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Renting a property can make it difficult to install useful smart home gadgets, or so you thought! In reality, renters have tons of great options when it comes to adding in tech that makes their lives easier and enhances security.
This article dives into the ultimate guide for smart home gadgets suitable for even the most budget-friendly rental property. Whether you’re looking for fancy connected lighting or voice control home security systems, we will provide all the information on not only what these devices are but also how they work and why you should consider them for your apartment.
So if you want your rental to stay up-to-date with leading technology without having to commit long term, this is a must read!
Key Takeaways
- Smart plugs, smart bulbs, voice assistants and connected lighting are affordable and easy to install solutions for renters looking to upgrade their living space.
- Voice controlled assistants can increase convenience by controlling various devices and activities in a hands- free way.
- Smart home gadgets such as air quality monitors and rental friendly security systems can improve safety while energy efficiency of your rental property is ensured with products like smart thermostats.
- Automating existing tech through connected outlets or power strips can help reduce waste electrical consumption resulting in cost savings for the user over time.
Why Smart Home Gadgets Are Beneficial for Renters
Smart home gadgets can provide renters with easy and affordable installation, improved safety, energy efficiency and cost savings.
Affordable and easy to install

Smart home gadgets have become the essential tools of modern renters’ lives. For those looking to get the most out of their rental apartment without breaking the bank, smart home devices are an attainable and cost-effective way to upgrade your living experience.
They provide quick installation due to being much smaller than most traditional electronics, such as air conditioners or washing machines. Smart plugs for instance can be simply plugged in and connected with Wi-Fi from there – no more need for finicky rewiring jobs that could require permission from landlords – making them easy and hassle free solutions for sprucing up your space at minimal cost or even virtually zero upfront expense.
Moreover, leasing rather than buying is now an option available for those who may not wish to commit to a purchase just yet: several companies offer complete smart home packages which allow users all over the US access products like Google Home Minis or Philips Hue bulbs at discounted prices without worrying about expensive longevity commitments!
Enhances home security

Smart Home technology provides renters with enhanced safety and security measures that traditional systems can lack. Smart gadgets, such as video doorbells, smart plugs, lights, outlets and speakers are all connected together enabling them to be monitored from anywhere.
This allows renters to remotely check in on their home while away or get alerted when an unexpected visitor arrives at the house. With a simple tap of a button on their smartphone or laptop they can watch live footage of their front porch or inside living spaces to see what is happening in real-time.
Smart home gadgets also allow for automated activity tracking so renters know exactly who has come and gone throughout the day as well as automatically log any suspicious activity detected by sensors placed around the property.
Another way these devices help enhance security for lattice is with its ability to control locks via voice commands or mobile apps eliminating the need for physical keys which could possibly fall into wrong hands.
Saves energy and money

Smart home gadgets can help renters save on energy and money without much effort. Smart plugs, thermostats, air quality monitors, and other connected devices all contribute to lower utility bills for renters.
Research shows that using a smart thermostat can decrease an individual’s monthly energy bill by 10-15% depending on usage patterns. Many electricity companies offer discounts or rebates for those who install such products in their homes as well.
Automating existing tech like lights, security systems and even coffee makers through a mobile device app also helps minimize overall electricity consumption resulting in cost savings for the user over time.
The Best Smart Home Products for Renters

From smart plugs to connected lighting, there are a range of rental-friendly smart home gadgets available for renters to use and enjoy.
Smart plugs

Smart plugs are one of the most easily accessible and affordable solutions to renters looking to achieve a smart home setup. By simply plugging into a standard power outlet, these devices effectively turn standard appliances, lights, and more into remotely controlled Smart Home gadgets with little effort.
Smart plugs grant users the ability to schedule or control their connected devices through apps on their smartphones or even voice commands via Amazon Echo or Google Assistant; features such as timers, scheduling, energy-saving profiles and groupings that all enable users to save money while reducing electrical waste at the same time.
They’re small enough so that they won’t take up any extra space in an apartment either; making them a great addition for anyone who wants the benefits of automated home systems without needing an entire renovation process!
Smart bulbs

