Why set up a home automation server?

It started when I tried to connect my WIFI enabled thermostat to my phone. Then I connected a few smart switches, then it was a car charger, then came the smart TV's. I was annoyed that I needed a separate app for every ecosystem. So with a quick google search I found homeassistant and realized that this was the way to go. The setup at the time was complicated but the server application has grown quite a bit since I started and its become almost as easy to set up as most of these smart home apps are!

OpenHAB vs Homeassistant

Both are valid options but Homeassistant is great if you enjoy cutting edge technology and want to tinker with the app to make it yours. The UI is very customizable and there is provisions to add in everything from custom sensors to embeding webpages.