You don’t need to be tech-savvy to benefit from the latest crop of smart home tech. And with the rise of products, capabilities and models, adding a touch of luxury and ease to your home doesn’t always have to break the bank either. 

“The widespread use of smart technology and home appliances and accessories has brought the cost of this technology down considerably in recent years,” says Kevin Connors, a professional organizer and homeowner who uses smart devices. “This is largely a function of the decreased cost of the computing power required. It’s also become necessary for manufacturers to remain competitive in their product sector by offering goods that utilize this technology to multiply the features a given product has to offer.” 

Mary Jean, product development manager for Zetronix, a leading provider of small security products, agrees that advances in technology, mass production, and economies of scale have enabled more Americans to adopt these devices than ever before.

“Home gadgets are suitable for a wide range of consumers, including busy professionals looking to save time and simplify daily tasks, families who want enhanced home security, tech enthusiasts eager to integrate the latest technology into their homes without a significant investment, and older and disabled individuals who can benefit from added convenience and independence,” says Jean.

Here’s a rundown of smart products every homeowner should consider, per the experts:

• Smart speakers. “Affordable products like the Amazon Echo and Google Nest Audio allow you to control your home easily with voice commands, play music, and integrate with other smart devices for as little as $50 to $100,” says interior designer Sonu Iohia.
• Smart bulbs. Smart color-changing lightbulbs from brands like Philips and Wyze cost $10 and up, and they allow you to set the perfect mood for any room via your smartphone or voice.
• Smart plugs. A smart plug, such as TP-Link’s Kasa Smart WiFi Plug and other brands, can automatically schedule power to any plugged-in device and save energy.
• Smart programmable thermostats. These devices, including Google’s Nest thermostat and the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004, replace old-fashioned thermostats and “help you save energy, maintain a comfortable home temperature, and learn your climate preferences and schedule,” Jean adds.
• Robot vacuums. Brands like Eufy, Roomba (iRobot), and Shark provide automated cleaning without breaking the bank and are efficient, quiet, and easy to use, typically costing $200 and up.
• Video doorbells. Ring, Wyze, Blink Nest, Arlo, and other brands bring priceless home security to your doorstep for as little as $40, providing clear video and often two-way audio communication.
• Touchpad electronic door locks. These devices often feature convenient keyless entry, allowing you to easily lock and unlock your door without taking out your keys. They also offer customizable auto locking, easy code management, vacation mode, and more—all for $50 and up.
• Home media hub. The Echo Hub and Google Nest Hub are among the standouts in this subcategory of digital smart displays that can help you set up, manage, and control all connected devices around your home, including lights, cameras, thermostats and even window treatments.
• Universal smart remotes. “Gadgets like the AIFA i-Ctrl enable you to control all your IR-enabled devices by smartphone or voice without any wiring or sensors, for under $50,” notes Iohia.

The experts recommend choosing devices that match your comfort level with technology and DIY skills.

“Opt for products that align with your abilities, or consider professional installation for more complex systems,” Jean continues.

Local companies like Palmetto Smart Home, Custom Home Sound and Premier Sound have expert teams who can help you install and calibrate your integrated products like plugs, thermostats and home hubs. They make the process of setting up these devices a breeze and will make sure you can comfortably operate them on your own.