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Best Hardware For Home Assistant (2024 Update)

As technology advances, smart home systems are becoming increasingly popular. Home automation allows you to control various appliances and devices in your home from a central hub or with your voice. If you’re looking to set up your own home assistant, choosing the right hardware is key for seamless integration and maximum convenience.

When selecting hardware for your home assistant, you’ll need to consider compatibility, capacity and your budget. You want devices that can all communicate with your home automation platform or smart speaker. Processing power, storage space and connectivity are also important factors that will affect responsiveness and capability. Finally, costs can add up quickly, so set realistic expectations based on what you can afford.

What features are most important to make your life easier? Do you want to control lighting, temperature, security or entertainment? How many rooms or systems do you want to connect? What about smart locks, cameras, switches, sensors and other components? How tech-savvy are you? Do you need simple plug-and-play options or are you comfortable with complex installations? How much are you willing to spend upfront versus over time?

Choosing the right hardware combination requires research and planning. With a thoughtful approach, you can build a custom home assistant that perfectly matches your needs and lifestyle. Taking the time to weigh your options will pay off with a smarter home that responds to your preferences and provides convenience through automation. A well-designed system will become an indispensable part of daily household management.

10 Best Hardware For Home Assistant

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for automating and controlling smart home devices using Zigbee, Z-Wave and WiFi technologies.
2
The product is ideal for monitoring energy usage in real-time, specifically for solar or net metering with 16 circuit level sensors.
3
Product is ideal for remotely controlling and monitoring home automation devices through a smartphone or voice assistant.
4
This product is ideal for automatically closing doors, both residential and commercial, without the need for physical contact.
5
The plastic grab handle is ideal for assisting entry door accessibility in all weather conditions.
6
The product is ideal for replacing light lamp turn on/off switch knobs.
7
The product is ideal for assisting individuals in sitting up or hoisting themselves up using a handle strap and rope ladder.
8
This product is ideal for smart home lighting control through ESPHome and/or Tasmota compatibility.
9
The product is ideal for providing additional support when entering or exiting a vehicle.
10
This product is ideal for providing a sturdy grip and assistance when getting in and out of vehicles.
The product is ideal for automating and controlling smart home devices using Zigbee, Z-Wave and WiFi technologies.
The product is ideal for monitoring energy usage in real-time, specifically for solar or net metering with 16 circuit level sensors.
Product is ideal for remotely controlling and monitoring home automation devices through a smartphone or voice assistant.
This product is ideal for automatically closing doors, both residential and commercial, without the need for physical contact.
The plastic grab handle is ideal for assisting entry door accessibility in all weather conditions.
The product is ideal for replacing light lamp turn on/off switch knobs.
The product is ideal for assisting individuals in sitting up or hoisting themselves up using a handle strap and rope ladder.
This product is ideal for smart home lighting control through ESPHome and/or Tasmota compatibility.
The product is ideal for providing additional support when entering or exiting a vehicle.
This product is ideal for providing a sturdy grip and assistance when getting in and out of vehicles.

1. Hubitat Elevation

The product being reviewed is an exceptional home automation hub that provides fast and reliable service. The hub processes automations locally, ensuring that the user experiences no delays or lags. This feature makes it a reliable choice for people who want their smart home devices to function seamlessly.

The product is compatible with most Zigbee, Z-Wave, LAN, Google Home, Alexa, and Lutron devices. However, it is important to check for compatibility with your devices before making a purchase. Lutron devices require Lutron SmartBridge Pro for compatibility. This makes the product a versatile choice for people who own different types of smart home devices.

The home automation hub comes equipped with dozens of built-in automation apps that offer a high level of customization. Users can personalize their smart home according to their preferences and requirements. The hub is perfect for people who want to create a smart home that caters to their needs and lifestyle.

The product's reliability is another feature that sets it apart from its competitors. Automations do not rely on cloud servers or the internet, ensuring that the user's smart home devices function smoothly even if they have network connectivity issues. This feature makes the product a dependable choice for people who want their smart home devices to function seamlessly.

2. Vue: Energy Monitor With Circuit Sensors.

This energy monitoring system is the perfect solution for homeowners who want to monitor their electricity usage in real-time. It can be easily installed in the circuit panel of most homes with clamp-on sensors, supporting single-phase up to 240VAC line-neutral; single, split-phase 120/240VAC; and three-phase up to 415Y/240VAC (no Delta). Please note that panels with access only to busbars will require flexible sensors, which are available separately from Emporia Energy.

