Budget smart-home gadgets that deliver meaningful upgrades

Seasonal sales like Amazon's Spring Sale make now a good time to start or upgrade a smart home, especially if you're on a budget. A few years ago a single security camera, sensor, or smart lighting setup would run you hundreds of dollars; now affordable smart devices are better than ever.

With increased competition and lower prices, the market offers quality options without the premium costs of yore. Matter and Thread also make it easier to mix and match brands and tailor automations to your budget. Highlighted picks include the Flic Duo, a two-button Bluetooth remote that you can mount or carry and program to control multiple devices or run automations like a nighttime routine.

The Lifx Luna lamp is a versatile, bright option that mounts to a wall or ceiling or sits on a table and delivers up to 1,000 lumens. The Cosori air fryer brings smart features — notifications and VeSync app recipes that set exact cooking settings — with a 6-quart basket and nine cooking modes for about $90.

smart home, smart devices, amazon sale, matter, thread, flic duo, lifx luna, cosori, vesync, smart lighting