When it comes to building a smart home, one of the most crucial steps is selecting the right smart home platform. If you make the wrong choice, you might find yourself juggling multiple smartphone apps to control all your devices. Two of the top options available are Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa, but which one is best for you? Let's compare the two platforms to help you make a decision.

What is a smart home platform?

Smart home platforms serve as a central hub to control all your smart home products. Once you install the software, whether on your phone or a hub device, you'll have easy access to all your smart home devices and their controls. While individual smart home products usually come with their own apps, managing them all separately can be overwhelming. With a smart home platform like Alexa or HomeKit, you can access everything in one place.

Hub devices

Hub devices are central to smart homes, with smart speakers and displays allowing you to control the rest of your setup. Apple's HomeKit hubs are more limited, including options like the HomePod, HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K, or standard iPad Pro. Amazon Alexa works with the entire Echo range and third-party products. Amazon offers more hub options compared to Apple, with products like the Echo Pop available.

Winner: Alexa

Compatible Devices

Amazon Alexa supports a wide range of products compared to HomeKit. While HomeKit has fewer compatible products, its offerings are generally of high quality. Amazon's catalog is broader, but Apple's products like HomePod and HomePod mini provide excellent support. Many third-party products also work with HomeKit.

Winner: Alexa

Ease of Use

Both HomeKit and Alexa are easy to use, with intuitive apps and voice assistants. Alexa works on both Android and iOS, while HomeKit is limited to iOS. Both platforms make controlling your smart home simple.

Editorial recommendations:

If you're heavily invested in the iOS ecosystem, HomeKit is a functional and user-friendly option. However, Alexa is a versatile choice with a wide range of products and support for various devices. Alexa's affordability and extensive product catalog make it a great option for any smart home setup.