Moving into your first studio apartment can be exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. You’ll quickly realize how much your old roommate helped you with things you took for granted, like light bulbs, smoke detectors, and even the vacuum cleaner.
Here are some must-have gadgets that can really help you make your new place feel more like home.
SimpliSafe Home Security System — $282.94
A home security system is a worthwhile investment to ensure peace of mind in your new apartment. SimpliSafe offers an easy-to-install setup that’s perfect for renters. No tools are required to set up, and the sensor can be installed on doors and windows using adhesive strips instead of drilling holes, which is a big perk for renters.
The Starter Kit is tailored for small spaces and includes everything you need for basic home security (base station, wireless keypad, one motion sensor, and one entry sensor). If needed, you can also purchase additional sensors and cameras, such as glass breakage sensors, water sensors, and temperature sensors.
SimpliSafe offers two monitoring options. You can monitor the system yourself or choose professional monitoring with subscription plans starting at $23 per month. This includes 24/7 coverage, so if an alarm goes off, SimpliSafe will contact you or, if we can’t, dispatch the police.
Kidde Smart Smoke Detector — $74.97
While safety is important, smoke detectors are essential.
Kidde’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are highly rated, and most importantly, they send alerts directly to your phone. Another great thing is that the sensor is designed to avoid false alarms such as cooking smoke.
tech crunch event
san francisco
|
October 13-15, 2026
Recently, Kidde enhanced its alarms using Amazon’s Ring technology and enabled push notifications through the Ring app for even more convenience.
Eufy robot vacuum cleaner
Cleaning becomes easier with a robot vacuum cleaner. Whether you want to keep your hardwood floors clean, give your couch a deep clean, or get rid of pet hair, Eufy is a reputable brand that can help make your life easier.
Depending on what you need, you can find newer models like the E28 with great features like the HydroJet system for floor cleaning, hot air drying, and automatic evacuation. It’s pricey at around $1,399.99, but if you’re on a budget, the $649.99 3-in-1 E20 is a solid choice and still does the job.
Dyson HushJet Purifier — $349.99
Fresh air is also important, but if you’re in a city, it’s not ideal to open your apartment windows due to air pollution. Also, if your neighbors cook often, there may be some strange smells mixed in. Using an air purifier can significantly improve indoor air quality.
This compact device from Dyson is expensive but highly effective. However, noise levels are comfortably low, and many people may find value in the fact that the filter can last up to five years. This means you don’t have to buy replacement filters as often. There are also useful apps that allow you to track your air quality.
Hatch Sunrise Alarm — $169.99
If your roommate isn’t moving around at dawn, it can be difficult to wake up. When traditional cell phone alarms don’t cut it, Hatch Restore 3 comes into play. This sunrise alarm gently wakes you up by gradually increasing the light intensity. It also includes soothing sleep sounds, a bedside light, and a dimmable clock designed to avoid distractions.
Yogasleep Sound Machine — $54.99
If you are sensitive to noise or live in a pet-friendly building that frequently makes noise, a sound machine may be the best option for you. Yogasleep has built a reputation for reliability over the years, making it the go-to choice for drowning out unwanted noise and creating a peaceful environment.
Philips Hue smart light
Creating a cozy atmosphere in your first apartment is important, and smart light bulbs offer a great way to customize both brightness and color. Plus, it can be controlled through an app or voice assistant, making it easy to set up the perfect lighting for movie nights, dinner parties, late-night reading sessions, and more.
Philips Hue is a trusted smart lighting brand that offers a variety of popular products. What people appreciate most is the app’s ability to easily turn lights on and off, adjust colors, and set lighting scenes for different times of day. One notable feature is the ability to upload a photo and the app will create a new scene based on its color palette.
Starter kits start at $79.99, and a two-pack of bulbs costs about $49.98.
Leviton Smart Dimmer Plug — $24.99
Smart plugs allow you to control connected devices through a mobile app or voice commands. It offers added convenience, like turning off your coffee maker while you’re on the go, or scheduling times to turn your device on or off. Additionally, it helps reduce energy consumption.
A great option is Leviton’s Decora D23LP smart plug, which works with popular smart home ecosystems such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home. This plug allows you to not only turn on/off connected devices, but also dim them if you wish. You can control the plug through the My Leviton app.
Lumi Max Portable Projector — $399
The ultra-compact, upright, lightweight projector is perfect for tight spaces and is easy to put away when you’re done using it. Look for models that work with Google TV. Google TV gives you access to over 10,000 apps, 700,000 movies and shows, and 800 free live TV channels. It’s easy to set up with a Google Account and comes with a remote control and carrying case.
Ninja Air Fryer — $79
If you have a compact kitchen and are cooking your own meals, an air fryer can be very useful. Stir everything from crispy chicken wings to perfectly roasted vegetables while keeping your cooking area clean. The Ninja Air Fryer is budget-friendly yet powerful and perfect for easy cooking.
Source link
