Wireless connectivity and remote access allow you to control smart appliances with smartphone apps or voice commands. These appliances can also be monitored and programmed for energy efficiency.
Consumer Reports tested a wide selection of connected appliances to determine how they handle your data, and we evaluated their digital security features. Here are some of our favorite high-tech home appliances.
Smart Refrigerators
Modern smart appliances can be controlled via Wi-Fi and link to other devices like smartphones and voice assistants. They can also offer safety features such as a fridge door-open alert and even help you manage your family’s calendar and leave notes.
Some smart refrigerators like the Samsung Family Hub have giant touch screens that let you order groceries, stream music and more. LG’s InstaView ThinQ line has a 29- inch display that integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Smart Ovens
Smart ovens look like regular full-size or countertop ovens but offer a variety of cooking modes. This type of small appliance can also scan QR codes on curated weekly food deliveries for a hands-free experience.
Users can preheat, adjust the oven’s temperature and shut off the device from anywhere using an app or voice commands. Some models even come with a camera to allow the user to watch the food as it cooks.
Smart Dishwashers
With smart connectivity increasingly becoming an expected feature in premium designs, many home appliance brands offer a dishwasher with Wi-Fi capability. This allows for easy monitoring and control from a smartphone. Some are compatible with virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, too.
Use the free GE Profile Connect + app to set up and manage your connected appliances. All your appliance data is held securely as required by UL.
Smart Washing Machines
A smart washer can make laundry easier and cut your electric bill. Some even monitor components to let you know when a part is nearing failure, which saves time and money on repairs.
Control machine settings with an app or via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, plus get notifications when a cycle finishes. Some even automatically dispense detergent and fabric softener for maximum efficiency.
Smart Dryers
Using sensors, smart dryers optimize cycles to get your clothes dry with the least amount of energy. They also eliminate over- and underdrying to protect fabrics from damage.
Some smart dryers allow you to use voice commands through devices like Alexa or Google Assistant. Others include a remote diagnostics feature that helps service companies troubleshoot problems quickly.
Smart Cooktops
Some smart cooktops feature touch controls or a control panel that can be operated hands-free with voice commands. They prioritize kitchen safety with child locks and built-in sensors that change heat settings or shut off when pans are removed.
Others allow users to monitor and control their appliances via a mobile app. Some can even make recommendations based on cooking history.
Smart Microwaves
If you have a visually impaired relative or elderly family member, operating a standard microwave can be challenging. This smart model is a good fit for their needs, and it syncs with Alexa and Google Assistant.
With its scan-to-cook technology, this microwave takes the guesswork out of reheating and defrosting food. Simply scan the food’s barcode with your phone and the app will figure out how to heat it properly.
Smart Coffee Makers
Whether you need to brew your morning coffee right before you wake up or want a quick espresso on the go, a smart coffee maker gives you the flexibility of controlling your home appliance from anywhere. It also works with smart home systems for added functionality.
Schedule brewing times and create unique command phrases using Routines in the Alexa app. Plus, the front-filling reservoir makes it easy to restock and keeps it neatly tucked away under cabinets.
Smart Lighting
Upgrade your home’s lighting with programmable LED bulbs that change colors or create scenes and coordinate with music or movies. Smart LEDs also dim at a preset time to signal bedtime and turn brighter when you wake up.
Choose from options that connect to the smart home hubs, digital voice assistants and mobile devices you already use. You can also find smart light switches and dimmer controls that replace or sit alongside existing wall switches, and weatherproof outdoor smart plugs.
Smart Security
If you’ve heard about smart home appliances, you may be considering integrating the technology into your own home. Whether you’re an expert or a newbie, Constellation offers a wide range of innovative appliances to meet your needs.
Smart devices are connected via Wi-Fi and work with home automation apps, voice assistants or smart hubs. They can be remotely controlled and monitored from your phone or tablet. There are a variety of home warranty options that cover smart home appliances, mainly kitchen appliances. These high tech appliances offer a better way of living.
