Stiftung Warentest: Home Assistant dominates smart home test

Home Assistant is the test winner – by far the most robust and versatile smart home system. This is the conclusion of the latest investigation by Stiftung Warentest (issue 08/2025), which examined a total of 14 smart home systems.

It became clear that while other systems fail when there are internet issues or show weaknesses in compatibility, Home Assistant consistently plays to its strengths. No other system in the test could integrate as many device protocols and manufacturers – and all of it completely locally, without the need for a cloud connection.

Home Assistant scores in almost all categories:

• excellent device compatibility (Zigbee, Z-Wave, Thread, Matter, and much more)
• runs stably even without an internet connection
• no data sharing with third parties necessary
• complete control over your own smart home
• ideal for anyone who prioritizes data privacy and independence

Of course, Home Assistant is not a system for technology-phobes – but those who embrace the open-source concept get the most powerful smart home hub on the market. For everyone who wants to know how modern home automation works today, Home Assistant is the first choice.

👉 You can find the full test report on test.de (requires payment).