7 Invisible Home Devices That Will Revolutionize Your Security
Home security technology doesn’t need to be visible or cost hundreds of dollars to get the job done. In my testing, I’ve found that some of the most useful home security devices sit on the sidelines, silently doing the work that no other technology can.
If you’re looking for affordable ways to add security products that don’t invade privacy or take up space, this technology can change the way you monitor your home with minimal hassle and some very clever tricks.
Bulb Security Camera
Eversecu’s budget model is an inexpensive way to add a security camera.
A bulb security camera removes all the hassle of installing a camera for a smaller, simpler setup. Simply screw the bulb into a standard socket and it operates a security camera as well as a floodlight. You don’t have to worry about power cables, location, batteries or anything else. Plus, they are affordable.
The only problem is finding the right outlet for these basic little cameras, preferably an overhead light on a porch or entryway. You can find several choices on my top list, starting at with a $50 Symynelec bulb.
Hidden smart lock
Level’s Lock Plus is smart when you need it, but isn’t intrusive.
Most smart locks are both large and feature-rich, which is great for some people, but others don’t want all that stuff on their lock (or even have the room). I have a little silent solution: Level Lock Plus (around $280). Although pricey, it’s a stylish little lock for someone who wants a lock that looks just normal but houses some useful smart features, including the ability to unlock with a simple tap of an included key card, unlock via Bluetooth, or enable Apple Home Key access. This is all optional; it also works like a regular deadbolt with a key.
Autonomous motion sensor
Tapo’s motion sensor requires a hub, but together they cost less than $50 and work great.
You don’t need a full security system to get a useful sensor that can monitor a particular area of your home. Sensors like Eufy’s for $30 are powerful devices with batteries that can last for years and with sensitivity settings for perfect awareness. They requires expensive hubHowever. Tapo’s Sensor is a more affordable option ($20) and with a hub that only costs $23.
Both sensors can activate phone alerts or sirens when motion is detected, such as in an apartment entryway, a child’s bedroom, a garage, etc.
Stand-alone vibration sensor
GE’s standalone vibration sensor can monitor any window or sliding glass door.
Vibration sensors are a common addition to home security systems, where they are used to detect people tampering with safes or attempting to break windows. But you can also find useful standalone versions that do the same thing for a fraction of the cost. This model from GE costs $10 and attaches quickly to an important ground floor window. Then, a siren will sound if it detects that the window is broken or knocked.
Smart smoke detector
Kidde’s new partnership with Ring has made application management extremely simple.
You probably already have a few smoke detectors, it’s the law. But smoke detectors installed during construction tend to be simple, boring, and noisy devices (it’s also recommended that they be replaced every 10 years). But there are modern solutions that look just like your old smoke detectors, can be hardwired if your state or country requires it, and add some handy smart features.
The best choices right now are Kidde/Ring Collaboration Detectors ($75) that work for free with the Ring app, and the Nest/First Alert Sensors ($130) that work with Google Home. They both send you alerts to your phone wherever you are and offer battery warnings in the app. They also make testing and management easier.
Smart radon detector
If radon is a problem in your area, this smart sensor is a much better tool than complicated radon kits.
Radon is one of those annoying safety issues that is difficult to investigate, even if you know it’s a problem in your geographic area. Testing and sending samples to labs to detect radioactive gas is the kind of project that’s easy to forget. But there’s a simpler at-home option, a small device from AirThings called the Corentium Home 2 ($210).
This device is designed to measure radon production anywhere you place it (such as a basement). You can move it around your home to see where the readings are high and continue to use it for years. Additionally, there is no need to handle a sample kit, trust a lab for proper analysis, or be surprised by unexpected lab charges. Just give the sensor a few hours to work and you will begin to see if radon is a problem in your home, which may need to be addressed with additional barriers. App connections are available for more information and control options.
Leak detector
Leak detector from ADT with an extended cord sensor to reach around hot water tanks.
A small leak detector installs in out-of-the-way places like under sinks, behind toilets and next to water heaters. There, they wait for years to detect any water spilled on the floor, after which they send sirens and alerts through an app to let you know something is wrong. It’s a simple, inexpensive solution to stopping leaks before they cause serious water damage.
I have a guide to leak detectors here, but overall I like the Eufy model for $35 And SwitchBot’s affordable option for $18.
Don’t stop yet: feast on the best security cameras without a subscription and the best ways to keep your home safe without Wi-Fi, too.
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