Christopher NullFreelance Contributor, TechHive
Christopher Null is a veteran technology and business journalist. He contributes regularly to TechHive, PCWorld, and Wired, and operates the websites Drinkhacker and Film Racket. Disclosure: He also writes for Hewlett-Packad's marketing website TechBeacon.
These two also-ran smart-home products form a mediocre bundle.
Braumm S111 smart switch review: This generic switch won’t break the bank
Like Braumm's Wi-Fi smart plug, there's absolutely nothing sophisticated about the Braumm S111 in-wall smart switch, but it is supremely inexpensive.
Kami Smart Security Starter Kit review: Its low price tag is the one thing it has going for it
You won't find many Zigbee-based home security systems cheaper than this, but you'll find plenty that are more effective at protecting your home.
Bond Bridge by Olibra review: Bringing smart-home tech to dumb ceiling fans
Make your dumb ceiling fan or fireplace smart today with this Wi-Fi bridge, and it might enable you to do the same for your air conditioner and other appliances later.
Samsung SmartThings Wifi Smart Plug review: No hub required, but wear your debugging hat
It’s affordable enough, but ultimately not worth your time in its present state.
Lockly Secure Pro Review: This pricey biometric smart lock joins the Wi-Fi club
Thanks to an external hub, Lockly can now be accessed remotely.
Samsung SmartThings Smart Bulb review: A $10 bulb built for the SmartThingsverse
Samsung SmartThings users will want to check out this inexpensive, dimmable, Zigbee, white-only LED smart bulb, but be aware of its limitations before you plop down your 10 bucks.
Samsung SmartThings Cam review: A top-notch security cam particularly suited to SmartThings users
But this pint-sized camera will make a great impression on anyone with basic surveillance needs.
Wemo WiFi Smart Light Switch 3-Way review: One of the best ways to render a three-way circuit smart
Excellent design, trouble-free installation, and elimination of the need for a matching switch gives Wemo another winner in the smart home space.
Braumm P11 WiFi Smart Plug review: This generic smart-home product gets the job done
A bare bones smart plug, priced accordingly.
Whether you need off-the-grid lighting or just an emergency power option, don’t overlook this simple kit.
GE intended these bulbs to be easy to use, but they're just the opposite.
C by GE Smart Plug review: This smart home gadget disappoints
Adding one to your Wi-Fi network is easy enough, but GE falls short of delivering on its promise of easy integration with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Xiaomi Mi Smart Plug WiFi review: A commodity add-on outlet with more flaws than features
Don’t be enticed by the low price: This smart plug is a me-too wannabe.
Schlage Connect review: The Z-Wave version of Schlage’s smart deadbolt is big on brawn, not brains
You'll want to run a smart home hub to get the most benefit from this strong smart lock.