Technology gifts don’t have to break the bank to provide real convenience and functional improvements around the home. These tech gift ideas are some of the most energy-efficient and convenient home upgrades. 

    If you are looking for a great gift for a fellow homeowner, consider surprising them with one of these three smart gadgets priced at or under $300. 


    1. Cor WiFi Thermostat – $300

    The Carrier Côr WiFi thermostat allows you to control your home’s temperature and HVAC system remotely using your smartphone. 

    This smart thermostat connects to your home’s WiFi network, enabling you to adjust settings whether you’re home or away using the free Côr mobile app. I love the convenience of changing the temperature in my home from my phone. 

    The app provides a simple, user-friendly interface to program customized heating and cooling schedules for different times of day. For example, you can set the thermostat to 68°F while you’re sleeping and 72°F when you wake up.

    Key Features

    Compatibility with most HVAC system brands, including Carrier, Bryant, Payne, and others. This versatility ensures the Côr will work seamlessly with your existing equipment.

    Energy monitoring capabilities. The thermostat shows you exactly when your HVAC system is running so you can adjust settings to maximize efficiency and cost savings.

    Integration with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit for hands-free voice control.

    Advanced sensors that detect your presence so the thermostat won’t run when you’re not home.

    Geofencing technology that automatically adjusts the temperature based on your location. As you near home, the thermostat preps your home’s temperature for comfort.

    With its smart learning features, intuitive app, and sleek touchscreen display, the Carrier Côr thermostat is an excellent gift to help homeowners optimize their home’s comfort and efficiency.


    2. Depstech Wireless Endoscope – $50

    This wireless endoscope camera is perfect for inspecting hard-to-reach spots in your home. The camera connects wirelessly to your Apple or Android smartphone or tablet, providing a live video feed on your device’s screen so you can see inside tight spaces.

    Unlike cheaper wired endoscopes, the Depstech wireless camera gives you more flexibility and ease of use because there are no cords limiting your reach. You can snake the semi-rigid 16.5-foot cable into crawl spaces, walls, or ductwork to diagnose issues. The camera captures clear, high-resolution images even in dim lighting.

    Key Features

    An IP67 waterproof camera tip that can withstand dust and immersion in water.

    Integrated LED lights to illuminate dark areas. The brightness is adjustable via the app.

    Compatibility with iOS and Android devices so you can use your existing smartphone or tablet to view images.

    An anti-slip grip on the cable for easier manipulation and worry-free inspection.

    Photo and video recording capacity for documentation.

    This endoscope makes inspecting problem areas much easier. The 16-foot cable covers a large range, letting you thoroughly investigate issues before making repairs. It’s cheaper and more flexible than calling an inspection service.


    3. NuTone Knock Video Doorbell – $170

    Knowing who is at your door without being home provides an extra level of security and convenience for homeowners. I personally love the NuTone doorbell, as I can see everything that’s going on around my home, even when I’m not there. 

    Smart video doorbells like the NuTone Knock make this possible through a seamless connection to your smartphone and other devices.

    When visitors press the doorbell, the Knock streams live 1080p HD video to your smartphone or tablet using your WiFi connection. 

    A wide 180° field of view allows you to see packages on the ground or visitors from head to toe. With two-way talk, you can communicate with delivery people or give instructions to guests at your door.

    Key Features

    Night vision so you can see clearly even in low light.

    A modular design that works with existing doorbell wiring for simple installation.

    Integration with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa for voice controls.

    Customizable motion detection zones to reduce false alerts.

    Weather resistance to withstand heat, cold, dust, and rain.

    The Knock doorbell combines advanced technology with simple operation. With it, homeowners can screen visitors and packages, improving safety and convenience. Its smart features and intuitive app help you stay connected to your home from anywhere.


    Honorable Mentions

    Smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home are always popular gifts that add voice assistant capabilities and smart home controls. Smart light bulbs from Philips Hue or TP-Link Kasa allow app and voice control of lighting. 

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    There are also smart plugs that make “dumb” appliances controllable remotely. Overall, smart home tech that solves everyday problems or enhances convenience makes the best gift ideas for homeowners.


    So, Are These Tech Gifts Worthwhile for Homeowners?

    These three gadgets exemplify how technology can simplify tasks, improve comfort, and add convenience to the home. While the prices may exceed typical stocking stuffers, the benefits make them worthwhile for many homeowners.

    The Côr thermostat optimizes temperature control and efficiency, potentially saving energy and lowering bills over time. Its smart features improve convenience without complicating operations.

    The wireless endoscope lets homeowners inspect problems in hard-to-reach spaces. This can help identify issues early before they worsen. Its’ wireless operation and smartphone connectivity add versatility that traditional inspection cameras lack.

    Lastly, the video doorbell bolsters home security in an easy-to-use package. Seeing and speaking with visitors remotely keeps homeowners connected and aware of packages and guests when not at home. This extra visibility improves security and peace of mind.

    These gadgets provide ‌improved efficiency, safety, and connectivity, making them enticing gifts for homeowners across many budgets. Considering their benefits beyond basic functionality can help you decide if they’re right for the homeowners on your list.


    FAQs About Tech Gifts for Homeowners

    What features should I look for in a smart thermostat?

    Key features to look for in a smart thermostat include:

    • Compatibility with your HVAC equipment
    • Smart learning capabilities to program itself
    • Integration with voice assistants like Alexa
    • Remote access and control via app
    • Sensors that detect occupancy so it won’t run when you’re away
    • Weather tracking to adjust runtimes based on conditions


    How well do wireless endoscopes work compared to wired models?

    Wireless endoscopes perform nearly as well as wired models in terms of image quality and maneuverability. Their key advantage is the lack of a cord tethering you to an external display screen. This freedom allows you to easily manipulate the camera at wide angles and distances.


    Why purchase a smart video doorbell vs. a traditional doorbell camera?

    Smart video doorbells like the Knock seamlessly integrate with your smartphone and other smart devices while delivering sharp HD video and two-way talk.

    This allows you to check your doorstep from anywhere while displaying footage conveniently on devices you already own and use daily.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Coty Perry

    Coty Perry

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Coty Perry is a lawn and garden writer for Today’s Homeowner. He focuses on providing homeowners with actionable tips that relate to the “Average Joe” who is looking to achieve a healthier and greener lawn. When he isn’t writing he can almost always be found coaching youth football or on some trail in Pennsylvania in search of the next greatest fishing hole.

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    photo of Casey Daniel

    Casey Daniel

    Casey Daniel is a writer and editor with a passion for empowering readers to improve their homes and their lives. She has written and reviewed content across multiple topics, including home improvement, lawn and garden care, sustainability, and health and wellness. When she’s not reviewing articles, Casey is usually playing board games, repainting her bathroom, or quilting.

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