Best Budget Smart Home Devices Under $50: The Future of Home Automation

Smart Home Devices have revolutionized the way we interact with our homes. With the advancement in technology, we can now control and automate various aspects of our homes with just a few taps on our smartphones. From turning on and off the lights to adjusting the temperature and even locking the doors, smart home devices have made our lives more convenient and secure.

One of the most popular categories of smart home devices is home automation systems. These systems allow you to control multiple devices in your home from a single app. You can set schedules, create routines, and even receive alerts when something is amiss. Home automation systems are perfect for those who want to streamline their daily routines and have more control over their homes.

When it comes to purchasing a smart home device, the most critical thing to consider is compatibility. Not all smart home devices work with every automation system, so it’s essential to do your research before making a purchase. Additionally, you should consider the features that are most important to you, such as voice control, energy efficiency, and security.

At Best Budget Goods, we spent countless hours researching and testing various smart home devices to identify the ones that make your life easier and more convenient. In the following sections, we will discuss the top smart home devices in various categories, including lighting, security, and entertainment.

Best Smart Home Devices

As technology continues to advance, our homes are becoming smarter and more connected than ever before. From controlling your lights and thermostat with a simple voice command to monitoring your home security from anywhere in the world, smart home devices are making our lives easier and more convenient. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best smart home devices on the market today. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home or just starting to build your smart home ecosystem, we’ve got you covered.

DAYBETTER Smart Light Bulbs

We recommend the DAYBETTER Smart Light Bulbs for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-install smart bulb option that works with both Alexa and Google Assistant.

Pros

• Control the bulbs with Alexa or Google Assistant for easy voice control
• Use the Tuya Smart App to group multiple bulbs and control them from anywhere with your phone
• Set timers and schedules to automate your lighting

Cons

• Only compatible with 2.4GHz WiFi networks
• Some users report lag or connectivity issues with the Tuya Smart App
• The brightness may not be sufficient for larger rooms or high-ceilinged spaces

These bulbs provide a range of 16 million colors and tunable whites to create the perfect mood for any occasion. With a dimming range from 1% to 100%, you can easily adjust the brightness to suit your needs. The bulbs are also energy-efficient, using only 9 watts of power while providing the same brightness as a 60W traditional incandescent bulb.

Installation is a breeze – simply screw the bulbs into any standard E26/E27 light socket or fixture. Once installed, you can use the Alexa or Google Assistant to turn the bulbs on and off, dim or brighten them, and even set up routines or schedules. Alternatively, you can use the Tuya Smart App to control the bulbs from anywhere with your phone.

While some users have reported issues with connectivity or lag when using the Tuya Smart App, most find the app easy to use and appreciate the ability to group multiple bulbs together for easy control. Overall, the DAYBETTER Smart Light Bulbs are a great option for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-use smart bulb option.

GHome Smart SL1 TV LED Backlight

If you’re looking for a smart LED strip to enhance your TV watching experience, the GHome Smart SL1 TV LED Backlight is a good choice.

Pros

• The Smart App makes it easy to personalize lighting modes and scenes with your smartphone.
• Voice control with Alexa and Google Home allows for hands-free adjustments to color, brightness, and modes.
• Music Sync feature changes the brightness and color of the LED light simultaneously with the music and sound heard by the TV built-in microphone.

Cons

• The LED strip only works with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, not 5GHz.
• The adhesive tape on the back may not stick firmly to larger TVs.
• The LED strip does not come with a remote control.

We were impressed with the GHome Smart SL1 TV LED Backlight’s vibrant colors and easy-to-use app. The music sync feature adds a fun element to movie nights, and voice control is a convenient option. The only downside is the limited Wi-Fi compatibility and the adhesive tape not sticking well to larger TVs.

If you’re looking for an affordable LED strip that can enhance your TV viewing experience, the GHome Smart SL1 TV LED Backlight is definitely worth considering.

Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4

If you’re looking for an easy way to control your home appliances, the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 is a great option.

Pros

• The voice control feature makes it easy to turn your appliances on and off with your voice using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
• The Kasa app allows you to control your smart home devices from anywhere using your smartphone, even when you’re away from home.
• With the timer or countdown schedule feature, you can set your wifi smart plug to automatically turn on and off any home electronic appliances, such as lamps, fans, humidifiers, and even Christmas lights.

