Smart home test: These systems disappoint in terms of functions and data protection!

Smart home test: These systems disappoint in terms of functions and data protection!

What's happening in the area of ​​smart home technology? Hardly any other area has gained as much importance in recent years as home automation. A current study by Stiftung Warentest put 14 smart home systems through their paces - with mixed results, as radioenneperuhr.de reports.

The testers compared systems that are able to network different devices with each other via different radio interfaces. The conclusion: Not all smart home solutions can meet user expectations. The central components, the hubs, are particularly crucial. These act as a control center and can be either standalone or integrated into devices such as WiFi routers or smart speakers. The costs for the tested hubs vary between 50 and 400 euros.

Test winners and their features

Home Assistant and Homey received the best ratings, both with an overall rating of 2.3. Homey scores points with its ease of use and quick setup, while Home Assistant is particularly robust in the event of disruptions and does not require an internet connection or cloud services - ideal for data protection-conscious users. In second and third place are Samsung Smartthings (overall grade 2.4) and Apple Home (overall grade 2.5), as test.de explains afterwards.

Overall, the systems perform in the test from “Good” to “Sufficient”, with compatibility, handling, how the systems react to malfunctions and the protection of personal data being taken into account in the verdict. It is important to note that some systems require an internet connection, while four of the systems tested also work offline. The reviews vary, especially when it comes to disruptions and data protection. The test period for purchasing the smart home centers extended from January to March 2025.

The advantages and challenges

Smart home systems have much more to offer. Their main goals are to increase comfort, safety and energy efficiency in the home, as badenova.de describes. But that's not all: through networking, household functions such as lighting, heating and security devices can be automated and optimized.

Despite these benefits, there are also risks. Data protection is a central issue because many of the digital helpers collect sensitive data. The security concerns should not be underestimated either – regular updates and strong passwords are a must to protect yourself from hacker attacks. In addition, the effort required for installation varies greatly, especially when devices from different manufacturers have to work together.

In summary, when purchasing a smart home system, various aspects should be taken into account: the costs, the compatibility with existing devices, the possibility of expansion and, last but not least, the user-friendliness and the secure handling of data. The future of smart home technology continues to promise exciting developments, particularly with the integration of artificial intelligence and growing data protection requirements.