Summary
There are many systems and brands out there. Smart Things by Samsung is what I use. Below is the list of products that I'm using for my Smart Home.
Smart Hub
Smart Hub - All smart technologies need to connect to this hub in order to be able to control from your phone. There are different protocols that can connect to the hub, Z-Wave and Zigbee. Just double-check the compatibility of each product as you purchase them.
Smart Switch
Before you buy a smart switch, check to see if there is a neutral wire to where the switch is at. This is a requirement for Smart Switches to work. If you plan to replace a couple of smart switches in the same compartment, make sure it fits multiple smart switches. Smart switches are bigger than the conventional switches. In order to replace a 3-way switch, they all must be smart switches. Meaning, if one of them isn't smart, then the 3-way will not work!
Here are a couple of switches that I use:
- Dimmer Switch for switches that are connected to dimmable bulbs. The dimmer feature can be used manually by pressing or holding the up or down button.
- Toggle Switch is used for on or off type, e.g. fan, or lights that you don't care about dimming.
Thermostat
Ecobee3 lite or Nest would work. You can get ComEd rebate for ~$100 regardless on where you buy it from (if that offer is still available). I bought mine through ComEd. It has its own app but could be integrated with the SmartThings app. The Ecobee app itself is very intuitive and great. I have nothing but compliments for Ecobee!
Smart plugs
What if you are plugging say a fan into the wall and you want to control it, how can it be smart? The simplest answer to that is Smart Plugs. Plug the smart plug to the outlet. It has 2 outlets, a smart outlet, and a dumb outlet. Plug the device you like to the smart outlet. The dumb outlet is just an extra slot.
Smart Lock
Any brands of smart locks would work. You just need to figure out what features you would like on your smart lock. I bought Kwikset because it has the capability of rekeying, which I didn't even use. There seems to be some connectivity issue with this smart lock from time to time. Schlage is always a good lock brand, can't go wrong with that!
Conclusion
There are other smart technologies out there like water sensors, curtains, video cameras, etc. However, I have not looked into these yet. One day.