27 Smart Home Devices to Optimize Your Daily Routine
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We’re always searching for new ways to refresh our home, whether it’s organizing our spices into labeled jars, investing in multifunctional furniture, or purchasing a stylish sofa for our living space. Upgrading your home isn’t just reserved for buying new furnishings or decor, however: you can also update your space with cool home gadgets that will streamline your day-to-day life. We’re talking technologically advanced kitchen appliances, voice assistants, robot vacuums, and more. Whether you could benefit from a device that helps you fall asleep or one to optimize your ice cream or pizza-making night, there’s surely something to suit everybody’s wants and needs.
We rounded up the best home gadgets and tech essentials that will upgrade your house and help you complete your weekly chores more efficiently. Create the perfect environment indoors with a smart thermostat you can control from your phone or an air purifier that will reduce irritants and allergens. Keep your home clean with multifunctional Dyson vacuums that are truly worth every penny — trust us, even our editors consider these tools to be must-have home gadgets.
We also curated several staple kitchen appliances, including an Instant Pot and a smart Keurig coffee maker, that will help you spend less time in the kitchen and more time doing what really matters — catching up on all of your favorite TV shows, of course. Ahead, shop our top picks for the best smart home devices to splurge on this year.
— Additional reporting by Marisa Petrarca, Anvita Reddy, and Kelsey Garcia
Best Sleep Headphones
Sleep Headphones and Eye Mask ($23, originally $31)
Sleep better than ever this year with this high-tech sleep mask. The unique product has thousands of rave reviews on Amazon, so you know it’s good. The mask features thin speakers, so you can play something that helps you sleep. Plus, the tool’s light and washable design is comfy and easy to wear; you can even connect it to your smartphone.
Sleep Headphones and Eye Mask
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from amazon.com
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Best Outdoor Home Gadget
ThermoPro TP65 Digital Wireless Hygrometer Indoor Outdoor Thermometer
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Best Sleep Aid Device
Dodow Sleep Aid Device ($60)
Elevate your nighttime routine with the help of this sleep aid device. Unlike other smart home devices, this technology is fairly easy to follow. It simply emits a pulsing blue light onto the ceiling, which helps you master a more sound breathing technique and ultimately fall asleep faster. Learn more about the smart home product in this Dodow Sleep Device review.
Editor Quote: “I’ve been using my Dodow on and off for a couple of weeks now, and I can definitely vouch for how effective it’s been for me. At first it took a little getting used to: mine is on my nightstand, and for the first few uses, the light felt quite far back, as if by looking up I was straining my eyelids after the first couple of minutes. It took a couple of sessions to realize what was actually happening was that my eyes were just trying to close so I could sleep. I’ve only seen the end of the eight-minute cycle once, on my first use. Since then, I’ve drifted off before it’s even finished.” — Gemma Cartwright, former senior editor, POPSUGAR UK
Best Smart Cleaning Device
PhoneSoap Smartphone Sanitizer ($68, originally $80)
There’s likely a lot of germs traveling in and outside of your home these days — especially during flu season. With the help of this smartphone sanitizer, you can easily rid your smartphone of any toxins, as the tool uses UV lights to get your tech 99.9 percent germ-free. One POPSUGAR editor even said it “changed her life” in this PhoneSoap Smartphone Sanitizer product review.
Editor Quote: “It kills bacteria, and yes it even charges your phone too. It cleans your phone in just 10 minutes.” — Krista Jones, former editor, Commerce
PhoneSoap Smartphone Sanitizer
$68
from amazon.com
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Best Vacuum Add-On
Dyson Pet Grooming Kit ($70)
For those who do end up taking the plunge and purchasing a Dyson vacuum, you might want to consider getting the most out of the gadget with various attachments and add-ons. This pet grooming kit, for example, allows pet owners to vacuum up loose hairs before they end up on the floor. Just a note, however, that the kit should only be used on pets with medium and long hair.
