Want high-tech living without the high price tag? Explore the 4 cheapest ways to turn your house into a smart home, from smart plugs to voice control.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
As smart home technology has become increasingly popular, it has also become more and more accessible. There are a number of devices out there that can help with smart home upgrades, including devices that enable automation around the house, provide energy efficiency, and offer more convenient forms of entertainment. You don’t have to break the bank in order to add these smart home amenities to your living quarters. Budget-friendly smart home tech is out there, offering impressive functionality at a fraction of the price many people associate with creating a home of the future.
With a focus on the needs of beginners and enthusiasts whose budget is a high priority, we’ve gathered some ways to turn your house into a smart home. Each selection delivers practical benefits as well as the potential for some fun, as a smart home should be just as much fun as it is convenient. So whether you live in a house or an apartment, whether you’re upgrading essential smart home gadgets or shopping for your first, here are some affordable, entertaining, and simple-to-set-up smart home options.Smart plugs
Smart plugs turn regular electronics into smart devices by controlling their power supply. They’re incredibly convenient, as they don’t replace your wall outlet, but plug directly into it. Once plugged in, all you have to do is plug devices like lamps, fans, coffee makers, and even devices that need charging into the smart plug. These plugs function over your home’s Wi-Fi connection, and from its companion app, you’ll have complete control over the flow of electricity going through it. You can also set smart plugs up for automation, ensuring lights and other small electronics turn off when you aren’t using them.
In addition to convenience, smart plugs offer one of the most affordable entry points to smart home technology. Brands such as Kasa, TP-Link, and Govee top our picks for the best smart plugs. Even if you prefer to shop these top brands, you’re likely to find them friendly to your wallet. The Kasa Smart Plug Mini is available in a 4-pack for $37, and the Govee Smart Plug 15A is available in a 4-pack for $30.
