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Smart Home Guides

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The most hack-proof home security cameras

From multilayered authentication to SD storage to the mightiest forms of encryption, check out our guide to the most un-hackable home security cameras for 2021.
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The best indoor herb gardens for 2021

Even if you kill every plant, there's a smart gardening device for you. In this post, we break down some of our favorite indoor gardens and why we dig them.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

How to use an Instant Pot

With so many buttons and functions, an Instant Pot can be pretty confusing, but have no fear. Here's a guide on how to get your pressure cooker up and running.
ring video doorbell wired, how to, install

How to install a Ring Video Doorbell Wired

Ring Video Doorbell Wired is the smallest and most affordable Ring doorbell. But how easy is it to install, and what do you need to know?
Amazon Echo Studio Alexa Smart Speaker

What is Super Alexa Mode and what does it do?

Super Alexa Mode is a fun little secret that you can activate for a quick laugh. Here's what it is, how to make it happen, and what the secret is really about!

Looking for a cheap tiny house? 5 options under $15K

We went in search of some of the cheapest tiny house options available. We found solid options you can buy for super cheap.
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The best Alexa skills for kids and teens

It's never easy keeping kids from boredom, but right now it's especially challenging. If you have an Alexa smart speaker, these skills can help fill the time.
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The most common HomePod problems and how to fix them

The Apple HomePod is a great way to pilot your smart home, but once in a while, the speaker can glitch. Here are some common HomePod errors and how to fix them.
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What is the Instant Pot Duo Gourmet?

What does the Instant Pot Duo Gourmet offer? How is it different from the regular Duo? We examine all of the Instant Pot Duo Gourmet's features to find out.
HomePod Mini on a side table.

Common HomePod mini problems and how to fix them

Is your HomePod mini experiencing connectivity issues or other troubles? Here are the most common problems users are finding and how to fix them properly.
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How to choose the right washer and dryer

Doing laundry doesn't have to be such a chore. Learn everything to know before buying a washer and dryer, from features to types, brands, capacities, and more.

The best weight loss tech

Our collection of smart weight loss tech for your home can help you shed those extra pounds throughout your everyday life -- by making changes that count.
homepod mini in hand

Apple HomePod mini tips and tricks

The HomePod mini is a smaller version of the HomePod speaker. Our guide has all the tips and tricks you need, from pairing with iPhones to intercom messages.
HomePod White

How to reset your HomePod

Having trouble with your Apple HomePod? Is it time to sell or donate the device? Either way, you'll first need to perform a factory reset. We'll teach you how.
Christmas tree with presents.

How to control your holiday lights with Alexa

Want to make your holiday lights smarter? You can control your lights with an Alexa command. Here's exactly how to set it up and everything you need to know.
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Keep it secret, keep it safe: 8 homes with hidden rooms and passages

Whether behind a bookcase or beneath a trapdoor, these eight regal dwellings each contain one or more secret rooms, hidden passageways, or covert architecture.
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Can you use a grill on your apartment’s balcony?

Can you use a grill on your apartment's balcony? That depends on a few different factors, and we go through all of the info you need to know in this guide.
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The best Philips Hue alternatives

Philips Hue has long delivered one of the best experiences in smart lighting, but the competition is heating up. Here, we note some worthwhile alternatives.
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Common washing machine problems, and how to fix them

Is your washing machine causing trouble? Here's what can often go wrong, what you need to do to fix it, and when it's best to call in a professional to help.
blue by adt video doorbell review

Common video doorbell problems, and how to fix them

Video doorbells are useful multipurpose smart security devices -- when they're working properly. Here are common issues we've seen and what solutions can help!
A person pressing the button of the Ring Video Doorbell 3.

Ring Video Doorbell 3 vs. Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus

Not sure which new Ring doorbell to buy? We break down the design and features of both the Ring Video Doorbell 3 and 3 Plus and offer our pick for best bell.
Secura Electric Automatic Milk Frother

The best milk frothers

If you're looking to craft up a delicious latte or cappuccino at home, you'll need a way to froth milk. Here are our favorite milk frothers for your kitchen.
The Google Nest Audio speaker on a table.

Google Nest Audio vs. Google Home

Google Nest Audio is here, but how does it compare to the original Google Home? We take a look at these two smart speakers to see which one best fits your home.
Disney Castle

Best Gifts for Disney Fans

If there's a Disney fan in your life and you're looking for the perfect holiday present for them, we have a ton of suggestions of what you could gift them.
Google Nest Thermostat (2020)

Google Nest Thermostat vs. Google Nest Learning Thermostat

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is loaded with amazing tech, but it's pricey. At half the cost, is the latest base Nest a better option? Let us weigh in.
Echo Show 10 in the kitchen.

What is Amazon Sidewalk?

Tired of your outdoor cameras dropping Wi-Fi? Amazon Sidewalk could be the cure for all our short-range network troubles. Here's a deep dive on what to expect.
Echo Show 8

How to reset and deregister an Echo Show

Parting ways with your Echo Show smart display? Before you sell or donate your device, you'll need to reset and delete the device from your Amazon account.
philips sonicare smart toothbrush

The best electric toothbrushes

Powered toothbrushes take all the push and pull out of manual brushing, giving you a deeper clean. Here are our favorite electric toothbrushes on the market.
Person using a Ring doorbell.

Ring Video Doorbell (2020) vs. Ring Video Doorbell Pro

Video doorbells are the standard for keeping an eye on your front door. We look at the Ring Video Doorbell and Video Doorbell Pro to see which reigns supreme.
Netgear Arlo Pro 3

Arlo Pro 3 vs. Arlo Essential Spotlight

Arlo continues to add exceptional cameras to its portfolio. The Arlo Essential Spotlight is its latest one, but how does it stack up against the Arlo Pro 3?
Google Nest speaker

Google Nest Audio vs. Google Nest Mini

There's a new Google speaker in town, but how does it stack up to the company's older audio? Today, we pit the Google Nest Audio against the Google Nest Mini.
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Amazon Echo Flex vs. Echo Dot

The Echo Dot and Echo Flex are two of Amazon’s smallest smart speakers with Alexa, but how are they different? We take a look at both to find the best for you.
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What is the Ring Always Home Cam?

It's a bird. It's a plane. No, it's Ring's first flying camera. The Always Home Cam is Ring's latest home security innovation, and we've got the inside scoop.
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Walmart+ vs. Amazon Prime

Both Amazon and Walmart offer shopping memberships that provide benefits to subscribers, but what does each service offer and which is better? We take a look.