A smart home automates everyday tasks, saving time and energy while enhancing convenience. We've launched a dedicated Smart Home category on MakeUseOf, but what's the real price tag? For many, cost is the biggest barrier. Who wouldn't want automated lighting, climate control, and security—if it fits the budget?
As tech experts with years of hands-on testing, we've focused on practical, widely-used products for everyday homeowners, skipping niche gadgets. You can start small without breaking the bank. Here's a realistic cost breakdown based on proven setups.
Beginners often start here—it's simple, low-risk, and offers automation (like scheduled lights) plus energy savings.
The Philips Hue Starter Kit includes a bridge and three 60W-equivalent bulbs for seamless control via iOS/Android apps from anywhere. It supports up to 50 bulbs; extras cost $60 each. Light your home smartly with Philips Hue.
For existing fixtures, the Belkin WeMo Switch ($45) plugs into any outlet, enabling remote control, motion detection, and IFTTT integration. 3 Ways the Belkin WeMo Can "Smarten" Your Lamps. Other options: Smart Lamps Guide.
For 10 bulbs/outlets: Hue totals $620; WeMo $450. Average: $535.
Homes spend 40-60% of energy on heating/cooling. Smart thermostats and ACs cut costs long-term. 5 Smart Hacks to Save Electricity.
The Nest Learning Thermostat (~$250) learns your habits, auto-adjusts when away, and installs easily. For window units, the Aros Smart Air Conditioner tracks usage and budget for efficiency, controlled via the Wink app.
Average cost: $265. Nest edges out for most homes.
Layered protection brings peace of mind. No system is foolproof, but these stack effectively.
The August Smart Lock auto-unlocks on approach and supports guest access. Alternatives: 5 Smart Locks for Phones.
Dropcam Pro ($200) offers 130° HD view, night vision, two-way audio, and 60-second setup. Check 4 Great Home Security Devices.
The SmartThings Humidity Sensor (~$25) alerts for leaks—vital since floods average $2,000+ in damage. Use 3 (kitchen, laundry, bath).
Total for basics: $600.
For entertainment: A Samsung H6350 Smart TV (32-75 inches) streams Netflix/Hulu natively. Mitigate risks: Smart TV Security and cover the camera.
SmartThings Starter Kit ($300) hub + motion/open/occupancy sensors. Smart Home Hubs Guide.
iRobot Roomba 870 ($600) auto-cleans daily. Skip the 880 unless you need remote control.
Belkin WeMo Insight Switch ($50) adds energy monitoring/scheduling to the basic WeMo. Ideal for 10 high-use devices.
Total luxuries (incl. 10 Insights): $2,300. Prioritize wisely—< a href='#'>Learn Personal Finance Simply.
Essentials (lighting + climate + security): $1,400. With luxuries: $3,700.
Compared to renovations, it's affordable. Ready to smarten your home? Share in the comments!
