S.D. Rudd's Blog
October 4, 2024
Top Smart Home Devices Under $100
Smart home devices. They’re everywhere. And they’re transforming our lives. Need convenience? Security? Energy savings? Smart home gadgets have you covered. Best of all, you don’t need to break the bank. Here’s a list of the best smart home devices under $100 that can elevate your living space. Let’s dive in!
Criteria for Selection
Before we jump into the list, let’s clarify what we’re looking for. Each device here is affordable — under $100. They must enhance your life in some way, whether that’s by making things easier, safer, or more efficient. And, of course, we’ll factor in user reviews and overall functionality. Quality matters.
1. Amazon Echo Dot
Quality Score: 88
This smart speaker is a game-changer. Voice control? Check. Seamless integration with other smart home devices? Absolutely. It’s the perfect hub for your digital life. The Echo Dot allows you to play music, get news updates, set reminders, and even control your lights or thermostat — all with just your voice. It also serves as an affordable entry into the Alexa ecosystem.
What’s surprising is how much sound this tiny speaker packs. The latest generation offers clearer vocals and deep bass, giving you a richer listening experience. Want to control your smart devices from anywhere in the room? The Echo Dot is your go-to. Plus, it’s compact, so it can fit on your nightstand or kitchen counter without taking up space.
One small downside? While it’s an excellent gateway to smart home living, it’s not 100% perfect. Some users report occasional connectivity issues, particularly if you have multiple smart devices on your network.
• Features: Alexa voice assistant, music streaming, smart home control.
• Price: Click here for more information
2. TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug
Quality Score: 85
Turning your home into a smart space is easier than you think with the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug. Imagine this: You’re halfway to work, and you can’t remember if you turned off your coffee maker. With this smart plug, problem solved. Just pull out your phone, hit a button, and switch it off remotely. You can control any device plugged into it, whether it’s lamps, fans, or appliances. Set schedules to automatically turn your devices on and off, and save energy while doing it.
It’s also voice-activated if you have Alexa or Google Assistant, which means you don’t even have to touch your phone to power devices on or off. And, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to say, “Turn on the Christmas lights” and watch the magic happen?
While it’s perfect for most home setups, keep in mind that the Kasa Smart Plug only works with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, so if you’re running on a 5 GHz network, you’ll need a different option.
• Features: Remote access, scheduling, voice control compatibility.
• Price: Click here for more information
3. Philips Hue White LED Bulb
Quality Score: 82
When it comes to smart lighting, the Philips Hue White LED Bulb shines brightest. Not only can you control your lights from anywhere using your smartphone, but you can also set timers, create schedules, or even control your lighting via voice commands. Heading to bed? Just say, “Turn off the lights,” and you’re set. Feeling like creating a cozy atmosphere? Dim them right from your phone. And don’t forget the energy efficiency — these bulbs are designed to last, saving you money on your electric bill.
However, it’s worth noting that this model is a bit more basic compared to the color-changing bulbs Philips offers. If you’re looking for customizable, colorful lighting, this might not be for you. But if you just need simple, smart lighting without breaking the bank, this is a solid option.
• Features: Adjustable brightness, app control, energy-efficient.
• Price: Click here for more information
4. Wyze Cam v3
Quality Score: 90
Safety first! The Wyze Cam v3 is an affordable powerhouse when it comes to home security. This little camera delivers 1080p HD video and impressive night vision, ensuring you can keep an eye on your home no matter the time of day. Whether you’re checking in on your front porch, monitoring a room, or making sure the kids are safe, the Wyze Cam has you covered.
One of its standout features is the motion detection alerts. You’ll get notified instantly if something’s amiss, giving you peace of mind. Plus, with two-way audio, you can speak to visitors — or scare off intruders — from wherever you are. And don’t overlook the weatherproof design, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
One potential drawback? The free cloud storage option only gives you 14 days of recordings. You’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan if you want extended storage. Still, for under $100, this camera is an excellent deal.
• Features: HD video, night vision, motion alerts, two-way audio.