Smart bulbs are a popular, affordable and easy to install smart home device for renters who are looking to upgrade their living space. Most smart bulbs can be controlled via an app or voice assistant like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home, giving you the ability to switch up the atmosphere with different lighting scenes and moods that you set within your rental space.
Not only do they provide convenience in being able to control lights from anywhere but using them also has energy efficient benefits as well: by adjusting brightness levels you can reduce electricity consumption in your rental home – helping out both your wallet and the environment! Additionally, these modern-day lightbulbs have become top of mind for millennial renters interested in smart home technology.
There’s no need to worry about compatibility issues either – many of today’s smart bulbs will work with existing fixtures making it even easier for any renter turned homeowner on a budget.
Voice-controlled assistants

Voice-controlled assistants are essential components of any smart home, allowing you to control various devices and activities in a hands-free way. Popular choices for renters include Amazon Echo and Google Home which allow users to play music, podcasts, news as well as suggesting recipes with voice commands.
With these impressive capabilities, these voice-controlled assistants can hugely improve the convenience of everyday tasks such as turning on lights or playing your favorite tunes without ever leaving the comfort of your couch! Smart appliance integration is also heavily featured here – from setting timers to running diagnostics on damaged appliances – meaning that all those tedious yet necessary tasks can be automated.
Furthermore advanced security features like facial recognition cameras allow homeowners peace of mind when it comes to their rental property’s safety; something especially important if they’re hosting guests during a weekend away! If you’re looking to bring the latest in smart home technology into your rental space then look no further because this is exactly what you need.
Connected lighting

Renters looking to have a smart home can benefit from connected LED lights offered by brands like Lifx and Philips Hue. These screw-in options are easy to install in rental properties and they provide renters with the convenience of motion detection, daylight sensing, energy efficiency, as well as remote control capabilities without having to make permanent changes to their living space.
Smart lighting systems account for approximately 15% of overall smart home penetration, and household penetration is projected to reach 6.6% in 2022 according to some estimates. In addition, more renters are embracing this technology nowadays – making it an increasingly popular choice thanks its affordability and ease of installation within rented homes or apartments.
Whether you’re looking for extra security with outdoor lighting or want something flexible that matches your interior decorating style while saving on electricity costs, modern connected lighting technologies offer seemingly endless possibilities for transforming rentals into smart homes quickly and conveniently – all without breaking the bank!
Rental-friendly home security

Rental-friendly home security is an essential part of the smart home setup for renters. These systems can offer a range of features to help improve home safety and provide peace of mind, including motion sensors, voice control, doorbell camera, and automated locks.
Security systems like SimpliSafe, Frontpoint abode, Cove and Brinks allow you to remotely monitor your property anytime from any device with internet connection. They also come with 24/7 professional monitoring that will alert you via text or video in case an emergency arises.
Additionally, many of these systems are designed to be easy-to-install without needing permission from your landlord – so upgrading your rental’s security doesn’t have to be complicated!
Smart air quality monitors
are an increasingly popular home device for renters looking to monitor indoor air quality and stay informed of pollutants or other gaseous impurities inside their homes. Smart air quality monitors, like the affordable Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor, can graphing data over time so renters know when a problem arises and take suitable action.
With such devices, renters don’t need to worry about getting rid of bad odors or smoke that might affect their living space – they just get alerted when the levels exceed a certain threshold so they can act accordingly.
Not only do these smart air quality monitors provide valuable information about air purity in your home but also helps you take steps towards creating a healthier environment at home.
Automating Existing Tech

