When we think about smart homes, the first thing that comes to mind is a big, extravagant luxury home filled with a ton of appliances.
At least that is what I imagine when I think about smart homes.
However, my perception changed when I moved to a studio apartment and started investing in smart home appliances. While this experience helped me invest in appliances that mattered, it also helped me explore affordable equipment to turn any home into a smart living space.
If you live in a dorm or studio apartment and want to enjoy a luxury smart home experience, this guide will help you explore the best smart appliances that are affordable and easy to find.
Best Smart Home Gadgets for Small Spaces
Before we get straight to our list, keep in mind that smart appliances need reliable internet for seamless connectivity and communication. Any decent residential internet connection like Spectrum is good enough for a smart home.
In case you are still exploring your options, you can also check Spectrum Internet prices, and opt for an internet plan that suits your needs.
Without further ado, here are some of the best smart home appliances you should get for dorms or studio apartments.
Smart Home Assistance
Alexa, turn on the lights.
Smart homeowners dream of greeting their house with this line. Therefore, when I started my smart home project, smart home assistance was the first thing that I got. Best decision ever!
Small, compact, and functional, this appliance will change everything for you. With the help of this appliance, you can easily connect every other home appliance and control it with your voice. Moreover, home assistance comes in all shapes and sizes and is loaded with features.
You can simply pick the brand that suits your needs and is compatible with your phone and home appliances.
Smart Lighting
Starting our list with something simple and affordable, we have smart lights.
As a smart home enthusiast, the smart lights are truly astounding. From different sizes, shapes, and lighting intensity, the level of control you can experience is simply out of this world.
Most people get pluggable smart lights because of their portability and affordability. However, if you actually want to experience the magic, look for smart sensor lights. These lights come in all shapes, sizes, and control modes.
You just need to plug it in the socket and the light will turn on after sensing the presence of an individual, heat, or movement. This means you will also be able to save money on your power bill, which makes them an excellent long-term investment.
Smart Plugs
If I have to pick my favorite smart appliance, it will definitely be a smart plug.
With the help of a smart plug, you can turn any home appliance into smart equipment. These plugs come with a remote control, which means if you have plugged your microwave, TV, refrigerator, toaster, or any other appliances, you can turn them on and off.
Now, imagine you are leaving your office and want to reheat your food. All you need to do is use your remote access app and switch on your microwave. Imagine all the other ways you can put your smart plug to use. You can also bring your smart plug along while traveling.
This way you can turn your hotel room appliances into smart appliances as well.
Smart Security Camera
If you are a pet parent, have an annoying neighbor, or are just concerned about safety, investing in a smart security camera is ideal for you. With the help of a smart security camera, you can easily keep an eye on your home, even when you are away.
Keep in mind that there are different types of smart security cameras. Most security cameras are fixed and can be monitored via mobile apps. However, there are mini cameras that have side adjustment features, can be monitored remotely, and come with night vision and voice control.
In case you are on a budget, investing in a baby monitor or pet camera is also a good option. While both these options are not high-tech and might even have slightly blurred picture quality, they are ideal for small spaces.
Smart Lock
Home is all about safety and security, be it a small studio apartment or a dorm.
However, things become challenging when you have to share a small space, i.e. dorm with others. If you are also concerned about the safety and security of your daily household items, investing in a smart lock is a perfect option.
Most smart locks come equipped with alarms, notification options, motion sensors, biometric verification, and other features. These locks can be installed anywhere in the house, including cabinets, drawers, cupboards, front gates, windows, or lockers. Moreover, you can easily lock and unlock with just one tap.
Simply put, gone are the days when smart home appliances were considered expensive. Now, thanks to affordable local dealers and Chinese suppliers, you can get smart home equipment at affordable rates. If you’re a beginner, I suggest you start with smaller and simpler technology, rather than investing in expensive gear.