Smart homes have become a tangled web of devices and apps, making simple tasks a chore. Enter the Homey Portal, a desk- or wall-mounted touchscreen with a tactile dial designed to make your smart home as straightforward as flipping a light switch.

The touchscreen, powered by a USB-C cable, offers intuitive control over lights, music, and climate. You tap icons to control devices and twist the dial for adjustments. With support for over 70,000 devices from 2,000 brands, Homey aims to simplify your smart home ecosystem.

While the Portal is an impressive device, its steep price of $299/€299 (after an introductory offer of $249/€249) might deter some. However, it does come with Homey’s Flow automation engine, allowing you to trigger scenes and automations. The company also promises device updates directly through Homey, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific hubs.

Despite its advantages, the Portal requires a Homey hub, which costs $249 or more, and the setup for multiple rooms can become expensive. Nonetheless, its design and functionality make it a compelling option for those looking for a straightforward, all-in-one smart home solution.