10 smart home gadgets for your first apartment

Moving into a first apartment is a significant milestone that often requires setting up a new living space from scratch. Integrating smart home technology—which we define as connected home devices—can help bridge the gap. These gadgets reduce the friction of managing a new space, offering practical solutions for security, maintenance, and daily comfort.

For security and safety, renters can look to easy-to-install options:

• SimpliSafe Home Security System: SimpliSafe offers a tool-free home security system suitable for renters. The system is priced at $282.94, with professional monitoring subscription plans starting at $23 per month.
• Kidde Smart Smoke Detector: Priced at $74.97, Kidde smoke detectors send alerts directly to phones and are designed to avoid false alarms.

To manage daily comfort and maintain the environment of a new, potentially smaller space:

• Eufy Robot Vacuum: Eufy robot vacuums assist with cleaning floors and pet hair. The E28 model is priced around $1,399.99, while the E20 model is available for $649.99.
• Dyson HushJet Purifier: Dyson’s HushJet Purifier can improve indoor air quality and is priced at $349.99. Its filter has a lifespan of up to five years, reducing maintenance overhead.
• Hatch Sunrise Alarm: Waking up in a new environment can be a transition. The Hatch Restore 3 helps users wake up by gradually increasing light and is priced at $169.99.
• Yogasleep Sound Machine: Priced at $54.99, Yogasleep sound machines help drown out unwanted noise to create a peaceful environment.

For convenience, lighting, and entertainment in compact living areas and kitchens:

• Philips Hue Smart Lights: These smart lights allow for customization of brightness and color via an app or voice assistant. Starter kits are priced from $79.99, while a two-pack of bulbs costs around $49.98.
• Leviton Smart Dimmer Plug: Priced at $24.99, Leviton’s smart plugs allow control of devices via a mobile app or voice commands.
• Lumi Max Portable Projector: This projector costs $399 and runs on Google TV, providing access to over 10,000 apps, 700,000 movies and shows, and 800 free live TV channels.
• Ninja Air Fryer: Priced at $79, Ninja Air Fryers are useful for cooking in compact kitchens.

By selecting the right mix of these connected devices, new renters can establish a secure, comfortable, and highly functional home base without the need for permanent installations or complex wiring.

Why it matters

Moving into a first apartment represents a major life milestone where managing a new space can be overwhelming. Integrating connected home devices reduces daily friction, offering renters a scalable way to improve their quality of life and home security without permanent modifications.