Upgrading your home to be a bit smarter doesn’t have to break the bank. Join us as we take a look at some great smart home devices for under $100. We’ll cover many different smart devices including plugs and switches that give you control over your appliances to smart cameras and doorbells that enhance home security. These affordable options are designed to integrate seamlessly into your daily life, offering both convenience and functionality without a hefty price tag. Whether you’re taking your first steps into home automation or looking to expand your existing setup, this guide to cost-effective smart home devices is a great starting point.
Home Assistant Green
The Home Assistant Green is an open source smart home hub and controller that prides itself on giving you full control over the controller and your privacy. Most smart home controllers rely on third party cloud hosted services to handle your data and work. The Home Assistant Green provides the same functionality, but from the privacy of your home. Instead of sending your home’s data to Google, Amazon, or Apple’s cloud, your data and tasks stay on the Home Assistant Green device. Home Assistant is amazingly powerful, but can be complex to setup. The Home Assistant Green device is designed to be easy to setup, just plug it in, connect it to your network, and then hook your smart devices to it. At under $100, this is one of the best smart home devices you can buy if you are interested in keeping your data private.
Google Nest Audio Smart Speaker
The Google Nest Audio is a solid choice if you’re looking for an easy to use smart home hub. It is a smart speaker designed to deliver an audio experience that brings clear vocals and strong bass to any room. This device is part of Google’s line of smart home products and is engineered to provide high-quality sound for music listening. It comes in a color known as Chalk, which can blend with various interior decors. To interact with the Nest Audio, users can utilize voice commands by starting with the phrase “Hey Google” to activate the device. This feature allows users to play their desired music or to seek assistance from the Google Assistant without the need for physical interaction with the speaker. The Nest Audio’s ability to understand and respond to voice commands makes it a convenient option for hands-free control in a smart home environment.
Govee Dreamview TV Strip Lights
The Govee Dreamview TV Strip Lights are great if you are looking to make your tv viewing more immersive. These strip lights provide a dynamic lighting effect that extends the colors from the TV screen to the walls around it, creating an immersive atmosphere for both gaming and watching movies. The lights are capable of displaying a wide range of colors and are engineered to adjust and match the content on the screen in real-time. This feature aims to reduce eye strain by providing a more comfortable backlighting when the television is in use. The product is intended to add to the aesthetic of a home entertainment setup by introducing vibrant lighting that can complement the on-screen action, thereby enriching the overall visual experience. Installation of the strip lights is typically straightforward, and they are controlled through a dedicated application that allows for customization of the lighting effects.
Feit Electric Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip
Smart power strips like the Feit Electric Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip are perfect for adding some smarts to multiple electric devices simultaneously. They’re perfect for controlling things like media centers and computer peripherals. This strip includes four outlets and four USB ports. It is designed to convert standard appliances and lighting fixtures into smart devices which can be operated remotely. Users can manage the connected devices from any location using a smartphone application. The app provides options to turn devices on or off and to set schedules or timers for their operation. Integrated into the power strip is an LED indicator that signals when a device is connected and actively using the power supply. The power strip is compatible with voice-controlled assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, which permits users to execute simple voice commands to control their devices. This compatibility extends the convenience of the smart power strip, facilitating a hands-free experience for managing home appliances and lights.
Govee Smart String Bulbs
The Govee Wi-Fi Bluetooth Smart String Bulbs are perfect for lighting your outdoor spaces. They are designed to enhance the atmosphere of various outdoor settings, such as gardens, patios, and backyards. These smart string bulbs can help set the mood for social occasions, including gatherings with family and friends. The multi-color capability of the bulbs adds versatility to the lighting, enabling a range of color options to suit different preferences and occasions. This feature can be particularly useful in creating a specific mood or theme for an event held outdoors.
Amazon Smart Programmable Thermostat with Alexa
The Amazon Smart Thermostat replaces traditional thermostats and is geared towards helping you reduce your energy usage. This device is ENERGY STAR certified, indicating that it meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Users have the convenience of adjusting their home temperature remotely via the Alexa app. Additionally, voice control is available through Alexa, allowing for temperature changes without the need for physical interaction with the thermostat.
Aqara T1 Water Leak Sensor
The Aqara T1 Water Leak Sensor is designed to detect water leaks or flooding within an area. When it comes into contact with water, the device sends a notification through a connected Zigbee hub. This can let you know if there is water in your home where it shouldn’t be quickly. When connected to a Zigbee hub that’s compatible with your smart home controller, you can get notifications routed to your smart home controller. This can let it trigger other actions or alarms based on the detection of water to help minimize the effects of any leaks or flooding that might occur.
