The best smart home devices to upgrade your space

Smart home tech is everywhere these days—and thankfully, you don’t have to splash out on luxury gadgets or settle for budget versions that cut corners, there’s a sweet spot of smart home tech: well-priced, easy to use, and built to last.

Whether you're looking to add a touch of convenience, boost home security, or save energy, we've rounded up some of the best smart home devices that strike the perfect balance between quality and cost.

1. Amazon Echo – A smart assistant that keeps it simple

The Amazon Echo is a great all-rounder. It acts as your smart home command centre—ready to set timers, play your favourite playlists, control other devices, or give you the weather forecast, hands-free.

What makes it SMARTY-worthy: It’s not the most expensive Echo out there, but it’s got all the features most people actually use. Perfect for voice-controlling lights, plugs, and even your heating.

Bonus: Works with loads of other devices, so it’s a solid starting point for your smart home setup.

🔗 Explore on Amazon UK: Amazon Echo

2. TP-Link Tapo smart plug – Instant smart home power

Not every appliance needs to be replaced with a smart version—sometimes you just need a smart plug. The TP-Link Tapo lets you turn any device into a smart one, from lamps to kettles.

What makes it SMARTY-worthy: At under £15, it’s a no-fuss way to start automating your home. Set schedules, control via app, or even use voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant.

Good to know: You can check energy usage through the app, so it helps you cut waste too.

3. Hive thermostat (Mini or V3) – smart heating without the premium

The Hive Thermostat gives you the smart heating perks—like scheduling, remote control, geolocation, and frost protection—without the premium price of luxury thermostats.

What makes it SMARTY-worthy: Hive estimates users could save up to £193 per year on energy bills, with built-in tools for tracking usage.

User-friendly: Easy DIY installation, app-based controls, Alexa integration, and boosts your home comfort without complexity.

4. Philips Hue white ambiance bulbs – Simple lighting that just works

Philips Hue bulbs let you control your lights with your phone or voice, and they’re easy to install—just screw in, connect, and go. The white ambiance range is perfect for people who don’t need colour-changing lights but want the benefits of dimming, timers, and automation.

What makes it SMARTY-worthy: The starter kits offer solid value, and they just work—no fiddly setup or constant updates.

Nice extra: Sync them with your morning routine to slowly brighten and help you wake naturally.

5. Blink video doorbell – big security, smaller price

The Blink Video Doorbell is a smart, budget-friendly option from Amazon—the same company behind the better-known Ring doorbells. But unlike Ring, Blink is designed to give you the essentials at a lower price, without skimping on the features that matter.

It lets you see who’s at your door, speak to visitors, and monitor your front door from anywhere via your phone.

What makes it SMARTY-worthy: Typically under £50 (and sometimes even less during sales), it offers HD video, two-way audio, and night vision—ideal for everyday use without the premium price tag.

Cost-savvy storage: Choose optional cloud storage for £2.50/month, or skip the subscription and use local storage via the Blink Sync Module.

Perfect for renters or shared households: It adds a useful layer of security without needing major installation or permanent changes—and won’t lock you into high monthly costs.

🔗 Check it out on Amazon UK: Blink Video Doorbell and Sync Module

Smart home on a SMARTY budget

At SMARTY, we believe you shouldn’t have to overspend for everyday tech. Smart devices should make your life easier—not more expensive. And luckily, there's now a huge range of reliable, user-friendly options at just the right price for people who value function over fluff.

You can even pair your smart devices with a flexible, data-rich mobile plan to control your home on the go—whether you’re out shopping, at work, or on holiday.

🔗 Read next: Cut your mobile costs and save money with SMARTY 🔗 Discover: Our SIM only plans