I made my home smarter with these 10 cheap gadgets - here's how

Now is a great time to start or upgrade your smart home setup, especially if you're on a budget. Just 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.

Most people want convenience in their smart homes, and with increased competition and lower prices, the market is filled with quality options that don't require the premium prices of yore. Matter and Thread also make it easier than ever to mix and match brands, tailoring your home automation to your budget.

Also: How I'm using this $20 smart remote by Amazon to automate my home

Here are my picks for some of the best smart home gadgets that deliver a meaningful upgrade without draining your wallet -- almost all of them are under $100, and many are often on sale.