Updated on November 29, 2024
A smart home might start with a simple smart speaker and before you know it, it has expanded to include everything from smart lighting to security, whole-home audio, even appliances. Take a smart home to the next level with these thoughtful and useful smart home gifts.
Roku Ultra Streaming Player
A perfect streaming player to elevate the entertainment experience in a smart home, the Roku Ultra streaming player is just $130, but will unlock access to all your favourite streaming apps and services in an easy-to-use interface. Plus, you get access to live TV and exclusive Roku channels and the option to use the included Pro remote, your voice, or the Roku app. As the fastest option in the line, you get full 4K picture (with a compatible TV and streaming service subscription) along with Dolby Vision and HDR along with Dolby Atmos audio (again, with compatible sources and speakers). The backlit remote makes it easy to use for movie night when the lights are down low. The best part is that it’s super easy to set up with automatic updates so you’re constantly getting access to new apps and features. The Bluetooth Headphone Mode is a nice tough as well: pair your headphones to the Ultra and crank up the volume while a sibling is doing homework in the same room or once the kids have gone to bed. It works with Alexa and Google Home as well, so it’s the perfect addition to a smart home.
Amazon eero Outdoor 7 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi Router
The eero Outdoor 7 is designed to be set up outside to expand your home’s Wi-Fi coverage. It can operate in extreme temperatures as cold as -40°C and as hot as 54°C. It has an IP66 rating and can stand up to rain, snow, and sun. It comes with mounting accessories for stucco, vinyl, wood, or fibre cement walls. The 2.5GbE port supports Power-over-Ethernet with a device like eero PoE Gateway. With an optional 30W Outdoor PoE+ power adapter, you can plug it into any outdoor AC outlet and connect wirelessly back to your eero network. A single eero Outdoor 7 device can provide up to 15,000 square feet of outdoor coverage, so you can easily work outside and connect your outdoor devices like security cameras, speakers, and more. For larger properties, use multiple eero Outdoor 7 devices to set up a point-to-point connection and easily extend your network across your property and to other buildings, like a garage, barn, detached office, or an ADU. The patented TrueMesh networking technology dynamically routes data through the fastest path in a network and limits interference, while TrueChannel and TrueRoam capabilities deliver seamless connectivity throughout the network. TrueRoam connects to the best available eero as you move between floors, rooms, or buildings, and TrueChannel automatically chooses the channel that delivers the best connection. Additionally, eero Outdoor 7 supports Wi-Fi 7 and delivers wireless speeds up to 1.1 Gbps. It acts as a smart home hub so you can connect Thread devices, as well as Matter and Zigbee devices (as a controller). It is available for $480 on its own or $550 bundled with the 30W Outdoor 79 PoE+ power adapter.
Russound VoicePlay Multiroom Audio System
The Russound VoicePlay streaming, voice-controlled multiroom audio system consists of the V-KP-1 amplified keypad with Alexa built-in. It has a two-channel amplifier built directly into the keypad, delivering sound to two speakers. Installation is simple using the audio system you already have. Enjoy simple Bluetooth streaming, easy to use volume, mic, and action button controls, and the option to sync up to 10 rooms. Available in both black or white through Erikson Consumer, each power supply supports two VoicePlay keypads. It works with the Russound VoicePlay app for selecting music, podcast, and more from your iOS or Android smartphone.
Moen Smart Leak Detector
The person you’re buying for might have all the basics for a smart home, but I bet they don’t have one of these. The Moen Smart Leak Detector can be a lifesaver, or rather a massive money saver, in the event of a leak that could indicate a bigger problem. The standalone sensor can be placed anywhere in a home to alert you when and where it detects moisture, helping prevent costly water damage. Think beside the toilet, under the sink, by the sewer drain, or next to the washing machine. It’s affordable and easy to install and can detect extreme temperatures. You can choose to receive the alert via the Moen Smart Water app, text, phone call, or e-mail.
Ring Battery Video Doorbell
The latest Ring Battery Video Doorbell employs a new push-pin DIY installation design and offers a 150° by 150° field-of-view, providing 66% more view vertical head-to-toe views compared to the previous generation model. Combined with Package Alerts, this means you can not only learn that a package was dropped off but also more easily see a package left at the door. You also get up to 23% longer battery life than the previous model, based on commonly used settings. It has HD video, colour night vision, two-way talk, motion detection, customizable motion and privacy zones with real-time alerts, live view, and Alexa compatibility. With a Ring Protect plan, you also get Package and Person Alerts along with the ability to store camera footage in the cloud for up to 180 days. Connect the doorbell to a compatible Alexa-enabled device, like a smart display or TV, to see who is at the door. Get it for $130.
