The best internet of things devices can change how people live, work, and manage their health. IoT technology connects everyday objects to the internet, letting them communicate and automate tasks. From smart thermostats that learn heating preferences to wearables that track heart rate, these devices offer real convenience.
But not every IoT device delivers equal value. Some stand out for their reliability, ease of use, and genuine impact on daily routines. This guide covers the top internet of things devices across categories, smart home, wearables, and health monitors, plus practical tips for choosing the right ones.
Key Takeaways
- The best internet of things devices solve real problems—like saving energy, improving health tracking, or simplifying daily tasks—rather than adding unnecessary complexity.
- Top IoT devices share common traits: seamless connectivity, user-friendly setup, strong security features, and long-term manufacturer support.
- Smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling costs by 10-15% annually, often paying for themselves within two years.
- Wearables like the Apple Watch and Fitbit track vital health metrics including heart rate, sleep quality, and irregular heart rhythms.
- Before buying any internet of things device, verify ecosystem compatibility with your existing smart home setup (Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit).
- Start small with a smart speaker and a few smart plugs, then expand your IoT setup gradually based on what genuinely improves your routine.
What Makes an IoT Device Stand Out
Thousands of internet of things devices crowd the market today. So what separates the best from the mediocre?
Seamless Connectivity
Top IoT devices connect reliably to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other protocols without constant drops or lag. They integrate smoothly with existing ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa. A smart speaker that loses connection every few hours isn’t saving anyone time.
User-Friendly Setup
The best internet of things devices don’t require a computer science degree to install. Look for products with intuitive apps, clear instructions, and minimal configuration steps. If setup takes more than 15 minutes, most users give up.
Security and Privacy
IoT devices collect data, sometimes a lot of it. Quality devices use encryption, offer two-factor authentication, and receive regular firmware updates. Cheap knockoffs often skip these protections, leaving personal information exposed.
Actual Usefulness
This sounds obvious, but many IoT gadgets solve problems nobody has. The standout devices address real pain points: saving energy, improving sleep, or simplifying household tasks. A connected toaster that sends notifications? Probably not essential. A smart lock that lets you check if you remembered to lock up? That’s genuinely useful.
Build Quality and Longevity
IoT devices should last several years. The best ones come from manufacturers with track records of continued support and software updates. Orphaned devices, those abandoned by their makers, become security risks and eventually stop working altogether.
Top Smart Home Devices Worth Considering
Smart home products represent the largest category of internet of things devices. Here are the standouts that deliver real value.
Smart Thermostats
Devices like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat and Ecobee SmartThermostat learn household schedules and adjust temperatures automatically. They can cut heating and cooling costs by 10-15% annually. Most pay for themselves within two years through energy savings.
Video Doorbells
Ring and Google Nest doorbell cameras let homeowners see who’s at the door from anywhere. They record package deliveries, deter porch pirates, and provide peace of mind. The best internet of things devices in this category offer clear night vision and two-way audio.
Smart Lighting
Philips Hue and LIFX bulbs allow users to control lighting via voice commands or smartphone apps. They can dim automatically at bedtime, simulate occupancy while traveling, or sync with movies for ambient effects. Energy-efficient LED technology means they cost little to operate.
Smart Plugs
These affordable IoT devices turn any appliance into a connected one. Plug in a lamp, coffee maker, or fan, then control it remotely or set schedules. At $15-25 each, smart plugs offer an easy entry point into home automation.
Robot Vacuums
The iRobot Roomba and Roborock models map homes, avoid obstacles, and empty their own dustbins. Higher-end versions mop floors too. For busy households, they handle a tedious chore automatically, often while everyone sleeps.
Smart Speakers and Displays
Amazon Echo and Google Nest devices serve as control hubs for other internet of things devices. They answer questions, play music, set timers, and manage smart home ecosystems through voice commands. The display versions add video calling and visual feedback.
Wearable Technology and Health Monitors
IoT devices worn on the body have transformed personal health tracking. The best options combine accuracy with actionable insights.
Smartwatches
The Apple Watch Series 9 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 track heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep stages, and physical activity. They detect irregular heart rhythms and can alert emergency contacts after falls. For many users, these internet of things devices have become essential health companions.
Fitness Trackers
Fitbit Charge 6 and Garmin Vivosmart 5 focus specifically on exercise and wellness metrics. They cost less than full smartwatches while still monitoring steps, calories, sleep quality, and workout intensity. Battery life often exceeds a week, a significant advantage over smartwatches.
Smart Rings
The Oura Ring represents a newer category of wearable IoT devices. It tracks sleep, readiness scores, and activity without the bulk of a watch. Athletes and health-conscious users appreciate its discrete design and detailed recovery metrics.
Continuous Glucose Monitors
For people managing diabetes, CGMs like the Dexterity G7 provide real-time blood sugar readings sent directly to smartphones. These internet of things devices eliminate constant finger pricks and help users spot dangerous trends before they become emergencies.
Blood Pressure Monitors
Withings BPM Connect and Omron Evolv sync readings to health apps, creating long-term records doctors can review. They’re more convenient than manual monitors and encourage consistent tracking, key for managing hypertension.
Sleep Trackers
Beyond wrist-worn devices, dedicated sleep trackers like the Withings Sleep Analyzer sit under mattresses. They monitor breathing disturbances, snoring, and sleep cycles without requiring users to wear anything to bed.
How to Choose the Right IoT Devices for Your Needs
The best internet of things devices for one household might be unnecessary for another. Here’s how to make smart purchasing decisions.
Identify Specific Problems
Start with pain points, not gadgets. High energy bills? A smart thermostat makes sense. Worried about package theft? Consider a video doorbell. Want better sleep data? Look at wearables with sleep tracking. Buying IoT devices without clear purposes leads to expensive clutter.
Check Ecosystem Compatibility
Before purchasing, verify that new devices work with existing systems. An Alexa household should prioritize Alexa-compatible products. Apple users benefit from HomeKit integration. Mixing ecosystems creates friction and limits automation possibilities.
Read Recent Reviews
IoT device quality changes over time as manufacturers update software or discontinue support. Check reviews from the past six months rather than relying on older assessments. Pay attention to comments about reliability, app quality, and customer service.
Consider Total Costs
Some internet of things devices require subscriptions for full functionality. Video doorbells often need monthly plans for cloud storage. Fitness trackers may lock premium features behind paywalls. Factor these ongoing costs into purchase decisions.
Start Small
New users should begin with one or two IoT devices rather than overhauling everything at once. A smart speaker and a few smart plugs provide a foundation. Expand gradually based on what proves useful.
Prioritize Security
Research manufacturer security practices. Choose companies that issue regular updates and haven’t suffered major data breaches. Change default passwords immediately and enable two-factor authentication when available.
