Smart home control hub plus#

The YoLink app depends on IFTTT-style conditional rules to build automation routines.

The company also offers its own thermostat, sprinkler controller, garage door controller, and humidity and motion sensors in addition to the products I’ve already mentioned. So, if you want to connect lighting controls to this hub, you’ll find yourself limited to YoSmart’s own smart plugs (indoor and outdoor), smart in-wall switch, and smart power strip. While LoRa isn’t a proprietary standard, YoSmart is currently alone in building DIY smart home products based on it. (Total price for this collection, including the hub: about $100.) The company offers a broad range of starter kits consisting of the Hub and various devices, but I was sent the Hub and an assortment of gear that included a water leak sensor ($17), a door/window sensor ($44 for three), an outdoor smart switch ($22), and a remote control ($24). Of course, the YoLink Hub on its own doesn’t do much, so from there I turned to a mixed collection of accessories that YoSmart sent to use with it. You can’t beat the prices YoSmart has placed on its components, including this $17 water leak sensor. I got the YoLink Hub up and running-a process that entails installing the YoLink app on my smartphone, scanning a QR code, and providing my Wi-Fi credentials-in a matter of minutes and with no trouble at all. That ethernet port isn’t required even during setup. An ethernet port is included if you want to connect it to your router, but it also supports a Wi-Fi connection (2.4GHz only). The YoLink Hub offers a familiar design, a small, squarish box that must be permanently connected to wall power and acts as a bridge between your YoLink LoRa devices and your Wi-Fi network.

Smart home control hub plus#

This review is part of TechHive’s coverage of the best smart home systems, where you’ll find reviews of competing products, plus a buyer’s guide to the features you should consider when shopping for this type of product.