Google Nest Learning Thermostat
Google is infusing Gemini AI into all its products of late, including the latest version of the Nest Learning Thermostat. The device leverages Gemini AI to help you save energy and enjoy a more intelligent heating and cooling experience in the home. The 4th gen model comes with a slim and sleek Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd Gen) in the box. A new Dynamic Farsight lets you customize the home screen to easily view the time, temperature, weather, or outdoor air quality. With Smart Schedule, the thermostat learns which temperatures you choose most often or changes in behaviour based on motion detected in your home. If you have come home earlier than expected from work, for example, it will automatically adjust the temperature schedule to match. These energy-saving suggestions can be implemented automatically, and you can accept or reject them in the Google Home app. The thermostat also analyzes how the weather outdoors will affect the temperature inside. For example, if it’s a sunny winter day and your home gets warmer on its own, it will pause heating. Conversely, on a humid day, the indoor temperature may feel warmer than intended, so the thermostat will adjust accordingly. The sensor helps you manage hot and cold spots in your home, like prioritizing the temperature in a baby’s room during their naptime. You can add up to six temperature sensors and select multiple sensors and average the temperatures across them. You can even choose which sensors are active at different times of day by linking them to your schedules. Place the pebble-like Nest Temperature Sensor on a bookshelf or hang it in any room by the keyhole on the back. Additionally, Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) has smart ventilation alerts. The System Health Monitor feature tracks your HVAC performance over time, sensing subtle issues and sending you urgent alerts for problems that may require immediate attention. For example, if you turned on the AC, but your home failed to cool, you may not notice immediately. But your thermostat can send you an alert. Over time, it will get smarter about detecting potential problems based on how your system behaves. If you have a ventilation system, Smart Ventilation brings in fresh air when outdoor air quality is healthy and it’s most efficient. If pollutants like wildfire smoke make outdoor air quality unhealthy or temperatures are extreme, the thermostat will automatically pause ventilation. Nest Learning Thermostat also monitors the humidity levels of your home, helping prevent the risk of mold or condensation building up on your windows. It’s av available with the temperature sensor for $380, while additional sensors can be purchased for US$40 or US$100 for a three-pack.
Philips 5000 Series Palm Recognition Smart Lock
The Philips 5000 Series Palm Recognition smart lock offers multiple access methods, eliminating the need for keys or smartphones. First previewed at CES 2024, it can instantly recognize individuals based on unique palm vein patterns. It automatically unlocks when individuals approach the indoor knob or lever, streamlining exit from the property without physical manipulation. It integrates with smart home systems, enabling control and monitoring via voice commands with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, and through the Philips Home Access app. With built-in Wi-Fi, it eliminates the need for extra bridges and simplifies setup with the Philips Home Access app. It sells for US$360.
Nanoleaf Smart Lights
Nanoleaf smart lights are modular and unique, serving as cool artwork on the wall as well as ambient lighting. Among the newest products is the Essentials Matter Smart Multicolor Lightstrip for use indoors along with the new Outdoor String Lights and Permanent Outdoor Lights, all of which were shown at CES 2024 earlier this year. They also work with Nanoleaf’s new Orchestrator software, which creates colour and light shows in sync with real-time music analysis and beat detection. The new lights all work with Matter and they are all smart, addressable lighting products that can integrate with other Nanoleaf products if they already own some. If not, this will kickstart what will probably be many more Nanoleaf products to come throughout the house. You can group products together, set schedules with Matter hubs, and set your own gradient effects. They also come with preset lighting scenes and access to thousands more in the Nanoleaf app.
One of the coolest new products is the Nanoleaf Skylight, for installation on the ceiling. The fully modular ceiling light panels afford the same design customizations with colours and scenes like Gentle Rain and Sun Shower. Skylight is US$250 and other Nanoleaf products vary based on bundles and packages.
