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Smart bulbs, plugs, and an ecosystem-matched speaker are the easiest ways to make an apartment feel smarter without changing fixtures or wiring. Start with devices that use existing sockets and outlets, then consider cameras, doorbells, locks, or a thermostat only after checking your lease, building rules, hardware, and privacy needs. These 16 ideas are a practical lineup—not a claim that every product will suit every apartment.
Choose your smart-home platform before buying
Decide whether you want to use Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home, then check each device’s compatibility with that platform. Matter support can simplify connections across ecosystems, but it does not guarantee that every feature works with every speaker or hub. Some devices need a separate hub for particular functions; others connect directly over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. PCWorld’s renter-focused guide and TechRadar’s smart-home guide both emphasize checking compatibility before building a system.
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- Check whether your existing phone, speaker, or display can control the device.
- Confirm whether the device needs a hub, bridge, or subscription for the features you want.
- Consider removal as well as installation: a plug or bulb is easy to take along, while a camera mount or lock may leave a mark or depend on your door.
16 smart-home gadgets to consider
Lighting that uses your existing sockets
- Bluetooth smart bulb: A bulb such as the Philips Hue White Ambiance A19 with Bluetooth and Zigbee can be a simple starting point if its base fits your lamp. PCWorld notes that Bluetooth lets users begin without a Hue Bridge; without the Bridge, room assignment and some scene controls are more limited.
- Wi-Fi smart bulb: A Wi-Fi bulb can connect without a dedicated lighting hub. TechRadar identifies Govee Wi-Fi LED bulbs as a hub-free option compatible with Alexa and Google Home; it notes that their colors are not as bright as Hue. Check current model support and the bulb’s base before buying.
- Philips Hue Essential bulb: TechRadar describes Hue Essential as a mainstream smart-lighting option. Verify the current generation, platform compatibility, and whether its features require a Hue Bridge.
- Color-changing smart bulb: Use a color bulb for adjustable ambience in a lamp you already own. Confirm that it works with your chosen platform and is compatible with any wall dimmer; a smart bulb may not behave properly on a conventional dimmer.
- White-tunable smart bulb: A bulb that changes white color temperature can shift a room from cooler light to warmer light without replacing a fixture. Confirm that the bulb supports the adjustments you want in the app or ecosystem you use.
- Smart bulb for a frequently used lamp: Putting a connected bulb in a bedside or living-room lamp makes voice and app control convenient without changing the apartment’s wiring. Keep the lamp’s physical switch on so the bulb remains powered and reachable.
Control existing outlets and appliances
- Matter smart plug: PCWorld names the TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug as a compact, Matter-certified renter pick. The guide says it lacks energy monitoring and a Thread radio. Check the exact model’s electrical rating and your platform’s requirements.
- Smart plug for a lamp: A plug can automate an ordinary lamp while leaving the bulb unchanged. Make sure the plug and outlet leave enough space for neighboring plugs.
- Smart plug for a fan: PCWorld describes plugs as a way to automate fans as well as lamps. Use one only if the fan’s controls and the plug’s rating make remote power switching appropriate.
- Energy-monitoring plug: TechRadar describes Eve Energy as an Apple HomeKit-oriented plug with power monitoring, and notes that it is not compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant. Choose it only if Apple Home is your ecosystem and monitoring is useful to you.
A smart plug provides remote control and scheduling; the cited guides do not establish that it will save a particular apartment household money. Do not use a plug with an appliance unless its rating and the appliance maker’s guidance allow it.
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Voice control and at-a-glance control
- Smart speaker: PCWorld’s renter pick is the Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen). A speaker can provide voice control, music, timers, and alarms; check that it supports the devices and functions you plan to use.
- Speaker in your existing ecosystem: If you already use Google Assistant or Siri, a compatible speaker can be a more natural controller than adding another ecosystem. Not every speaker supports every Matter function, so verify the exact model and hub role.
- Smart display: TechRadar describes displays as visual control surfaces that also offer voice control. A screen can make it easier to check device status or operate controls without reaching for a phone; confirm compatibility with your connected devices.
Entry devices, with building and privacy checks
- Battery video doorbell: A battery model avoids relying on existing doorbell wiring. PCWorld describes adhesive-backed mounts as a renter-friendly approach, but installation still depends on building rules and the mounting surface. Rechargeable batteries need periodic charging.
- Video doorbell with local storage: TechRadar describes the Philips 7000 Series Video Doorbell as offering built-in storage and wired or wireless use. Check current model details and whether the storage and features you need are included, rather than assuming every doorbell avoids subscriptions.
- Retrofit smart lock: TechRadar describes the SwitchBot Smart Lock as an option that turns an existing thumb-turn rather than replacing the complete lock. It can be bulky, and fit depends on the door hardware. Confirm building policy and how access will work for household members or building staff before installing.
