I always thought that creating a smart home meant breaking your bank. The price tag on quality smart gadgets always halted my plans to buy one.
It was an honest mistake on my side to believe that all the quality devices out there were expensive. However, I have recently come across several devices that are as good as expensive ones, but under $50.
As of now, I’ve purchased a few of those smart gadgets, and I’m planning to buy more. And here, I’ll share those smart home gadgets and explain how they’ve brought convenience to my life.
But before I start, some features, such as remote access via apps, might only be available when they’re connected to a high-speed connection. And as I was already looking for a reliable, yet affordable option due to budget constraints, I opted for Verizon Fios Internet.
Not only was it inexpensive, but it also offered symmetrical internet speeds that catered to the requirements of these smart home gadgets and my household’s online needs.
Now, let’s get started.
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that a smart speaker is the cornerstone of every smart home. I, too, bought a smart speaker, specifically the Echo Dot 5th Generation.
Echo Dot has all the qualities that a high-end and expensive smart home speaker can offer. For instance, you can integrate and control multiple smart home gadgets with the Echo Dot. Then, you can also make phone calls, order groceries, and complete various actions, such as turning on/off smart lights, plugs, etc.
Lastly, I bought this smart speaker for just under $50. And, considering its functionalities, I believe it was a real bargain.
This is another smart gadget that I bought for around $50. Whatever you expect from an expensive video doorbell, this one can do it all. Plus, it has a few more features that even a high-priced doorbell might miss out on.
Now, let me explain some of its key features.
Firstly, this doorbell is hardwired, which might feel a bit inconvenient at first. However, you won’t have to worry about charging its batteries once this doorbell is set up. Other than this, it can be connected to your smart speaker and your smartphone.
This way, even if someone knocks at your door, you won’t have to get up.
It is one of those smart gadgets that make your home smart, and at the same time, significantly reduce your electricity bills.
I bought a pack of 4 for less than $30. And, considering it offers voice control, smart schedules, an auto-off timer, and remote control, I believe it easily outperforms some of the most expensive smart plugs.
Other than this, what I find most helpful is its app.
Even if I forget to turn off this smart switch, I can do so via its app. Also, Kasa Smart Plugs are fire-resistant, which I believe is an exceptional safety feature for a gadget under $30.
This smart camera costs just under $30, but it can offer an immeasurable peace of mind. TP-Link Tapo C120 can offer a hawk-eye view with its 2K resolution.
I was doubtful about its performance in dimly lit areas, or especially at night. However, this smart gadget has a starlight sensor, which is capable of showing colors at night.
Additionally, this security offers two-way audio. So, besides having a crystal-clear view, you can also communicate via this smart security camera.
Last but not least, this gadget comes with an IP66 rating, which makes it resistant to adverse weather conditions.
Before I wind up, here’s a bonus section where I’ll share a few considerable factors you should keep in mind before buying smart home gadgets.
Some smart home gadgets have complex installation, such as the video doorbell or security camera. On the other hand, smart speakers are fairly easy to install, and in most cases, only involve plug-and-play.
Here, I’d advise that if you don’t have the technical skills to install a smart gadget, then simply get professional help.
As I mentioned above, a reliable connection is needed to access all the features of smart home gadgets. And, it’s best if you fix your connection and subscribe to a high-speed plan so that it can easily cater to your smart home and household online needs simultaneously.
Before you buy any smart home gadget, ensure that it’s compatible with the rest of your gadgets. Smart home gadgets should be compatible so that you can control them via a central hub. And, if they’re not, then you might have to control them individually or via their apps.
So, to conclude, these are the four smart home gadgets that have cost me less than $50.
And, while most people might think that they’re of inferior quality since they’re inexpensive, after using them for some time now, I can assure you that these smart gadgets are as good as the expensive ones.