New to Home Automation? Here’s Where to Start
Thinking about turning your home into a smart home but unsure where to begin? You’re not alone. The world of home automation is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially with so many platforms, devices, and strategies available. I’ve seen so many Reddit posts asking this same question again and again.
This guide will help you get started with confidence.
Understanding the 5 Tiers of Home Automation
Home automation solutions fall into five distinct categories, each with its own ideal audience, benefits, and limitations. Choosing the right tier for your goals and comfort level can save time, money, and frustration.
1. Consumer DIY Platforms
These are the plug-and-play options available at your local electronics store or online. Think smart bulbs, doorbell cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
Examples: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, Ring, Wyze
Best for: Beginners looking for low-cost, easy-to-install devices
Pros:
- Affordable
- Very easy to install
- Works out of the box
- Voice assistant integration
Cons:
- Limited automation flexibility
- Often requires multiple apps
- Dependent on cloud services
2. DIY Automation Hubs
These platforms serve as central “brains” for your smart home, integrating devices from various brands into one cohesive system. They support advanced automations and local control.
Examples: SmartThings, Hubitat
Best for: Intermediate users who want more flexibility and integration than basic DIY devices offer
Pros:
- Unifies devices from many manufacturers
- Allows complex automations
- Local control (especially Hubitat)
- No monthly fees
Cons:
- Requires more setup and configuration
- Not focused on security or monitoring
- App interfaces can be clunky
3. Security Ecosystems with Automation
Originally built for home security, these platforms have evolved to include smart home capabilities such as lighting, locks, thermostats, and garage doors. Installations may be professional or DIY depending on the provider.
Examples: Alarm.com, Vivint, ADT
Best for: Homeowners prioritizing security but who want light-to-moderate automation features
Pros:
- Professional monitoring available
- Unified app experience
- Reliable and stable
- Integrates automation with security
Cons:
- Automation is secondary to security
- May involve long-term contracts
- Limited ecosystem control or expansion
- Devices may be proprietary or locked to that ecosystem
4. Power DIY / Maker Platforms
Open-source, privacy-focused platforms that give users complete control over their smart home. These require technical confidence but reward you with limitless customization.
Examples: Home Assistant, OpenHAB, Domoticz
Best for: Enthusiasts, tinkerers, developers, and privacy-focused users
Pros:
- No subscriptions
- Local-first and private
- Vast library of integrations
- Build-your-own dashboards and rules
- (in some cases) Build-your-own devices and integrations
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Requires setup and maintenance
- Technical knowledge recommended
5. High-End Custom Systems
Top-tier solutions offering full-home automation, AV control, lighting, climate, and more — all through elegant wall panels, remotes, and professional installation.
Examples: Control4, Crestron, Savant
Best for: Luxury homeowners and new home builders who want turnkey, fully integrated systems
Pros:
- Professionally installed and supported
- Highly polished and reliable
- Seamless AV and lighting control
- Works well at scale
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited post-install flexibility
- Requires a certified dealer for changes
Summary: Home Automation Tiers
| Tier | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Consumer DIY | Alexa, Google Home, Ring, Wyze |
| 2 | DIY Automation Hubs | SmartThings, Hubitat |
| 3 | Security Ecosystems + Automation | Alarm.com, ADT, Vivant |
| 4 | Power DIY / Maker | Home Assistant, OpenHAB |
| 5 | High-End Custom | Control4, Crestron, Savant |
Not Sure Where You Fit? Take This Quick Quiz
Answer the following to find your ideal starting point:
1. How tech-savvy are you?
A) Not at all — I want it to just work
B) I’m comfortable with apps and settings
C) I like to tinker, but I don’t code
D) I love writing rules and setting up servers
E) I don’t want to lift a finger — I’ll pay someone to do it all
2. What’s your budget for home automation (initially)?
A) Under $200
B) $200–$1,000
C) $1,000–$5,000
D) It varies — I’ll spend on gear if it gives me control
E) $5,000+ and I want a clean, custom install
3. What’s most important to you?
A) Simplicity and convenience
B) Security and basic automation
C) Integration of multiple devices
D) Privacy, control, and custom automations
E) A seamless luxury experience
4. Are you planning to automate:
A) Just a few things (like lights or locks)
B) Security and a few smart devices
C) Most of the home (lights, sensors, thermostat, garage)
D) Everything — and I want to customize the rules
E) The entire house — and I want it installed for me
Your Results:
- Mostly A’s – Start with Consumer DIY platforms like Alexa, Google Home, Ring, or Wyze
- Mostly B’s – You’re a fit for Security-First platforms like Alarm.com or Abode
- Mostly C’s – Try a DIY Automation Hub like SmartThings or Hubitat
- Mostly D’s – You’re ready for Power DIY platforms like Home Assistant
- Mostly E’s – Go with a High-End Custom System like Control4, Crestron, or Savant
Final Thoughts
There’s no “one size fits all” approach to home automation — and that’s the beauty of it. Whether you’re building your system piece-by-piece or working with a designer on a dream setup, the key is choosing a platform that aligns with your goals, budget, and comfort level.
And remember: most smart home journeys evolve. You might start with a DIY light bulb, move into a centralized hub, then build your own Home Assistant setup — or hire an integrator for a full retrofit.
So, what kind of smart home do you want to build? Let us know your quiz results in the comments — and join the discussion!