What’s the best way to set up a smart home?

If you’re just starting out, a Raspberry Pi is a popular choice for DIY smart home projects. However, if you're looking for something cheaper, consider using a second-hand PC. Just keep in mind that while it may save you money upfront, the running costs could be higher. If you want a more straightforward setup, you could explore using Alexa or Google Home with compatible devices.

One big plus of using Home Assistant is that you don’t need an internet connection for many of its features, especially with Matter-compatible devices. But yeah, if ease of use is key for you, Google Assistant might be the way to go—assuming they don’t mess up the upcoming updates!

When it comes to smart homes, it’s essential to clarify what you mean. Are you thinking about automating things like lights, curtains, or doors? Depending on your goals, there are various routes you can take. For instance, Home Assistant is powerful and versatile, but it may require a little more setup compared to Google Assistant.