What Are The Top Smart Home Upgrades? (Stop Wasting Money!)

Smart home technology has changed how we live, offering convenience, efficiency, and control right at our fingertips.

These smart home upgrades are not just for tech fans anymore—they are easy for anyone to use and afford. Even a cheap smart plug or a Wi-Fi bulb can make a huge difference in how you operate and control your home.

They could simplify daily chores and make automations possible, so you never forget anything.

By the end of this guide, you will know all about the most recent and innovative smart home technologies that will assist your daily routine and look after your home.

What are the Top Smart Home Upgrades?

As smart technology evolves by the day, not starting to implement either of these futuristic technologies means you are falling behind. 

We have prepared a complete smart home devices category for you:

Let’s get started!

Smart Switches & Buttons

Smart buttons and mini switches bring effortless control to your smart home by allowing you to manage lights or scenes with a single tap, hold, or double-tap. 

They are ideal for simplifying complex setups and making them perfect for a non-tech-savvy family or guests, by avoiding lighting issues in problem rooms.

Now, let’s have a look at some of the most popular smart switches and buttons!

Device	Type	Features	Works With	Use Case
Aqara Mini Switch	Button	Tap, double tap, long press	Alexa, HomeKit, Google	Quick scenes, bedside
Philips Hue Dimmer	Switch	Dimming, scene control	Alexa, Google, Hue Hub	Living room lights
Flic 2 Smart Button	Button	Multi-action, portable, Bluetooth	Alexa, Siri, IFTTT	Desk, car, and mobile use
Shelly Button 1	Button	Wi-Fi, no hub, fast response	Alexa, Google, HomeKit	Wall trigger, lights
Lutron Pico Remote	Switch	Dimming, fast response, long range	Alexa, Google (via hub)	Whole-room lighting
Moes Wall Switch	Switch	Touch control, Wi-Fi	Alexa, Google	Wall replacement
Eve Button	Button	3 actions, HomeKit only	Apple HomeKit	Apple Home, quick triggers
Sonoff SwitchMan M5	Switch	Physical + app control, Wi-Fi	Alexa, Google	General light switch

The devices exceed their ability to customize all of the home actions for different purposes. For example, a single tap can turn on the living room lights, and a hold can dim them.

They are especially useful in spaces with irregular lighting setups, like basements or hallways, where traditional switches are hard to reach or overcomplicated.

Users and smart-home enthusiasts often praise their ease of use and ability to simplify complex technology.

Here are the pros and cons of installing and owning a smart switch:

✅ Pros:

• Remote Control – Turn lights and devices on/off from your phone or voice assistant.
• Schedules & Automation – Set routines (e.g., lights on at sunset, off at bedtime).
• Clean Look – Replaces traditional switches for a seamless, built-in smart upgrade.

❌ Cons:

• Installation Required – Needs wiring knowledge or an electrician to install.
• Neutral Wire Needed – Older homes may lack a neutral wire installation.
• Wi-Fi Dependent – May lose functionality during internet or power outages.

Smart Home Security Devices

Enhancing the security of your front yard via smart devices not only improves the safety but also adds considerable convenience by monitoring your door 24/7.

These smart home tools allow you to detect intruders, manage access, and automate lighting, all controllable from your phone.

Device	Main Function	Key Features	Best For	Considerations
Smart Doorbell Camera	Allows you to see and talk to visitors remotely	Live video, two-way audio, motion alerts	Monitoring and speaking to visitors remotely	Needs Wi-Fi, monthly fees for video storage (some models)
Motion-Activated Floodlight	Lights up when it detects movement	Bright LED lights, motion sensors, and a deterrent effect	Improving visibility and deterring intruders	Needs a power source, may trigger with animals
Smart Lock	Keyless access and remote locking/unlocking	App control, code sharing, and auto-lock features	Managing access without physical keys	Battery-powered, may require door compatibility
Outdoor Smart Plug	Controls outdoor electronics on a schedule or remotely	App scheduling, voice control, and weather-resistant design	Holiday lights, fountains, and garden setups	Needs an outdoor outlet, limited power capacity

These outdoor smart security devices combine convenience, safety, and control, making it easier to manage your home’s exterior. 

Whether you’re deterring intruders, monitoring visitors, or automating outdoor lighting and access, each device offers useful features that enhance security and peace of mind, especially when integrated into a larger smart home system.

Now, let’s have a look at the pros and cons of each of these devices:

✅Pros:

• Allows monitoring your front door from anywhere in real time.
• Two-way audio communication with visitors or delivery people.
• Effortless motion detection can alert you to suspicious activity.

❌Cons:

• May require a subscription for video storage and playback.
• Can be particularly vulnerable to Wi-Fi outages or delays.
• The installation might be tricky if hardwiring is necessary.

Smart Home Living Room Devices

A variety of living room smart home devices can accelerate your in-home entertainment and help you relax after a long day.

These devices make it easy to enjoy shows, music, and lighting according to your mood, all while keeping the operation simple and hands-free.

Device	Key Function	Best For
Smart Doorbell Camera	View and talk to visitors remotely via smartphone	Homeowners wanting real-time entry alerts
Motion-Activated Floodlights	Automatically light up when motion is detected	Deterring intruders and improving safety
Smart Lock	Keyless entry and remote access to lock/unlock the door	Families and frequent visitors
Outdoor Smart Plug	Schedule and automate garden or holiday lights	Seasonal decorators and energy savers

Most of the living room smart home devices can also enhance the security of your home by providing monitoring opportunities and push alerts.

When combined, they can contribute to the creation of a smarter and more responsive home environment.

ZontSound recommends considering these pros and cons before making a purchase:

✅ Pros:

• Offers hands-free control for music, lighting, and your entertainment.
• Enhances the ambiance with customizable lighting and sound settings.
• Simplifies entertainment setups by unifying controls into one system.

