Living in a compact living space like an apartment, condo, or small house presents unique challenges. But this doesn’t mean you have to give up on the conveniences of modern technology! The right smart home devices can enhance your home without taking up too much of your valuable space. This post goes over small, yet powerful smart home gadgets that are perfect for smaller dwellings. By focusing on devices that either have a small footprint or serve multiple purposes, you can enjoy the benefits of the latest tech advancements without cluttering your home. Whether you’re looking to streamline your daily routine, increase your home’s security, or simply make life a little easier, there’s a smart device that fits your space and needs.
Smart Plugs
Smart plugs like the Tapo TP15 are perfect for apartments, rented homes, and honestly just about anywhere. Living in an apartment, you usually won’t be allowed to modify existing outlets or switches to make them smart. However, with a simple smart plug you can easily add smarts onto any device that you want. Smart plugs are also super easy to setup and use. Just plug them into the wall, connect them to the app, and start using them. Just because you live in an apartment or can’t change out your light switches and power sockets doesn’t mean that you can’t have smart devices too.
Smart Home Hub with Display
Smart home displays like this Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Generation) are a great choice for most users. We like this compact model for smaller spaces like apartments and condos because it takes up less space. Having a smart display like this instead of just a smart speaker allows you to also view details about your smart home, or video feeds from your security cameras. This is great to pair with something like a smart doorbell so you can always see who is outside your door. You can even stream media on these devices, allowing you to play music or watch a show from it.
Smart Bulbs
Smart bulbs like these GE Cync Tunable White Smart Bulbs are perfect for upgrading lights to make them smart. In apartments and rental homes, you often won’t be able to change out the switches to make light fixtures smart. Replacing the bulbs with smart bulbs like these is the next best step! This is a super easy change to make to your light fixtures that allows you to control them with your smart home controller or app, without needing to change out any electrical outlets or switches.
Indoor Security Camera
Indoor smart cameras like this Tapo C125 are perfect for keeping an eye on the inside of your place when you are not there. They offer a blend of security, convenience, and peace of mind in a compact form that fits perfectly into smaller living spaces. Is maintenance coming by today to spray for bugs or make repairs? These cameras keep an eye on your home when you’re out, sending real-time alerts and footage directly to your smartphone if they detect motion or sound. Many models come with features like two-way audio, night vision, and even AI-powered person detection, making them incredibly useful. Plus, their discreet designs and wireless operation allow for easy placement and installation without drilling holes or dealing with complex wiring—ideal for renters. Whether you’re looking to boost your apartment’s security, keep tabs on your furry friend, or just want the added convenience of remote monitoring, indoor smart cameras provide an effective and affordable solution.
Battery Operated Smart Doorbell
Smart, battery powered video doorbells like this Blink Smart Wifi Video Doorbell are a piece of security equipment that is suitable for every type of home. If you are renting an apartment or home you probably won’t be allowed to switch out the wired doorbell on your home. That is where battery powered smart doorbells like this Blink model shine. Instead of needing to hook into electrical wiring for power, they can be powered by an included battery pack. This allows you to have a smart doorbell without needing to mess with the existing doorbell. Simply mount this to the wall near your door, hook it up via the app, and enjoy.
Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo
Combo robot mops and vacuums like this iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ are perfect if you are living in an apartment or other small home. Storing a full size vacuum and mop can be a challenge when you are living in a smaller place. Having a compact all in one device like this Roomba mop & vac robot can save space you would use storing a full size vacuum, and add the convenience of having a robot do the mopping and sweeping for you. Simple plug it in, hook it up to the app, and let the robot do the cleaning for you.
Sleep Sound Machine
Smart sound machines like this Hatch Restore 2 is a sound machine are a life saver when it comes to living in apartments. Let’s be honest, living in an apartment you can usually hear your neighbors. From the folks next-door who always seem to have the TV up too loud, to the family above you whos kids stomp all over the floor constantly. Having a smart sound machine like this can help to drown out all of the unwelcome noise from your neighbors so that you can sleep peacefully.
Smart, Short Range Projector
Smart projectors like The Premiere 4K UHD Triple Laser Wireless Smart Ultra Short Throw Projector are perfect for living in an apartment or smaller space. Normally, you would want to mount your TV to the wall to help conserve space, but that may not be something you are allowed to do in an apartment or rental home. Instead, using a projector like this Samsung model can project your shows onto the wall, saving space and helping to keep your smaller place from being dominated by the TV when it is turned off.
Leak Sensors
Leak sensors like the Aqara T1 Water Leak Sensor are a must have in any home, regardless of if you are renting it or not. In a rental home, your landlord may be the one responsible for fixing any leaks and repairing damages, but you would be the one left with soggy stuff! Having leak sensors like this in your home, no matter if you are renting or not, can help detect leaks faster so you can prevent your stuff from getting as wet or damaged. Because let’s face it, no one wants a soggy couch.
Smart Air Purifier, Heater and Fan
Combo devices like this The Dyson Purifier Hot + Cool Formaldehyde HP09 are perfect for apartments or smaller homes. Because let’s face it, the AC doesn’t always cut it ( if you place even has AC! ). Having an all in one device like this Dyson that can heat, cool, and purify the air can save you a lot of space in a smaller home. The air purifier also works to help keep your air cleaner, reducing allergens and other things in the air that can cause breathing issues.
When it comes to adding smart devices to a small living space, the key is to select items that add functionality without adding clutter. The best smart devices for apartments are those that integrate seamlessly into daily routines, offer control and convenience, and make efficient use of limited space. From smart lights to compact smart home hubs and space-saving combo devices, there is a range of smart tech designed to suit the needs of apartment dwellers. By focusing on the most essential and compatible tech, you can create a home that is both modern and comfortable. As technology continues to evolve, the options for making a small space smart and efficient are only likely to grow, providing apartment residents with ever more new ways to maximize their living areas.
