The technology and gadgets available to homeowners today are smarter than ever – most of them genuinely useful and not just for show. These new devices can save you time and stress. They can also stop you from answering the door to that neighbor who’s always trying to peddle something. Check out these five home gadget we’ve highlighted:
Nest Hello Doorbell
Never give yourself away by peeking through the blinds to see who’s at the door. Nest’s smart doorbell has a built-in HD-camera that will allow you to see who exactly is at your door. Simply check the app from your phone. There’s also a built-in microphone and speaker so you can talk to whoever comes knocking even if you’re not at home.
Buy now. $229, store.nest.com
Amazon Echo
If you don’t already own one of these bad boys, now is the time to get one. This innovative Amazon Gadget is a hands-free speaker that you can control with your voice. All you have to do is ask Alexa to do what you want. That could range from playing music, making phone calls and even sending and receiving texts.
Buy now. $85, amazon.com
Light Dimmer
Control the lights from anywhere inside your home with this Lutron kit. It comes with an in-wall dimmer as well as a remote. What’s even cooler is that you can pair it to your Amazon Echo and control it using your voice.
Buy now. $60, amazon.com
Self-Watering Planter
Traveling just got stress-free for plant people everywhere. Just fill up the Smartpot and it will dispense water and nutrients for an entire month – no maintenance required. This is a must-have for people who can’t seem to keep a plant alive.
Buy now. $150, amazon.com
Security Camera
Can’t sleep at night not knowing your home isn’t properly protected? The Nest Cam will send you a phone alert or email with photos if it detects any suspicious outside activity. Also, it has a built-in speaker, so you can listen through the device.
Buy now. $198, amazon.com