Jordan
Smart home devices are transforming how we live, offering convenience and connectivity in our daily routines. These gadgets can help automate tasks, provide security, and even save energy. With the industry growing rapidly, it’s now possible to enhance your home’s technology without breaking the bank. There are many fantastic devices available for under $200, making smart home integration more accessible than ever.
When looking for the best smart home devices within this price range, there are certain aspects to focus on. Compatibility with existing systems is crucial, as it determines how well the device will fit into your current setup. Another factor is the ease of use, including user-friendly apps and clear instructions. Additionally, consider the energy efficiency and build quality of the device since these affect long-term satisfaction and value.
Our goal was to find smart home products that are both affordable and efficient. We spent time researching and testing various options, looking for ones that enhance everyday living with ease and reliability.
Top 10 Smart Home Devices Under $200
We’re excited to dive into the world of smart home devices, where convenience meets innovation. Let’s explore some of the best choices that fit your budget without compromising on quality.
1. Amazon Echo Show 8
A great choice for connecting and controlling your home, with a stunning display and quality sound.
Pros
- Excellent sound and display quality
- Built-in smart home hub
- Easy video calling
Cons
- Intrusive ads at times
- Requires subscriptions for some services
- Not very portable
Using the Amazon Echo Show 8 feels like adding a new command center to our home. The spatial audio fills the room beautifully, complementing its crisp 8” display perfectly. It’s ideal for streaming and has truly enhanced our movie nights.
Setting up the smart home hub is straightforward. We pair it with Zigbee and Matter devices effortlessly, simplifying control over our smart home gadgets. Managing everything from lights to security is just a voice command away, making life a bit easier.
The camera is perfect for video calls. We use it often, and the sound quality makes conversations feel very natural. Having Alexa assist us with reminders and routines adds convenience to our daily lives.
2. Blink Outdoor 4 Camera System
This product is a smart choice for home security with its wireless convenience and impressive performance.
Pros
- Long-lasting battery that lasts up to two years
- Crisp HD video quality, even at night
- Simple setup process
Cons
- Subscription needed for some features
- Person detection can be slow
- Limited to Wi-Fi connectivity
Setting up the Blink Outdoor 4 was surprisingly quick. Within minutes, we had it up and running and we could easily view the live feed through the Blink app. The two-year battery life is a major plus, allowing us to place the cameras anywhere without worrying about frequent battery swaps. Placing them around our home gave us peace of mind with their clear, sharp video quality.
The infrared night vision is particularly helpful, as it maintains visibility even in complete darkness. The enhanced motion detection and two-way audio feature add extra layers of security, allowing us to communicate with anyone outside. However, some advanced features, like person detection, require a subscription. Although it works well in general, this adds an additional cost.
Connecting to an Alexa-enabled device was seamless, letting us control everything with voice commands. This system is ideal if you prefer a wireless setup. While person detection can occasionally lag, it’s still a fantastic option under $200 for those serious about home security.
3. LEVOIT Air Purifier
The LEVOIT Air Purifier is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve air quality in larger spaces without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Efficient at removing allergens and dust
- Covers large rooms quickly
- Easy to connect with a smart app
Cons
- Filter replacements can add up
- May be bulky for smaller spaces
- Some features only available via the app
We recently tested the LEVOIT Air Purifier, and it truly stands out for its ability to freshen up large rooms. Setting it up was a breeze, and connecting it to our WiFi was quick and simple. The smart features, accessible through the VeSync app, allowed us to control and schedule when and how it operates, adding to its convenience.
Placing the purifier in our living room, we noticed an immediate improvement in air quality, especially with pet odors. Its filtration system worked efficiently, capturing dust and allergens. If you have pets or are sensitive to pollen, this product could make a noticeable difference.
Using the purifier is mostly user-friendly, though it requires regular attention to filter changes, which can be an ongoing cost. While it performs excellently in larger spaces, its size might be too big for smaller rooms. All in all, it’s a great buy for those seeking an effective solution to poor air quality in large areas.
4. Google Nest Thermostat
The Google Nest Thermostat offers great energy-saving features and smart controls, making it a solid choice for home automation under $200.
Pros
- Sleek design adds a modern touch to any room
- Easy-to-use app for remote temperature control
- Helps save energy with automatic adjustments
Cons
- May require a C wire for some systems
- Initial setup could be tricky without prior experience
- Limited customization for certain features
We recently tried out the Google Nest Thermostat and found it to be both stylish and smart. Its sleek design blends into any home décor, and the app’s intuitive interface makes controlling the temperature straightforward. It’s particularly efficient at learning your schedule and adjusting the settings to save energy.
