Best Home Automation Systems

Which Is The Best Home Automation System?

Since 2010, we’ve compiled a list of the best professionally installed home automation systems and ranked them based on their offerings in a variety of categories. After completing our most recent round of research, we believe Crestron is the best choice because its systems are compatible with more products than those of any other company we looked at. Creston's software is fully customizable from top to bottom, which is why it goes beyond home installations to automate commercial spaces like schools, hotels and businesses. It takes an experienced dealer and a lot of time to install a Crestron system.

Control4 is the top residential brand we reviewed. The system integrates software and hardware seamlessly without the need for a dealer to do intensive programming, which helps bring down installation costs. In addition, this capable system can be expanded by the dealer as your needs change. Control4 offers a robust selection of in-house hardware, and it supports products from hundreds of other manufacturers.

Another company worth considering is Savant. Its system is visually appealing, sleek and glossy, looking similar to Apple’s products. Savant has a full line of professional products you can mix and match to create a system that’s a good fit for your home.

What to Expect From Professional Home Automation

A professionally installed home automation system is a serious investment that can add value to your home – it's not a hobby or a gimmick. Installing a home automation system is as expensive and complex as remodeling your home. Our research revealed some ways you can rein in your expectations to find a system that's best for you.

Types of Systems
Whole-house automation systems from Control4, Crestron, Elan, RTI, Savant and URC are more expensive than security systems, but they offer more flexibility and connectivity, particularly with home theaters. They also require custom wiring and programming, which can take weeks to prepare in some cases.

Home security systems such as ADT, MONI and Vivint, focus on home security but offer automation upgrades. These upgrades aren't as complex or customizable as whole-house automation systems, notably lacking home theater integration. However, these systems are often more affordable and include home security monitoring.