With 24/7 energy monitoring, you can keep an eye on your home's real power usage from anywhere, at any time. This not only helps to prevent costly repairs but also enables you to conserve energy and save costs. Additionally, the system can also monitor solar/net metering. For those with light commercial 3 phase requirements, an option bundle is available. The product comes protected by a 1-year warranty.

The energy monitoring system comes with sixteen (16) 50A sensors, which can be used to accurately monitor your air conditioner, furnace, water heater, washer, dryer, range, and other household appliances without any guesswork. This feature can help you to identify areas where you can save costs on your electric bill.

To monitor energy use, the system requires a 2.4 GHz WIFI connection with an internet connection, and can be accessed through an iPhone or Android app. The Vue sensors provide 1-second data and are accurate from ±2%. Additionally, the Vue is UL and CE Listed for your safety. The system retains 1 second data for 3 hours, 1 minute data for 7 days, and 1 hour data indefinitely. You can easily export the data whenever you want using the app.

3. Aeotec Smart

Transforming a home into a smart home has never been easier with the Samsung SmartThings Hub. With the ability to wirelessly connect and control over 5,000 smart devices from various brands, including voice assistants, lights and switches, speakers, cameras, sensors, and more, this hub offers a wide range of home automation options.

One of the key features of the Samsung SmartThings Hub is its ability to automate connected devices. Users can include any device they connect into automations that can be intelligently managed. Additionally, many automations now work locally even when internet service is disrupted, ensuring that users can still control their devices even in the event of a network outage.

The Samsung SmartThings Hub can be controlled via the Samsung SmartThings app, available on Android, iOS, and iPadOS, as well as voice user interfaces such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows users to easily monitor and control connected devices and run automations from the palm of their hand or through voice commands.

To set up the Samsung SmartThings Hub, internet access is required. While an Ethernet connection is recommended, Wi-Fi is also available. Users can download the SmartThings app to their phone or tablet to complete the setup process.

The Samsung SmartThings Hub is certified to work with a variety of protocols, including Google, Alexa, SmartThings, Matter, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave Plus, and ZigBee. However, it is important to note that it is not compatible outside of North America.

4. Autoslide: Smart Automatic Door Closer

The package includes 2 punch-free door closers with steel ropes, 4 adhesive hooks, 2 small Allen keys, and 8 screws, providing two installation methods that ensure the stability of the door closer without damaging the wall. The high-quality steel wire rope with a diameter of 1.2mm has been tested 50,000 times for tensile and rebound strength with a strong 800G Pull, making it suitable for doors with a stronger closing force, such as screen doors, sliding double doors, invisible doors, security doors, aluminum alloy glass doors, iron doors, office doors, interior doors, kitchen, and bathroom doors.

This automatic door closer is designed to close all doors automatically and is suitable for doors with a slightly stronger closing force. It can be used on doors that open left and right, wooden and metal doors, residential and commercial doors, exterior/inner door closers, and fire doors. However, it is not suitable for doors with carpet or too much friction.

The punch-free installation method and simple operation make it easy to use. The attached hexagon wrench can adjust the size of the wire buckle and fix it. Additionally, the small copper tube design effectively avoids steel wire rolling up.

The door closer features anti-oxidation, anti-corrosion, and no rust, making it stable, wear-resistant, weather-proof, hydraulics, quiet, safe, and reusable. It is a reliable and durable product that ensures the safety and convenience of your daily life.

5. Camp'n -2 Piece- All Weather Plastic Grab Handle – Entry Door Assist Bar

This product is a versatile grab handle that can be used for a wide range of applications. It is made of high-quality polypropylene, which is weather-resistant and impact-resistant, ensuring that it can withstand the toughest outdoor conditions. Additionally, it is designed with UV inhibitors, which prevent color changes when exposed to the sun.

One of the great benefits of this grab handle is its polypropylene construction, which insulates heat and cold so that it does not transfer to your hands during use. This makes it comfortable to hold, even in extreme temperatures.

This grab handle can be mounted horizontally or vertically, depending on your preference. It includes caps to cover the screws, giving it a neat and professional finish. Speaking of screws, mounting screws are included with the handle, making installation quick and easy.

To ensure that the grab handle is securely mounted, it is suggested that a bead of sealant be placed underneath the handle during installation to seal any screw holes. This will prevent any water from getting in and damaging the handle or the surface it is mounted on.

With hundreds of uses, this grab handle is a versatile and practical addition to any outdoor or indoor space. Whether you need a handle for your shed, garage, or boat, this product has got you covered. Its durable construction and easy installation make it an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable grab handle.