Editor Quote: “I have a beautiful 150-pound Bernese Mountain Dog who sheds. Not a hair here and there — literal tumbleweeds of dog hair. My husband and I vacuum once and day and also use the Dyson dog grooming attachment to wrangle the hair. It is a game changer combo. I highly recommend it if you have a dog with long hair that sheds.” Genevieve Farrell, director of fitness and wellness video
Best Smart Garden
Click and Grow Smart Garden 3 Indoor Herb Garden ($81)
This indoor herb garden ideal for anyone who wants to grow their own produce but doesn’t have a yard. It comes with various pods, so you can grow everything from herbs to fruits and veggies. The self-watering planter is a great family treat that everyone can enjoy. It’s also perfect for small apartment spaces and beginners — as detailed in our product review on the Click & Grow Indoor Smart Garden.
Editor Quote: “I love how simple the setup is — a real ‘set it and forget it’ situation. Even the mild maintenance that’s required — cleaning harmless mold and algae that grows on top of the dirt and refilling the water tank — can be completed in about five to 10 minutes and doesn’t take away from the experience.” — Moná Thomas, living editor and content strategist
Click and Grow Smart Garden 3 Indoor Herb Garden
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Best Smart Air Purifier
Levoit Core 200S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier ($90)
Perfect for medium-sized spaces, this air purifier has a nylon pre-filter, a true HEPA filter, and an activated-carbon filter. This smart air purifier can be controlled and monitored with the free VeSync app, which can be connected to Alexa or Google Assistant. Consider this an essential (and energy-efficient) air purifier that deserves a spot in your home.
Levoit Core 200S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier
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Best Smart Charger
Courant Mag:2 Essentials Wireless Charging Stand ($100)
This chic charging stand can charge two devices at once, thanks to its clever design. Both charging areas boast a strong magnetic hold that makes it possible to snap your iPhone on either vertically or horizontally. It’s finished in your choice of Belgian linen or leather in a range of neutrals to suit every space. It also doubles as a phone stand, ideal for swiping through TikTok videos while working.
Courant Mag:2 Essentials Wireless Charging Stand
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Best Smart Thermostat
Google Nest Thermostat ($125)
This smart thermostat makes life easy, and can be controlled from any synced phone, tablet, or laptop. Plus, this rose gold hardware offers a nice aesthetic touch. For more glowing praise, read one editor’s review, below.
Editor Quote: “When we first bought our Google Nest Smart Thermostat, I was mainly excited about the fact that it came in pink. It wasn’t until the dead of summer hit and I was constantly needing to toy around with the air conditioning that I was pleased we’d picked a smart thermostat — I could simply use the app on my phone to turn down the temperature (or, in smart home fashion, ask Alexa to turn it down for me). It proved its worth again in winter when, feeling too warm in the middle of the night, I could tweak the temperature from bed to avoid getting up and fumbling through the dark.
“Three other pros: you can create custom temperature schedules based on your needs, you can easily set yourself as “away” so that your heat or AC isn’t running while you’re out, and there are automatic eco settings that help to cut energy bill costs. We also got cash back from our local energy company for using a smart device for that specific reason. The device has already paid for itself in energy savings! And she looks cute on the wall, too.” — Alessia Santoro, senior editor, SEO
Best Sound Machine
Hatch Restore Sound Machine and Smart Light ($130)
This hybrid smart light and sound machine will do more than just upgrade your home. The smart device packs a lot into its compact frame, including the capabilities of a sound machine, light, and sunrise alarm clock — talk about an all-in-one product. Not only is the top-rated tool said to help improve your morning routine through automated settings, but it can even help you sleep better, too. Learn more about the machine’s benefits in this Hatch Restore product review.
