Top Features Every Smart Display Should Have for Maximum Efficiency

6 May 2025

Smart displays have quickly become the centerpieces of many modern households. They’re not just glorified tablets or fancy alarm clocks. These devices act as a gateway to your connected home, an assistant, an entertainment hub, a recipe guide, and much more. But not all smart displays are created equal. If you're in the market for one, or simply curious about what makes a smart display truly efficient, this guide is for you.

So, what should you look for in a smart display to ensure it’s the most useful, efficient gadget in your home? Let’s dive into the top features every smart display should have for maximum efficiency.

1. Voice Assistant Integration

First things first — a smart display isn’t very smart without a voice assistant. Whether it’s Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri, voice assistant integration is non-negotiable. Why? Because it’s the feature that allows you to control the device hands-free. You can ask it for the weather, to play music, set reminders, control other smart devices, and much more.

Imagine you’re in the kitchen with your hands dirty from whipping up a meal. The last thing you want to do is touch the screen. With a voice assistant, you can ask for the next step in your recipe or even adjust the thermostat without lifting a finger.

Why It Matters:

- Hands-free control: Convenience is key when multitasking.
- Smart home hub: Voice assistants can control other smart gadgets around your home (lights, cameras, thermostats, etc.).

2. High-Resolution Display

A smart display is, well, a display. So, the quality of the screen matters a whole lot. Whether you’re streaming Netflix, following a recipe, having a video call, or just checking the time, you’ll want a high-resolution screen that’s bright, crisp, and easy on the eyes.

For maximum efficiency, you're going to want at least a 720p resolution, but ideally, go for a 1080p or higher if you plan on using your smart display as a mini entertainment hub. A clear, vibrant screen will make everything from video calls to watching YouTube tutorials a more pleasant experience.

Why It Matters:

- Better visuals: A high-res screen makes everything from text to videos look sharp.
- Comfortable viewing: If you’re going to be looking at it often, better resolution reduces eye strain.

3. Responsive Touchscreen

Sure, voice commands are great, but sometimes you’ll want to interact with your smart display via touch. After all, there are moments when a quick swipe or tap is faster than talking. But here’s the thing — not all touchscreens are created equal.

A sluggish, unresponsive touchscreen is not only frustrating but also defeats the purpose of having a "smart" display. You need something that’s quick, responsive, and intuitive to use, much like the smartphones we’re all so accustomed to.

Why It Matters:

- Smooth navigation: A responsive touchscreen makes it easier to scroll through menus, apps, and settings.
- Multi-tasking: Switching between tasks seamlessly is crucial for efficiency.

4. Smart Home Compatibility

If you have a smart display, chances are you also have other smart devices in your home — from smart lights and plugs to security cameras and doorbells. One of the key features of a smart display is its ability to act as the central hub for all these gadgets.

The best smart displays are compatible with a wide range of smart home devices. They should allow you to manage everything from one place. Whether it’s dimming the lights, locking the doors, or checking the feed from your security camera, your smart display should make managing your smart home easy and intuitive.

Why It Matters:

- One-stop control: No need for multiple apps or controls. Everything's in one place.
- Home security: Check cameras, locks, and alarms quickly for peace of mind.

5. Video Calling Capabilities

In this modern age, staying connected with loved ones has never been easier, and your smart display should enhance that experience. Video calling capabilities have become a must-have feature, especially with the rise of remote work and virtual family gatherings.

A smart display with a built-in camera and video calling functionality (think Zoom, Google Duo, or Skype) can replace your need for a separate device to make calls. Some models even come with auto-framing features, so you stay centered in the frame even if you move around.

Why It Matters:

- Stay connected: Perfect for video calls with family, friends, or coworkers.
- Work from home: Great for virtual meetings without needing a separate device.

6. Privacy Features

As much as we love our smart gadgets, privacy is a top concern for many users. After all, these devices are equipped with microphones and cameras, which can feel a little invasive if not managed properly.

Smart displays should come with built-in privacy features like physical camera shutters, microphone mute buttons, and the ability to turn off voice recording when not in use. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that your device isn’t listening when you don’t want it to.

Why It Matters:

- Peace of mind: Control when your device is "listening" or "watching."
- Data protection: Reduce concerns about unnecessary data collection.

7. Good Audio Quality

Most smart displays aren’t just for showing things. They also double as speakers. Whether you’re listening to music, watching videos, or even just hearing your assistant’s voice, good audio quality is crucial.

Look for a smart display that has decent speakers — preferably with stereo sound or bass-boosting features. Some premium models even have Dolby Atmos support, which is a huge plus if you’re an audiophile or someone who enjoys immersive sound experiences while watching movies or listening to playlists.

Why It Matters:

- Enhanced entertainment: Better sound makes for a more immersive experience.
- Clear communication: During video calls, clear audio is essential.

8. Customizable Routines and Automations

One of the best things about smart displays is their ability to make your life easier through automation. Look for one that allows you to set up custom routines and automations. For example, you could create a "Good Morning" routine where the device turns on the lights, reads out the weather, and gives you a rundown of your day's schedule — all with a single command.

This feature is a game-changer when it comes to maximizing efficiency. You can automate repetitive tasks and simplify your daily routines, saving time and mental energy.

Why It Matters:

- Time-saving: Automate repetitive tasks like turning on lights or adjusting the thermostat.
- Personalization: Tailor routines to fit your schedule and preferences.

9. Multiple User Support

Smart displays are often used by various members of the household, so it’s important that they support multiple user profiles. This feature allows the device to recognize who’s interacting with it and provide personalized responses based on the user.

For instance, one family member might ask for their calendar, while another wants to know their commute time. A smart display with multiple user support can switch effortlessly between users without confusion.

Why It Matters:

- Personalized responses: Each user gets relevant information, like their own calendar or music preferences.
- Family-friendly: Makes the device more functional for everyone in the household.

10. Battery Backup (For Portability)

While most smart displays are designed to sit in one place, there’s something to be said for a device that’s portable. Some newer models come with battery backup, allowing you to move the display from room to room without needing to worry about plugging it back in immediately.

Imagine you’re following a recipe in the kitchen, but need to move to the dining room. A smart display with a battery backup ensures you can take it with you without interrupting your workflow.

Why It Matters:

- Flexibility: Move the display around without needing to plug and unplug it.
- Uninterrupted use: Keep it running even during power outages or while moving between rooms.

11. Third-Party App Support

The more versatile your smart display, the better. Third-party app support is crucial for expanding the functionality of your device. Whether you want to watch Netflix, stream Spotify, or even check your smart security cameras, having these apps integrated into your smart display makes life more convenient.

An efficient smart display should come with a wide range of supported apps, from streaming services to productivity tools, so you can get the most value out of your device.

Why It Matters:

- More functionality: Access your favorite apps directly from the display.
- Entertainment hub: Stream content or play games without needing another device.

Conclusion

In a world where convenience is king, smart displays have become essential tools for modern homes. But not all smart displays are created equal — and to get the most efficient experience, you need to pay attention to the features that matter most. From voice assistant integration to smart home compatibility, responsive touchscreens, privacy features, and more, these devices can be true game-changers in your daily life.

So, whether you're getting your first smart display or upgrading, be sure to look out for these key features to maximize efficiency and get the most out of your new gadget.