Is There Anything ‘Smart’ I Wouldn’t Buy?
September 24, 2024
YES! Absolutely, just like there are other things I’d never spend money on. Though I have to admit I really geek out about smart home technology, especially the really gadgety stuff. But there are some things just better left ‘dumb.’
And there are a lot of good reasons why people might avoid buying smart devices for their homes.
Privacy Concerns
Many smart devices collect and share data, raising concerns about how personal information is handled. Devices with microphones, cameras, or sensors can feel invasive, especially if there’s a risk of hacking or unauthorized access.
Security Risks
Smart devices connected to the internet are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Hackers could potentially access home networks, control devices, or steal personal information.
High Cost
Smart home devices can be expensive to purchase and set up, especially if you’re looking to integrate multiple devices (lighting, security systems, thermostats, etc.).
Compatibility Issues
Not all smart devices work well together, especially if they come from different manufacturers. This can lead to frustration when trying to integrate them into a cohesive smart home ecosystem.
Complexity and Learning Curve
Some people find smart devices difficult to set up, configure, or troubleshoot. Keeping track of multiple apps and controls can be overwhelming.
Dependence on Internet and Power
Many smart devices rely on a stable internet connection and electricity to function properly. A power outage or internet disruption can render them useless or unreliable.
Frequent Updates and Obsolescence
Smart devices often require software updates, and older models may quickly become outdated or unsupported. This can lead to frustration and the need for replacements sooner than expected.
Over-reliance on Technology
Some people prefer traditional devices because they don’t want to depend on technology for basic home functions, feeling that manual control is simpler and more reliable.
Potential for Data Leaks and Misuse
Data collected by smart devices may be shared with third parties, used for advertising, or mishandled, raising concerns about data privacy and corporate accountability.
Environmental Impact
Frequent upgrades, electronic waste from obsolete devices, and energy usage can contribute to environmental harm, making some people prefer non-smart alternatives.
These reasons can vary depending on personal preferences, priorities, and concerns about privacy, security, or cost.
So, based on all this what smart devices wouldn’t I really consider in my home — at least not currently? Let’s start with smart appliances …
Smart refrigerators seem like a great idea as they seem to be a kitchen focal point. I think being able to see a refrigerator’s contents while out shopping via the app is kind of cool. But when I can just as easily tell Alexa to add things to my grocery shopping list seeing inside the fridge seems a little silly. And I would rarely if ever need to activate the ice maker or set up advanced temperature control over different zones via the interface in the door. They all seem like reaching for reasons to make a fridge smart.
Maybe most importantly, smart fridges cost way too much money because of the extra tech and the premium that manufacturers charge for the capabilities that I’d rarely, if ever use. Although the prices of smart fridges have decreased, they still cost about $500–$1,000 more, depending on the brand and smart additions.
To add insult to injury, smart fridges have a serious issue with firmware. What do you do when it stops receiving updates? Or the apps and features stop working — all you have is a wanky overpriced dumb fridge. Not to mention, if the smart fridge has cameras and learns about your shopping habits, it could pose a security and privacy risk if a hacker gets access to it.
What about adding smart functionality to ovens and toasters? Other than being able to turn the oven off remotely, I don’t see the point of adding yet another WiFi-enabled device with potential to compromise your privacy or security. Smart ovens may claim to be able to make you a perfect pizza, but there are too many factors at play to really deliver. A number of variable factors make a huge difference. It may seem a little counter to my belief in new and innovative technology but I’d just as soon rely on a digital timer and my senses to let me know when the pizza is perfect.
Smart coffee makers are another one that just don’t make sense to me. They still require you to pre-fill the machine with ground coffee or a pod before you can use an app to brew the coffee. Grabbing a hot cup of coffee the moment you roll out of bed without having to do anything sounds convenient, but all you’re really doing is moving the 30-second prep work to an earlier time. You still have to do all the work and clean the machine afterward. Also, the same arguments against other smart appliances apply to coffee makers — they cost more money, pose a security risk, and are prone to operational issues.
Maybe not exactly an appliance but smart trash cans in homes feel like novelty items to me. I’ve seen them used in stadiums and arenas as they address problems around staffing, events and cost control. But I’m not entirely sure what problem they’re supposed to solve in the home. Those that have motion-sensing lids look like your kids and pets might have fun with them, but if they fail, or the batteries die, you’re left with a manually operated trash can that you have to open with your hands. All that does is make your smart trash can a very expensive regular trash can. Trash cans with foot pedals are infinitely more durable and can potentially open more quickly.
Self-changing models can seal and replace the bag for you, but you still have to take the bag out manually to throw it out. Replacing the bag in a normal trash can really isn’t that big of a deal. And considering the cost of these futuristic trash cans — over $100 — and a good chance you’ll have to spend extra on their proprietary bags in order for the self-sealing system to work correctly. Another extravagant expense but something to certainly impress your family and friends with if you’ve got money to burn.
Another category of products gone out of control with smart technology is kids toys. To me it just seems almost negligent to sell toys with unmonitored internet access. These seemingly innocent devices can pose an enormous threat to privacy should access to the toy fall into the wrong hands. Some smart toys have cameras and microphones that you really don’t want hackers getting access to.
Even if hackers don’t get real-time access to spy on your child, there’s evidence that these toys collect data that can get mishandled and abused. If you’re a parent, please do your due diligence and be cautious when buying tech-oriented gifts for your kids. You may just want to steer clear of toys with microphones, cameras, Bluetooth, and WiFi altogether.
Other devices (?) that have been ‘smartened up’ are water bottles and insulated tumblers. Don’t take this the wrong way but, really? The entire point of an insulated tumbler is to keep your drink cool or hot for extended periods. Debbie’s a big fan of the cupboard full of stainless steel tumblers we have, and all of them can hold the temperature for hours. Which is probably way longer than even she’d even needs. Regular tumblers cost like $15 compared to ‘smart tumblers’ that can cost up to $200.
The reason they cost so much is that they have a heating system that can keep your drink at an exact temperature for several hours. I really don’t see this being more useful than a non-smart tumbler. On the plus side, smart tumblers tend to be built better, but I still can’t justify the crazy price tag.
Smart water bottles are out there as well that you might run across — they usually have temperature sensors and displays on the lid. I suppose this can be helpful if you’re drinking something temperature sensitive — I can’t think of one. Some models detect when you haven’t taken a sip in a while, so they remind you with a push notification or LEDs to drink. I’m guessing you’d have to be pretty busy to not remember to hydrate and who needs yet another notification.
While many smart home devices make sense and are worth the investment, the ones here I’ve pointed out just don’t make a lot of sense to me. Many can be replaced or enhanced with other simple smart home tech, if even necessary. And at a fraction of the cost and are excellent beginner-friendly devices if you want to get into home automation.
I’d love to hear your spin on these examples and others. Or am I wrong? Should everything be ‘smart?’ Let Debbie and I know what you think in the comments, DMs and emails as we really enjoy hearing from you. Thanks again to all those following Debbie and I through our home building journey. It’s great to hear your success stories and suggestions as we move through the process. And if you like the content I’m posting each week, don’t forget to ‘Like’ and ‘Follow.’
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