Editor Quote: “Please, please, please — do not speak to me unless I have had a full night’s rest with the help of my Hatch alarm clock. Not only does it have a setting so that I can listen to white noise while I fall asleep, but the alarm sounds for waking me up in the morning are infinitely better than anything my iPhone has to offer. Do I want to be awoken by a gradually brighter (but still soft) light accompanied by the sound of birds chirping happily? Hell yes I do. The days I go to bed (and wake up) with my Hatch, I’m ten times more likely to be a more enjoyable person to be around. It’s scientifically proven. By me.” — Renee Rodriguez, staff writer and social producer
Editor Quote: “If you’re someone who already uses a sound machine to fall asleep and loves the idea of a sunrise alarm clock, this device will be a great match for you to cut down on gadgets. Additionally, it’s suitable for anyone looking to improve their night and morning routines as it creates a personalized 10-step system allowing you to do so.” — Haley Lyndes, former assistant editor, Commerce
Hatch Restore Sound Machine and Smart Light
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Best Air Fryer
Cosori Smart Air Fryer ($140)
The right gadgets can truly streamline your life, and this air fryer has proven to be one of our favorites for simplifying the time we spend cooking in the kitchen every day. POPSUGAR’s own editor said that the air fryer changed her life for the better in this Cosari Smart Air Fryer product review.
Editor Quote: “Aside from its sleek and minimal design (which I love), I’m blown away by all the gadgets and features this air fryer has to offer. With one touch, I have the ability to air fry, bake, roast, reheat, or keep something warm. And better yet, I can do it all from my phone using a fancy-schmancy app called VeSync.” — Haley Lyndes, former assistant editor, Commerce
Best Steaming Device
Apple TV 4K Device ($149)
The Apple 4K Device takes smart streaming to a whole new level. With this sleek and compact device, users can find all of their favorite TV shows and films in one convenient hub — and forgo the need for a remote with the device’s built-in Siri capabilities. One POPSUGAR editor detailed her favorite functions of this top-rated smart device in this Apple TV 4K review.
Editor Quote: “I’d be lying if I said that I could tell the difference between 4K and regular TV before I got the Apple TV. But I had the pleasure of hooking my box up to a real, legit 4K TV and all I can say is: holy sh*t. It’s like being in an adventure that requires no glasses or special devices to traverse, and the colors are mindblowingly vivid.” — Chelsea Adelaine Hassler, former senior editor, News and Culture
Best Drink System
Ninja WC1001 Thirsti Drink System ($150, originally $180)
Ninja is the genius behind the Thirsti Drink System, a device that makes it possible to customize your beverage to achieve your desired fizz, function, flavor, flavor intensity, and drink size. You can purchase your favorite water drops separately, though it includes a starter pack. Find out more in our review of the Ninja WC1001 Thirsti Drink System.
Editor Quote: “I love seltzer, so I was all about Ninja Thirsti’s sparkling water functions. I’ve used at-home seltzer makers before, and I was curious to see how Ninja aimed to improve upon the existing options in the market. They did it by creating so many ways for users to customize their drinks — you can choose how bubbly you want the water to be, how you want it to be flavored (or not), and how intensely flavored you want it to be.” — Mirel Zaman, director, Wellness
Ninja WC1001 Thirsti Drink System
$150
from amazon.com
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Best Smart Lock
August Home Smart Lock + Connect Wi-Fi Bridge ($150, originally $199)
Forgetting the keys won’t be a problem anymore with this handy smart lock. Just connect it to your existing deadbolt, and it connects to your phone through an app. You can also use touch-free settings — with Bluetooth, your lock can sense when you walk up to the door and unlock it for you. You can track who’s come in and out and grant access keys to guests for a certain amount of time.
August Home Smart Lock + Connect Wi-Fi Bridge
$150
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Best Video Doorbell
Ring Video Doorbell (2023 Release) ($150, originally $180)
Easily improve your home’s security with the help of this Ring Doorbell. The top-rated tech gadget allows homeowners to see visitors to their front door through camera technology, communicate pre-selected replies, and even have the ability to do it all through their smartphone. It doesn’t get more streamlined than that.