• Price: Click here for more information
5. Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat
Quality Score: 87
Comfort. Convenience. Savings. The Honeywell Home T5 Smart Thermostat delivers all three. You can control the temperature of your home remotely through the app, so whether you’re coming home after a long day or leaving for a vacation, your home will always be at the perfect temperature. Better yet, it’s smart enough to learn your habits. It knows when you’re home and adjusts the temperature automatically, saving you money on heating and cooling.
One feature that stands out is geofencing. This means your thermostat will detect when you’re near home and adjust the temperature accordingly. No more wasting energy cooling an empty house. You can also link it with Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control.
While it offers great value, it doesn’t have all the advanced learning capabilities that pricier models like the Nest Learning Thermostat have. But for under $100? This is hard to beat.
• Features: Geofencing, smart scheduling, energy-saving modes.
• Price: Click here for more information
6. Ring Video Doorbell
Quality Score: 89
The Ring Video Doorbell is like having a security guard right at your front door. See who’s knocking, even if you’re not home. With this device, you’ll receive motion alerts and be able to view a live feed of your doorstep from your phone. No more guessing who’s at the door. The two-way audio feature lets you speak with visitors — whether it’s a delivery person or a friend stopping by.
Installation is simple, and it integrates easily into your existing smart home setup. Plus, the built-in spotlight adds extra security at night. While it’s not a top-tier security camera, it offers excellent value for its price.
The only downside is that for full functionality, such as cloud storage of video footage, you’ll need a subscription plan. But for under $100, the peace of mind is worth it.
• Features: HD video, two-way talk, motion detection.
• Price: Click here for more information
7. Samsung SmartThings Hub
Quality Score: 84
Finally, we have the Samsung SmartThings Hub, the central brain for your smart home. This hub connects all your devices — whether they’re from Samsung or not — and lets them work together seamlessly. Lights, thermostats, sensors, and more can be automated to perform tasks based on your routines.
Picture this: You start a movie, and the lights automatically dim. Or your thermostat adjusts when you leave the house. With the SmartThings Hub, you can set up these automations without lifting a finger. It’s the key to turning your smart home dreams into reality.
It’s worth mentioning that while this hub is incredibly useful, its setup can be a bit complicated for first-timers. However, once everything is configured, it works flawlessly.
• Features: Device compatibility, automation, remote access.
• Price: Click here for more information
Tips for Setting Up Smart Home Devices
1. Compatibility Matters
Ensure your devices work with your chosen ecosystem — whether that’s Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. This prevents frustration down the line when you’re trying to integrate new devices.
2. Security First
Change default passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly update your devices’ firmware to keep your network secure.
3. Placement Is Key
Consider where to place your smart devices for maximum effectiveness. Cameras should have a clear view of entry points, smart lights should cover high-use areas, and thermostats should be placed where they can accurately gauge temperature.
Conclusion
Smart home devices under $100 can transform your living space. Convenience, security, and energy efficiency are within reach. So why wait? Explore these options and enhance your home today!
What are your favorite smart home devices? Let me know in the comments!
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September 2, 2024
Hello world!
Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!
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August 5, 2015
Hello world!
Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging!
February 19, 2015
Too Much Free Time
“Dude, I sold my Ferrari,” my boy said to me.
Only he would throw off my workflow with some breaking news like that.
“Wait…you what?” I asked.
“I sold the house, too. We move in two weeks.”
It was like the dang Twilight Zone. “Upgrade?” I asked.
“Down,” he said. I was in disbelief.
“You sell your brain WITH that house? And…the ride? You not in trouble, are you?”
He laughed so hard that I thought he shredded his vocal chords. I just stared at him, imagining throwing a football at that mole in the middle of his left cheek.
“I’m kidding,” he said, sobering up.
“I was about to say.”
“But I’m not.”
“So you’re just tryna break my concentration, here. Cool.”
“Dude,” he said, “I did sell the Rarri and the house.”
“I’m assuming you’re gonna shock me with the why,” I said condescendingly.
My buddy shrugged his shoulders. “It’s overrated. I don’t need it. I’m over it. She and I are getting a five-thousand
square foot home.”
The home he lived in at the time was nearly twice the size.
“And…” he started with a stupid looking smile on his face, “I’m now the proud owner of a Chevy Suburban. Isn’t that cool?”