There are many easily installable options for renters looking to bring the convenience and control of modern smart technology into their homes—start here!
ConnectSense Smart Outlet 2
The ConnectSense Smart Outlet 2 is one of the best smart home devices renters can get that’s both easy to install and affordable. With dual outlets, each with its own independent control, as well as a USB port for quick charging—this smart plug offers many great features without breaking the bank.
Even better? It works with popular voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri so you have complete control over your electronics at the sound of your voice – no switching or internet connection required! Additionally, this handy device allows users to monitor power usage in their homes while helping save energy and money thanks to its automated programming feature.
The Smart Outlet 2 is a hassle-free option for anyone who wants an efficient way to manage their power output in the home.
TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip HS300
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip HS300 is the perfect gadget for renters looking for a smart home setup that doesn’t require complex installations. Compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Cortana, this six-outlet smart surge protector allows users to control each plug individually or all of them at once through voice commands.
Its three USB ports can be used to charge devices without consuming any power outlets on the strip# so you won’t have to sacrifice other appliances in order to take advantage of the convenience! Additionally, it offers remote access and power monitoring capabilities allowing users real time visibility into their energy consumption.
With its wide range of features available at an affordable price point, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip HS300 is an ideal choice for those seeking out a rental friendly smart home solution.
Wyze Plug
is the perfect gadget for renters looking to make their homes smarter. It’s an affordable and easy-to-install smart plug that supports both Alexa and Google voice control systems, making it super simple to turn on & off devices at your convenience with just a few voice commands.
In addition, this plug can be integrated with other smart products using IFTTT integration, letting you set up automated routines across all of your connected devices. Plus, the Wyze app offers plenty of customization options so you can fine-tune controls as much or as little as you’d like.
Whether you’re interested in an added layer of convenience or more peace of mind knowing that everything is running smoothly from afar—the Wyze Plug will help unlock more potential at home in no time!
Wyze Plug Outdoor
is the perfect smart solution for renters looking to have a smart home and stay within their budget. This cost-effective two-outlet plug offers the convenience of phone and voice control, along with an extended WiFi range of up to 300ft in open space.
It’s IP64 weather resistant design makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, while its built-in energy reporting helps you easily monitor your electricity usage. And if all that wasn’t enough, this incredibly versatile plug also features an MSRP of only $11.99 – making it one of the most affordable options on the market today! Get started creating your own rental ready smart home today with Wyze Plug Outdoor!
Getting Started with Voice Control

Voice-controlled devices like the Amazon Echo (4th Gen), Google Nest Audio, Apple HomePod mini and more are great options for renters who want to enjoy the convenience modern home voice technology brings.
Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
The latest addition to the Echo lineup, the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) is an excellent choice for renters who want to incorporate voice control into their smart home setup. With more power and a new look compared to previous models, it’s easy to see why this device is considered the best one for most Alexa users.
The 4th Gen model is compatible with many Zigbee-connected smart devices – from lighting systems, security cameras, thermostats and door locks. It also works with popular streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music and SiriusXM so you can listen to your favorite tunes without lifting a finger.
Alsorcompatible with other major home automation products like SmartThings & Wink – adding convenience and comfort in any rental property setting!
Google Nest Audio
The Google Nest Audio smart speaker is a must-have for every renter looking to have a smart home. With its attractive design and reasonable price, it enhances any living space. Offering users access to music, audio, trivia, and even video through voice commands with Google Assistant integrated functionality – the possibilities are endless! Not only can users take advantage of the convenient voice control capabilities in their apartment by controlling lights or other appliances using simple voice commands but they can also use this device as an entertainment hub that offers top quality sound thanks to its powerful internal form reduction speakers.
Furthermore, the convenience doesn’t stop there; taking full advantage of being part of the Google Assistant ecosystem allows simpler integration with some other popular smart devices ensuring a consistent experience across multiple products from one central source.
Apple HomePod mini
Apple HomePod mini is a must-have for any rental property as it encourages renters to quickly get started with voice control using the convenience of Siri. This sleek, pinter design speaker delivers room-filling sound and has an attractive orb design, making it appealing to display on shelving or tables.
At only $99, Apple HomePod mini gives users access to an advanced suite of smart home gadgets like remote door locks or security cameras without the large upfront investment in technology that many fear—it makes the process easy and affordable.
With Apple HomePod mini being able to control other smart devices in your rental property at ease with just your voice commands without needing any customer setup or coding have made this device incredibly popular among newbies and pros alike!
Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen)
The Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) is a revolutionary device that offers renters looking to have a smart home an effortless way to automate their properties. This powerful device comes with a motorized base which allows the screen and camera to rotate so users can easily interact with their smart devices without having to move around the room.
Even better, it features voice-initiated commands for making calls using stored contacts list and provides access and control over various home appliances via voice activation – allowing renters to create an entirely hands-free smart home experience! With its seamless integration capabilities, The Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) gives easy access to other compatible gadgets such as security cameras, locks, thermostats, plugs and more giving renters peace of mind knowing they are fully connected in one place from virtually anywhere.
Google Nest Hub Max
The Google Nest Hub Max is the perfect device for renters looking to have a smart home. It’s easy to use and comes with amazing features that will enhance your living space quickly without breaking the bank.
With the built-in Google Assistant, it makes home control hands-free and efficient. The “home view” feature allows users to easily control all of their devices by room; create schedules, dim lights, turn off appliances and more right from your dashboard! Additionally, you can access YouTube videos while controlling the volume using voice commands – no remotes required! Plus its HD camera lets users keep an eye on their home safely from anywhere in real time or set up motion alerts to instantly know when something is amiss.
This device is packed full of modern lifestyle benefits as well as providing convenience for renters who value having a secure and comfortable place to live in style.
Connected Lighting Inside and Out