Ring Video Doorbell (2023 Release)
$150
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Best Kettle
Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Pour-Over Kettle ($165)
This electric kettle is one of the best-looking kettles we’ve ever seen. Not only is it stylish, but its digital gauge also makes it easy to get the perfect temperature. The kitchen essential can hold any programmed temperature for up to one hour, and users can also connect it to their smartphone. It’s no wonder it’s an editor favorite; read our product review on the Fellow Stagg Electric Kettle for more info.
Editor Quote: “Aside from it’s chic design that looks sleek and minimal in my space, it actually works amazing. The smart gadget features a digital LCD screen with an adjustable temperature control, so you can choose your ideal temperature for hot water. It also holds it at that heat for 60 minutes, so there’s no rush to grab your cup of brew. Its signature precision pour spout works great for those who love to make pour over coffee, too.” — Krista Jones, former editor, Commerce
Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Pour-Over Kettle
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Best Diffuser
Pura Automated Home Fragrance Device ($165)
Not only does this diffuser provide a more discreet way to keep your home smelling fresh, but users can control the product all from their phone, too. This internet-loved diffuser is also a favorite among POPSUGAR editors, as detailed in this product review of the Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser.
Editor Quote: “Unlike traditional essential-oil diffusers, the Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser is truly low maintenance — no daily water changes, essential-oil fiddling, or cleaning necessary. With other essential-oil diffusers I’ve owned, I’ve found that mildew buildup can happen easily if I don’t properly clean it after each use, which is a huge pain.” — Angela Elias, contributing editor, Commerce
Pura Automated Home Fragrance Device
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Best Coffee Maker
Keurig K-Supreme Plus Smart Coffee Maker ($195)
This coffee maker is designed to give users a perfectly customized coffee via the BrewID app on your phone. The BrewID technology recognizes the specific brand and roast of the K-cup pod and automatically customizes the brew settings to the recommendations of the coffee expert who created it. It’s like having a professional barista in your home at all times, and is even POPSUGAR editor-approved — just read our Keurig K-Supreme Plus Smart Coffee Maker review to learn more.
Editor Quote: “What truly amazes me about this coffee maker is that the BrewID technology recognizes the specific brand and roast of the K-cup pod, then automatically customizes the brew settings to the recommendations of the coffee expert who created it. So whether you’re using Peet’s, Starbucks, Folgers, or whatever your favorite K-cup pod is, the brewer will immediately know what it is when you pop it in.” — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Commerce
Keurig K-Supreme Plus Smart Coffee Maker
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Best Ice Cream Maker
Ninja NC299AMZ CREAMi Ice Cream Maker ($200)
This ice cream maker is TikTok-famous. You can use it to make everything from milkshakes and smoothie bowls to gelato and ice cream, all using everyday ingredients. Find out more by checking out our review of the Ninja NC299AMZ CREAMi Ice Cream Maker.
Editor Quote: “What I like about this ice cream maker, for starters, is that it’s compact. It’s tall, sure, but it’s not wide or bulky, which saves major counter space. But the biggest draw of all is that using it really is as easy as the brand claims.” — Marisa Petrarca, contributing editor, Commerce
Ninja NC299AMZ CREAMi Ice Cream Maker
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Best Instant Pot
Instant Pot Pro Crisp XL ($200)
This Insant Pot combines 11 appliances into one. It’s a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer, yogurt maker, and even an air fryer. Whether you’re new to cooking or need an extra set of hands, it’s a great option. Plus, it comes with a free app that features more than a thousand recipes.
Best Smart Mirror
HAUSCHEN HOME LED Lighted Bathroom Mirror ($300)
A smart mirror is better than a regular one, which is why we recommend investing in this one. Its touch screen has an easy-to-use dimmer that works from 20 to 100 percent brightness, so you can find your perfect lighting. It also features an anti-fog design, so you can use the mirror right after you shower. Plus, we love the modern look and the fact that it comes in several different sizes.