❌ Cons:

• Initial setup can be time-consuming or require technical knowledge.
• Some devices may not be compatible across different ecosystems.
• Privacy concerns may arise due to always-listening voice assistants.

Kitchen Smart Home Devices & Appliances

There is a wide variety of smart home products and appliances specifically designed to integrate with your kitchen.

From futuristic smart fridges and ovens, to voice-controlled assistants that can operate all electronics in your kitchen, solely via voice commands. 

Device	Key Function	Best For	Integration	Special Feature
Smart Coffee Maker	Start or schedule brewing remotely via an app	Busy mornings and remote control fans	Works with Alexa/Google	Brew strength and timing customization
Wi-Fi Enabled Air Fryer / Oven	Monitor and control cooking from your smartphone	Multitaskers and tech-savvy cooks	App-controlled	Recipe sync and cooking notifications
Smart Fridge	Tracks inventory and notifies you of expiring items	Organized households and families	Syncs with smart home apps	Internal cameras and grocery management
Voice-Activated Assistant Display	Set timers, read recipes, and control other kitchen devices hands-free	Cooks who want hands-free help	Alexa/Google Nest compatible	Visual recipe walkthroughs and timers

The kitchen could significantly benefit from a variety of available smart products that can simplify most daily tasks.

These smart home devices contribute to the cooking process via monitoring and reminders on everything that you are currently doing. 

Here are the pros and cons of the kitchen smart home devices:

✅ Pros:

• Improves kitchen efficiency by automating all of your routine tasks.
• Enables hands-free operation, ideal during cooking or multitasking.
• Helps reduce food waste through inventory tracking and reminders.

❌ Cons:

• Smart appliances can be more expensive than standard alternatives.
• May rely heavily on Wi-Fi for functionality and access to all features.
• Most of the features may require application updates or subscriptions.

Bedroom Smart Home Devices

Smart devices can contribute to the formation of the perfect bedroom by changing the light, temperature, and sound.

These smart home devices can enhance your routine and make it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed.

Device	Key Function	Best For	Integration	Special Feature
Smart Alarm Clock	Gradually increases light to simulate a natural sunrise	Light sleepers or those who struggle to wake up	Works with Alexa/Google	Gentle light-based waking, customizable alarms
White Noise Machine / Sleep Tracker	Provides calming sounds or tracks sleep patterns	Individuals needing better rest insights	App-controlled / standalone	Sound libraries, sleep score analytics
Smart Plugs / Lights with Sleep Mode	Automatically dims or turns off lights based on a schedule	Those who forget to turn off the lights	Alexa/Google/Apple HomeKit	Bedtime automation, sunrise/sunset syncing
Temperature Control System / Smart Fan	Adjusts room temperature or airflow remotely	Hot/cold sleepers or seasonal comfort	Works with smart thermostats or apps	Auto temperature regulation, sleep scheduling

These bedroom smart home devices address individual sleep needs, whether you are a light sleeper or struggle with comfort as you are falling asleep.

Many integrate with platforms like Alexa or Google Home, allowing seamless control and automation for a better night’s rest.

Now, let’s have a look at the pros and cons of these devices:

✅ Pros:

• Allows personalized control over your sleep environment.
• Allows better sleep quality and more refreshed wake-ups
• Hands-free operation and automation via smart assistants.

❌ Cons:

• Initial setup and device syncing may be time-consuming
• Some features require app downloads or subscriptions
• Too many notifications or data tracking may feel intrusive

Bathroom Smart Home Devices & Appliances

Smart devices can improve the hygiene, convenience, and personal care abilities of your bathroom via futuristic technology.

These devices offer practical solutions for health tracking, comfort, and ease of access, often integrating with apps or voice assistants for seamless use.

Device	Key Function	Best For	Integration	Special Feature
Smart Mirror	Provides adjustable lighting and displays weather, calendar, or news	Morning multitaskers and detail-oriented groomers	Works with Alexa/Google	Anti-fog, touch controls, and voice-activated updates
Electric Toothbrush	Tracks brushing habits and gives real-time hygiene tips	Individuals wanting dentist-level care at home	App-controlled (iOS/Android)	Pressure sensors, personalized coaching
Smart Scale	Measures weight, BMI, and other body metrics	Health-conscious users or fitness enthusiasts	Syncs with Fitbit, Apple Health, etc.	Multiple user profiles, body composition analysis
Heated Toilet Seat / Bidet Attachment	Adds warmth and cleanliness to the toilet use	Anyone wanting improved bathroom comfort	Some models work with an app or a remote control	Adjustable temperature, water pressure, and air-drying options

These smart bathroom devices bring a touch of luxury and practicality to your daily routine.

From starting your day with perfectly lit grooming and personalized hygiene tips to tracking your health and adding comfort where it matters most, each appliance is high-end and quite useful. 

Finally, let’s analyze the pros and cons of these bathroom smart home products:

✅ Pros:

• Improves personal hygiene, grooming, and comfort via automation and personalization
• Synchronizes with mobile applications and health platforms for easy progress tracking
• Saves time during the morning routine with hands-free control and real-time feedback

❌ Cons:

• Some devices may require frequent charging or replacement of the battery.
• Advanced features and integrations can increase the overall purchase cost.
• Installation or setup can be complex, especially for plumbing-based gadgets

Conclusion: Start Your Smart Home Journey Today

This guide has explored innovative smart devices for your yard, living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and general use, showing how they enhance your lifestyle.

Smart home devices bring convenience, efficiency, and control to every corner of your home and make it accessible for everyone, not just tech enthusiasts. 

From an affordable smart plug to a Wi-Fi bulb, these small upgrades can simplify daily tasks, automate routines, and ensure you never miss anything.