7 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Renting Greener and Easier

As a renter, you may feel limited in your ability to make eco-friendly upgrades or automate your home. But there’s good news: a new wave of affordable smart gadgets lets you save energy, boost comfort, and make daily life easier—all without permanent installation or landlord permission. In this guide, we review seven budget-friendly smart devices under $100 that deliver real impact for greener, smarter renting.

Why Smart Home Gadgets Matter for Renters

Today’s smart gadgets are designed for plug-and-play convenience. Most require minimal setup and can move with you from one rental to the next. Aside from modern convenience, these devices help you:

• Reduce electricity and water waste
• Lower monthly utility bills
• Add value to your living space—without lasting alterations
• Automate chores and routines
• Monitor and manage appliances remotely

Ready to make your apartment smarter and greener? Let’s dive into the best options you can buy for under $100.

1. Smart Plugs: Instantly Track and Cut Phantom Power

What They Do

Smart plugs transform any standard outlet into a remote-controlled, energy-aware power source. Plug your lamp, fan, or TV into a smart plug and control it via your phone or voice assistant.

Green Benefits

• Schedule devices to turn off when you leave for work or sleep
• Monitor real-time energy usage with companion apps
• Eliminate “phantom loads” from devices that waste power on standby

Pro Tip for Renters

Choose a model that tracks energy use. At the end of each month, review which gadgets are draining electricity and adjust schedules accordingly.

2. LED Smart Bulbs: Upgrade to Efficient, Customizable Lighting

What They Do

These screw-in light bulbs connect to WiFi or Bluetooth for remote dimming, color changes, and scheduling—all from your phone.

Green Benefits

• Use up to 80% less energy than old incandescent bulbs
• Enjoy light automation: set wake-up and sleep lights
• Support “vacation mode” for extra security and savings

Pro Tip for Renters

Stick with bulbs that don’t require a hub if you want a simple setup. When moving out, just swap your bulbs back—no installation damage.

3. Smart Power Strips: Advanced Surge and Energy Control

What They Do

Smart power strips take energy savings further, letting you control multiple devices at once. Many models feature individual socket control, which means you can cut power to selected gadgets while allowing others to stay on.

Green Benefits

• Eliminate standby power waste for several gadgets in one go
• Schedule or group electronics by routine
• Protect sensitive gear with built-in surge suppression

Pro Tip for Renters

Great for home offices or entertainment centers where multiple devices gather. Use app controls to see which devices cost you the most—and unplug accordingly.

4. Smart Thermostats for Portable Heaters and ACs

What They Do

If you can’t replace your wall thermostat (most renters can’t), there’s still hope. Affordable, plug-in smart thermostats can automate window ACs, space heaters, or fans.

Green Benefits

• Regulate your comfort—heat or cool only when you’re home
• Set timers and energy-saving schedules
• Avoid overheating or overcooling empty rooms

Pro Tip for Renters

Look for smart thermostats compatible with your appliance type (check for 15-amp support, for example). Easy to set up and remove—perfect for seasonal rentals.

5. Water-Saving Smart Shower Heads

What They Do

Smart shower heads monitor your water usage in real time, offering visual or app-based feedback on exactly how much water (and energy!) your showers use. Some adjust flow intelligently to maximize savings.

Green Benefits

• Cut water consumption by up to 30%—great for shared utility meters
• Get live data on gallons used and temperatures
• Some models allow “eco-mode” settings for extra savings

Pro Tip for Renters

No plumber required. Most smart shower heads twist on by hand and can be reverted to the original before move-out. Save even more by timing your showers with built-in alerts.

6. Leak Detectors: Stop Water Waste and Hidden Damage

What They Do

Place these compact, battery-powered gadgets near sinks, washing machines, and toilets to receive instant alerts if a leak starts. Many models connect to your phone for notifications on the go.

Green Benefits

• Prevent water waste from unnoticed leaks and drips
• Stop damage early—avoid security deposit disputes or costly repairs
• Monitor hard-to-see spots, like under sinks or behind appliances

Pro Tip for Renters

Most leak detectors are non-invasive and can be set up anywhere with zero tools. Highly recommended for basement apartments or older rentals.

7. Smart Home Sensors: Automate More, Waste Less

What They Do

Occupancy and motion sensors are the secret weapon of the green renter. Set up wireless sensors in entryways, bathrooms, or utility closets to automate lights or fans—you’ll never leave things on by accident again.

Green Benefits

• Trigger lights or outlets only when a room is in use
• Reduce wasted energy without needing to remember switches
• App-based history shows how spaces are (or aren’t) used

Pro Tip for Renters

Pair with smart bulbs or plugs for maximum impact. Most sensors are peel-and-stick, require no wiring, and can go with you to your next home.

Setting Up & Maximizing Your Rent-Friendly Smart Home

Getting started is straightforward—and you don’t need a tech background. Here’s how to make the most of your new eco-friendly gadgets:

• Select devices compatible with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit for smarter control
• Set up routines: Use app automation to group functions—like turning off all plugs and dimming lights when you leave
• Opt for WiFi-only devices if you can’t install a hub or central controller
• Review energy reports provided by each device monthly
• Secure your network with strong passwords to protect privacy

Common Renter Concerns—Solved

• “Will I lose my security deposit?”
  Most of these gadgets require no permanent installation. Simply swap back your original bulbs, showerhead, or take your smart plugs and power strips with you when leaving.
• “Can I use smart gadgets with older wiring?”
  Yes—plug-in devices work in nearly any outlet, and smart bulbs work in standard sockets.
• “Will these work in my next apartment?”
  Absolutely! All recommended gadgets are fully portable and designed for easy uninstallation.

Extra Tips: Go Greener With These Smart Habits

• Opt for ENERGY STAR rated smart devices for superior efficiency
• Set “away” automations on plugs and thermostats so you never forget to save energy
• Share data with roommates to encourage