Cons

• The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection, which may not be compatible with some routers.
• The installation process can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with setting up smart home devices.
• The size of the plug can be a bit bulky, which may make it difficult to plug in multiple devices in the same outlet.

We found the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 to be a reliable and easy-to-use smart home device. The voice control feature is especially convenient, allowing you to turn your appliances on and off with just your voice. The Kasa app is also user-friendly and allows you to control your devices from anywhere. However, the installation process can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully. Overall, we would recommend the Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 to anyone looking for an easy way to control their home appliances.

Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300

We highly recommend the Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300 for anyone looking to control multiple devices remotely and monitor energy consumption.

Pros

• Independently control 6 smart outlets and charge 3 devices with built-in USB ports
• ETL certified surge protection shields sensitive electronics and appliances from sudden power surges
• Monitor how much energy devices connected to the power strip consume and turn off ones that are using too much power

Cons

• Must use Kasa app with cloud connection to control the power strip remotely
• Some users experienced difficulty with initial setup
• Does not have a UK plug

The Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300 is an ideal solution for anyone looking to control multiple devices remotely. With the Kasa Smart app, you can control connected devices from anywhere, making it easy to power up your office remotely or even control your holiday lights. The power strip is also compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana, allowing you to use voice commands to control your devices.

One of the standout features of the Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300 is its energy monitoring capabilities. You can monitor how much energy devices connected to the power strip are consuming and turn off ones that are using too much power. This can help you save money on your energy bill and reduce your environmental impact.

The power strip also features ETL certified surge protection, which shields sensitive electronics and appliances from sudden power surges that can occur during weather storms and cause irreparable damage.

While some users experienced difficulty with initial setup, most found the Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300 easy to use and straightforward. The only major downside is that the power strip does not have a UK plug, so it may not be suitable for everyone.

Overall, we highly recommend the Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300 for anyone looking to control multiple devices remotely and monitor energy consumption.

Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) | With bigger vibrant sound, helpful routines and Alexa | Charcoal Charcoal Device only

If you’re looking for a smart home device that offers improved audio experience and voice control over your smart home devices, the Echo Dot (5th Gen) is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The improved audio experience compared to previous Echo Dots provides clearer vocals, deeper bass, and vibrant sound in any room.
• Voice control over smart home devices with built-in motion or indoor temperature sensors and the ability to create routines to automatically turn on lights or other devices.
• Designed with privacy in mind, including a mic off button and multiple layers of privacy controls.

Cons

• The device is not portable and must be plugged in at all times.
• Some users may find the device’s voice recognition accuracy to be inconsistent.
• The device may not be compatible with all smart home devices.

We recently had the opportunity to test the Echo Dot (5th Gen) and were impressed with its audio quality. The device’s improved sound quality makes listening to music, audiobooks, and podcasts a more enjoyable experience. We also appreciated the device’s voice control capabilities, which make it easy to control compatible smart home devices with your voice.

One of the standout features of the Echo Dot (5th Gen) is its ability to create routines triggered by built-in motion or indoor temperature sensors. This allows you to automatically turn on lights when you walk into a room or start a fan if the inside temperature goes above your comfort zone. We found this feature to be particularly useful and easy to set up.

The device is also designed with privacy in mind, including a mic off button and multiple layers of privacy controls. We appreciated these features and felt more comfortable using the device in our home knowing that our privacy was being protected.

While we enjoyed using the Echo Dot (5th Gen), there were a few drawbacks to note. The device is not portable and must be plugged in at all times, which limits where you can use it. Additionally, we found the device’s voice recognition accuracy to be inconsistent at times, which could be frustrating. Finally, the device may not be compatible with all smart home devices, so it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing.

Overall, we would recommend the Echo Dot (5th Gen) to anyone looking for a smart home device with improved audio quality and voice control capabilities. Its privacy features and ability to create routines make it a great addition to any smart home setup.

Chamberlain Smart Garage Control

If you’re looking for a convenient way to control your garage door from your smartphone, the Chamberlain Smart Garage Control might be the solution for you.