6. Dicuno Light Lamp Turn On/off Switch Knobs Replacement, Black, Standard Size, 4 Packs

This pack of 4 black standard size on-off switch knobs is the perfect replacement for broken or missing knobs. With easy installation that takes only a few seconds, this product saves you both time and money, as it eliminates the need to replace your old fixture entirely.

These switch knobs are highly versatile and can be used to replace the majority of floor lamp and table lamp fixtures without any complications.

DiCUNO, the manufacturer of these switch knobs, offers a generous 3-month refund and 1-year warranty service to customers, ensuring that you can purchase with confidence. If you have any concerns about the product, DiCUNO's customer service team is always available to address any questions or issues you may have.

7. Vive Assist: Bed Pull-Up & Sit-Up Device

The bed ladder is an essential tool for those with spinal injuries, lower extremity weakness, or limited range of motion who need assistance sitting up in bed. With a sturdy construction made of durable webbing, this bed ladder can support up to 300 pounds, making it perfect for those recovering from surgery, pregnant women, or individuals suffering from back problems.

Installing the bed ladder is a breeze, as it requires no tools and can be easily secured to any bed frame with a composite buckle. Additionally, its portable design allows it to be used for additional assistance while traveling or at home.

The adjustable length ladder design makes it easy for anyone to achieve the perfect fit for their bed. By simply adjusting the strap, the ladder length can be customized to allow the first ladder handle to reach the individual’s waist while lying down.

Comfort is key when it comes to the bed ladder, which is why the three bed hoist handles are covered with soft EVA foam for a secure, nonslip grip. Each handle is five inches in length, providing a comfortable grip, while the three handles are spaced 10.5” apart for optimal assistance while rising.

With the Vive Guarantee, customers can purchase the bed ladder with confidence, as it comes with a 60-day guarantee. Don't let limited mobility keep you from enjoying the comfort of sitting up in bed – get the bed ladder today and experience the convenience and comfort it provides.

8. Kauf A21 Rgbww Smart Bulb With Esphome, Compatible With Tasmota, Made

The KAUF Smart Bulb is a versatile and easy-to-use lighting solution that offers a range of features to enhance your home lighting experience. With five independently controllable LED channels including Red, Green, Blue, Warm White, and Cold White, users have complete control over the color and temperature of their lighting.

One of the standout features of the KAUF Smart Bulb is its ability to run ESPHome out of the box, providing 100% local control without the need for flashing, soldering, editing YAML, or hoping tuya-convert works. Additionally, the bulb connects natively to Home Assistant without the need for a cloud connection or third-party app. The ESPHome HTTP API also allows for use without Home Assistant.

For users who want to explore other firmware options, the KAUF Smart Bulb is reprogrammable with other ESP8266-compatible firmwares. It also easily integrates into any existing MQTT system and is compatible with Tasmota. It is important to note that flashing of WLED bin files is not supported, as WLED does not support both 1MB flash and Over-the-Air flashing. Therefore, users should avoid attempting to flash a WLED bin file on these bulbs.

The KAUF Smart Bulb boasts a slightly larger A21 bulb shape than most standard bulbs, with an E26 base that is typical for most US bulbs. With firmware version 1.7, users can enjoy support for controlling the bulb from WLED or xLights via DDP. Firmware version 1.8 adds further options, allowing users to adjust max power and fade length.

9. Automotive Authority Plastic Grab Handle-Entry Door Assist Bar

This 2 pack of grab handles is an essential addition to any outdoor enthusiast's gear. Made from durable, impact-resistant polypropylene with UV inhibitors, these handles are designed to withstand the elements and prevent color changes in outdoor use.

With the option to mount them horizontally or vertically, these handles have hundreds of uses. Plus, they come complete with caps to cover screws for a sleek and professional look. It's important to note that mounting screws are not included, so be sure to have those on hand before installation.

For added security and peace of mind, it's suggested that a bead of sealant be placed underneath the grab handle during installation to seal any screw holes. At 9-1/4" overall length and 8" screw hole mounting distance, these handles are the perfect size for a variety of applications.

Whether you're outfitting your camper or upgrading your boat, these grab handles are the perfect blend of form and function. Don't settle for lesser-quality handles that won't hold up to the rigors of outdoor use. Invest in these top-of-the-line grab handles and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gear is built to last.

