The $199 Wink Lookout will be available on Amazon, Wink's online store and at Home Depot starting Oct. We hope to test Lookout and its competitors soon for a side-by-side home security showdown. It's very rare that you happen upon a product these days that just makes you ponder its possibilities. However, Wink did just that with Lookout. The Wink Lookout is a new DIY home security kit that uses the wink hub and comes with a variety of sensors that help you keep tabs on your home and keep everyone and everything safe. It's easy to install and wireless and all of the sensors come pre-paired with the hub so that getting alerts to the Wink app is a breeze.
A smart hub is crucial for bringing various home automation devices together into a harmonious whole. It bridges the gap between different manufacturers, connection protocols, and uses while letting you design scenes that make your home come alive with a single tap or spoken command.
Samsung and Wink have long been rivals in the smart home niche, and their hubs were, at one point, regarded as the best. But things have changed. One company remains at the top of its game while another faces an uncertain future. How does the Wink vs. SmartThings rivalry look today? Read on, find out, and make the smarter choice.
Samsung SmartThings 3rd generation hub | Wink Hub 2 | |
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Dimensions | 5 x 5 x 1.2 in. | 7.3 x 7.3 x 1.8 in. |
Weight | 4.8 oz. | 8 oz. |
Connection | Ethernet, 2.4 Wi-Fi | Ethernet, 2.4 and 5GHz Wi-Fi |
Z-Wave | Yes | Yes |
Zigbee | Yes | Yes |
IFTTT | Yes | Yes |
Lutron Clear Connect | No | Yes |
Kidde | No | Yes |
Bluetooth LE | No | Yes |
Alexa | Yes | Yes |
Google Assistant | Yes | Yes |
Max connected devices | Unlimited | 530 |
Price | $67 | Originally $99, now $292 due to shortage |
Design
Each hub has a distinct design with advantages and shortcomings. The third-gen SmartThings hub looks more modern than its predecessor with curved edges and a pleasant if uninspired look that fits in with the current smart home aesthetic.
Wink is bolder its hub's design, opting for verticality instead. The hub looks more like a book than a smart gadget, which gives it bonus points for décor. The thin shape also makes the Wink's footprint smaller, allowing you to place it in tighter or cluttered spaces.
+1 for Wink Hub 2
Installation
Samsung and Wink did a commendable job of making the installation process as simple as possible. All you need to get either hub up and running is to connect it to your router via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Then you have to download the app and complete the registration process. Once that's done, you can start adding smart devices and create automations.
Wink does have a clear advantage if you're upgrading. Replacing the first-gen hub with the Wink Hub 2 won't disrupt device recognition. However, doing the same with SmartThings requires you to disconnect and then reconnect each gadget individually.
+1 for Wink Hub 2 if you're migrating from its predecessor, otherwise a draw
Accessories
You can buy additional custom-made accessories for both hubs, but SmartThings has a bigger selection. They've partnered up with ADT and offer a security package containing a touchscreen control center, door & window detectors, as well as an array of sensors that register motion, harmful gasses, and leaks. You also get round-the-clock professional support from ADT. On top of that, Samsung offers its own line of accessories. There's a multipurpose sensor, a smart outlet, a leak detector, and a motion sensor.
There are only a handful of accessories made explicitly for Wink. They all come as part of Wink Lookout, a comprehensive security package you can purchase from Wink's official website if it ever gets restocked. Lookout consists of two door & window sensors, a motion sensor, and a loud siren. Busycal 3 9 0. The package contains the hub as well, but you can buy each accessory individually if you already have one.
+1 for Samsung SmartThings V3
Maximum number of devices
Serious smart home enthusiasts create intricate automation setups with hundreds of devices. That's why a hub must support as many of them as possible.
Wink Lookout Review
How to write on powerpoint slides mac. Wink integrates up to 530 devices into its network, enough for the majority of users. However, SmartThings connects to an unlimited number of devices, which makes it the clear winner if you're looking to automate a large home fully.
Z-Wave's architecture permits a maximum of 232 devices to coexist in the same network regardless of the hub.
+1 for Samsung SmartThings V3
Compatibility
A smart hub lives & dies by how vast its ecosystem is and its continued growth. SmartThings is thriving in that respect as there are currently 397 products from every home automation field that support it. Wink isn't so lucky. The hub wasn't compatible with as many products to begin with, and the last batch of new arrivals was announced back in 2017. Considering Wink's other difficulties, it's unlikely that the number will increase.
+1 for Samsung SmartThings V3
Connectivity
Samsung and Wink both offer hubs that connect to hundreds of smart devices. Each hub works with Zigbee and Z-Wave, two of the most popular wireless protocols in home automation. They operate on separate frequencies, so maintaining clear communication between your hub and a device that works on either protocol is the norm.