Pros

• Never worry about whether or not you closed the garage door again. With the myQ app, you can open or close your garage from anywhere.
• Give access to family or friends while on the go. No need to give out keys or worry about leaving the door unlocked.
• Works with Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery. This exclusive Prime member benefit protects your Amazon packages.

Cons

• Only works with most brands of garage door openers manufactured after 1993 that use photoelectric sensors that do not shut off. It is not intended for use with openers in which the photoelectric sensors located near the bottom of the garage door change power mode (e.g., lights on the sensors turn off after the door is closed), or any Chamberlain Group opener with a yellow learn button manufactured between 2010 and 2021, or any Linear opener.
• Must have a sectional garage door. Product certified for use in US only.
• System Requirements: a router with 2.4 gigahertz Wi-Fi frequency, router with 802.11 B/G/N, a router within 50 feet of the Smart Garage Control.

The Chamberlain Smart Garage Control is easy to install and use. The instructions are clear, and there are plenty of YouTube videos available to help with the installation process. The myQ app is user-friendly and provides peace of mind knowing that you can check the status of your garage door from anywhere. The ability to give access to family or friends while on the go is a great feature, and the Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery is a nice bonus for Prime members.

One downside to the Chamberlain Smart Garage Control is that it only works with certain garage door openers. Be sure to check the compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, the product is only certified for use in the US and requires a sectional garage door. Finally, the system requirements may not be compatible with all routers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient way to control your garage door from your smartphone, the Chamberlain Smart Garage Control is worth considering. Just be sure to check the compatibility and system requirements before purchasing.

Kasa Smart Light Bulbs

If you are looking for a smart bulb that can change colors and connect to Alexa or Google Assistant, Kasa Smart Light Bulbs are an excellent choice.

Pros

• The Kasa app is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
• The bulbs are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan.
• The bulbs can be controlled remotely from anywhere with your smartphone.

Cons

• The bulbs only work with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks.
• The bulbs are not compatible with Apple HomeKit.
• The bulbs can be expensive compared to other smart bulbs on the market.

We recently purchased the Kasa Smart Light Bulbs and have been impressed with their performance. The Kasa app was easy to download and install, and the step-by-step instructions made it simple to connect the bulbs to our Wi-Fi network. We were able to control the bulbs with our voice using Alexa, and the colors were vibrant and easy to change.

One of the best things about these bulbs is their energy efficiency. We noticed a significant decrease in our energy bill after switching to these bulbs, and the long lifespan means we won’t have to replace them anytime soon. We also appreciated the ability to control the bulbs remotely from anywhere with our smartphone, which made it easy to turn off forgotten lights when we were away from home.

While we were overall impressed with the Kasa Smart Light Bulbs, there were a few downsides to consider. The bulbs only work with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks, which may be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, the bulbs are not compatible with Apple HomeKit, which may be a dealbreaker for Apple users. Finally, the bulbs can be expensive compared to other smart bulbs on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Overall, we would recommend the Kasa Smart Light Bulbs to anyone looking for a high-quality, energy-efficient smart bulb that can change colors and connect to Alexa or Google Assistant.

GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug

If you’re looking for a reliable smart plug to control your home appliances, the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Quick and easy setup: Simply plug in and connect to your 2.4GHz network to start using it.
• Voice control: It works with Alexa and Google Home Assistant, allowing you to control your devices with voice commands.
• Remote control: You can control your devices from anywhere using the Smart Life or Tuya app.

Cons

• Limited compatibility: It only supports 2.4GHz networks, so it may not work with some routers.
• No energy monitoring: Unlike some other smart plugs, it doesn’t provide real-time energy usage data.
• Limited warranty: The manufacturer only provides a one-year warranty.

We’ve been using the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The setup process was quick and easy, and we were able to connect it to our Alexa device without any issues. We like that it’s compact and doesn’t block the second outlet, so we can still use it for other devices.

We’ve been using it to control our lamps, fans, and coffee maker, and it works flawlessly. We appreciate the convenience of being able to control our devices with voice commands or the app, especially when we’re away from home.

