Every holiday season brings a few standout devices that are affordable, easy to install, and surprisingly helpful. This year, the spotlight is on simple upgrades that deliver immediate convenience: smart plugs, smart thermostats, affordable security, and quick-installed lighting.

If you’re dipping your toes into DIY smart tech, smart plugs are the friendliest place to start. They instantly transform holiday lights, lamps, space heaters, coffee makers, and humidifiers into smart devices. You plug them in and connect through an app or voice assistant.

Popular right now are lightweight indoor smart plugs for lamps and decor, outdoor smart plugs for Christmas lights or patio lighting, and dual-outlet versions for powering multiple items at once. These are especially handy during the holidays when you want to turn lights on at sunset, switch off at bedtime, or sync with your voice assistant’s routines.

ln my opinion, smart devices really helped me make my life easier for my family and everyone.

Adviser: Samantha Thompson