Wink has the advantage since it is also compatible with Kidde and Lutron. The inclusion of Clear Connect is particularly useful since it lets you invest in Lutron smart lights without having to buy another hub. Wink also uses Bluetooth Low Energy while SmartThings doesn't.
Even though both hubs can connect to your router wirelessly, you should use Ethernet instead. An Ethernet connection is more secure and much less prone to cutting out, so it's a better choice if your router has unoccupied ports.
https://megasoftware.mystrikingly.com/blog/white-orchid-slot-machine-free. +1 for Wink Hub 2
App
Both apps are easy to use and grant in-depth smart home customization, but each also has quirks.
Samsung created a new app for its 3rd-gen SmartThings hub. The first app was harder to navigate, and automations were hidden behind a maze of separate screens. The style and functionality of the new app are noticeably better. It has a HomeKit aesthetic, and actions like room groupings or scenes are simpler.
Not everything is perfect, though. Ironically, the app has trouble connecting to Samsung's own smart devices. You may even have to contact tech support to make it work with some of them.
Wink's app hasn't undergone any changes in a while, but it was better-designed from the start. Organizing gadgets into rooms, accessing their individual controls, and designing automations for them is a snap. The latter is particularly easy with the help of Robots, a series of conditions and actions similar to IFTTT you can set up to create complex scenes.
On the flip side, the Wink app is slow. Accessing anything takes a few seconds, which gets frustrating if you're using Robots or trying to access the control screens for multiple devices. Wink hasn't updated the app in a while, either.
Draw
Voice control
Both smart hubs work with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant. You can issue voice commands to either, and they'll control individual smart devices or implement existing automations. The AI assistants work well with both hubs and are quick to respond to commands.
Draw
Price
Samsung sells the SmartThings hub for less than $70, which is a reasonable price considering its features. Wink's hub originally cost $99, but the price has gone up due to reduced availability. Wink Light, a version of the hub that comes with two smart bulbs, is more expensive, as is Wink Lookout. Neither is currently available for purchase, though. You could get the original Wink Hub for around $150, but it's inferior to its successor in almost every way.
+1 for Samsung SmartThings V3
Availability
It's business as usual for Samsung when it comes to availability. You can get the hub from their website as well as from a range of online retailers. Things aren't nearly as bright for Wink, though. The hub has been sold out on the official page for months, and there's no response or roadmap telling customers if and when things will be getting back on track.
+1 for Samsung SmartThings V3
Conclusion
Why choose: | |
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Samsung SmartThings 3rd generation hub (5 points) | Wink Hub 2 (3 points) |
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SmartThings and Wink appear similar if you only look at data presented in the tables. However, SmartThings is the undisputed winner. The price of entry is low, it works with hundreds of different gadgets, and Samsung's backing ensures that there's a bright future ahead of the platform.
We usually point out that the other product is a good alternative if certain conditions are met. However, we cannot in good conscience recommend that you invest in a Wink Hub. The company hasn't implemented any innovations in some time, and nothing points to new hubs being produced. Wink's services might shut down altogether if the downward trend continues. That would leave you with a lot of migration troubles, so choose SmartThings from the get-go and save yourself the hassle.
Samsung GP-U999SJVLGDA 3rd Generation SmartThings Hub
- Wink Hub, known to be the central hardware controller for these systems, comfortably connects to iOS and Android mobile devices via internet connection or a Wi-Fi signal. This Wink home automation product offers smart locks and can also locally control lights, hence you do not need a wired internet connection. You just need a Wi-Fi connection to the smart home hub in order to control these devices via your phone.
- Wink Relay is an alternative DIY home automation controller offered by Wink. Unlike the Wink Hub, this home automation product is a high-quality touchscreen capable of allowing you to control your Wink smart house system without using a smartphone. The Wink Relay is available with an inbuilt intercom and doubles as a replacement for standard light switches. One noteworthy feature of this home automation product is that it can be connected to Fitbit to help you track your daily fitness goals. It can also be connected to Uber in order to book a ride.
Betus com pa mobile. Wink Hub is compatible with ZigBee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth home control technologies. The Wink Relay gives its best performance when paired with a Wink Hub as it does not support Bluetooth or Z-Wave.
- Wink mobile app is easy to use as long as you have the correct peripherals. This app has the potential to develop schedules and robots in order to control locks, thermostats, and lights. Here, robots refer to programs capable of executing simple tasks when the system detects a specific stimulus. For instance, when a smoke detector goes off in your home, these robots will tell Wink to turn on the lights in your home automation system. With this Wink app, you can also develop shortcuts that can be used to turn on the lights with just one tap.
