2018 is coming to a close and gift-giving season is upon us. One of the top trends of the year was the smart home movement, with people integrating all kinds of gadgets into their humble abodes, turning them into domiciles of the future. Moving into 2019, you might have heard a friend or family member express interest in these new technologies, which are now being incorporated into every room of the house, from the bedroom and bathroom to the living room and kitchen. At Residential Tech Today, we always have fingers on the pulse of the latest smart home technology on the market. Here, we’ll break down 12 essential gifts for the tech enthusiast or smart home newbie in your life.
For the Entertainment Junky
Caavo Control Center
Solving the ever-present problem of multiple remotes, the Caavo Control Center lets you take control of everything from your gaming console to your satellite box with its Universal Remote. Easy to set up and compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Voice, this device will help you completely reorganize your television setup. $99
Vizio P Series Smart TV
With over a billion colors provided by the Ultra Color Spectrum and 4K HDR with Active Full Array Pro, the Vizio P Series is a sight to behold. With a number of different smart options including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, the P Series is the ultimate smart TV for blockbusters and beyond. Additionally, with a range of sizes, the P Series can fit in nearly any room of the house. $799-1,999
Nvidia Shield TV Gaming Edition
The perfect hybrid between a gaming console and a streaming device, the Nvidia Shield allows you to binge some Netflix and have a Fortnite session all in one place. Perfect for anyone looking for a budget-conscious entertainment bundle, the Nvidia Shield TV is truly the best of both worlds and is the perfect gift for families who want a one-stop-shop of entertainment. $199
For the Clean Freak
Airmega 300 by Coway
Adapting to indoor conditions in real time while removing 99.97 percent of particles, this smart air purifier will ensure your home is as clean as can be. With a stylish look that can blend into almost any room and the ability to interact with Amazon Alexa, Airmega will integrate seamlessly into your home. $549
Oreck Cordless Vacuum with POD Technology
With an innovative bagless design thanks to the POD Technology, the Oreck Cordless Vacuum reimagines how you get rid of dirt and dust. Thanks to the POD Technology’s self-sealing design, disposal is simple and mess-free. Completely cordless, this vacuum adds a whole other level of convenience to cleaning, making your weekly chores that much easier. $399
For Someone Looking to Smarten Up Their Home
Fibaro Button Multicontroller
Using the Button Multicontroller is literally as simple as pushing a button. Able to control lights, locks, music, and even temperature with a simple push, the Button Multicontroller makes managing your connected home simpler than ever. $59
Ring Video Doorbell
With the Ring Video Doorbell, you’ll be giving the gift of security, as well as the perfect introduction to smart home technology. Allowing users to get instant alerts on their smartphone when someone approaches the front door, Ring will let you watch out for friendly guests and nefarious visitors alike. $99
For the Family That’s Always Fighting Over Chargers
ChargeHub X5 Elite
Compatible with mobile devices, gaming systems, and laptops alike, the ChargeHub X5 Elite can quickly charge up to six devices at once, including wireless. Perfect for tech-savvy families with an abundance of devices, this innovative device will make sure everyone can get some juice. $79
For the Person Who Can’t Go Without Their Morning Coffee
Stagg EKG+
A smarter way to brew your coffee, the Stagg EKG+ offers app connectivity, variable temp control, and even a Brew Stopwatch for perfect timing. Additionally, the EKG+ can keep track of your favorite recipes, making sure you get that perfect cup every time. $199
For the Audiophile
Clear Audio Concept
The ideal combination of simple yet highly intuitive design and top-grade sound, the Clear Audio Concept turntable lets you get the most out of your vinyl records. With customizable color and wood options, you can match this sleek record player with the rest of your entertainment center. It’s the perfect gift for the record collector in your life. Starting at $1,600
Sonos Amp
Supercharging the volume of everything from your favorite streaming shows to your music discography, the Sonos Amp is the ideal amplifier for any audiophile. With 125 watts per channel, the Sonos Amp adds an extra punch to your current speaker system, allowing you to enhance every listening experience. Sleek in design and powered by the Sonos app, this amplifier is the missing piece in your entertainment center. $599
TikiTunes
Add some ambience to your favorite tunes with the LED-flickering TikiTunes speaker. Dust- and water-resistant with six hours of playtime, this speaker will help bring the party outdoors in 2019. Even on a white Christmas, TikiTunes gives the gift of a little bit of summer. $39
