Upgrade Your Smart Home With These 16 Helpful Amazon Gadgets

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Picture this: You've survived an exhaustingly long day. You're finally tucked snug in bed, wrapped up perfectly in your blankets and just about to drift off to sleep, when you can't remember if you locked the front door. Suddenly, you're forced to crawl out of your warm bed, brave the cold floors, and go check. If you had a smart lock, you could just tap your phone and go back to sleep. 

It's no wonder studies show that approximately 93% of homes in America already use smart devices. These gadgets do so much more than save us from midnight door-checking. They enhance security, make homes more energy-efficient, and can be used to control everything from your outdoor sprinkler system to your bedroom ceiling fan. Whether you're just learning how to make your house smart home or looking to add a few new items to your existing setup, Amazon has a wide range of smart gadgets to help take your home to the next level. The following is a list of 16 items that will seriously update your home and make your everyday life easier.

Listen your favorite music, check the weather, play games, create your shopping list, or make announcements to other Amazon speakers throughout your home. The Echo Show 15 is the perfect household command center, allowing you to control all your smart devices from a single, convenient location. Instead of juggling a dozen different apps, you can use this one device to adjust the thermostat or dim the bedroom lights. It can even be used as an intercom to make announcements to other Amazon speakers throughout the home.

It's fast, responsive ,and has a full color display. It also has a space-saving design. Instead of taking up valuable counter space, it mounts directly to a wall or even right on your fridge, putting it at eye level in high-traffic areas. However, if you'd rather have it on a side table or counter, it doesn't come with a stand, so you'll have to make a separate purchase. Also, while the sound is ideal for listening to podcasts or background music, it's not as immersive as other Echo speakers.

Leaving your furry friend at home while you work or run errands can be tough, but the Furbo 360 Dog Camera offers some peace of mind. With this fun smart home gadget, you can monitor your pet, so you never have to wonder what they're up to. Interact with your best friend from anywhere you have an internet connection, pull up live feeds, and dispense their favorite treats. Plus, the built-in two-way audio lets you comfort them or give gentle reminders to get off the sofa.

To help keep your companion in frame, the camera rotates a full 360 degrees. It also tracks your pet as it moves and gives you barking alerts for when they are trying to talk to you or tell you to a delivery driver is at the front door. There are a couple of things to keep in mind, though: The camera doesn't tilt, so if you have a shorter pet, you will have to adjust for that. It also requires a monthly subscription if you want to go back and view recordings from specific days.

One of the easiest ways to upgrade your home to a smart home without the expense of replacing all your appliances is with the Kasa Smart Plug. This little gadget turns "dumb" appliances into smart ones. It lets you control any device you plug into the outlet with simple voice commands through Alexa or Google Home. With the app, you can also set schedules and timers to run your devices at specific times, which is ideal if you're on vacation and want it to look like you're home.

The plug has a streamlined design, so it only takes up a single outlet, and has a manual on and off button. You can also generate energy reports on your phone, allowing you to see how much power each device uses daily or monthly. The only downside is that it comes in a pack of four, so if you only need one outlet, you don't have the option to purchase them separately.

If you're like most people, you probably have close to 3,000 images stored on your phone. The Aura Carver HD Digital Picture Frame allows you to display your favorite photographs without the hassle of printing pictures, ordering custom sizes, and prying open the back of picture frames. The digital frame connects directly to your smartphone, so you can even display photos loved ones have shared with you or set up a folder to display a library of pictures from a specific event.

Customization and ease of use are where this gadget really shines. You get to play director and set the time for each picture to show. The screen has a brightly colored display, giving you true-to-life images. The frame is also interactive, so you can pan back and forth by touching the edge. Because the frame is positioned horizontally, vertical photos don't fit the display, but you can solve this problem by displaying a couple of photos side by side. Do note that sometimes the playback speed can be choppy, depending on your internet.

Upgrading your window treatments to smart shades will make you feel like you live in a high-end luxury hotel. Forget basic curtains, by using the SmartWings Motorized Roller Shades, you can raise and lower your shades directly from your phone to block out heat during the day to save energy. They also operate by voice control from your smart home command center, allowing you to control the position as you walk into the room. These window coverings provide thermal insulation, keeping your room warmer on cold days, and come in multiple colors to suit your style.

The shades can be programmed in multiple ways. Create a schedule when they open and close, or adjust how much they open. They come with a rechargeable battery that lasts about four to six months. However, keep in mind that the longer and heavier the shades are, the harder the motor must work, so the battery may have to be charged more often. You can also purchase a remote separately.

If you've always relied on a paper calendar with Post-It notes attached around the edges to track everyone's schedules, the LivlGPAi Smart Digital Calendar can be a game changer. It takes the stress and guesswork out of coordinating busy lives. To help you stay organized, sync your schedule with other family members, set reminders, and color-code your day. The best part is you don't have to be in the kitchen looking at the paper calendar on the fridge door to see what's happening next. Access your schedule from anywhere with an internet connection.

Beyond just tracking appointments, the smart calendar is family-friendly and designed to keep the whole household running smoothly. You can also set up chore charts and achievement rewards for kids. The downside is that it doesn't come with a stand or a wall mount, so you'll need to purchase those separately. Also, because it relies on the internet, this can be a problem if the power goes out.

If you've ever had to reheat your morning coffee over and over, you will appreciate the Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2. It's designed to keep your drink consistently hot through long meetings or family interruptions. It has a rechargeable base that lets you carry your coffee from room to room without reducing its temperature. The app makes the mug very easy to use. Simply connect the cup and choose from a variety of drink presets or set it to your preferred temp. As a bonus, it comes in several colors to fit your style.