“Wonderful.”
“You getting one too?”
“No.”
“You should get one too.”
“Get out.”
My buddy studied me from the other end of the table for a moment. “You know, Phon, you REALLY need to get a
Suburban.”
“You really need to get out so that I can finish this funnel.”
“Your loss,” he said, before heading towards my kitchen to eat my crap up that he didn’t pay for. I chuckled, shaking my head, and went back to work.
A typical day in the life of two professional slackers.
Stephon “Phon” Rudd
January 3, 2015
My Most Successful Day Ever
He was lost…still.
Coaching him required extra work because I had to first break down his mental barriers. We now had a number for success…$5k a month.
We also had a simple break down on how many sales he’d needed at $20 per person to create this success…250.
But he was still worried because he didn’t
December 25, 2014
The Hard Crap Simplified
“How much are your monthly bills?” was the question
I asked my client.
He told me about $2500.
I was like, cool, then you need that amount generating in your business to be debt free.
“Here’s the thing,” I said. “What would make you quit your job today?”
“If I could double my income,” he replied.
“So, 5K makes you quit your job? Cool.”
Now he’s thinking this is impossible to do. I mean how easy was it to make 5k in business within a few months?
Well, let’s see…easy.
It’s all easy when you break the crap down. When people hear me talk about 5k a month, they make 5k seem like a million dollars. It’s not! It’s just 5k!
Sure, it’s a lot of money for most people. You’re not gonna get many people paying 5k for anything that doesn’t go VROOM-VROOM (that’s my weak attempt to spell out the sound of a V8 engine).
But, how about $20? Is that too much for most?
Absolutely not.
$20 is the cost of two fast food extra value meals WITH the large sized cup, that they fill up with 59% ice, 41% soda.
You need 5k a month so all you’d need is to find 250 people to buy a month-to-month service that they REALLY need, and you’re there.
250 people! Seems like a lot, right?
Yeah…if you were going door to door. 250 on the internet that’s well over billions is NOT a large number at all.
You just need to find them and let them know that something that solves their problem exits.
5k a month.
He felt better but 250 people still seemed like mission impossible for him.
That’s why I showed him this…
Stephon “Phon” Rudd
December 21, 2014
Why Most People Don’t Make It
So I had a discussion with a client.
He had just contracted me for marketing consulting.
It wasn’t long into the discussion that I realized that nothing I said would be received or understood well. At first, I thought that maybe my material was too advanced for him.
Then I realized…this crap is basic.
I mean, newborn baby basic.
If he was struggling with these simple concepts…c’mon.
It was gonna be a long drawn out session.
I was about to give up on him, give him a refund and apologize for the inconvenience (you know…the customer is always right foolishness…business politics 101) until it hit me.
Maybe the dude understood what I was saying.
But maybe the dude just didn’t think he could do it.
You see, people can become extremely negative about things they either don’t understand or they don’t think is possible.
Common sense 101.
So I asked him a question.
“How much money do you want to make?” I ask.
“I don’t know,” he replies, “a lot?”
My first thought is, he answered like a question which meant the dude had no clue. He was like a cast on Lost. A bunch of things were happening around him but he couldn’t figure out why.
“You don’t know,” I said as if making a statement.
Clearly sarcasm, but he didn’t get it.
“Well, how much are your total bills monthly?”
“Twenty-five hundred,” he says.
“Well, then, your first goal is to make that.”
He still seemed clueless so I had to interject.
“You want a lot, yes. Making five figures a month is ideal. But…you will never achieve this is if you can’t make twenty-five hundred a month first.”
He grunted.
“I know, let me explain,” I said. “Twenty-five hundred is your recurring debt. If you gain twenty-five hundred recurring income, then you’re not in debt anymore.
Your day job is now only there to grow your 2500 a month into 5000 a month. Now you’re wealthy.”
The light bulb came on. He then realized the concept.
But he still didn’t know how.
Tomorrow I’ll tell you what I told him next.
Stephon “Phon” Rudd
August 9, 2013
A Drop Of Love Is More
August 8, 2013
Adventures In Writing, Chapter 2: The Phone Call
August 7, 2013
From The Mind Of Alan Charms: Part 1
