IoT on a Budget: Your Guide to a Smarter and Cosier Home

The ability to automate our homes through the Internet of Things (IoT) has made the idea of a smart home increasingly appealing. IoT setups improve and automate various aspects of our living spaces, from enhancing security to streamlining daily tasks.

However, one deterrent to investing in IoT solutions is the cost. You have probably noticed that the latest smart home tools could be more budget-friendly. However, automation is possible even without breaking the bank.

Assess Your Smart Home Needs

To keep IoT costs down, you should take the time to evaluate what’s needed in the home. What are your top concerns? Do you want better home security? Are you trying to save money by improving energy efficiency? Do you want to save time by organising your daily task list? Once you know your key priorities, you can choose what smart home products you need the most.

You will also want to consider what smart home platform you prefer. Popular options include Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. Settle on a single platform to ensure seamless integration. Compare providers’ costs to ensure their products fit your budget.

Start Small and Expand Gradually

When building a smart home on a budget, you should consider purchasing products gradually. Instead of completely outfitting your home with connected devices, start with one or two options. For instance, you could purchase an Amazon Echo Show and a Blink Security Camera. These two affordable products can give you a sense if you’re comfortable using smart home devices.

If you’re happy with your investment, you could always expand to include more products. A few affordable options to consider:

• Smart lightbulbs
• Smart plugs
• Smart speakers
• Connected TV devices

Affordable IoT Devices

Once you have your device plan, you can start purchasing products for your household. Any store that sells electronics will have a selection of smart home options to choose from.

Smart Lighting Solutions

One of the most cost-effective ways to kickstart your journey is with smart lighting. Brand options for smart lights include Philips Hue, LIFX, and Wyze. The companies offer a range of affordable smart bulbs and light strips that can be controlled through your preferred voice assistant or mobile app. The solutions allow you to set light timers and automatically adjust the brightness and color.

Smart Plugs and Outlets

Smart plugs and outlets are another budget-friendly addition to your smart home setup. Devices to consider adding that won’t empty your bank account include TP-Link’s Kasa line, Meross, and Wyze. Smart plugs help you remotely control and monitor the energy usage of your household appliances, lamps, and other electronics. Through the app controls, you can automate lights and shut off appliances.

Affordable Smart Thermostats

Thermostats with smart home technology can improve your home’s energy efficiency. Each year, a smart thermostat saves a homeowner approximately $50 on their utility bills, according to Consumer Reports. Some models from Nest or Ecobee come at a high price tag, but you can find versions of budget-friendly models from brands such as Honeywell, Emerson, and Wyze. Once you download the companion app, you can set program schedules and monitor energy usage. For more convenience, you may integrate with voice assistants for hands-free control.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick

For those looking to upgrade their home entertainment experience without a significant investment, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is an excellent option. This affordable device transforms any television into a smart TV. Once installed, it gives you instant access to streaming services and live TV channels. You can also navigate to apps and more using Alexa voice control.

Video Doorbells and Security Cameras

Enhancing home security is a common priority for many homeowners. Companies like Eufy, Blink, and Ring provide smart video doorbells and security cameras. Camera options include indoor or outdoor versions. All products can be set up without the need for professional installation. Features include motion detection, live video streaming, and even person or package recognition.

Smart Garage Door Openers

Automating your garage door is often overlooked. However, the upgrade can be a game-changer. Brands like Chamberlain and Meross retail smart garage door openers that can be controlled remotely through a mobile app or voice commands. The solution gives you convenience while also adding an extra layer of protection to your home.

Prioritising Privacy and Security

As you integrate more IoT devices into your home, you need to address privacy and security concerns. The following are common security issues and how to stay safe:

Avoid Subscription-Based Devices

If possible, choose IoT devices that don’t require a monthly subscription to access services. Subscription fees start to add up over time can become a significant expense. Look for solutions that provide features without the need for a paid plan. Sharing your payment details with multiple providers can also put your financial details at risk.

Secure Your Network

Ensure your home Wi-Fi network is secured with a strong password and enable two-factor authentication. Always update all your IoT devices with the latest firmware and security patches to prevent potential risks.

Consider investing in a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your entire home network. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel to prevent third parties from spying on your online activities. The best VPN for Firestick and other smart home devices won’t slow down connection speeds. You should still stream and download content without any glitches.

Research Privacy Policies

Before purchasing any IoT device, review the manufacturer’s privacy policies. Within the policies, the company will reveal how your data will be collected, stored, and used. Choose companies that give you more control over how your personal information is used.

Smart home products have become prevalent throughout homes around the world. The mass production of these devices means that you can easily find affordable IoT options. Smart devices keep you connected while also keeping you secure at home and reducing your carbon footprint. Remember to stay safe by limiting access to your personal information and installing a VPN.