From soft white to bright, vibrant colors on the outside of your apartment building, connected lighting like Wyze Bulb White and Govee Lynx Dream Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Outdoor String Lights can really liven up any space.
Wyze Bulb White
The Wyze Bulb White is an affordable and reliable option for renters looking to have a smart home. This energy-efficient LED bulb is priced under $10, making this product one of the most cost-effective Smart Home products on the market.
Not only does it offer vibrant colors with its high CRI of 90+, but also comes as a plug-and-play device that connects directly to your Wi-Fi. It’s compatible with popular voice assistants like Google Home and Amazon Alexa, so you can control lighting in your rental from anywhere within your home or even outside.
Moreover, it has Sun Match Technology which allows the bulb to mimic natural sunlight throughout different times of day for easy illumination no matter how gloomy it may be outside.
Wyze Bulb Color
The Wyze Bulb Color offers renters the perfect lighting solution for their smart homes. Designed with 16 million colors to choose from, it is the ultimate way to add some personality to a room.
It comes in two versions, and both are brighter than traditional LEDs – up to a massive 1,100 lumens! The color version also has a unique music mode that syncs your lighting with the beat of whatever you’re listening too for an immersive experience.
In addition, all Wyze bulbs are easy to install and require no extra wiring or costly hardware changes so they can be easily up and running right away without hassle. Renters looking to bring something special into their lives should definitely consider investing in the Wyze Bulb Color!
Govee Lynx Dream Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Outdoor String Lights
bring a touch of sophistication and comfort to any outdoor living space. These 48 feet or 96 feet lights can create the perfect backdrop for barbecues, romantic dinners, gatherings with friends, and other special moments.
This connected lighting system is designed to be easily controlled with voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant—making it perfect for renters looking to upgrade their apartment on the fly.
Plus, they’re managed within a 230ft Bluetooth connection range using a smart app so you don’t need to buddy up wires or outlets like more traditional options require. Weatherproof and suitable for outdoor use, these lights add ambiance while withstanding rainstorms throughout its entire life span without any additional cost or hassle! Plus you can select from millions of colors already preset in good quality lightings onboard alongside various light modes that will best suit your needs – making them wildly versatile compared to most standard models on the market today.
Rental-Friendly Home Security

