In 2014, Apple announced a new connected devices platform called HomeKit, with the hopes of making smart home technology easier and more accessible. It sounds complex, but the gist of it is you can control HomeKit-compatible appliances with your iPhone or Siri.
To make it easier to find the best HomeKit-compatible accessories, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorites. We made our selections based on a handful of factors including price, features, user feedback and of course our own personal experience with the products.
August Smart Lock
The August Smart Lock turns your smartphone into a smart key. It allows you to lock and unlock your door, keep track of who comes and goes, and even print virtual keys for guests. Installation is super easy and it uses Low Energy Bluetooth for extended battery life. In addition to HomeKit, it also works with Nest devices and Amazon’s Alexa.
Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt
If the August Smart Lock isn’t really your style, check out the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt. It meets the highest industry rating for security and durability, and its features include a built-in alarm that senses potential door attacks and the ability to store up to 30 access codes. The touchscreen pin pad is actually a nice little touch, so you can create 1-off codes for guests and the like.
Ecobee3 Smart Thermostat
Other than Google’s Nest, the Ecobee3 is the most popular smart thermostat. It’s a #1 Best Seller on Amazon, and a top accessory in Apple’s web store. It’s smart enough to know things like when you’re home and what the weather is like outside, to make sure you’re comfortable when you’re home and saving money when you’re not. Also compatible with both HomeKit and Alexa.
Philips Hue Ambient Starter Kit
The Philips Hue has been a favorite smart home accessory for a few years now, and the latest generation works with Apple’s HomeKit. The kit gives you 3 color LED bulbs and a bridge that allows you to connect up to 50 lights. You can actually do a lot of cool stuff with Hue lights, like customize the color, create digital scenes, and even sync your lights with music, movies and games for an immersive effect.
iDevices Switch Wi-Fi Smart Plug
If you’re not quite ready to make a large financial commitment to smart home accessories, try starting with something like a smart plug. This allows you to remotely control an appliance plugged into the device with very little setup. We like the iDevices Switch because of its energy tracking features and the customizable LED strip that doubles as a nice hallway or night light.
Koogeek Smart Plug
The Koogeek is another highly rated smart plug. It doesn’t have the LED strip like the iDevices, but it’s less expensive and has a more discreet design. It too allows you to monitor your energy consumption, electricity cost, as well as set schedules and reminders for your appliance and create scenes with multiple plugs. Imagine turning on 5 lamps throughout your house by simple saying “Hey Siri, I’m home.”
Elgato Eve Connected Wall Switch
If you want something more permanent to control your lights, check out Elgato’s Eve connected wall switch. Thanks to its HomeKit support, you can turn your lights on and off using Siri or with a quick tap on your iPhone. It also supports scene creation, so you can pair it with other HomeKit devices to operate a range of appliances with a single command. Uses Low Energy Bluetooth, so there’s no hub to worry about.
Elgato Eve Door & Window Contact Sensor
Live smarter by knowing more about the place you care about most. The Eve Door & Window understands whether your door or window is open or closed, and it can track the time and duration to give you insightful data. You can use this data to perhaps save money on your energy bill or keep your home more secure. The device is truly wireless, with a long-lasting, replaceable battery.