Making a smart home sounds complicated and expensive, right? Well, embracing smart home technology does not necessarily mean draining your wallet. With my guide on making a budget Smart Home, you can live a smart life without breaking the bank!
Start with a Plan
Think of all the non-smart items in your home that you want to “smartify.” Lights? Fans? Door knobs? What I did when I was planning out my budget Smart Home journey was to list down the items that I’m too lazy to switch on and off, and would rather automate or ask Alexa to do. I started by switching out my bulbs to smart bulbs. They were easy to set up on my phone and cheap!
Choose a Central Control System
Decide on a control system like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. I have both Alexa and Google, and I got the cheapest entry-level Smart Speakers they have, like the Google Nest Mini and Amazon Echo Pop. Here’s a simple table to help you decide which one to go for:
| Feature | Google Nest Mini | Amazon Echo Pop |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Usually around $49 (often discounted) | Typically around $39.99 (often discounted) |
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant | Alexa |
| Audio Quality | Good for small rooms, improved bass over earlier models | Decent sound, slightly better bass than Echo Dot |
| Smart Home Integration | Works with Google Home ecosystem, supports a wide range of devices | Works with Alexa-compatible devices, extensive integration with Amazon ecosystem |
| Music Streaming | Supports Google Play Music, YouTube Music, Spotify, etc. | Supports Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, etc. |
| Design | Compact and minimalistic, fabric cover | Semi-spherical, customizable with interchangeable faceplates |
| Privacy Features | Mute switch, data management via Google Home app | Mute button, Alexa privacy controls |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Smart Home Hub | No built-in Zigbee hub | No built-in Zigbee hub |
| Third-Party Device Support | Broad range of compatibility with smart lights, thermostats, locks, etc. | Extensive support for third-party devices, especially those compatible with Alexa |
| Voice Recognition | Google’s Voice Match feature can recognize multiple users | Alexa can recognize different voices and provide personalized responses |
| Display Options | No screen option, relies on Google Assistant app | No display, Echo Show devices are needed for visual interaction |
| Home Automation | Strong Google Home automation capabilities | Works seamlessly with Alexa routines |
| Smart Home Ecosystem Strength | Excellent for Google users, especially Android and Nest products | Best for Amazon ecosystem users, including Prime members and Fire TV users |
Invest in Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are an affordable and easy way to automate existing appliances like lamps, fans, or coffee makers. Because I have a cute fan that I really like (and it is not smart), I used a smart plug so I can control it through my phone or Alexa. Imagine the convenience of just saying, “Alexa, turn on the fan.”
Upgrade to Smart Lighting
Replace your old bulbs with smart bulbs. These allow you to control lighting, adjust brightness, change colors, and set schedules.
Add Smart Security Features
Consider budget-friendly security options like video doorbells and smart security cameras to monitor your home. Even when you’re away, you can see what goes on in and out of your home. Doing this gives me peace of mind whenever I’m out.
Integrate Smart Entertainment
If you have a functional TV that is not a Smart TV, the best way to make it “smart” is to use streaming devices such as Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire TV Stick.
Additional Tips to Keep in Mind:
Look out for deals and discounts.
While I was making my budget smart home, I did not buy all the smart things at once. I always watched out for sales and promotions. This way, I was able to pace my spending, save some dollars, and have more time to evaluate my smart priorities.
Look for Genuine Customer Reviews
The internet is teeming with influencers with product recommendations and reviews. Be careful though, as some of these are sponsored, and their reviews might not be reflective of their true experience. When I was doing my research, I asked people around me who had tried the products. I also searched forums and read hundreds of user reviews. This helped me make smart decisions.
DIY Installation
Most smart devices are plug-and-play, meaning they’re very easy to set up. If you’re still lost, you can search YouTube and there are hundreds of tutorials for all sorts of smart products. DIY as much as you can so you can save on installation costs. However, if you think you’re not capable, it’s always best to call a pro. Safety comes first!
Regular Updates and Maintenance
Always update your devices for the latest features and security patches. Many smart home devices even offer automatic updates, so you don’t even have to do anything.
FAQs About Budget Smart Homes
What are the best budget smart home devices to start with?
Smart plugs, like Amazon Smart Plugs, and affordable smart bulbs are great starting points. They’re easy to install and offer immediate convenience.
Can budget smart home devices offer reliable security?
Yes, budget devices like the Ring Video Doorbell and Wyze Cam v3 provide effective security solutions without a high cost.
Are budget smart home gadgets difficult to install?
Most budget smart home devices are designed for easy installation, often requiring minimal technical knowledge.
Building a budget smart home is within reach for most households. By choosing the right gadgets, you can enjoy the conveniences of modern living without a hefty investment. Start small with smart plugs or lighting and gradually expand to security and smart entertainment for a fully integrated smart home experience.