10. Automotive Authority Plastic Grab Handle-Entry Door Assist Bar

This versatile grab handle is a must-have for those seeking a durable, all-weather solution for their mounting needs. Constructed from impact-resistant polypropylene, this handle is built to withstand even the harshest outdoor conditions. Additionally, the handle features UV inhibitors, ensuring that it maintains its vibrant color even with prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Not only is this grab handle built to last, but it is also incredibly versatile. It can be mounted both horizontally or vertically, providing users with hundreds of potential applications. To ensure a clean and professional look, the handle comes with caps to cover screws.

Please note that mounting screws are not included with the handle. However, it is suggested that a bead of sealant be placed underneath the handle during installation to seal any screw holes. The handle measures 9-1/4" in overall length, with an 8" screw hole mounting distance.

Whether you are looking for a handle for your boat, RV, or any other outdoor application, this all-weather grab handle is sure to exceed your expectations. Its sturdy construction, versatility, and easy installation make it the perfect choice for any mounting needs.

Best Hardware For Home Assistant FAQs

Can I use a USB hub with Home Assistant?

Yes, you can use a USB hub with Home Assistant. A USB hub is a device that allows you to connect multiple USB devices to a single USB port on your computer or Home Assistant setup. This can be useful if you have limited USB ports on your Home Assistant device and need to connect multiple USB devices such as a Z-Wave or Zigbee USB dongle, a USB microphone, or a USB camera.

To use a USB hub with Home Assistant, simply connect the USB hub to an available USB port on your Home Assistant device and then connect your USB devices to the hub. Home Assistant should automatically detect the devices connected to the hub and allow you to configure them accordingly.

It is important to note that not all USB hubs are created equal, and some may not work properly with Home Assistant. When choosing a USB hub, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with your Home Assistant device and that it has enough power to support all of the devices connected to it.

How much RAM do I need for Home Assistant?

The amount of RAM required for Home Assistant depends on various factors such as the number of integrations, add-ons, and devices connected to your home automation system. Generally, Home Assistant requires a minimum of 2GB of RAM to run smoothly. However, if you have a large number of devices and integrations, you may require more RAM.

It is recommended to have at least 4GB of RAM for Home Assistant if you have a large number of devices and integrations. This will ensure that your system runs smoothly and doesn't encounter any performance issues.

In addition to RAM, other factors such as CPU and storage can also impact the performance of Home Assistant. It is essential to ensure that you have a powerful CPU and ample storage space to run Home Assistant and store all your data.

Overall, the amount of RAM required for Home Assistant depends on your specific setup and usage. It is recommended to have a minimum of 2GB of RAM, but 4GB or more is preferable for larger setups.

Is a dedicated Home Assistant hub necessary, or can I use my existing devices?

A dedicated Home Assistant hub is not necessary, as you can use your existing devices to create a smart home automation system. However, it depends on the devices and how they communicate with each other. If your devices are compatible with the same communication protocols, such as Zigbee or Z-Wave, then you can use them to control your home automation system. In this case, you may need a hub that supports these protocols.

On the other hand, if your devices don't have the same communication protocols, you may need a hub to act as a bridge between them. For example, if you have smart bulbs that use Wi-Fi and a smart thermostat that uses Zigbee, you may need a hub that supports both protocols to control them together.

It's important to note that a dedicated Home Assistant hub can provide additional benefits, such as more advanced automation capabilities and the ability to integrate with third-party services. Ultimately, the decision to use a dedicated hub or not depends on your specific needs and the devices you already have.

Should I use a Raspberry Pi or a more powerful computer for Home Assistant?

The answer to this question depends on your specific needs and budget. A Raspberry Pi is a popular and affordable option for running Home Assistant, but it may not be powerful enough to handle more complex automations or integrations. If you have a large number of smart devices or plan to use Home Assistant for more advanced tasks, a more powerful computer may be necessary.

Additionally, consider the operating system you prefer to use. Home Assistant can run on various operating systems, including Raspberry Pi OS, Ubuntu, and Windows. If you are comfortable with Linux and prefer a more lightweight option, a Raspberry Pi may be the way to go. However, if you are more familiar with Windows or prefer a more user-friendly operating system, a more powerful computer running Windows or Ubuntu may be a better fit.

Ultimately, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget when deciding whether to use a Raspberry Pi or a more powerful computer for Home Assistant. Research the hardware requirements for the automations and integrations you plan to use, and make an informed decision based on your needs.

Should I use a wired or wireless connection for Home Assistant?

When it comes to choosing between wired and wireless connection for Home Assistant, there are several factors to consider.

Wired connections are generally faster and more reliable than wireless connections. If you are using Home Assistant for critical applications like security monitoring or home automation, a wired connection is likely the better option. Wired connections also tend to be more secure since they are not subject to interference from other devices or external signals.