Beyond temperature control, the Ember app syncs with Apple Health, allowing you to monitor your drink intake. There are a few inconveniences. While the mug is easy to clean, it isn't dishwasher safe, so you have to wash it by hand to protect the electronics. Also, it doesn't come with a lid, so you'll need to purchase one separately if you plan to take your coffee on the go.

The SwitchBot Smart Candle Warmer is the perfect home accessory if you love candles, but can't have an open flame due to pets and kids. Use voice control through your smart home system to turn it on and off. You can also use the app to schedule the device to turn on at certain times of the day, so you can ensure your home always smells delicious.

The lamp melts your candles evenly, and because they melt slowly, you extend the life of your favorite candles. It's easy to set up and comes with an extra bulb. One downside is that it doesn't accommodate extra-large candles, so if you prefer 3-wick candles, they may not fit. It also needs to be within range of your network for it to work correctly with your smart home.

With a traditional garage door opener, you approach the door and press a remote control, which opens and closes the door. A smart door opener connects with your home's network, allowing you to open and close the door from anywhere. The CHAMBERLAIN Smart Garage Control lets you monitor who goes in and out of your garage when you're not home. You can also open the door for family members and friends who need access when you're away.

This kit includes the main hub that mounts on your garage wall and a sensor for the garage door. Use the app to set your door on a schedule to open when you're going to be home each day, or have it send alerts through your smartphone when it detects unauthorized access. The device does need a Wi-Fi connection, which can be an issue if your power goes out or your internet is down.

If your goal is to have the greenest lawn on the block, a smart sprinkler controller can help improve your lawn care. The Ranchio Smart Sprinkler Controller includes a smartphone app, allowing you to control your watering schedule from anywhere, perfect for if unexpected weather hits when you're away from home. The system also includes a manual control that can be mounted inside your garage, so you can stop watering with the push or a button. 

Using the app, you can toggle your sprinklers and control specific zones in your yard. It also lets you see what zones are being watered or alerts you if it detects leaks in the system. The device is easy to install and can help save on water. There's also a weather intelligence feature that prevents the sprinklers from operating during heavy wind, cold temperatures, or rain.

If you have a large home, you know how challenging it can be to communicate with loved ones from one end of the house to the other. Instead of yelling and hoping for a response, an intercom can help. The Hosmart UltraSpeak Pro Intercom connects to your smart home system and allows you to communicate from room to room. These devices are something to consider when choosing the best security system for your home. You can listen in on a baby or child's room or integrate it with your doorbell to speak to guests who stop by.

The monitors come in a four-pack, which is ideal for large homes. You can purchase and connect up to nine units. Each one has a 1,200-foot range. One downside is that they aren't battery-powered, so they must be installed near an outlet.

According to the American Lung Association, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. For this reason, it's a good idea to monitor and measure the pollutants inside your home for the health of your family and friends. The Sonovara Professional 15-in-1 Air Quality Monitor helps with this. Some of the most important things to monitor include radon gas, which is created by the natural breakdown of foundations and building materials, mold, and airborne chemicals. 

By monitoring your air, you can help detect allergens and reduce respiratory issues. You can also receive alerts for toxic pollutants, like mold and carbon monoxide. This monitor connects to your smartphone, so you get instant alerts when your indoor air quality is bad. It can be wired or used as a wireless device, and it connects easily to your internet.

There are many clever ways to use LED light strips to brighten up your home. Colorful strip lights help set the mood in your family room and add an illuminating glow in dark areas. With the DAYBETTER Smart Wi-Fi LED Light Strip Lights, you can connect the light strip to an online app and sync it to music and sound. Install them under your cabinets for night access or line the back of your computer monitor for a custom look. These are great for both functionality and aesthetic.

The lights come with a remote for easy operation. They are also voice-activated, so you can turn them on and off with a simple command. Choose from 16 million different colors and scene modes to set the stage for holidays, birthdays, or daily use. The lights are installed with adhesive, so be sure to test the area to prevent damage to surfaces.

If you have a large house or your internet signal seems to cut out, creating dead spots of WiFi in your home, chances are you need a Wi-Fi extender. The eero Pro 6e Mesh Wi-Fi System can help extend your signal for consistent speeds throughout your space. It supports internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps and covers homes larger than 6,000 square feet. It creates more bandwidth and accommodates a larger number of users. Setup is easy, and the app lets you control your network from anywhere.

The eero device replaces your existing router and integrates with most internet providers. Access the device through an online app to adjust security features, ad blocking, and set advanced parental controls. The parental controls and security cost extra, which can become pricey, but the device is easy to install and maintain.

The Tapo Door Sensor Starter Kit gives you everything you need to increase security at major entry points in your home. If you have small children who try to go outside without supervision, this device sends an alert the minute the door opens. You can also use it to monitor your fridge or cabinet doors, or install it in your mailbox if you have a problem with stolen mail. This smart home gadget can also help make your home feel safer at night.

This kit comes with a central hub and three window sensors. You can purchase others separately and connect up to 64 on a single hub. Integrate the sensors with smart lights to illuminate rooms or areas when they are engaged. Connect them to Tapo cameras, like the Tapo 2K Dual Lens Security Camera, to record footage. Each sensor comes with a two-year replaceable battery.

The LENGLASS Smart Wireless Charging Alarm Clock is the perfect bedside table lamp that offers a warm glow in an array of colors. It also connects with your smartphone to play your favorite playlists. It features an interior shelf for charging your phone overnight while you sleep. Download the app and use it to change colors and set a wakeup alarm. You can also use voice controls to answer your phone and talk through the speaker.

The speaker features buttons along the front, allowing you to control it by touch. It also includes four feet on the bottom for stability. With 16 million colors, you can customize the light to your personal preference. Some customers do complain that the charger takes longer than most standard chargers, so it might be best used for overnight charging, rather than a quick boost.