By utilizing smart home security products, renters can enjoy the same levels of home protection without having to risk expensive installations – check out some of the best options today!
SimpliSafe Home Security System
is an attractive option for renters looking to have a smart home. It’s designed for small properties, such as rentals or apartments, and doesn’t require contracts or professional installation due to its DIY setup; making it ideal for those who don’t wish to make drastic changes, but still want the benefits of a top-class security system.
Additionally, SimpliSafe offers 24/7 professional monitoring and additional features which perfectly complement its compatibility with other smart home gadgets – from smoke alarms to cameras – creating an all-encompassing secure network at your fingertips! This user-friendly device helps take the stress out of protecting your property so you can stay safe and comfortable no matter where you are.
Ring Stick Up Cam Battery
is a great option for renters looking to have a smart home. This wireless security camera offers 1080p HD video and infrared night vision capabilities, making it perfect for outdoor surveillance as well as indoor monitoring of your home.
The affordable $100 price tag makes it an attractive choice for any budget conscious renter looking to enhance their home security without breaking the bank. Not only is it priced right, but installation is incredibly easy; no wires are needed and so you won’t require admin approval from the rental company.
A single battery can power the Ring Stick Up Cam Battery for up to six months at a time, giving you long-term peace of mind with minimal effort on your part!
Eufy E220 Indoor Cam
The Eufy E220 Indoor Cam is a great and cost-effective way for renters looking to improve their smart home security. This camera has a built-in siren and an embedded 2.4GHz Wi-Fi radio, so you can access your connected devices remotely via voice commands from Alexa or Google.
An on-device AI in the camera also determines whether there’s a human or pet present and only records when it detects events of interest – while recording clearly at up to 2K clarity (1080P when using HomeKit).
You’ll even have wider coverage with pan and tilt capabilities available! Room layout doesn’t matter when using this one – all you need is protection that comes conveniently via this lovely little device.
Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is the perfect solution for renters looking to enhance their home security without breaking the bank. Not only is it affordable and easy to install, but it also offer features like sharp HDR video quality, a unique viewing angle to capture a wide range of footage, voice control capabilities and interoperability with other devices.
The battery-powered device comes useful for easy installation in small areas or apartments that don’t have wiring set up yet. With its HD video recording system you can always be sure of great coverage.
Renters can now rest peacefully knowing that they are protected by one of the most reliable rental friendly security doorbells on the market today.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is an all-in-one smart lock designed specifically for renters and rental properties. It offers key-free convenience with its convenient keypad entry which replaces traditional keys without the need for any changes to the outside lock of the rental property or apartment.
Apart from classic entry, it also features a built in Wi-Fi capability that eliminates the need for an expensive accessory, making sure users will never be stuck searching for their missing set of keys ever again! With this feature users can easily enter their homes without any trouble–making it one of the ideal options out there when it comes to home security upgrades.
Not only does this make life easier but also saves time, energy and money – so what’s not to love? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your rental property or jazz up your apartment at least once before you move on – take advantage of August Wi-Fi Smart Lock today!
Cool and Clean Air

Keep a check on your indoor air quality and enjoy the benefits of living in comfort, with these top smart home gadgets for renters!
Midea 8,000BTU U-Shaped Air Conditioner
The Midea 8,000BTU U-Shaped Air Conditioner is an ideal smart home addition for renters looking to beat the heat. This Wi-Fi enabled application comes with a unique U-shaped design that helps with better airflow and cooling in the room, thanks to its 8,000 BTUs capacity enough to cool a square foot of space properly.
Its sleek design has made it stand out from other models, making it highly favored by many who are looking for reliable air conditioners that can suit their needs both inside and outside their rental homes.
The Midea U offers convenience since all you need is WiFi connection allowing your building manager or landlord full control without worrying about installation costs or damage.
Dyson Purifier Cool TP07
The Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 is the perfect choice for renters looking to have a smart home. This combination of an air purifier and cooling fan has a small footprint and can be connected to Wi-Fi, making it suitable for anyone with limited space who wants remote control.
It utilizes a HEPA 13 filter that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns in size, plus an activated carbon filter which removes gases and odors from the environment. Not only that but TP07 also uses Dyson’s Air Multiplier technology to generate a powerful airflow for cooling purposes so you’ll stay cool without worrying about noisy fans! Get the best tech – conveniently – without any installation hassle, perfect for renters!
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor
The Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor is an excellent smart home gadget for renters. It helps maintain cool, clean air in the living environment while enabling users to analyze and monitor the air quality inside their home.
This smart device measures various pollutants such as PM 2.5, VOCs, carbon monoxide, humidity levels and other factors that can have negative effects on human health. Furthermore, it works with Alexa so you can easily control it by voice commands providing a convenient experience for all users which makes this monitor even more attractive when renting your next apartment or house.
The Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor might be worth adding to your list of equipped gadgets when looking for that perfect place to call home!
Top Tech for Small Kitchens