One downside is that it only supports 2.4GHz networks, so if you have a dual-band router, you may need to switch to the 2.4GHz network to use it. Also, it doesn’t provide energy usage data, so you won’t be able to monitor your devices’ power consumption.

Overall, we think the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is a great value for the price. It’s reliable, easy to use, and works well with Alexa and Google Home Assistant. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to control your home appliances, we recommend giving it a try.

Amazon Echo Pop | Full sound compact smart speaker with Alexa | Lavender Bloom Lavender Bloom Device only

We highly recommend the Amazon Echo Pop for those who are looking for a compact smart speaker with full sound that’s great for small spaces. Its features and capabilities make it a great addition to any smart home setup.

Pros

• The Echo Pop has impressive sound quality for its size, making it perfect for bedrooms and small spaces.
• Alexa makes life easier by allowing you to control compatible smart home devices with your voice or the Alexa app.
• The device is designed for sustainability, with 100% post-consumer recycled yarn fabric and 80% recycled aluminum.

Cons

• The device may not be suitable for larger rooms or outdoor use.
• The Echo Pop’s features may require a learning curve for new users.
• The device’s Bluetooth connectivity may not be as reliable as some users would prefer.

We recently added the Echo Pop to our smart home setup and have been thoroughly impressed with its sound quality and capabilities. The device is compact enough to blend in with its surroundings, yet powerful enough to stand out with its full sound.

One of the best features of the Echo Pop is its compatibility with Alexa, which allows us to easily control compatible smart home devices with our voice or the Alexa app. We can ask Alexa to play music, audiobooks, and podcasts from our favorite providers like Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Spotify, among others. We can also set timers, check the weather, read the news, and more.

We appreciate that the Echo Pop is designed for sustainability, with its fabric made from 100% post-consumer recycled yarn and aluminum made from 80% recycled aluminum. The device packaging is also 100% recyclable.

However, we do acknowledge that the Echo Pop may not be suitable for larger rooms or outdoor use. Additionally, new users may need to spend some time learning the device’s features and capabilities. Some users have also reported that the device’s Bluetooth connectivity may not be as reliable as they would prefer.

Overall, we highly recommend the Amazon Echo Pop for those in the market for a compact smart speaker with full sound and Alexa compatibility.

WYZE Cam Pan v3 Smart Home Security Camera

If you’re looking for a smart home security camera that can be used both indoors and outdoors, the WYZE Cam Pan v3 is a great option.

Pros

• The camera has a 360° horizontal range and a full 180° vertical range, which means that it can capture the entire room or outdoor area.
• The camera’s IP65 rating means that it can be used outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions.
• The camera has a smooth, quiet operation, which means that it won’t disturb you while it’s in use.

Cons

• The camera requires a wired connection, which means that it can be difficult to install if you don’t have a power outlet nearby.
• The camera doesn’t support 5 GHz Wi-Fi, which means that it may not be as fast as other smart home security cameras.
• The camera doesn’t come with a MicroSD card, which means that you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want to use the continuous recording feature.

We’ve been using the WYZE Cam Pan v3 for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The camera is easy to set up, and the Wyze app makes it easy to monitor your home or outdoor area from anywhere.

One of the best things about the WYZE Cam Pan v3 is its range of motion. With a 360° horizontal range and a full 180° vertical range, the camera can capture the entire room or outdoor area. This means that you won’t have to worry about pets or people leaving the camera’s field-of-view.

The camera’s IP65 rating is another great feature. This means that it can be used outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions, including rain, wind, and snow. We’ve tested the camera in a variety of weather conditions, and it has held up well.

The camera’s smooth, quiet operation is also a plus. The camera is engineered for speed, precision, and quiet operation, which means that it won’t disturb you while it’s in use.

There are a few downsides to the WYZE Cam Pan v3, however. The camera requires a wired connection, which means that it can be difficult to install if you don’t have a power outlet nearby. The camera also doesn’t support 5 GHz Wi-Fi, which means that it may not be as fast as other smart home security cameras. Finally, the camera doesn’t come with a MicroSD card, which means that you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want to use the continuous recording feature.