On the other hand, wireless connections offer more flexibility and convenience. They allow you to connect devices that are not within reach of a wired connection and can be easily moved around the house as needed. If you have a large home or multiple floors, a wireless connection may be the only practical option.

Ultimately, the decision between wired and wireless comes down to your specific needs and circumstances. If you prioritize speed and reliability, go for a wired connection. If flexibility and ease of use are more important, a wireless connection may be the way to go.

What is the best hardware for running Home Assistant?

Home Assistant is a popular open-source home automation platform that can run on a variety of hardware devices. The best hardware for running Home Assistant depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user.

For users who are just starting out with Home Assistant and have a small number of devices, a Raspberry Pi is a popular and affordable option. The Raspberry Pi is a small, credit card-sized computer that can run Home Assistant smoothly and efficiently.

For users with a larger number of devices or who require more processing power, a more powerful single-board computer like the Odroid N2 or the Nvidia Jetson Nano may be a better choice. These devices offer more processing power and memory, which can help Home Assistant run faster and more smoothly.

Another option is to use a dedicated Home Assistant appliance, such as the Home Assistant Blue or the Home Assistant Supervised NUC. These devices are specifically designed for running Home Assistant and come pre-installed with the software, making setup and configuration easier.

Ultimately, the best hardware for running Home Assistant will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the user, as well as their budget and technical expertise.

What kind of network setup is best for Home Assistant?

When it comes to setting up a network for Home Assistant, there are a few options to consider. The best setup will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

One option is to use a wired Ethernet connection for your Home Assistant device. This provides a reliable and fast connection, which is important for real-time home automation tasks. You can connect your Home Assistant device directly to your router or use a switch to connect multiple devices.

Another option is to use a wireless connection for your Home Assistant device. This can be convenient if you don't have an Ethernet port nearby, but it may not be as reliable or fast as a wired connection. Make sure to use a high-quality router and place it in a central location for the best signal strength.

Regardless of the network setup you choose, it's important to secure your network with a strong password and enable any available security features. This will help protect your home automation devices and personal information from unauthorized access.

What kind of processor is recommended for a Home Assistant setup?

When it comes to choosing a processor for a Home Assistant setup, there are a few things to consider. Home Assistant is a versatile platform that can run on a variety of devices, from Raspberry Pi to a full-fledged PC. However, the processor is a crucial component that determines the performance of the system.

For a basic setup with just a few devices, a Raspberry Pi with a 1GHz processor and 1GB RAM is sufficient. However, for a more complex setup with multiple integrations and automation, a more powerful processor is recommended. A quad-core processor with a clock speed of 2GHz or higher is ideal. Intel Core i3 or i5 processors are good options for a Home Assistant setup.

In addition to the processor, it's important to consider the RAM and storage capacity. Home Assistant requires a minimum of 2GB RAM and 16GB storage, but for a more robust system, 4GB RAM and 32GB storage are recommended.

Ultimately, the choice of processor depends on the size and complexity of your Home Assistant setup. It's important to choose a processor that can handle the workload without compromising performance.

What kind of storage should I use for Home Assistant?

When it comes to choosing the right storage for Home Assistant, there are a few options to consider. The first option is to use the internal storage of the device running Home Assistant, such as an SD card or hard drive. This can be a cost-effective solution, but it may not offer the best performance or reliability.

Another option is to use an external storage device, such as a USB drive or network-attached storage (NAS). This can provide more storage capacity and better performance, but it may also come at a higher cost.

Ultimately, the best storage solution for Home Assistant will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to choose a storage device that is reliable, secure, and offers enough capacity to meet your needs. Additionally, you may want to consider using a backup solution to protect your data in case of a hardware failure or other issue.

Which smart home devices are compatible with Home Assistant?

Home Assistant is a popular open-source home automation platform that allows users to control and monitor various smart home devices from a single interface. The platform supports a wide range of smart home devices and works with many popular brands such as Google, Amazon, Philips Hue, Nest, and many others.

Some of the most popular smart home devices that are compatible with Home Assistant include smart thermostats, smart lights, smart locks, smart switches, smart cameras, and many more. Users can easily integrate these devices into their Home Assistant setup using the platform's built-in integrations or by installing custom integrations developed by the Home Assistant community.

Home Assistant also supports various protocols such as Z-Wave, Zigbee, MQTT, and others, which allows users to connect a wide range of devices to the platform. With the help of Home Assistant, users can create custom automations, set up voice control, and monitor their smart home devices from anywhere in the world.

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