HAUSCHEN HOME LED Lighted Bathroom Mirror
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Best Vacuum
Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum ($328, originally $360)
Make home cleaning a breeze with the help of this top-rated cordless vacuum. The advanced Dyson vacuum is beloved for its easy-to-use nature, which allows you to clean even the toughest corners and hard-to-reach spots in your home with ease. Learn more about the internet-loved vacuum in this product review on the Dyson Outsize Absolute Cordless Vacuum.
Editor Quote: “One of the many things I love about Dyson is the attachments the vacuums come with. They are equipped with handy tools you can connect to the base vacuum to clean just about every nook and cranny in your home. My favorite one is the Laser Slim Fluffy Head, the soft roller than can literally make your hard floors squeaky clean.” — Krista Jones, former editor, Commerce
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Best Smart Toaster
Revolution R270 High-Speed Touchscreen Toaster ($370, originally $400)
We never knew that we needed a smart toaster — that is, of course, until we were introduced to this one, featuring customizable settings so you can program the kitchen essential to better suit your toast preferences. Oprah included it in her favorite things list for 2022, and one POPSUGAR editor also put the tool to the test in this product review on the Revolution Touchscreen Toaster.
Editor Quote: “With around 34 toasting settings, including seven toasting shades, and three toasting modes, it’s no wonder the Revolution R270 InstaGLO Toaster made it onto Oprah’s must haves. It’s the ultimate toasting experience and then some.” — Anvita Reddy, assistant editor, Commerce
Revolution R270 High-Speed Touchscreen Toaster
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Best Bluetooth Speaker
Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Wireless Speaker ($380)
Any avid music listener will benefit from having this wireless speaker in their home. The wireless gadget boasts the same nostalgic look of a classic speaker, but with more updated qualities like Bluetooth connection and a higher frequency range that’s designed to fill even the largest spaces with sound (aka tunes from your favorite Spotify playlist). One POPSUGAR editor hailed that the speaker was “worth the splurge” in this Marshall Stanmore Speaker review.
Editor Quote: “There’s not one complaint about this speaker. The way it plays music is incredibly captivating and fills my entire 750-square-foot apartment with rich sound. Simply turn on any song and you’ll be sucked into details you’ve never noticed before like deep bass, a prolific melody, or a song’s grand instrumentals. The listening experience is almost immersive, and that’s what I love about the Stanmore III: you close your eyes and it’s like the band is playing in front of you. It’s a powerful speaker that packs a punch as soon as you switch it on, and it’s incredibly easy to use.” — Haley Lyndes, former assistant editor, Commerce
Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Wireless Speaker
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Best Sound System
Sonos Beam Sound Bar ($499)
Create your own home theater with this popular sound bar. It can be used alone or with some of the brand’s add-ons, like the popular Sonos subwoofer ($800). It offers an immersive experience with great sound, and we also love its sleek and minimal look.
Best Pizza Oven
Ooni Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven ($727, originally $799)
This pizza oven makes it possible to cook a pizza to perfection in 60 seconds flat. And pizza’s not the only thing it’s great at. This oven can also streamline your process of making breads, meats, fish and vegetables. Learn more in our review of the Ooni Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven.
Editor Quote: “Since our first experience, we have cooked at least 20 Neapolitan pizzas and now consider ourselves total pros. We can get perfect results every single time after mastering our skills and watching a few how-to YouTube videos. Now I look forward to my weekly pizza date night.” — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Commerce
Ooni Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven
$727
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Best Smart TV
Samsung The Frame 4K UHD Smart TV ($978, originally $1,498)
If you’re tired of feeling like your TV is an eye sore in your home, it’s about time you check out this smart TV to meet all of your home design needs. The TV features all the same capabilities of a classic model, just with the unique ability to disguise it into a picture frame when you aren’t using it. How cool is that? Read through our Samsung Frame TV product review to learn more.
Editor Quote: “The Frame TV tugs at my minimalist heartstrings. Instead of the jumble of thick black cords that need to be corralled with other TVs, The Frame TV has a single clear cable that is so thin it practically disappears.” — Angela Elias, senior content director, Commerce
Samsung The Frame 4K UHD Smart TV
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