Which Smart Home Gadgets Have Truly Improved Your Life?

The WiFi garage door opener is hands down my favorite gadget. When I’m out walking, I can just take my phone, listen to podcasts, and don’t have to worry about carrying keys. It’s super convenient!

For me, the smart thermostat has been a game changer—it actually saved me a lot on energy bills compared to my old thermostat that just wouldn't cooperate. I also love using smart plugs for my lamps, like my lava lamp and reading light; these have made my routine so much easier.

Robot vacuums were a great investment! I started with a basic one and then upgraded to a model that even mops. Seriously, I haven’t had to use a traditional vacuum since 2017!

Honestly, if all this tech weren't gimmicks, you wouldn't be asking! But hey, there are plenty of folks who don't want to admit they might have splurged on something unnecessary.

I use Google Home paired with smart switches, and I've got a video doorbell and a smart lock. They’ve really upgraded my security and made things simpler. Like, my car charger is on a smart switch that only turns on when electricity rates drop, saving me a bit of cash.

I've been getting into making my own IoT devices with Raspberry Pi and Arduino. It's not exactly a time saver, but it's definitely cheaper than buying commercial devices, and it's helped me learn a lot more about tech.