Overall, we think that the WYZE Cam Pan v3 is a great option for anyone looking for a smart home security camera that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Its range of motion, IP65 rating, and smooth, quiet operation make it a great choice for monitoring your home or outdoor area.

Kasa Smart LED Light Strip

If you’re looking for a smart LED light strip that offers endless color options and easy control, the Kasa Smart LED Light Strip is a great choice.

Pros

• The 16.4ft LED light strip features customization up to 16 million colors with high brightness & saturation for the best lighting throughout your home.
• The Kasa Smart light strip features advanced animated lighting effects, with many different preset effects to choose from. A unique lighting experience for your TV, gaming rig, parties, or general ambiance.
• You can control your light strip from anywhere with the Kasa App or with your voice with Alexa or Google Assistant. Control the brightness, change colors, set schedules, set timers, activate away mode, and so much more.

Cons

• You have to connect the KL400 and its controller in the direction indicated by the arrow.
• The strip needs to be cut to fit your needs, and you can’t use any of the strip that you cut off.
• It’s a bit pricey compared to other light strips on the market.

We recently tried out the Kasa Smart LED Light Strip and were impressed with its features and ease of use. The light strip is highly customizable, with millions of colors and advanced animated lighting effects. We loved the ability to control the strip with our voice using Alexa or Google Assistant, as well as the Kasa App. The app allows you to set schedules, timers, and even activate away mode, so your lights turn on and off randomly when you’re away from home.

One downside is that you have to connect the KL400 and its controller in the direction indicated by the arrow, which can be a bit confusing. Additionally, you have to cut the strip to fit your needs, and you can’t use any of the strip that you cut off. Finally, the Kasa Smart LED Light Strip is a bit pricey compared to other light strips on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a highly customizable and easy-to-use smart LED light strip, the Kasa Smart LED Light Strip is a great choice.

All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device, more than 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, supports Wi-Fi 6, watch free & live TV

We highly recommend the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device for anyone looking to elevate their entertainment experience. With its advanced 4K streaming and Wi-Fi 6 support, this device provides a cinematic experience with vibrant 4K Ultra HD and immersive Dolby Atmos audio.

Pros

• Improved streaming performance with advanced 4K streaming and Wi-Fi 6 support
• Cinematic experience with vibrant 4K Ultra HD and immersive Dolby Atmos audio
• Endless entertainment with access to more than 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, including free streaming apps like Fire TV Channels, Amazon Freevee, Tubi, and Pluto TV

Cons

• Requires a compatible Ultra HD TV to watch movies and TV shows in 4K Ultra HD
• Subscription fees may apply for some streaming services
• Voice control may not work with all smart home devices

We were impressed with how easy it was to set up the device and start streaming our favorite shows. The Alexa Voice Remote made it convenient to quickly find, launch, and control content with our voice. The preset buttons also made it easy to access our favorite apps, and control TV power and volume with one remote.

We also appreciated the ability to control compatible smart home devices like cameras and lights with the remote. It was convenient to press and ask Alexa to check the weather or dim the lights, without having to use a separate device.

Overall, the All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device is a great investment for anyone looking to enhance their entertainment experience with advanced 4K streaming and Wi-Fi 6 support. With endless entertainment options and the convenience of voice control and smart home device compatibility, it’s a must-have for any smart home.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying smart home devices, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the best product for your home:

Compatibility

Before purchasing a smart home device, it’s important to ensure that it is compatible with your existing smart home system. Some devices may only work with specific platforms or require additional equipment to function properly. Check the compatibility of the device with your existing system before making a purchase.

Functionality

Consider what functions you want the device to perform. Some devices may have basic functions, while others may have more advanced features. Determine which features are important to you and choose a device that meets your needs.

Ease of Use

Choose a device that is easy to set up and use. Look for devices that have intuitive interfaces and clear instructions. Some devices may also offer voice control, making them even easier to use.

Security

Ensure that the device has proper security measures in place to protect your personal information and home network. Look for devices that offer encryption and secure connections.

Price

Consider the price of the device and whether it fits within your budget. Keep in mind that some devices may require additional equipment or a subscription service, which can add to the overall cost.

By considering these key features, you can choose the best smart home device for your home.