The smart home revolution that for so many years tech experts predicted would happen is finally here, and it looks like it’s here to stay. According to MediaPost, 69% of households in the U.S. contain, at minimum, one smart device; 12% have several smart devices. Recent data from Statista shows that the number of smart homes will surpass 350 million by 2023.
By Nicole Spector
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Though smart devices can be cost-saving in the long run, they tend to cost quite a pretty penny up front. A fully connected smart home can run you up to $20,000, which is absurdly high for most people, especially when you consider soaring inflation rates. Fortunately you can save on smart home costs by purchasing cheaper (but just as intelligent) smart devices. Let’s explore some options.
Feit Electric Smart Lights (Instead of Philips Hue Lights)
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A Wyze Cam Black goes for around $20, so you can set up a system that is ideal for small spaces.
“Even Wyze’s other cameras such as the v3 and Pan v2 are more affordable than smart home displays, at around $30 and $34 respectively,” Ramhold said. “These are also good alternatives to dedicated pet cams. Sure, they can’t throw treats out for your pup or kitty, but you can still check on them while you’re away from home — and that’s the most important part.”
Wyze Bulbs (Instead of Philips Hue Bulbs)
“If you only need one smart bulb, the Wyze bulb may be a good way to go,” Ramhold said. “The white variety is around $10 for a single bulb; whereas, if you opt for the Philips Hue bulbs, you’ll have to pay around $16 for a single bulb. The Wyze bulb is a good way to sort of dip your toes into the smart home lighting ecosystem and see if it’s something you’re interested in expanding.”
Nest Thermostat (Instead of Nest Learning Thermostat)
“This is the regular thermostat as opposed to the Nest Learning Thermostat, which is much pricier,” Ramhold said. “The more basic one doesn’t learn your routines or preferences, but you can still control it from the Google Home app, so it’s still a handy device to have, especially if you want to take advantage of things like setting the heat or air to start before you get up for the morning or get home after being out for a long period of time. The standard one starts at $129.99, which isn’t super cheap. But, as far as smart devices go, it’s pretty reasonable. Conversely, the Nest Learning Thermostat starts at $249; so, just by choosing the more basic model, you can save more than $100.”