For any camera or doorbell, check your lease and building rules before mounting it. Consider where the camera points, especially if it captures a shared hallway or a neighbor’s door. Recording, storage, and subscription features differ by model; requirements and privacy rules also vary by location, so do not assume a device is permitted just because it can be mounted without drilling.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
GHome Smart Plug, WiFi Smart Plugs that Work with Alexa and Google Home
- Stability Upgrade Quick Connection:Supports Bluetooth or WiFi connection.The improved WiFi technology let you quick connection and stay stable,no disconnection worries. Please keep the smart plug connected to your stable 2.4GHz network.(Note: Only 2.4Ghz WiFi)
- Hand-Free Voice Control:Smart plugs that work with Alexa and Googel Assistant. Just give a simple voice command to Alexa or Google Assistant to control your connected home devices. Enjoy the joy of smart home devices.
- APP Remote Control From Anywhere:You also can control your outlet timers anywhere anytime via the APP directly when you are away. Monitor and control connected electrical equipment in your home.The smart outlet plug compatible with GHome APP, Smart Life App and Tuya App.
- Schedules and Timer Function:Easy to set timers and add schedules to connected smart home devices circularly or randomly, making them work as scheduled like auto-off and auto-on to save energy and money. Such as lamps, fan, humidifier, Christmas light timers etc.
- Group Control and Sharing:You can set a group for some wifi smart plugs and control connected appliances with one tap. Also you can share your wifi outlet plug by App with your families and enjoy the smart life together.
Heating, only if your apartment supports it
- Smart thermostat: A thermostat is not a plug-in upgrade. TechRadar’s thermostat guide notes that replacement requirements vary and that installation may require a professional; its reviewed Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4) listing was US-only at the time of that guide. Check your heating system, landlord approval, regional availability, and installation requirements before choosing one.
The lineup above contains 17 entries because the title’s count is a shopping frame, not a fixed technical category: lighting and outlet choices are broken out to clarify distinct use cases, while the thermostat is included as a conditional option. If you want exactly 16 purchases to compare, treat the six bulb entries as alternatives rather than buying all of them.
Which upgrades are easiest to install in a rental?
Smart bulbs and smart plugs are usually the most straightforward because they use existing sockets and outlets. A speaker or display can add voice or visual control without modifying the apartment. Doorbells, cameras, locks, and thermostats involve additional questions about mounting, shared spaces, hardware, wiring, or building approval, so assess those individually rather than treating them as simple plug-in gadgets.
Rank #2
Sale
Govee Smart Light Bulbs, A19 Color Changing Light Bulb, 800 LM, E26 Base | Works with Matter, Alexa and Google Assistant, 16 Million Colors RGBWW, WiFi & Bluetooth LED Light Bulbs, Music Sync, 4 Pack
- 16 Million DIY Colors: Govee smart light bulbs own millions of color and 54 preset scene modes, you can explore your favored one or pick one suits your moods most, bringing yourself a real fantastic lighting experience(Working Voltage: AC 120V).
- Music Sync: Our smart light bulbs change color and brightness simultaneously when sounds are detected by the microphone on your phone. Note: only works when the microphone is not occupied. Download Govee Home App and enable microphone permissions.
- Smart Control: Govee color changing light bulbs make it possible to control your bulbs with simple voice commands. And you'd also feel free to turn your smart light bulbs on/off, adjust brightness, or change the colors, set scenes via Govee Home App. (Note: Doesn't support 5G)
- Group Control: Simplify daily setups by grouping smart bulbs & Govee devices. Create a scheme, add devices, and control them simultaneously. Ensure bulbs are on stable 2.4GHz WiFi for optimal experience. Please Note: This A19 smart bulb cannot be used with smart switches.
- Timer and Schedule: Applying the ceiling fan light bulbs to your daily routine now is easier than ever, with timer function and modes like Sunrise & Sunset, you can set your bulbs to brighten when you wake up, and gradually dim when you fall asleep.
Can you use a video doorbell in an apartment?
