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Gift GuideMay 21, 2026

Best Smart Home Gifts Under $100

MT
Marcus Thorne
Former Smart Home Installer & Reviewer

Shopping for a tech enthusiast? You don't need to spend $500 on a smart fridge to impress them. The smart home market is packed with incredibly cool gadgets under $100 that actually make daily life better (and don't end up in a drawer after two weeks).

Whether it's for a housewarming, a birthday, or the holidays, these are the three gifts that consistently get the best reactions.

1. For the Gamer or Movie Buff

Bias lighting completely changes how a living room feels. The Philips Hue Play bars can be mounted behind a TV or PC monitor to cast a glow against the wall. The best part? They can sync to whatever is playing on the screen, creating an immersive, theater-like experience.

Best Visual Gift
Philips Hue Play White & Color Light Bar
4.5

Philips Hue Play White & Color Light Bar

Create vibrant ambient lighting behind your TV or gaming monitor.

2. For the Person Who Always Loses Their Keys

Tile trackers have been around for a while, but Apple's AirTags revolutionized the category by using the massive network of iPhones to pinpoint locations. The 4-pack is the perfect gift because everyone has a wallet, keys, a backpack, or a pet they want to keep track of.

Most Useful
Apple AirTag (4-Pack)
4.9

Apple AirTag (4-Pack)

The ultimate tracker for keys, luggage, and bags. Integrates flawlessly with iPhone.

3. For the Morning Coffee Addict

It sounds simple, but a high-quality smart plug is one of the best gifts you can give. Why? Because you can plug a "dumb" coffee maker into it and set a routine so it automatically starts brewing at 7:00 AM every morning. It feels incredibly luxurious for under $25.

Best Budget Gift
Kasa Matter Smart Plug (4-Pack)
4.7

Kasa Matter Smart Plug (4-Pack)

Turn lamps, fans, and coffee makers into voice-controlled smart devices.