5 Smart Home Gadgets Under $100 That Make Renters’ Lives Greener and Easier

Smart technology is often seen as a luxury, but today’s affordable gadgets can make eco-friendly living simple and accessible—even for renters. You don’t have to install complex systems, drill into walls, or spend a fortune to start living greener. In fact, with the right smart home devices, you can save energy, reduce waste, and manage your apartment better, all without leaving a trace for your landlord to worry about.

Below, we’ve rounded up five practical smart home gadgets under $100 that every renter can use to cut energy costs, shrink their environmental footprint, and streamline daily life. Plus, you’ll find actionable tips for getting the most out of each gadget—no landlord approval or tools required.

1. Smart Plugs: Simple Energy Control

Smart plugs are a renter’s best friend. These small devices plug into your existing outlets and let you control whatever’s connected—lamps, fans, coffee makers, and more—directly from your smartphone or smart speaker. With energy costs climbing, they’re a surprisingly effective way to trim your utility bill and automate your routine.

How Smart Plugs Make Life Greener

• Reduce “Vampire” Energy: Many electronics draw power even when off. Set schedules or timers to kill the juice when not needed.
• Track Usage: Some smart plugs provide real-time energy monitoring, helping you identify which devices burn the most power.
• Easy Automation: Coordinate plugs into routines (e.g., “all off” when you leave home) with Google Assistant or Alexa.

Actionable Tips for Renters

• Use for hard-to-reach outlets—no more crawling behind furniture to turn things on/off.
• Pair with a floor or desk fan to maintain climate control without running your HVAC all day.
• Choose compact, stackable models if you have limited outlet space.

2. Smart LED Bulbs: Lighting that Learns

Lighting can account for up to 12% of a typical home’s energy use. Replacing standard bulbs with smart LEDs does more than save energy—they last longer (up to 25,000 hours), offer customizable ambiance, and can be programmed for security while you’re away.

How Smart Bulbs Benefit Renters

• Energy Efficiency: LEDs use 75-85% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
• Remote Control: Turn lights on/off or dim them from your phone.
• Scheduling: Automate lights to mimic sunrise, sunset, or your daily calendar.
• No Wiring Needed: Just swap out your standard bulb—zero installation trauma for your rental!

Actionable Tips for Renters

• Use color-changing models to reduce the need for multiple lamps or shades.
• Pair living room and entry lights with motion sensors for safety and efficiency.
• Enable “vacation mode” for added security when traveling.

3. Smart Thermostats (Portable/Plug-in Models)

Traditional “smart” thermostats usually require hardwiring and landlord permission. Portable and plug-in smart thermostats, however, provide renters with climate control without installation headaches. These gadgets use sensors and/or plug-in modules to control portable heaters, fans, or A/C units—helping you stay comfortable and spend less.

Eco-Friendly Benefits

• Targeted Heating & Cooling: Only operate devices when and where needed, slashing wasted energy.
• Flexible Scheduling: Use your phone to set heating/cooling for just your occupied spaces.
• Optimize Air Quality: Some portable thermostats include sensors for humidity and air quality.

Actionable Tips for Renters

• Use with window A/C units or space heaters in bedrooms for nighttime comfort minus the full-apartment cost.
• Look for models that support geofencing (auto-on/off based on your phone’s location).
• Take your portable thermostat with you when you move—no investment lost!

4. Smart Leak and Water Sensors

Water damage is every renter’s nightmare. Smart leak sensors send instant alerts to your phone at the first sign of trouble, helping you prevent costly messes and mold. They’re especially important for renters with washers, dishwashers, or apartments in older buildings, but anyone can benefit.

How They Make Your Home Greener

• Conserve Water: Early alerts let you stop leaks before they waste water or cause damage.
• Protect Belongings: Limit the need for replacement furniture, flooring, or electronics after a flood.
• Prevent Mold: Catching leaks early reduces mold risk—healthier for you and the environment.

Actionable Tips for Renters

• Place sensors under sinks, near water heaters, inside bathroom vanities, and next to laundry machines.
• Choose battery-operated models with long life spans (look for 2+ years per battery).
• Ask your landlord if they’ll help cover the cost—these gadgets can save them money, too!

5. Smart Power Strips: Smarter Energy Management

Unlike standard power strips, smart versions let you control several devices at once—and even monitor their power use. Smart power strips are a perfect fit for renters who want to maximize outlet real estate while minimizing wasted watts.

How They Conserve Energy and Make Life Easier

• Shut Off Electronics Automatically: Set timers or triggers to power down devices you’re not using.
• Manage Clusters of Gear: Ideal for TVs, gaming consoles, routers, and charging stations.
• Energy Monitoring: Get detailed reports on which gadgets use the most power—even if you can’t swap out your old appliances.

Actionable Tips for Renters

• Assign “always-on” slots to devices like routers, while automating the rest to switch off by night.
• Use voice assistants to control your power strip with simple commands.
• Choose power strips with surge protection to safeguard your electronics in older buildings.

Bonus: Essential Features to Look For in Renter-Friendly Smart Gadgets

Before purchasing any smart home device for your rental, keep these tips in mind:

• Wi-Fi vs. Hub: Wi-Fi-only gadgets are generally plug-and-play, ideal for renters. Avoid those requiring extra hubs unless you’re building a larger smart ecosystem.
• No Hardwiring: Devices should be plug-in or battery-powered. Your security deposit will thank you.
• Easy to Relocate: Pick gadgets you can uninstall and take with you to your next place.
• Companion Apps: Look for products with intuitive apps and strong privacy policies.
• Voice Assistant Integration: Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri compatibility makes hands-free control easy.

Making the Most of Your Smart, Green Rental

Ready to get started with smart home gadgets? Here’s how to maximize both the convenience and efficiency of these devices in your apartment:

• Start Small: Don’t overhaul your entire home. Begin with one or two smart plugs or bulbs in high-traffic areas.
• Bundle Functions: Look for automations that combine security, convenience, and savings (e.g., lights off, thermostat down when you leave).
• Stay Organized: Label your devices in the app so you always know what controls what—great for avoiding confusion or roommates’ mix-ups.
• Learn from Data: Check usage reports weekly to find wasteful patterns and adjust settings.
• Be a Good Neighbor: Smart devices that use less energy and water benefit the whole building by lowering demand and reducing the risk of accidents.

Final Thoughts: Tech That Pays for Itself

For renters, smart gadgets are about more than just convenience—they’re a gateway to affordable, sustainable living. When you automate climate control, optimize lighting,