Yale Approach Lock With Wi-Fi and Wireless Yale Keypad
The Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi and wireless Yale Keypad is the first retrofit smart security solution for the home. The lock is easy to install on the back of most deadbolts and pairs seamlessly with the keypad. Ideal for first-time users or renters who typically cannot change their locks, the system offers multiple access options so you don’t have to get a new set of keys or even require a smartphone to unlock the door. The interior-only smart lock has Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock and the ability to control the lock from anywhere with the Yale Access app. Installation requires only a screwdriver and takes about 10 minutes. With the Yale Keypad, which is compatible with the new Yale Approach as well as the more than 750,000 compatible August smart locks currently in the market, you can enjoy a key-free experience. One-Touch locking allows you to securely lock the door and unlock using a personalized code. Later this year, Yale will introduce Yale Keypad Touch, a fingerprint-enabled version for those who prefer a touch form of entry. When connected to Wi-Fi via the included Yale Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, Yale Approach and Yale Keypad can be controlled remotely with the Yale Access app. Enjoy keyless entry, monitor the lock at any time on the app’s activity feed, and grant unique access codes for guests, from a renter to the cat-sitter. Yale Approach is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Philips Hue, and Samsung SmartThings as well so you can manage the lock as part of your preferred smart home platform. Yale Approach will be available to upgrade to Matter through a simple software update, adding another connectivity option for smart home enthusiasts. The touchscreen design is backlit so it is easy to see in the dark, and is treated with an anti-fingerprint and abrasion-resistant coating to minimize wear over time. Yale Keypad is wireless and battery-operated with an IPX5 weather-resistant rating, allowing you to place it anywhere within Bluetooth range of the lock. They come as a bundle for US$180 or the Yale Approach on its own is US$130 and the Yale Keypad is US$70. Additionally, a Yale Keypad bundle with the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is available for US$230.
Airthings Renew Smart Air Purifier
The Airthings Renew smart air purifier is designed to help clean the air so you can breathe and sleep better. It’s designed for use in a bedroom (though you can use it anywhere in the home) thanks to its quiet operation and ability to blend in. It comes finished in matte gray with a durable, audio-grade woven textile exterior and ergonomic design. Not only can it stand upright or lie flat, it can also be neatly mounted to a wall so it fits naturally into the environment. It features a four-stage HEPA-13 filter that Airthings says removes 99.97% of particulates along with a high-performance carbon filter that works to remove gasses and odours. It can clean the air in a room up to 525 square-feet in size, reportedly within 10 minutes. It has three mode options. Silent mode reduces noise output to just 23 decibels, which is about the same volume as a whisper. Auto mode uses the Airthings Renew’s high-precision, laser-based PM2.5 sensor to detect changes in air quality and adjust the fan speed accordingly, saving energy in the process. Boost mode runs the fan at its highest setting for 60 minutes, perfect for when you need to clear the air in your space of pungent cooking smells, paint, smoke, or other powerful odours. You might want to do this if you have someone visiting who is allergic to pets, for example, and want to get rid of as much dander as possible. Sync the Airthings Renew with the Airthings app to view air quality trends, re-order filters, and operate the purifier from anywhere. Get it for US$400.
Airthings Wave Enhance Air Quality Monitor
Also from Airthings is the Wave Enhance, a compact and battery-operated indoor air quality monitor that is also ideal for both bedrooms and the home office. Available for US$150, it has five indoor air quality sensors and an accurate NDIR sensor to measure carbon dioxide (CO2), which Airthings says is a leading factor impacting sleep quality and cognitive function. There are also sensors for airborne chemicals (VOCs), temperature, humidity, and air pressure, as well as ambient noise and light. Compact, silent and battery-operated, it, too, can easily be mounted on a wall or sit upright on a surface using the incorporated flip-out stand. Through integration with the Airthings app, Wave Enhance provides you with a “Sleep Disruptors” report, which tracks several air quality components during sleep hours to help determine if air quality was the reason you were tossing and turning all night, or losing out on quality sleep.
myQ Smart Garage Control
The myQ Smart Garage Control (US$30) can be installed on an existing garage door to add the smart functionality. This gives homeowners the ability to control the garage door remotely from your phone, as well as receive real-time notifications any time the garage door is opened or closed through the myQ app. There’s also an advantage if they get a lot of deliveries during the day when they aren’t home. With this device, they can sign up for the Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery, which will allow Amazon delivery drivers to drop packages off in your garage, away from the danger of being grabbed by porch pirates. This also protects packages from inclement weather, like snow and rain, and fragile items save from damage until you get home. It works by granting delivery drivers a temporary, one-time access code to the member’s garage to securely place a package inside. Select the option at checkout, and it’s an additional $2 per order but is waived if you choose Key Delivery – Pick Your Day. It’s on promotion now for free through March 31, 2025, however, so get them this garage control so they can set it up and enjoy trying to service for the first few months of 2025 to see how it works. Even if they decide not to continue using it, the garage control is still a handy tool for being able to remotely close the garage door if you forgot to do it before leaving the house, or even after you’re already tucked under the covers in bed. Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery is available in over 1,700 cities, towns and neighbourhoods in Canada, including Toronto, ON; Vancouver, BC; Montreal, QC; Calgary, AB; Winnipeg, MB; Halifax, NS; and Ottawa, ON.