Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive
Michael is TechHive's lead editor and covers the connected-home and home-entertainment markets. He built his own smart home in 2007, which he uses as a real-world test lab when reviewing new products. Michael also reviews routers and networking products for TechHive and PCWorld.
Apple HomePod review: For ardent Apple fans only
You’ll need a mobile Apple device of recent vintage just to set up this smart speaker, which is tightly tied to Apple services.
Evodesk XE Pro sit/stand desk review: A smart addition to any home office
A motorized lift and a plethora of customization options are the highlights of this inexpensive workstation.
SnapPower USB Charger 2 review: Double the USB ports and (sort of) twice the power
This outlet cover lets you charge two devices at once, or one device twice as fast as the original.
Libratone Too Bluetooth speaker review: High-fidelity sound on the go
This portable speaker delivers uncommonly good near-field sound for its size.
The best smart home devices that work with Alexa
Amazon’s Echo smart speakers are most powerful when paired with third-party smart home hardware. These products earned our highest raitings.
SnapPower SwitchLight review: Better than any nightlight
Don’t stumble around in the dark looking for the light switch.
Best smart speakers: Which delivers the best combination of digital assistant and audio performance?
With models based on Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Cortana, and others to come, we’ll help you find just the right model for you.
HDMI vs. DisplayPort: Which display interface reigns supreme?
Both HDMI and DisplayPort are capable of sending high-definition video and audio from a source device to a display. But is one display interface standard superior or more flexible compared to the other? We compare their feature sets and typical use scenarios.
66 Audio Pro Voice wireless headphones review: Alexa moves out of the smart home
Wearing these on-ear cans is like strapping a pair of Echos to your head.
Ring Floodlight Cam review: An excellent choice—if you’re living in Ring’s ecosystem
If you’re already using one of Ring’s doorbell cameras or spotlight cams, this porchlight replacement will be a great addition.
We'll help you find the best wireless speakers for pairing with your smartphone or tablet—whatever your budget, and whatever music floats your boat.
Abode offers new, less-expensive home security starter kits
They’re still focused on home security first, but the gateway works with just about any smart home device.
Google Home Max review: This is the best-sounding smart speaker you can buy
But Sonos might have more to fear than Amazon (ditto for Apple).
Axiim’s Link HD Wireless System is a truly wireless 7.1-channel audio system for home theater
Designed to for use with the Xbox One and Windows PCs, the Link can stream high-res audio to wireless self-powered speakers.
The latest Wi-Fi mesh router comes from... First Alert?
Showgoers were doing double takes when they saw the smoke-alarm manufacturer exhibiting routers—and smart speakers—at its booth at CES.
Articles by Michael Brown
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