We recommend the SimpliSafe, which is user-friendly, doesn’t lock you into a service contract (some of which can snare you for years, even if you move), and can work with and without professional monitoring. And keep in mind that if you decide to move, most DIY systems are easy to dismantle and take with you. And many cities require a permit, so check on that, too.) Look for a starter package that can provide most of what you need in one box, such as door/window sensors, motion sensors, and a keypad. (It’s probably a good idea to let your landlord know you’re installing a system that could be triggering lights, sirens, and visits from the police or fire department. A wireless DIY home security system can ease your fears without requiring you to run wires everywhere or call a service technician. Home security systemĪpartment hallways can be busy-and you don’t always know who’s going back and forth. If you have limited outlets you can also get the Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip (HS300), which allows you to individually control each outlet. And when you’re lounging on the couch it’s stuffed behind, you can control it with voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Once you’ve connected the plug, you can program it to turn on and off based on your work schedule, sleep schedule, sunrise/sunset times, and more. The Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini (EP10) is perfect for apartments because it’s small, which means you can squeeze it into tight spaces above the kitchen counter or behind furniture. Although their shapes and sizes vary, all smart plugs allow you to schedule a table lamp to go on and off when you’re coming and going, have a fan cool down your apartment (or your pet) while you’re at work, or turn off the electric kettle, radio, TV, or anything else when you forget to. These devices are tiny, typically rectangular, and about the size of an inkjet printer cartridge. If you have a smartphone and an empty outlet, you can use a smart plug to control, schedule, and automate nearly any electronic device. If you’re a HomeKit user, we recommend the Meross MSL120 Smart Wi-Fi LED Bulb. It’s cheaper but doesn't integrate with as many smart-home platforms, or and don’t offer as many other lighting products to choose from. If you prefer Wi-Fi, don’t want a hub, or have only one or two lights you want to dabble with, we recommend the Wyze Bulb Color or the Wyze Bulb. If using your phone or a smart speaker to control lights seems like a chore, the Lutron Aurora is a battery-powered dimmer that installs over your existing wall switch and can control Hue smart bulbs and fixtures. Because it uses Zigbee technology, which spreads the wireless signal more effectively than Wi-Fi, it can brighten up areas that don’t have great Wi-Fi service. These bulbs can do everything a smart switch can do (and sometimes more, such as changing color) and don’t require screwdrivers, breakers, or skills-just fingers.įor apartments, we love the Philips Hue Starter Kit (with three bulbs and the Hue bridge), which can turn multiple lamps or fixtures into smart lights and even add a little color. A homeowner can install smart switches and dimmers, but that’s a permanent approach that requires wiring a renter is better off simply screwing in a smart bulb. This ensures that you never have to leave or enter a dark room. Smart lighting allows you to bypass flipping switches and instead control lights remotely, put them on a schedule, or trigger them via cameras, sensors, and other smart devices.
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