Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive
Michael is TechHive's lead editor and covers the connected-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.
SnapPower SwitchLight review: Better than any nightlight
Don’t stumble around in the dark looking for the light switch.
66 Audio Pro Voice wireless headphones review: Alexa moves out of the smart home
Wearing these on-ear cans is like strapping a pair of Echos to your head.
Ring Floodlight Cam review: An excellent choice—if you’re living in Ring’s ecosystem
If you’re already using one of Ring’s doorbell cameras or spotlight cams, this porchlight replacement will be a great addition.
Google Home Max review: This is the best-sounding smart speaker you can buy
But Sonos might have more to fear than Amazon (ditto for Apple).
The latest Wi-Fi mesh router comes from... First Alert?
Showgoers were doing double takes when they saw the smoke-alarm manufacturer exhibiting routers—and smart speakers—at its booth at CES.
The best smart home products of 2017
These are the smart home hubs, thermostats, speakers, smart locks, lighting controls, security cameras, and routers that will dominate early 2018 and beyond.
Amazon Echo Plus review: Not plus enough
Amazon’s mid-range smart speaker comes up just a little short.
Music sounds fantastic on Samsung’s flagship soundbar, but it needs more oomph for soundtracks.
Amazon Echo, Echo Plus or Echo Spot: Which Alexa smart speaker is right for you?
The answer was easy when there were just two models. Now Alexa is all over the place.
Sonos One smart speaker review: Sonos and Alexa, a match made in heaven
Sonos audio quality and Amazon's Echo and Alexa voice technology are a powerful combo. And you can now use voice commands to control Spotify on Sonos speakers.
Fabriq Chorus review: This Alexa-powered smart speaker is an excellent value
It sounds great, can operate on battery power, and comes with a charging dock.
The best Amazon Echo add-ons and accessories
A few are goofy, but many are great: These mostly inexpensive gadgets can make Amazon’s smart speakers even better.
Leeo Smart Alert Nightlight review: $50 is cheap if it saves your house from burning down
It plugs into an AC outlet, alerts you to smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and contacts you via an app with a recording of the sound. A few false alarms aside, this security device is a smart buy for any home.
Amazon Echo (2nd generation) review: Better than the original, but not as important
Interested in voice-based home control? Buy an Echo Dot. Interested in multi-room audio? Buy a Sonos One.
Smart bulb or smart switch? Startup Noon Home says smart bulbs are dumb
Noon Home’s OLED switches promise to deliver designer lighting using your home’s existing fixtures.