Wink Hub 2 Review
Wink Hub 2 is a complex gadget that's approximately the size of a book. It's tall and narrow, supports Bluetooth, and comes with more memory. The smart Wink Hub 2 gadget features an ethernet port and is compatible with dual-band Wi-Fi.
The advanced Hub 2 supports more wireless components making it compatible with a wide range of smart home gadgets. Wink Hub 2 comes with an updated app for a friendlier user interface and more convenient connectivity options.
One of the latest features on Wink is the IFTTT (If This Then That) which allows gadgets to stimulate action on other gadgets in the house. For instance, if the smoke alarm in your home activates, Wink can send you an SMS or email. Further, when the garage door opens, the front door lights may be switched on automatically.
What works with Wink Hub?
To ensure all your smart home products are compatible with Wink, make sure the products you buy come with a 'Wink Hub Compatible—Wink Hub Required' seal on the package. When you use a product that doesn't feature a Wink's sticker, your smart hub may end up malfunctioning. You can use various products together with Wink Hub 2. For example, you can add automated lights to your home using Wink 2 compatible gadgets.
Casino of dreams voucher code. Wink Hub 2 is also compatible with a vast range of switches, dimmers, sensors, smart detectors, and outlets. Casino games online. This smart hub also works with garage doors, locks, and thermostats. One of the best things about wink hub 2 is that it's compatible with popular brands. This allows you to automate your home and still use your trusted brands.
Important Specifications and Features
- It's compatible with up to 130 smart gadgets
- Supports wireless protocols. These include ZigBee, Bluetooth LE, Lutron Clear Connect, and Kidde
- Supports Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz) and wired Ethernet
- Amazon Echo integration
- Comes with the advanced IFTTT (If This Then That) feature
- Has Alexa voice control
- Compatible with Stringify App
- Real-time monitoring feature
- Specially designed for novices in the smart home world
How Wink Hub Compares with SmartThings?
Wink Lookout Reviews
When comparing the Wink Hub 2 with Samsung's SmartThings, the former assumes a close number two. While setting up Samsung's SmartThings can be a difficult task involving a multiple-step approach, the final work will be rewarding. All you need to master the Samsung SmartThings hub and create a smart home system suitable for your needs is to be patient.
SmartThings can cover an area of between 50 and 150 feet, allowing you access to nearly all the smart objects in your home. Wink Hub 2 is highly compatible with a vast range of common third party gadgets. However, it works best when it comes to regulating three gadgets. It comes with a range of 50 feet only. It also experiences a delay from when action is prompted to when the reaction takes place. Even then, this smart hub is a good option for novice consumers in the smart home gadget world.
Many people appreciate Wink Hub 2 because it comes with a modern, clean, and simple companion app. Wink also comes with starter kits such as Wink Bright. This allows you to regulate lights in your home straight from the app.
It also features Wink Lookout that allows you to watch over your home closely. These starter kits incorporate the Wink Hub 2 and various other Wink gadgets depending on what you choose.
Wink Starter kits are a simple way of making your home smart. Remember, if your home is bigger than an apartment you'll need to buy more products.
Wink Hub vs. SmartThings: Installation Process
The installation process of Wink is easy. After purchasing your Wink Hub, you should download the Wink app and sign up for an account. Proceed to add your product that is the Wink Hub or Wink Hub 2 to your app and place the hub in your preferred location. Connect the hub to the internet through an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi.
Supportive and Friendly Customer Service Experience
Wink Lookout Review
Excellent customer service in one of the best ways brands can scale in today's overly competitive marketplace. Wink offers support through Twitter, phone, and a support page on their website.
Any questions that you submit through the Wink support page are responded to within 24 hours. If you have any urgent inquiries to make the best way to get a fast response is to call in. Many people hardly look forward to talking to customer service support through the phone.
However, the experience at Wink is different. Their customer service representatives are highly responsive, knowledgeable, and friendly. They're always glad to assist you and answer any questions you have accordingly until you're satisfied. Further, they follow up on you through Email to give you a tangible reference for the future.
Overview
Wink provides three DIY home automation kits that cater to security, lighting, and convenience. Several other types of smart home technologies can be added to Wink. These mostly include Z-Wave units including products from Amazon, Lutron, Nest, and other similar smart home companies.
- Customer Support
Wink customer support can be contacted via email, Twitter and telephone. - Technical Support
The company offers technical support on Wink-certified third-party smart home products. Wink user manuals and FAQs related to Wink and Wink-certified products can be viewed on the company's website.