Elevate Your Smart Home with These Innovative Gift Ideas
Building a smart home has never been more accessible, but why settle for the same voice assistants everyone already has? This curated list features standout smart home devices that combine innovation with practicality—perfect for tech enthusiasts or anyone looking to upgrade their living space.
1. Brilliant Smart Home Control Panel
Why It Stands Out:
This sleek wall-mounted panel centralizes control for lights, locks, cameras, and more, with built-in Alexa/Google Assistant support. The integrated camera (with privacy shutter) adds video chat or security monitoring.
Compatibility: Works with Philips Hue, Ring, Sonos, August, and other major brands.
Price: Starts at $299.
2. Flair Smart Vent System
Why It Stands Out:
Upgrade your HVAC efficiency without rewiring. Smart vents adjust room-by-room airflow, paired with a puck that syncs with your thermostat. Ideal for zoned heating/cooling.
Setup: DIY-friendly; no contractor needed.
Price: ~$200 for starter kit (1 vent + 1 puck).
3. Flume 2 Water Monitor
Why It Stands Out:
Detects leaks and tracks water usage in real time, helping conserve resources and prevent damage. The Gen 2 model is easier to install and more accurate.
Bonus: Alerts via app for sudden usage spikes.
Price: $199.
4. Meural Digital Canvas
Why It Stands Out:
A high-resolution display for rotating art collections, from classic paintings to personal photos. Subscription includes access to 30,000+ artworks.
Features: Motion-activated, matte anti-glare screen.
Price: Starts at $299.
5. Sensibo Smart Climate Controller
Why It Stands Out:
Retrofits older ACs, heaters, or heat pumps into smart devices. Control via app, automate schedules, or use geofencing.
TechCrunch Pedigree: Launched at Hardware Battlefield 2015.
Price: Starts at $115.
6. Adafruit PyPortal DIY Smart Display
Why It Stands Out:
A tinkerer’s dream—build custom smart displays, alarms, or even voice assistants with this open-source kit.
Flexibility: Supports CircuitPython for easy coding.
Price: $55.
7. Nanoleaf Modular Light Panels
Why It Stands Out:
Transform walls with programmable LED art. Sync with music, weather, or smart home routines via HomeKit/Alexa/Google.
Scalable: Start small and expand with add-on panels.
Price: Starts at $180.
Final Thoughts
These picks prove smart home tech isn’t just about voice assistants. Whether optimizing energy use, enhancing security, or adding artistic flair, each device offers a unique way to modernize any home.
Looking for more gift inspiration? Explore our full TechCrunch Holiday Gift Guide.