Sometimes. A battery-powered model may avoid doorbell wiring, and an adhesive mount may avoid drilling, but neither guarantees permission or a suitable installation. Check lease and building rules, the mounting surface, camera view into shared areas, battery upkeep, and whether recording features require a paid plan. PCWorld discusses battery and adhesive-mounted renter options in its apartment-device guide; TechRadar notes that wiring, battery choice, storage, and subscriptions vary among models in its device guide.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
Outlet Extender with Night Light, Multi Plug Wall Outlet, Surge Protector
- 【Versatile 10 in 1 Outlet Extender】- 4 usb charging ports, 5 wide spaced outlets, 3 side power stip provides large space and saves you another charger head space. 360°night light around makes it easy for you to see the outlets in dark corners or at night. With the removeable screw and the plastic prong, the multi plug outlet is firmly attach to your DUPLEX and DECOR outlets, and perfect for bedroom, dorm room etc
- 【Smart & Soft Night Light】- With the light sensor, the outlet extender will automatically turns on only when ambient lighting becomes dim. With sensitive touch sensor on the top logo, you could also choose to turn on/off the nightlight manually. The night light is soft, warm and does not dazzling, will not disturb to your sleep
- 【USB C Fast Charge & Wide Space】- 1.7 inches large space beetween 5 adapter outlets on the side which can easily fit for big head chargers. The 4 usb ports total 3.1A, and the USB C ports built in smart technolohy, can detect and charge your devices quickly, up to max 5V/3A,compatible with most type c devices.(NOTE: The UCB-C port doesn't support any other devices which need 14-22V charging voltage)
- 【Surge Protector Outlet】- This product is made of safe and reliable fireproof material and 3 level complementary Surge Protector Circuit, which can effectively provide protection for your equipment, with minimum 1050J energy absorbing capacity. ("SURGE PROTECTED" indicator light on to show your devices are protected)
- 【Super Safety & After Sale Service】- ETL Certified. This plug extender has overload protection, short-circuit protection, over current protection, over-voltage protection and overheating protection. It will automatically cut power to protect connected devices when voltage surge is overwhelming
Rank #4
Sale
Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, KOEYLE 2 Pack 2.2 Gallon Automatic Touchless Garbage Can, Small Motion Sensor Smart Trash Can, Slim Waterproof Trash Bin for Bedroom, Bathroom, Office, Living Room (Black)
- Customer Notice: The 2.2-gallon bathroom trash can is highly suitable for use in relatively narrow spaces, with dimensions of 7.64"L x 5.12"W x 12.2"H, it doesn't look very big, and customers will need to install 2 AA batteries (not included)
- Motion Sensor Trash Can: This touchless bathroom trash can utilizes advanced infrared sensing technology, 0.1 seconds of sensing automatically open the lid, and automatically close the lid if no object movement is detected within 5 seconds
- Manual Normally Open: If you need to keep the trash can open for an extended period, you can manually press the up-arrow button. After use, simply press the down-arrow button to close the lid of the trash can
- Prevents Spreading of Odors: The smart trash can with lid and a one-piece barrel design, ensures a fully sealed enclosure that effectively isolates odors from garbage, maintaining a fresh and pleasant indoor environment
- Waterproof & Moisture-Proof: This automatic trash can is made of high-quality ABS material, robust, and the bottom is non-slip. With an IPX5 waterproof rating, adapt to the bathroom splash environment, to ensure a long time use
Rank #3
Sale
Addtam Surge Protector, 5 Outlet Extender with Night Light and 4 USB Ports
- 【9 IN 1 USB Wall Outlet】You get 4 USB charging ports (1 USB C) and 5 wide-spaced outlets; 3 side design plug extender provides large space; LED night light around the edge of the outlet extender makes life more convenient; removable screw and the plastic prong make it firmly attached to the outlets
- 【Smart & Soft Night Light】Dusk-To-Dawn sensor, automatically turns on only when ambient lighting becomes insufficient. The night light is soft, warm and comfortable, great for bedroom, bathroom, nursery, hallway, kitchen and more (PS: If it doesn't auto turn on when the light is dim or you don't need the night light, you can touch the Sensor Switch to turn the light ON or OFF)
- 【Double Stability & Wide Space】The screw included can be used to secure it on duplex outlet. The plastic prong at the back is for stable purposes also. For USB receptacle and GFCI outlet, the plastic prong needs to be cut off before use. 3-sided design and 1.7 inches large space between 5 sockets make it easier to use for all kinds of equipment
- 【1 USB- C & 3 USB-A】USB C charging port features 3A Max, USB A charging port features 2.4A Max, compatible with almost all usb devices(the actual current is decided by the demand for the devices)
- 【Super Safety】3 complementary surge protection circuits(TVS MOV GDT) with the minimum energy-absorbing capacity of 1050 Joules. This plug extension outlet wall mount also has overload protection, short-circuit protection, over current protection, over-voltage protection and overheating protection
What to check before you buy
- Fit: Match bulb base, outlet clearance, door hardware, and mounting surface to the actual apartment.
- Compatibility: Confirm support for your chosen assistant or smart-home platform, including the specific functions you need.
- Extra equipment: Check whether a hub or bridge is required for room controls, automations, or other desired features.
- Ongoing costs: Look for subscriptions needed for recordings or other important functions, and check whether local storage is available.
- Upkeep: Account for recharging doorbell batteries and any app or network maintenance.
- Permission: Ask the landlord or building manager before altering a fixture, mounting equipment in a shared area, or changing a lock or thermostat.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
