Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive
Michael is TechHive's lead editor and covers the smart home and home entertainment markets. He built his own smart home in 2007, which he uses as a real-world test lab when reviewing new products. Michael also reviews routers and networking products for TechHive and PCWorld.
Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro review: Sophisticated front-door security—for a price
This is the best video doorbell we’ve tested, but not everyone will want the professionally installed and monitored smart home/home security system that it's part of.
Sonos will release a brand-new operating system in June
Sonos S2 will support high-resolution audio, increased audio bandwidth, and more, but older components won't be compatible.
Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi 4-Speed Fan Controller review: No hub required
The logical (if not best) choice of fan control if you’ve settled on the Decora Smart Wi-Fi platform for smart home control.
Leviton Decora Smart Voice Dimmer with Amazon Alexa review: Two smart home devices in one
This highly capable smart dimmer is also 98 percent of an Amazon Echo smart speaker.
Philips Hue Go review: This portable smart lamp lets you add ambient lighting anywhere
The Philips Hue Go is pretty and portable, and you can operate it on its own, via Bluetooth, or as part of a whole-home Hue lighting system with the Hue Bridge.
This high-tech set up lets you grow delicious herbs and leafy greens indoors all year round.
Simplehuman Rectangular Sensor Can review: Have we taken voice control too far?
Sensors in this fancy trash can recognize voice commands and gestures, no smart speaker needed.
Amazon Echo Studio vs. Google Home Max: Battle of the high-end smart speakers
One is more musical, but the other makes a better smart home controller. Which attribute is most important to you?
How to protect your Ring account with the new Control Center privacy dashboard
Ring has updated its app with new and improved privacy tools. Here’s how to make the most of them.
Ring is rolling out its new Control Center privacy dashboard
Owners of Ring video doorbells and other home security products are finally getting some essential privacy protections.
Amazon Echo Studio review: Not quite the best smart speaker, but a fantastic value
The more-expensive Google Home Max delivers higher fidelity, and Sonos has the better multi-room ecosystem, but Amazon’s best Echo shouldn’t be overlooked.
Sonos changes tack on “legacy” hardware
Older hardware still won’t get new software features after May, but operating them won’t prevent firmware updates for new hardware.
Belkin teams with Devialet to build the SoundForm Elite smart speaker and wireless charger
It’s no surprise that Belkin would make a device charger, but a high-end speaker is something else entirely.
Best mesh Wi-Fi routers: Reviews and buying advice
Few elements of your home’s infrastructure have a bigger impact on your tech life. We recommend mesh Wi-Fi routers for most people, and we’ll help you find just the right one for your needs.
Leviton Type A & Type C USB Charger Outlet review: Not smart but handy as a pocket on a shirt
This outlet features built-in USB charging ports and is available in both 15- and 20-amp configurations.
Articles by Michael Brown
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