The Difference between smart home VS connected home
With the rise of the Internet of Things has come a new set of terminology for consumers to get their heads around. More products than ever can be controlled remotely via an app, or with voice commands, adding a level of convenience that once felt wildly futuristic.
It’s easy to get the terms confused or to assume they mean the same thing, but smart homes and connected homes have some key distinctions. So what’s the difference between a smart home and a connected home? As smart home specialists, we can explain.
Smart home vs connected home
A connected home is the simplest variant of the two. It typically refers to the infrastructure within the home – namely, that there’s a solid Wi-Fi connection and that there are devices around the home that feature connectivity ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and/or other connectivity protocols.
Devices in a connected home might be operated via Amazon Alexa or through individual apps, including your thermostat app, video doorbell and smart fridge.
A smart home, on the other hand, has a more complex infrastructure, perhaps with whole-house audio and lighting systems. The technology is typically controlled via one centralised system, with interfaces throughout the home or on your mobile device. Convenience is enhanced with automatic actions such as lights turning on or off at certain times.
Smart home technology typically includes any of the following:
- Integrated security systems
- Whole-home audio systems
- Wi-Fi networks
- Automated lighting and window shading
- Garage doors automation
- Appliances such as fridges or coffee makers
What are the advantages of a smart home?
Part of what differentiates a connected home from a smart home is the installation process. The benefit of a connected home is that you can add the features you want by yourself – so long as your Wi-Fi can cope with them. Of course, the downside is that you’ll have to control most things via their individual apps.
One of the main advantages of smart home technology is that it can be integrated through a centralised system, in a way that allows you to add future devices without needing to reconfigure the whole setup. For this reason, it’s highly advisable to ask a smart home specialist to carry out the installation on your behalf, as they can ensure you have powerful enough Wi-Fi to cope, and the best products for your needs.
Choosing a fully integrated smart home increases the convenience of your living experience dramatically, offering automation options and the ability to store data and learn your habits.
Professional smart home advice
As with most new technologies, it’s best to seek advice from experts when it comes to getting started with everything smart home related. As professional smart home installers in Kent, we at New Wave AV have helped many customers to enjoy a more integrated and convenient living experience. We can offer advice for a range of needs, and are available to install systems across the South East, from Kent, Sussex and Surrey to London and Essex.
Get in touch with our team today to find out more.