However, installing the thermostat can be a bit complex if you lack a C wire, which some systems require for full functionality. Despite this, the experience after setup is seamless, and you can adjust the temperature from virtually anywhere through your smartphone.
Using this device, we enjoyed the convenience of voice control compatible with both Google Assistant and Alexa. It’s an affordable step towards a smarter home and perfect for anyone wanting to reduce energy costs without compromising comfort.
5. Aqara Smart Lock U100
If you’re after a versatile and secure smart lock that fits seamlessly into your Apple ecosystem, the Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a solid pick.
Pros
- Works seamlessly with Apple devices
- Multiple unlocking options
- Robust and weatherproof design
Cons
- Requires Aqara Hub for full functionality
- Initial setup can be tricky
- NFC card sold separately
The Aqara Smart Lock U100 really impressed us with its seamless integration into Apple Home. Unlocking the door by just using an iPhone or Apple Watch feels futuristic. The fingerprint reader works flawlessly, which is great for family members who often misplace keys. During our testing, the lock’s construction felt sturdy, and its weatherproof design ensured it can handle various conditions.
One feature that stood out is the range of unlocking methods. Besides fingerprints and Apple Home Keys, you can also manage access via the Aqara Home app. But, getting it up and running might be a bit complex if you’re not tech-savvy, as it really depends on having an Aqara Hub to unlock all its features. Unfortunately, the NFC card isn’t included, and you need to buy it separately if that’s a method you prefer.
This lock provides more than just security; it brings convenience. Its auto-lock feature is a handy touch for those of us who forget to lock the door manually. Battery life is also decent, lasting several months before needing replacements. With its combination of style and function, it’s a smart investment for tech enthusiasts looking to upgrade their home security.
6. Govee Floor Lamp 2
If you’re looking to brighten up your space with vibrant, customizable lighting, the Govee Floor Lamp 2 is worth considering for under $200.
Pros
- Easy setup and installation
- Allows extensive lighting customization
- Works seamlessly with smart home systems
Cons
- Requires HomeKit for some features
- Support limited to 2.4 GHz WiFi
- Base could be more stable
We found the Govee Floor Lamp 2 to be a versatile addition to any room. Its ability to color-match and sync with music makes it fun and engaging, changing the feel of our space instantly. The setup was a breeze, and adjusting settings through the Govee app is incredibly straightforward.
The variety of colors and brightness levels this lamp offers are impressive. It fits into both modern and casual living areas with ease. Using voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant, we could alter the mood from relaxed to party-ready with just a few words.
Some connectivity features are limited without specific setups, which might require additional equipment. Nonetheless, its performance and ease of use make this lamp an appealing choice for a stylish smart home.
7. Aurzen EAZZE D1 Smart Projector
If you’re searching for a feature-packed projector under $200 with smart capabilities and clear visuals, this option is worth considering.
Pros
- Easy setup and clear image quality
- Built-in apps like Netflix and Prime Video
- Compact, making it great for travel
Cons
- Bluetooth is limited to audio
- Internal apps may not always function smoothly
- Brightness could be improved for well-lit rooms
Trying out the Aurzen EAZZE D1 in our living room was delightful. The built-in smart TV features meant we could dive into shows on Netflix and Prime Video without any extra gadgets. Auto-focus and screen alignment worked seamlessly, making it simple to adjust to our wall space.
Using it outdoors, we appreciated its portability. It’s lightweight, perfect for moving between rooms or taking on trips. Even setting it up was straightforward, thanks to intuitive instructions. While the 200 ANSI lumens delivered bright visuals in darker settings, we noticed it struggled a bit in brighter midday light.
Sound isn’t just an afterthought here. Dolby Audio and dual speakers offered a rich experience that filled our room. Bluetooth worked great with external speakers, but remember, it’s audio-only. We also noticed some occasional hiccups with the internal apps. Overall though, the Aurzen EAZZE D1 impresses with its versatile features and solid performance for its price point.
8. Amazon Fire TV 40″ 2-Series
This TV is a great pick for those wanting an affordable and feature-rich smart TV experience.
Pros
- Offers sharp, full HD 1080p resolution.
- Built-in Fire TV provides access to many streaming services.
- Easy to set up with Alexa Voice Remote.
Cons
- Some users might notice a slight lag with remote controls.