Make cooking easier and kitchen time much more enjoyable with Anova Precision Oven, Hamilton Beach Smart Coffee Maker, Beermkr, and AeroGarden Bounty Elite.
Anova Precision Oven
The Anova Precision Oven is one of the smartest countertop ovens available, perfect for renters looking to add a smart device to their home. This oven offers multiple cooking functions such as baking, roasting, slow cooking, sous vide and steaming–all in one compact package.
Additionally, it utilizes steam in its cooking process which provides even heat distribution ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time! With a price tag of $600 it’s an affordable option for most budgets making this appliance accessible to those who may be living in rental accommodations.
It has quickly become one of the favorite kitchen appliances amongst home cooks. With its impressive range of features that make sure your next meal will be served hot and full of flavor. No matter how small your kitchen is!
Hamilton Beach Smart Coffee Maker
The Hamilton Beach Smart Coffee Maker is an incredibly affordable and easy to set up smart appliance for renters. It integrates easily into home automation setups. It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa voice commands. Users can control the coffee maker remotely. Enjoy making coffee from your couch or bed. It enhances the convenience of your daily routine. This innovation is perfect for modern homes. Additionally, this machine comes equipped with unique programmable functions like scheduling a cup of joe in the morning so your favorite beverage is ready when you wake up.
And that’s not all – there are plenty more features including strength settings and an automatic shutoff that makes this machine super convenient and safe. Moreover, as a bonus benefit it can help you to save on your electricity bills! The Hamilton Beach Smart Coffee Maker provides renters all round convenience at budget-friendly cost – why not treat yourself?.
Beermkr
Packed with convenient features, the Beermkr is a smart countertop appliance that allows renters to easily brew and serve craft beer in their small kitchens. With an intuitive mobile app and premeasured kits for precise and consistent brewing results, it’s no wonder why this versatile space-saving device has become popular amongst apartment dwellers who are looking for home automation solutions.
The Beermkr offers users full control over their craft beer production through the easy-to-use mobile app so they can tailor their perfect brew with ease – all while saving energy costs in the process.
Whether you’re a beginner or lifelong homebrewer, the Beermkr offers of host of possibilities when it comes to your flavor preferences, making it an invaluable asset for any renter’s kitchen!
AeroGarden Bounty Elite
The AeroGarden Bounty Elite is the best countertop model by AeroGarden and is great for renters looking to have a smart home. It features an automated system with hydroponic technology that can grow up to nine plants at one time, meaning you can grow your own fresh herbs, vegetables, flowers and more right in your kitchen.
Plus the Bounty Elite allows you to control its settings via a smartphone app as well as offering WiFi connectivity so you can truly make it part of your connected home setup. With a price tag of $320 this makes for an affordable way to bring all the benefits of having a smart garden into any rental property.
Conclusion

Renting a home doesn’t have to mean living without all the benefits of a smart home. Thanks to advances in technology and easily installable devices, renters can enjoy the convenience and magic of having their own gadgets for their rental properties.
Smart home gadgets allow renters to save energy, time, and money while simultaneously enhancing quality assurance as well as security features; they are often much cheaper than installing an entirely new system.
With an estimated 300 million smart homes in the world today placing automation at your fingertips has never been more attainable or popular among both tenants and landlords alike! There is something available for everyone’s budget, no matter how limited it may be—so why not take advantage of these wonderful connected devices?.
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