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There’s no doubt smart devices can make your life easier. But does every device have to be smart? Here are a few compelling reasons why keeping your devices dumb might actually be a smart move.
Smart Devices Often Cost More
One of the biggest problems with smart devices is the increased up-front cost versus their dumb counterparts. Take smart bulbs, for example. A high-quality pack of eightSylvania LED bulbswill set you back around $11. Purchasing the same number ofPhilips Hue bulbs, you’ll spend closer to $100.
There may also be other hidden costs when buying smart devices. Some, like Philips Hue or Aqara products, for example, won’t function properly unless you purchase a companionsmart home hub. This multiplies the price of ownership. In addition to hubs, you may also be asked to pay subscription fees to support multiple devices or unlock upgraded features.
Finally, purchasing new smart devices might even inspire you to spend more cash on—wait for it—additional smart devices. This is due to a social phenomenon known asThe Diderot Effect, which causes consumers to spend frivolously as they upgrade older items to match newer purchases. That’s why, if cost is something you care about, dumb devices might be a better option.
Connection Issues Happen
One benefit of owning non-smart devices is that most will operate without an internet connection. If you’ve ever had arouter red light concernor experienced an unexpected network outage, then you know that an unresponsive smart device is often the first clue that something is wrong with your internet service.
For homes relying on a wide array of smart devices, these types of network issues can create all manner of smart home havoc.
Connection issues aren’t just limited to your internet service provider, though. Sometimes, devices won’t play nice with each other or with certain types of competing hardware. If you purchase a smart switch that is Amazon Alexa compatible, for instance, there’s no guarantee that the same switch will work if you swap platforms to Apple HomeKit or Google Home.
Devices that depend on a 2.4GHz network can also cease functioning if only a 5GHz network is available.
Firmware Frustrations and App Annoyances
Some smart device manufacturers couple smart home products with proprietary apps. Typically, these apps are great. In some cases, however, they’re terrible.
If you’ve ever dealt with a less-than-stellar app to use an otherwise awesome smart device (we’re looking at you SmartThings), then you know how annoying some of these proprietary apps can be—especially when there are no alternatives.
Likewise, if you’ve ever had a device automatically update only to break your perfect automation setup, then you know all about firmware frustration. It’s no secret that smarthome devices can sometimes act strangely. But when forced firmware updates break stuff, you’ll find yourself wanting to pull out your hair.
These issues can be extremely stressful to troubleshoot if you have numerous automations or own many smart home products. The choice to steer clear of smart devices eliminates these issues.
Smart Devices Could Complicate Relationships
The final bugbear to consider before choosing smart devices over dumb devices involves the people you care about. Let’s face it, smart devices aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Sure, they may save you some time or make your home seem futuristic, but if your spouse, children, or older family members feel trapped by your smart home, that could carve a serious rift in your relationship.
No one wants that. If you need to keep the less tech-savvy happy, then dumb devices are almost always the better choice.
Overall, smart devices are designed to make your life easier. If they won’t, then there’s no point in owning them. That’s why it’s important to carefully consider whether a new piece of kit will make your life easier before clicking “Add to Cart”. Doing so is never dumb, even if you ultimately decide some of your devices should be.
