I’m curious to what’s been the better devices for automation and smart home hardware that’s made your home better? I’ve got hue and Tapo hubs with a few bulbs and a single motion sensor for night time bathroom trips, but I feel there’s so much more! Edit: using Amazon echos too. I have cables internet to 2 rooms with tvs downstairs and one upstairs as an office.
If you are interested in getting into programming, specifically python, there are devices like the esp32 and the raspberry pi Pico w. They are fun program and offer a lot of latitude for interesting projects.
If you have outside cameras then i recommend LIFX Nightvision bulbs that have built in IR. IR helps my cams see better and when the cams detect people or cars they have my bulbs switch on visable light.
Garage door controller
Detect open doors and windows (including garage, if no controller)
Automate thermostat (turn heat/AC off when my phone leaves the house, my electricity last month was $150)
Room light ON/OFF with alexa/GH
Home assistant is what you need. With over 2500 different integration and your imagination, you can set up some amazing automations.
My absolute favorite device(s) are Shelly products. You can automate a ton of stuff AND they’re hidden in the junction box (they’re quite small).
My eve motionblinds were a great investment. I have them automated based on the angle of the sun to dip and stop glare in the afternoons, and if I snooze my alarm they all open to make sure I don’t fall back into a deep sleep.
ESPresense! Especially if you’re into ESP32-based things.
It lets you track Bluetooth beacons from different devices - such as phones, watches, laptops, etc. With HomeAssistant it’s pretty easy to automate lights based on your distance to the Espresense node, although requires a bit of tinkering.
We’ve got smart switches, Hue lighting indoors and out, door sensors to turn on closet lights, thermostat, locks, blinds and shades, smart plugs, irrigation valves, ring door bell and the additional exterior ring spots and cameras,