Being a renter doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the cool technology a smart home has to offer. I’ve been a renter my entire adult life, and I can tell you from experience that it’s possible to deck out your place with smart devices without drilling a single hole or making any permanent changes that could cost you your security deposit.
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There are so many apartment-friendly gadgets available today, from smart bulbs that you can screw into existing sockets to stick-up video doorbells that don’t require wired power.
I’m going to walk you through some of the best options out there for making your rental smarter, safer, and more convenient. Whether you want to control your lights with your voice or get alerts when a package arrives, these upgrades are designed for you.
They offer a ton of convenience without the commitment, and you can pack them up without putting your security deposit at risk. Let’s explore some of my top picks that will make your apartment feel like a high-tech haven.
💡 Smart Lighting and Plugs
Smart lighting is one of the simplest ways for a renter to get started. You can just screw an Edison-style smart bulb into a standard light socket and control it with your phone or a smart speaker. For greater control later on, you can add a smart hub like the Philips Hue Bridge, which gives you even more control.
Similarly, smart plugs are a fantastic way to automate fans, lamps, or other devices. Just plug them into an existing wall outlet, and you’ll be able to control any connected device using voice commands, put it on a schedule, or add it to a smart automation. The TP-Link Tapo P125M is a great choice here because it’s reliable, small, and affordable.
🚪 Security and Peace of Mind
Renting doesn’t mean you can’t have a video doorbell. There are now battery-powered options, like the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus, that can be attached with adhesive brackets. This allows you to easily take it with you when you move, and it’s completely legal in most apartment buildings. Another smart security option for renters is a water leak sensor. These small, wireless probes can be placed under sinks or near washing machines to give you an immediate alert if a leak occurs, potentially saving you from a major headache and a hefty bill. The Phyn Smart Water Sensor is a great example, operating on two AA batteries and sending you an instant warning if it detects water.
Works Cited
Patterson, Ben. “8 easy smart home upgrades that won’t leave a trace.” PCWorld, Aug. 2025, pp. 67-73.
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