3 Best Smart Displays (2025): Tested By a Smart Home Addict
The family calendar, once a kitchen staple, is undergoing a digital transformation-but are smart displays the answer? As of February 29, 2025, a new wave of connected displays promises to streamline household organization, yet many require ongoing subscription fees and rely on consistent family adoption to justify their cost. After extensive testing, three models stand out for their functionality and potential to genuinely improve family life.
These aren’t just digital photo frames; they’re attempts to centralize schedules, dialog, and even family routines. The appeal is strong for busy households seeking to reduce screen time on personal devices and foster a shared sense of awareness. However, the success of these displays hinges on overcoming a critical hurdle: convincing everyone to actually use them. This guide cuts through the marketing hype to deliver a practical assessment of the leading contenders, weighing their features against their real-world usability and ongoing expenses.
1. Skylight Frame (Best Overall)
The Skylight Frame consistently impressed during testing with its simplicity and focus on core features. Priced around $160 (as of February 2025), the 10-inch display excels as a shared photo album, automatically updating with images sent via email or the Skylight app. Beyond photos, the Skylight offers a meal planning tool and a shared calendar-both unlocked with the monthly Plus Plan subscription. While the subscription adds to the overall cost, it provides tangible benefits for families seeking to coordinate meals and appointments. The Skylight’s strength lies in its ease of use, making it accessible for all ages.
2. Hearth Display (Best for Family routines)
the Hearth Display, available exclusively in a 27-inch size and retailing for $699, positions itself as a central hub for family routines. It encourages the creation of shared schedules and tasks,particularly geared towards older children. The display utilizes a visually-driven interface with icons for pre-readers, aiming to engage younger family members. However, unlocking the full potential of the Hearth requires a Family membership subscription.While the large screen is visually appealing, the high price point and reliance on a subscription may be prohibitive for some families.
3. Cozyla Calendar+ (Most Customizable)
Cozyla offers a range of calendar displays, from a 15-inch model to a substantial 36-inch screen, with prices varying accordingly. The Cozyla Calendar+ differentiates itself with its customization options, allowing users to tailor the display to their specific needs. Like its competitors, Cozyla employs a membership model to access advanced features. This flexibility is a plus, but also adds to the complexity of choosing the right plan.
The Bottom Line:
While these smart displays offer compelling features, their success depends on consistent family engagement and a willingness to subscribe to ongoing services. For many, the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of a shared digital calendar-like Google Calendar-may prove to be a more practical solution. Before investing in a dedicated smart display, consider whether your family is likely to adopt it as a central communication hub, or if existing tools already suffice.
