Skip to main content

Smart Home Guides

The Ring Video Doorbell in Satin Nickel, installed beside a doorway.

How to change the owner on a Ring Doorbell

If you're buying or selling a home that has a Ring Doorbell, you'll need to transfer ownership of the device. The process is straightforward and simple, though.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) on table.

What an Alexa red ring means and how to fix it

Is your Alexa device showing a red ring that doesn't seem to go away? Don't worry -- it's usually something that's easy to fix. Here's what you should know.
The Google Nest Cam Indoor on a table.

Blink Mini 2 vs. Nest Cam (Indoor): Which is the better affordable security camera?

The Blink Mini 2 and Nest Cam (Indoor) both clock in at less than $100, but which is better for your home. Here's a look at both to help you decide.
the only robot vacuums worthyour attention today prime day 2020 roomba i7

How to reboot and factory reset a Roomba vacuum

Is your Roomba giving you technical issues? A reboot may be all your bot needs to get it back in proper working order. Here's a guide on how to reset your vac.
The Blink Mini 2 installed outside.

Blink Mini 2 vs. Blink Mini: Is Amazon’s new security camera a worthy upgrade?

The Blink Mini 2 has a lot of features you won't find on the Blink Mini, but is it worth upgrading to Amazon's newest security camera? Here's what to know.
The Narwal Freo X Ultra working in a living room.

How to empty the Narwal Freo X Ultra dustbin

Need to empty the dustbin on your Narwal Freo X Ultra? Or maybe you want to swap from its disposable dustbins to the reusable dustbin? Here's what to know.
Ring Video Doorbell Wired

Ring Video Doorbell buying guide: Which is best for you?

Ring has a variety of video doorbells that feature different capabilities. We'll help you decide which is the right choice for your home.
A Ring Video Doorbell 4 mounted near a home's front door.

How to install a Ring Video Doorbell at your home or office

Installing a Ring Video Doorbell doesn't have to be hard, even if you aren't a DIY pro. We'll walk you through what to do and what you will need for the job.
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra in its dock.

Narwal Freo X Ultra vs. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra: Which is the best robot vacuum?

The Narwal Freo X Ultra and Roborock S8 Pro Ultra are two of the best robot vacuums of 2024. But which is better for your home? Here's a closer look at both.

How to tell if someone is using your Wi-Fi (and kick them off)

Is your internet connection running slowly? One of your neighbors might be stealing your Wi-Fi. Here's how to tell and what you should do if you find a problem.
Amazon Fire TV on Echo Show 15.

Echo Hub vs. Echo Show 15: Which is the best smart home gadget?

The Echo Hub and Echo Show 15 might look similar, but there are some important differences between the two Amazon products. Here's what you need to know.
Closeup of camera on the Google Nest Cam (battery).

How to factory reset a Google Nest Cam (indoor or outdoor)

Having trouble with a Google Nest Cam? If it's not performing the way it should, you may need a factory reset. Here's what to do and what to know ahead of time.
Person installing Ring video doorbell

How to remove a Ring Doorbell from a door or wall

Moving, or just need to recharge a Ring Video Doorbell? Here's how to do it, even if you don't have the special screwdriver that comes with the unit.
The Blink XT Home Security Camera mounted on a tree in snow.

How to factory reset a Blink camera (indoor or outdoor)

Here is an overview on how to reset your Blink camera system if you're having issues or want to sell it to a new owner.
A blue Google Nest Mini mounted on blue/gray wall.

How to reset a Google Nest Mini smart speaker

If you’re thinking about swapping out Google's entry-level smart speaker, you’ll first need to wipe your device. Here's how to factory reset a Google Nest Mini.
The Echo Show 10 on a kitchen counter.

How to set up a pre-owned Echo Show smart display

Looking to set up a pre-owned Echo Show? Here's a look at everything you need to know, with universal steps that work for the Echo Show 5, Echo Show 8, and more.
A person using WhatsApp Messenger on his Android smartphone.