Aqara M2 Hub Control Center
The Aqara Hub M2 serves as a Zigbee hub for a smart home environment. This device can connect through either WiFi or an Ethernet network, making setup easy. It is designed to interact with and connect to various Aqara Zigbee accessories. The Aqara Hub M2 also features an infrared (IR) remote control function. This function enables users to add and manage the control of IR devices within their home. This inclusion of IR control means that the Aqara Hub M2 is not limited to managing only Zigbee-compatible accessories, but can also extend its capabilities to a broader range of household devices that receive IR signals. The Aqara hub is compatible with a wide range of smart home controllers such as Amazon’s Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. This allows Zigbee devices to forward their information to these smart home controllers.
Amazon Echo Dot Smart Speaker
The Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 Release) is a smart speaker designed to deliver vibrant sound. The Echo Dot is equipped with Alexa, Amazon’s virtual assistant, which enables users to manage their daily tasks, control compatible smart home gadgets, and initiate routines with a simple motion detection feature. This allows you to listen to music in your home, or easily control a wide range of smart home devices as well as receive audio notifications about your devices or events.
Amazon Echo Show 5 Smart Display
The Amazon Echo Show 5 is a compact device featuring a 5.5-inch display. It is designed to provide visual content such as news, weather updates, and can facilitate video calls. It’s compatible with certain cameras, allowing users to view feeds from these devices. Additionally, the Echo Show 5 can stream music and shows, adding to its range of entertainment capabilities. Users can control alarms and timers using voice commands. The device offers customization through routines, which allow individuals to tailor their experiences according to their waking and sleeping preferences. The color of this particular model is charcoal, which may appeal to those looking for a device with a more subdued appearance.
Roku Express 4K+ Streaming Player
The Roku Express 4K+ is a streaming device that enables you to watch content in 4K resolution and HDR color. It is designed to provide a smooth streaming experience, especially when connected to a network that has multiple devices using it simultaneously. This device comes with a voice remote that can be used to turn on your TV, manage volume levels, and navigate through your streaming options without needing to switch between different remotes. The voice feature allows you to execute commands such as searching for content, launching channels, and enabling captions with ease. In terms of content, the Roku Express 4K+ offers access to a wide range of streaming services including both free and subscription-based channels like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. These can be organized on a customizable home screen. The setup process is straightforward, with a Premium High Speed HDMI Cable included in the box to connect the device to your TV.
Blink Smart Wifi Video Doorbell
The Blink Smart Wifi Video Doorbell is a security device that can be installed quickly and is meant to fit the needs of any home. It operates by sending notifications to your mobile device through an application when someone presses the doorbell or when motion is sensed. It offers you the option to connect it to your home’s existing wiring to activate their traditional chime when visitors arrive. The doorbell also allows you to interact with visitors from any location. This is made possible through features such as high-definition video that works both during the day and at night, as well as two-way audio, which lets users communicate with someone at their door through the Blink Home Monitor app.
GE Cync Smart Direct Connect Light Bulbs
The GE Cync Tunable White Smart Bulbs are designed to provide the best light to match different times of the day. In the morning, the bulbs can emit a bright and vibrant light which can be transitioned to a soft, white light during the afternoon. As evening approaches, the bulbs can be adjusted to give off a cozy amber glow, which may support the natural sleep/wake cycle. These smart bulbs offer the functionality to schedule lighting, which can give a sense of security by ensuring that lights can be turned on before arriving home, avoiding the discomfort of entering a dark house. The GE Cync Smart Bulbs can be controlled through voice commands, adding a layer of convenience especially when manual operation is not practical, such as when hands are occupied. The lights can also be scheduled to come on automatically, perfect for the transition from day to night.
TP-Link Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug
The TP-Link Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug, or TP25, lets you control two devices that are plugged into it. This plug is perfect for outdoor use. It is rated IP65, meaning it is protected against dust and low-pressure water jets from any direction, making it resilient against the elements. The TP25 can be integrated with various smart home platforms such as Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings. This gives you the ability to control your outdoor devices through voice commands or through a smartphone application. This ease of setup and use, along with the plug’s robust outdoor rating and compatibility with popular smart home ecosystems, makes it a convenient choice for managing outdoor electrical devices.
Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor
The Aqara Presence Sensor FP2 uses millimeter-wave radar technology to detect presence. This technology can sense even minor movements such as breathing, which enhances the reliability and consistency of the sensor’s performance. The device includes a zone positioning feature, enabling it to trigger various actions depending on the location within a room, such as near beds or tables. This is perfect if you want to automate your home to automatically do things when people are in a room or not. Additional features of the sensor include the ability to detect falls, which could be useful in monitoring the well-being of vulnerable individuals. It also offers sleep monitoring capabilities and comes with an integrated light sensor. The combination of these functions makes the Aqara FP2 a versatile tool for enhancing the convenience and customization of home automation, catering to a range of user preferences and needs.
Nest Hub 7” Smart Display with Google Assistant
The second generation Nest Hub by Google is designed to act as a central part of a smart home. It’s great for staying entertained in the kitchen by providing access to shows, videos, and music. The Nest Hub can be used to control other smart devices in the house such as lights and TVs. This is achieved either by touching the screen of the device or by using voice commands. Additionally, when placed in the bedroom, the Nest Hub offers a feature called Sunrise Alarm which is intended to help users wake up more naturally.
TP-Link Tapo Pan-Tilt Indoor Security Camera
The TP-Link Tapo TC73 is a smart home security camera with pan and tilt capabilities. It is equipped with artificial intelligence technology and a privacy shutter for enhanced security and user control over surveillance. The camera has been designed to work with popular smart home systems, including Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home, providing a variety of options for users to control their camera. The setup process aims to be straightforward to facilitate a smooth initial experience. The TC73 model features a 2K 4MP resolution camera with a starlight sensor that is capable of delivering clear visuals even in challenging lighting conditions. The smart motion tracking functionality allows the camera to follow movement within its field of view, ensuring that the area of interest is always in sight. The device offers local storage options, allowing users to insert a microSD card of up to 512 GB for video recordings. The camera’s AI algorithm is capable of distinguishing between different types of movements and sounds, such as identifying people, pets, vehicles, and the sound of a baby crying. The camera also supports two-way audio, customizable sound and light alarms, and the ability to share video clips.
TP-Link Tapo Indoor Security Camera
The Tapo C125 is a home security camera that includes a privacy shutter. This feature can be controlled through the camera button or the Tapo app. The camera offers a resolution of 2K 4MP and has artificial intelligence (AI) image enhancement to provide clear images in various lighting conditions. A 140-degree angle allows for a broad monitoring range. The camera also has 940nm IR invisible LED lights for nighttime surveillance. The AI algorithm of the Tapo C125 can recognize different subjects such as people, pets, and vehicles and can detect sounds, including a baby crying. It also works with voice assistants, including Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, which adds to the convenience of using the camera.
TP-Link Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Plug
The Tapo TP15 is a smart plug that is certified by Matter, which ensures it can work with various smart home platforms such as Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings. This integration allows for a more unified smart home experience. The companion Tapo app enhances the functionality of the smart plug by offering users the ability to create schedules and scenes. This can be helpful for automating the operation of connected devices according to specific needs or preferences. Furthermore, the app enables remote control of the devices, which means users can manage their smart plugs from anywhere. There is also an Auto-Off Timer feature to ensure that devices are not left on unnecessarily, which can contribute to energy savings. Setup of these smart plugs is easy, making them ideal for pretty much anyone.
Ring Video Doorbell
The Ring Video Doorbell in Satin Nickel lets you monitor your door from any location. The device allows you to see, hear, and communicate with visitors through your phone, tablet, or certain devices enabled with Alexa. You can customize the motion zones of the doorbell to monitor specific areas around your entrance, ensuring that you are alerted to activities that are significant to you. When there is movement detected within these zones, you will receive real-time notifications. The doorbell is equipped with infrared night vision and live view features, which lets you supervise your home entrance both during the night and throughout the day. Smart doorbells like this give you peace of mind by making it easier to keep an eye on your property and who is at the door.
Adding smart technology to your home doesn’t have to break the bank. There are a variety of smart home devices available for under $100 that can provide convenience, enhance security, and increase energy efficiency. From smart bulbs and plugs to cameras and thermostats, these affordable options can help you step into the world of smart home living without a significant financial investment. By carefully selecting the devices that best suit your needs, you can enjoy the benefits of a connected home while keeping your budget intact. Remember to consider compatibility with your existing devices and ease of use when making your choices. With the right smart home gadgets, you can have both high tech and low cost.
