Top smart-home gadgets for apartments and dorms

Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

Like Dropcam Pro, Nest Cam is just a webcam at heart.

While it does offer security features like opt-in motion and sound alerts, they aren’t especially useful, since you can receive only one notification every 30 minutes.

The bottom line:

Given that Nest Cam and Dropcam Pro are pretty similar, it doesn’t make a lot of sense for Pro users to replace the product.

[...] budding DIYers searching for a high-res livestreaming camera really can’t beat Nest Cam.

[...] generation

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5

The history section in the app is empty, and it doesn’t have enough new features to justify an upgrade from the original.

No other smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can match the second-generation Nest Protect in terms of looks and options, making it a great buy for anyone who appreciates design and connected features.

Quirky+GE Aros

Smart Air Conditioner

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5

The otherwise flawless design is undercut by poorly-thought-out ventilation flaps, and some of the smart features didn’t work perfectly in our tests.

For Nest-like cooling smarts in homes without central air, the Aros looks like an excellent option.

Switch + Motion

Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5

The relatively low price, lack of a subscription fee, and plug-and-play simplicity will appeal to many budding home automators.

For more reviews of personal technology products, visit www.cnet.com.