How to remove an account from Google Smart Lock

Google Smart Lock makes logging into your Google products easy, but sometimes things change. Here's how to remove an account from Google Smart Lock safely.
The Echo Hub on a stand.

The 6 best Echo Hub tips and tricks

From customizing your home screen to syncing your security system, here are a few tips and tricks for using your new Echo Hub.
Shark ION Robot vacuum cleaning. cleaning tile

How to fix a Shark robot vacuum that’s not charging

Is your Shark vacuum refusing to charge? This issue can be frustrating, especially with a robot vacuum that's supposed to recharge easily. Here's how to fix it.
The square Ring Alarm device, mounted on a wall.

How to connect the Ring security system to Echo Hub

Here's how to connect the Ring security system to your Echo Hub, along with tips on how to arm and disarm the system, as well as use its Live View function.
Google Home icon on home screen.

How to use the Google Home app on a computer

Want to add Google Home's smart controls to your computer? While there's no desktop app, you can try one of these workarounds to get Google Home on your PC.
The Shark Rotator vacuum in action.

Red, green, flashing: What do my Shark vacuum’s lights mean?

Have you noticed a solid or flashing red light somewhere on your Shark vacuum? It's a sign there's something wrong with the unit, and we're here to help.
Amazon Smart Plug.

How to set a timer on Amazon Smart Plugs

If you're looking to automate your outlets, Amazon Smart Plugs are a great option. Here's what you need to know about creating a timer for your smart plugs.
The Vizio OLED 4K HDR TV in living room.

How to connect Alexa to your TV for smart voice control

Alexa is a powerful smart assistant that can even control your TV. Here's how to connect Alexa to your smart TV, set-top box, or streaming device.
An Echo Hub mounted on the wall near a living room.

Echo Hub vs. Echo Show 8: Which is the best option for your smart home?

The Echo Hub and Echo Show 8 both feature a large touchscreen and give you access to the Alexa voice assistant. But which one is best for your smart home?
A person using the Amazon Echo Hub.

What is the Amazon Echo Hub?

The Echo Hub is the newest addition to Amazon's product family, but it's not a smart speaker or smart display. Here's what you need to know about the Echo Hub.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 installed near a door.

How to use Amazon Echo as a doorbell chime

Your Echo device can be linked to your video doorbell, allowing the former to issue a chime when the latter is rung. Here’s how to set this up in the Alexa app!
Drop In on the Amazon Echo Show 10.

How to Drop In on an Echo, Echo Show, or Echo Dot

Amazon's Drop In feature allows users to communicate through Echo devices. Here's how to use the Drop In feature with your Echo smart speakers.
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro on display the 2023 Amazon Fall Devices and Services event.

Does the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro rotate or swivel?

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is a premium security camera, but does it rotate or swivel? Here's what you need to know before adding it to your home.
The Canary Pro next to the Ring Stick Up Cam pro

Ring Stick Up Cam Pro vs. Canary Pro: Which is the better security camera?

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is a popular security camera, but how does it stack up to the lesser-known Canary Pro? Here's a comprehensive look at both.
iRobot Roomba i3 Plus cleaning a wooden floor.

Roomba not connecting to Wi-Fi? Here’s how to fix it

Are you having trouble connecting your new iRobot Roomba to your home network? Or does it keep falling off your Wi-Fi? Here are a few fixes you can try.
An Arlo Smart Hub on a wooden table.

Do Arlo Essential cameras require the Arlo Smart Hub?

Arlo offers a Smart Hub to help get your devices online, but do the Arlo Essential cameras require the Smart Hub? Here's everything you need to know.
A coral Google Nest Mini mounted on a brick wall.

The most common Google Nest Mini problems and how to fix them

Having problems with your Google Nest Mini? Our guide will take you through common issues users have with the Mini, along with the best methods to fix them.
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 installed near a door.

Do you need a subscription for a Ring doorbell or camera?

Ring makes some of the best video doorbells and security cameras on the market, but do you need a subscription to use them? Here's everything you need to know.