a bit of money.

If you want to add a splash of color to your living space, then the Sengled E11-N1EAWA_4P Smart LED Bulb Color Plus Bulbs are the way to go.  You can set the bulb to over 16 million colors with the Sengled Home app, or just ask for your favorite color and intensity.  Kids have fun trying to trick the bulbs with some outrageous color names.  And by the way, if you tell Alexa to set the bulb to black, it will turn it off. 

Both types of bulb use only 9 watts of electricity offering amazing savings over traditional incandescent lighting.  Connection to a compatible hub is required.

Smart Lamps

If you want to upgrade to a smart lamp, then we’ve got something special.  The Peteme Smart lamp imitates natural lighting and when customized to your schedule, the lamp changes light direction and color based on your needs. 

If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep the Peteme Lamp can help your body to reset its internal clock to the proper circadian rhythm by changing the color and intensity of the light.  This will automatically help you stay more productive during the day, and help you fall asleep and stay asleep at night.

LED Light Strips

LED Light Strips offer the most flexibility and fun in lighting possibilities.  LED light strips can be mounted to any smooth surface.  Mounting possibilities include recess lighting, around televisions and wall hangings, under kitchen counters, and so many more. 

The Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance LightStrip Plus Dimmable LED Smart Light is like a party in the palm of your hand.  When connected with the Philips Hue Bridge or any voice assistant, you can now access over 16 million different colors, or use preset functions perfect to read or relax.  The Philips Hue LightStrip is 80 inches long and includes adhesive tape for a stress-free application.  Additionally, the LightStrip can be cut to fit a wide range of applications.

Smart Ceiling Fans

You may not have even known that there was such a thing as a smart fan, I didn’t until recently.  Smart ceiling fans are like something you would expect to see in a science fiction movie.  But now you can get your very own.

The top of the line ceiling fan right now is the Haiku Home L Series 52″ Smart Ceiling Fan.

Not only does it look amazing but it is also compatible with Alexa! You can tell Alexa to tuen your fan on and off. Pretty legit! This fan is from the Big Ass Fan brand too. If you know about them at all you know they make quality fans.

The Retractable Blades Ceiling Fan by Horevo is loaded with tons of features to bring the ultimate in smart technology to your living space.  The fan features remote control retractable blades that hide away out of sight when you do not need them.  The multi-colored LED light is dimmable and can be adjusted from warm to cool lighting, as well as a night light mode.

 With a Bluetooth speaker built right into the fan and tons of other features, the  Retractable Blades Ceiling Fan is sure to be the center of attention. Everything can also be controlled with a smartphone app for both Android and iPhones.  So, you can cool your room and listen to your favorite tunes all with one amazing device.

Robot Vacuum

You’ve probably heard of automatic vacuums and the idea of pushing a button or scheduling a robot vacuum to clean while you are away or asleep.  The newest technologies in robot vacuums mean that you can do so much more.  With the introduction of the most advanced cleaning action available to a hands-free cleaning system, you can be assured that your home will be cleaner will less work for you.

Brand	iRobot Roomba 640	Roborock E20	eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S (Slim)
Suction	Auto adjust	1800Pa	1300Pa
Multi-Surface	Yes	Yes	Yes
Edge Sweeping	Yes	Yes	Yes
Mopping	No	Yes	No
Run Time	90 minutes	100 minutes	100 minutes
Auto Dock/Recharge	Yes	Yes	Yes
Special Features	Dirt Detect	Cyclonic 3D Cleaning	BoostIQ™ Technology
Price	Check Amazon	Check Amazon	Check Amazon

The iRobot Roomba 640 offers a 3-Stage Cleaning system that means it can move from hard floors to carpet and pick up everything in its path.  The iRobot includes patented dirt detect sensors that signal the vacuum to work harder in especially dirty areas to ensure an overall clean.  Though the iRobot is the only one on our list without smart home connectivity, they offer over 25 years of robot cleaning experience. 

The Roborock E20 is not only a robot vacuum, but it mops floors too!  Specially designed to tackle even tough pet hair, unlike other robot vacuums the Roborock E20 maps out a precise route for the ultimate in efficient vacuuming.  Automatic carpet detection allows it to move seamlessly across all types of flooring.  As an added bonus, the Roborock E20 features Alexa voice capabilities.  This allows you to use voice commands as well as scheduling and away functions to come home to a clean floor after work.

The last one on our list is the eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S (Slim).  This ultra-slim robot vacuum features BoostIQ™ technology that increases suction within 1.5 seconds to get down deep into your carpet. At a tiny 2.85” in height, the eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S (Slim) is specifically designed to get to even the hardest to reach places under your furniture.  While the 11S Slim does not work with Alexa, upgrade to the 15C to get that added feature.  

