Smart Home
Welcome to the hub of Livingetc's smart home content, the place where you'll find all you need to know about the latest in home tech, written with the design-lover in mind.
Latest
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4 genius things you can do with home security in 2023 that'll give you extra peace of mind
From clever features to smart buys that can make your system smarter, here are some of the things exciting us in home security tech right now
By Hugh Metcalf • Published
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Can I use a soundbar as a central speaker? Yes but you shouldn’t, says our expert – here's why
While you technically can use some soundbars as a central speaker in a surround sound system, you really shouldn’t
By Alan Martin • Published
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Best surround sound systems - elevate your home theater experience
Get the best surround sound system setup of your dreams with our pick of TV speakers, soundbars and more
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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Best wireless doorbell: the best wire-free doorbell cameras and chimes for your home
The best wireless doorbells, from welcoming chimes to secure video recording systems
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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Design meets technology - lifestyle TVs are a trend that's only going to keep growing
Your TV doesn't have to detract from the style of your space, as the rise of lifestyle TVs proves
By Caroline Preece • Published
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Apple TV vs Chromecast - which one comes out on top in the age of streaming?
What is the difference between Apple TV and Chromecast? Here are some factors you need to consider before picking one
By Caroline Preece • Published
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Best soundbars - our pick of speakers for an effortless home theater experience
These are our top picks for the best soundbars to add a cinematic tone to your next binge-watch, including models from LG, Sonos, Bowers & Wilkins, and more
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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Roku vs Apple TV: the two streaming devices go head to head
Comparing the two streaming devices, Roku and Apple TV both offer great features - but which one is ultimately the best choice for you?
By Caroline Preece • Published
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The best Alexa speakers for music, podcasts, voice control, and much more - here are our favorites
In our edit of the best Alexa speakers, we have selected styles to suit every household's taste
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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Best smart speakers - our pick of the best Google, Alexa, and Siri devices for automating your everyday life
The best smart speakers to upgrade everyday tasks, play music and get a (digital) helping hand
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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Where to place a subwoofer in relation to your soundbar - say goodbye to lackluster home audio
Wondering where to put that boxy speaker that came with your soundbar? We have the answers
By Caroline Preece • Published
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'Avoid the "soap opera" effect' – 4 tweaks you should make to your TV settings to improve your watching experience
You may want to get stuck into your shows immediately, but take a moment to calibrate your new TV for optimal performance
By Alan Martin • Published
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How far apart should outdoor speakers be placed? Don't risk getting it wrong if you want the best experience
We look at the best ways to ensure your outdoor speaker system creates clear, immersive sound
By Caroline Preece • Published
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Best outdoor projectors: our pick of the top devices for backyard entertainment all summer long
The best outdoor projectors to kick your backyard get-togethers up a notch
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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We tried the Nebular Solar Portable Projector, and you're all invited to ours for movie night
We tested the Nebula Solar Portable to see if it could deliver on the promise of an instant Full HD cinematic experience from anywhere
By Caroline Preece • Published
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The XGIMI Halo+ is a clever portable projector that's as good for indoor streaming sessions as it is for your next outdoor movie night
We test the XGIMI Halo+, which promises an enhanced experience compared to many battery-powered options
By Caroline Preece • Published
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Best subwoofers: beef up the bass with our pick of home cinema subs
The best subwoofers to get the greatest audio power from your home theater system, creating cinematic thrills right there in your living room.
By Caroline Preece • Published
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How far away should a projector be from the screen? Our fool-proof guide
Struggling to find the perfect place for your projector? We guide you through the process of choosing the perfect spot
By Caroline Preece • Published
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I tried out IKEA’s smart wireless dimmer – it’s the best $10 you'll spend if you want a cozier vibe at home
This smart wireless dimmer kit is exactly what I needed for a more hygge vibe in my home
By Lilith Hudson • Published
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The BenQ GS50 is a clever green box with an entire outdoor cinema inside
We test the BenQ GS50, an outdoor projector that promises great audio and image quality for your backyard movie nights
By Caroline Preece • Published
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ViewSonic M1+ review - a capable outdoor projector lacking in smarts
A great way to blow up those movies, shows and videos up on the big screen, we put the ViewSonic M1+ to the test
By Caroline Preece • Published
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JBL Clip 4 review - a simple but robust speaker perfect for shower singalongs
We review the JBL Clip 4, which is one of the brand's most versatile portable Bluetooth speakers
By Caroline Preece • Published
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5 incredible things TVs can do in 2023 that will probably convince you it's time for an upgrade
In 2023, smart TVs can do some amazing things. Here’s what you can expect if you’re due an upgrade
By Alan Martin • Published
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8 genius uses for outdoor smart plugs that will make your backyard just as clever as your home
Ever wish your garden could take care of itself? Outdoor smart plugs make that, and more, possible
By Caroline Preece • Published
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JBL vs Sony - the home audio giants both offer excellent speakers, but which one is best for you?
We compare JBL and Sony's Bluetooth and home theater options to see which is best
By Caroline Preece • Published
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Do projectors use a lot of electricity? We find the answer and tell you how to save before your next get-together
Worried about how much your movie night is costing? We look at the electricity usage of the average projector and whether they're more efficient than TVs
By Caroline Preece • Published
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TV deals: when is the best time to get a bargain on 4K, OLED, QLED, and more?
Find out when to save on a new big screen for the living room
By Caroline Preece • Last updated
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4 alternatives to AirTags with cool features that might tempt you away from Apple
Find your property without an iPhone with these AirTag alternatives
By Alan Martin • Published
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My favorite TVs and home theater products can be snapped up in a President's Day sale - here's what I'm buying
President's Day is a brilliant chance to get a deal on the best TVs, soundbars, and more - here are my top picks
By Caroline Preece • Published
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