Smart home products are no longer a niche category, they are now a standard feature in many modern U.S. homes. From smart lighting and plugs to security devices and environmental sensors, demand continues to rise as homeowners look for convenience, energy efficiency, and security.
China is the global leader in smart home manufacturing, and for U.S. brands, retailers, and installers, sourcing from China remains one of the most practical and scalable ways to enter or expand in the market.
We help companies identify the right smart home products, source them from reliable Chinese manufacturers, and import them into the U.S. safely and compliantly. Sourcing smart home products doesn’t have to be scary or risky, and here we’ll go over what products to source and how we maximize the success of our clients who want to take their smart home products into the ever-growing market.
Top Smart Home Products to Source from China
Not every smart device is ideal for sourcing. Some are better sellers than others. People want smart thermostats, but not necessarily smart toothbrushes. The following consistently perform well in the U.S. market due to strong demand, proven technology, and manageable compliance requirements:
- Smart Lighting
- Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth smart bulbs
- Smart LED light strips
- Smart switches and dimmers
Smart lighting products are compact, affordable, and easy for U.S. consumers to install, making them one of the fastest‑growing smart home categories.
Smart Plugs & Power Devices
- Wi‑Fi smart plugs
- Energy‑monitoring outlets
- Smart power strips
These products are entry‑level smart home devices for many households and offer strong repeat‑purchase potential.
Home Security Devices
- Smart doorbells
- Indoor security cameras
- Motion and entry sensors
- Smart alarms
Security products remain a top priority for U.S. homeowners and renters, especially when paired with mobile apps and subscription‑free options.
Environmental & Energy Monitoring Devices
- Temperature and humidity sensors
- Air quality monitors
- Smart thermostats
These devices align well with U.S. energy‑efficiency trends and smart HVAC systems.
Smart Home Accessories
- Smart hubs and gateways
- Touch panels and controllers
- Smart remotes
Accessories allow brands to expand product lines without heavy R&D investment.
Why China?
China’s leadership in smart home production is driven by several key advantages:
- Complete Electronics Supply Chain – China offers end‑to‑end manufacturing — from chipsets and PCBs to injection‑molded housings and final assembly — all within the same regions. This shortens lead times and reduces cost.
- Proven Experience with U.S. Market Requirements – Most established Chinese smart home factories already manufacture for the U.S. market and understand FCC, UL, ETL, and RoHS requirements.
- Faster Product Development – Chinese manufacturers can rapidly adapt designs, integrate new wireless standards, and customize products for branding, allowing U.S. companies to move faster than domestic manufacturing typically allows.
- Scalable Pricing – China enables competitive pricing at both low and high volumes, making it ideal for startups, growing brands, and large distributors alike.
Why Smart Home Products from China Are a Strong Fit for U.S. Homes
Smart home products manufactured in China align well with U.S. consumer expectations:
- Designed for 110–120V electrical systems
- Compatible with Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, Alexa, Google Home, and Apple ecosystems
- Focus on clean, modern aesthetics preferred in U.S. homes
- Wide range of price points for mass market and premium brands
When sourced correctly, these products meet U.S. safety standards while remaining affordable and reliable.
Key Regulations to Follow
Smart home products involve electronics, firmware, connectivity, and compliance — which means risk if not managed correctly.
Certification & Compliance
Products may require:
- FCC (U.S.)
- CE / RED (EU)
- RoHS
- UL or ETL (for certain power devices)
Failure to properly certify can result in customs delays, fines, or product bans. If you don’t know what certifications your product needs, you can consult with a customs broker. We have partnered with an international network of customs brokers and can refer you if needed.
Firmware & App Ownership
Some factories will manufacture products with their own firmware, others will have products made with the ability to install your own firmware. This is something you should carefully consider which direction you want to go in terms of compliance.
IP & Design Protection
If you are making your own smart home product you want to patent, it’s important to carefully consider all premade components that you want to have be a part of it. Consulting with a patent lawyer is critical with making custom smart home products to make sure you are legally protected.
Quality Control
Smart devices must work reliably. Inconsistent component sourcing or poor QC can lead to high return rates and brand damage.
Sourcing smart home products involves more than finding a factory. At Global Trade Specialists, we manage the entire process:
- Factory vetting and capability verification
- Product and BOM review
- Compliance and certification guidance
- Quality control inspections
- IP protection and supplier agreements
- Logistics and U.S. import support
Our goal is to help you avoid costly mistakes, reduce risk, and build a long‑term sourcing strategy.
Ready to Source Smart Home Products from China?
If you are looking to launch or expand a smart home product line for the U.S. market, we can help. We work with startups, established brands, and B2B buyers to source reliable smart home products from China, and have been helping businesses grow for more than 3 decades.
Contact us to get started!