Smart Security System

If you are looking to go smart tech with your security system, then the Samsung SmartThings ADT Wireless Home Security Starter Kit is the perfect option.  This DIY smart alarm system features window and door sensors, as well as a motion detector.  This 4-piece bundle comes with a 7-inch touchscreen ADT security hub and includes the necessary battery, to get you started. The security system seamlessly integrated with automated fast-response alarms to instantly alert the authorities when needed.  (ADT monitoring fees extra)

The Samsung SmartThings ADT Wireless Home Security system is also Alexa Compatible, allowing you to set or check the system from anywhere in your home or when you are away with the Alexa app.  Addition devices, such as cameras, lights, and door locks can be added to the system for increased security.

Check out our write up on the 12 best DIY security systems here. Why pay a monthly fee when you can monitor your home yourself.

Video Doorbell

Everywhere on the news are stories about people stealing packages from front porches.  The number one way to combat this is with a Ring Video Doorbell Pro.  This doorbell works with any Echo device or smartphone to send images to your phone, tablet, PC or Smart TV whenever motion is detected, or the doorbell is pressed.

The  Ring Video Doorbell Pro allows the user to speak directly to visitors without ever having to answer the door.  You also can view live on-demand video of your property from anywhere.  Check-in on your home when you are at work or away on vacation.  Includes Lifetime Theft Protection, they will replace your doorbell for free if it gets stolen.

Alexa Enabled Devices

If you haven’t ventured into the world of Alexa-enabled devices, then you have come to the right place.  Whether you are looking to add one or more of the above devices, an Alexa-enabled device offers true voice control to some of your everyday tasks.

Use your device to keep track of important dates, set timers, play music, order directly from Amazon, and so much more.  Here are a few of our favorite Alexa-enabled devices.  Be sure to check out Amazon for All things Alexa for even more.

Smart Speakers

Bring all the advantages of Alexa to life with the Echo (2nd Generation).  Powerful Dolby technology offers clear sound with 360⁰ audio.  Make hands free phone calls, drop in on other Echo devices. The Echo (2nd Generation) connects with hundreds of smart home devices to streamline your smart technology.

With the Echo, you have immediate access (with reliable internet) to the latest news, play audio books and music.  With the connected Alexa app, you can enable interactive games and customize your news to get the most personalized experience. 

Partnerships with some of the top names, including Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, SiriusXM, and many others, offer you the ability to connect with the services you already use and opens the door to so many others.  New Alexa skills are added all the time. 

Smart Displays

Keeping in touch with friends and loved ones has never been easier.  With the Portal from Facebook, you can use all the functions of Facebook Messenger without being stuck holding your phone or sitting in from of your computer.  Alexa is built into the Portal allowing users voice activation.  Move around while you talk, and the Smart Camera will follow you or expand automatically if someone else walks into the room.

BONUS: Smart Camera Bundle

If you have a little one, then chances are you have seen the wide variety of baby monitors on the market.  We found a great bundle, pairing the best in smart home voice technology with a fantastic high definition smart camera.  With the Echo Spot bundle with Wyze HD Smart Camera, you can check in on the baby or anywhere in your home with the  1080p HD camera.  The Wyze HD Smart Camera offers top of the line motion tagging technology and allows for both live streaming and instant playback.  With 4 built-in night vision lens, you can see up to 29.6 feet. 

Echo Spot brings together the convenience of voice command with a 3-inch screen, giving you added benefits.  Not only can you pair the Echo Spot with the Wyze HD Smart Camera, but you can link to the Ring Doorbell as well to check in on any visitors and speak directly with them from anywhere in your home.

Optimize Your Living Space Today!

There you have it over 9 devices that can be fully integrated to offer you the smartest living space in the neighborhood.  With smart devices you can streamline your life, allowing you more time to enjoy the things you love.  With the addition of free mobile apps, your home will be smart and accessible no matter where you are.

Amazon offers a wide range of smart devices; we have just scratched the surface.  And technology is advancing all the time.  Jump on board and make sure to bring your home into the modern smart age today. 

Related Questions

How much does it cost to use Smart Home Devices? Other than the cost of the initial purchase of most smart devices, if you have a reliable internet connection, then there is no additional cost to using most smart devices.  Security systems that use an outside monitoring system will cost you only the monitoring fees.  Additionally, devices such as smart bulbs use energy-saving technology, so they will save energy in the long run.

Do you need professional installation for Smart Home Devices?  In most cases, Smart Home Devices do not require professional installation.  While the devices come with great step by step installation instructions, every item we have listed is also backed by amazing customer services that you can contact if you have any questions.