In today's world, automating your life has become incredibly easy. From self-driving cars and smartwatches that can detect falls and call for help, to robot vacuum cleaners that map out your home's needs, automation has become a swipe away. Smart home settings allow you to automate your lighting, temperature, and even news preferences. The beauty of smart home products is that there is something for everyone, regardless of their phone or voice assistant preferences.

As a tech reporter, I must admit that I don't have a smart home automation system. If you're in the same boat and are interested in diving into the world of smart homes, I've put together a guide to help get us all started. Maria Diaz, the smart home guru at ZDNet, explains why setting up a smart home is worth it, despite initial intimidation.

I've compiled everything you need to build your smart home, whether it's smart speakers, smart lights, smart locks, or smart thermostats. Here are a few recommendations:

- Smart Speaker: The Amazon Echo Speaker with Amazon Alexa capabilities is a versatile smart hub that can control other smart devices with voice commands.
- Video Doorbell: A video doorbell provides insight into who's at your door without leaving your couch. Look for one with HD video, motion detection, and integration with other smart devices.
- Smart Lock: Secure your home with a smart lock that uses fingerprint technology and customizable key combinations.
- Smart Lights: Create lighting schedules and change the mood of a room with smart bulbs like Philips Hue, which offer customizable color options and dimming capabilities.
- Smart Thermostat: Save money on your electric bill with a smart thermostat that adapts to your schedule and offers voice control.

There are also other smart home devices like smart plugs, displays, and robot vacuums that can enhance your living space. While a smart home hub can be useful for connecting devices, it's not always necessary. Costs for smart home devices can vary depending on the number and type of products you choose. It's important to choose a compatible smart assistant/brand to make controlling your smart home easier. Zigbee and Matter are two wireless technologies that allow different smart home devices to connect within one system.