- Limited to three HDMI ports.
- Sound quality might not satisfy audiophiles.
The Amazon Fire TV 40″ 2-Series surprised us with its picture quality at this price. Colors really pop, making movie nights a joy. With full HD resolution, watching anything on this TV feels immersive. It’s easy enough to set up, and having Fire TV built in means you don’t need extra devices to access your streaming apps.
Navigating with the Alexa Voice Remote is a breeze. Asking Alexa to find your favorite shows or controlling your other smart devices is quite convenient. You might notice a bit of lag when using the remote, but it’s generally not a big deal.
For its price, the sound quality is decent—better if you opt for external speakers or a soundbar. Although the audio is clear, it lacks the depth found in higher-end TVs. Overall, this smart TV delivers great value, perfect for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment without spending a fortune.
9. LANGGER V Biometric Handgun Safe
This gun safe is an excellent choice for quick access, secure storage, and convenient mounting options.
Pros
- Quick and easy to access with a digital PIN code
- Durable and secure construction
- Versatile mounting choices
Cons
- Biometric scanner may not work well with rough fingerprints
- Can be a bit bulky for some spaces
- Mounting plate attachment could be more secure
This Biometric Handgun Safe from LANGGER V fits snugly on a nightstand or desk, making it a useful addition to home security. Its sturdy design speaks to its quality, ensuring both strength and long-lasting use. The gun safe allows for three types of access: digital PIN, fingerprint, or key, so there are no worries if one method fails.
Its heavy-duty build, with substantial weight, adds to its anti-theft capabilities. We appreciate the option to install it from multiple angles—this versatility makes it adaptable to different home setups. However, the mounting plate might need extra attention to secure more firmly.
For quick access in emergencies, it’s responsive. A loud beep will alert you if there are too many incorrect attempts, a helpful feature in safeguarding firearms. It’s worth noting that the biometric sensor can be tricky with rougher skin, so keeping the manual keys handy is advisable. Overall, it provides peace of mind, making firearm storage safe and accessible.
10. SwitchBot Smart Blinds Kit
Ideal for anyone looking to make their blinds smart without the hassle of a full replacement, this SwitchBot kit offers great convenience.
Pros
- Easy setup and does not need new blinds
- Solar-powered, reducing the need for frequent charging
- Can be controlled through major smart home systems
Cons
- Initial pairing with some smart assistants can be tricky
- Requires some calibration for precise adjustments
- Not water-resistant
The SwitchBot Smart Blinds Kit transforms regular blinds into smart ones with minimal effort. Installing them is simple, thanks to a user-friendly design. There’s no need to replace your current blinds, which is a significant advantage. Plus, the solar panel is a game-changer, keeping the battery charged without effort.
Our experience with the control options was quite smooth. The app allows you to manage the blinds from anywhere in your home. When using the SwitchBot Hub Mini, connecting with Alexa, Google Home, or Siri is possible, adding more flexibility. One aspect that stood out during our use was the light sensor that adjusts blinds automatically. This feature is handy for maintaining consistent indoor lighting.
While it excels in many areas, the kit isn’t perfect. We faced some challenges getting it paired quickly with Google Assistant. Initial calibration also required some tweaking for optimal results. Lastly, while the blinds work great indoors, they aren’t water-resistant, so placement away from moisture is necessary. Despite these minor drawbacks, it’s a smart addition for non-intrusive home automation.
Buying Guide
When choosing smart home devices under $200, focus on essential features. Compatibility is crucial. Make sure the device works with your existing systems, like Alexa or Google Assistant. This ensures smooth integration with what you already have.
Consider ease of installation. Devices should be simple to set up. Look for products with clear instructions and minimal tools needed. This saves time and frustration.
Performance matters too. Check if the device responds quickly to commands and operates consistently. Unreliable devices can be frustrating and may not serve your needs effectively.
Key Features to Look For
- Connectivity: Ensure strong wireless connections with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- App Control: Choose devices with user-friendly apps for remote management.
- Security: Important for devices like cameras. Look for encryption and privacy settings.
- Energy Efficiency: Save costs by selecting devices with energy-saving modes.
Budget Considerations
Staying under $200 means balancing quality and features. Focus on the most important aspects for your setup. Some features may be nice to have, but not essential within this price range.
Warranty and Support
Good support and warranty can be a sign of product quality. Check company policies for returns and repairs. This could save you money and headaches if issues arise.
By focusing on these factors, you’ll make an informed choice that enhances your smart home experience.
