Best Budget Home Tech Gadgets Under £50
- Elizabeth Mooreland
- Jun 9
- 5 min read
When we think of smart home technology, our minds often jump to pricey thermostats, high end sound systems, or fridges that practically run your kitchen. But you don’t have to break the bank to modernise your home. In fact, there’s a growing range of brilliant tech gadgets under £50 that can make your everyday life easier, more connected, and even a little more fun.
From smart bulbs to handy kitchen helpers, we’ve curated a list of the best budget home tech gadgets under £50 available in the UK in 2025. These aren’t just gimmicks, they’re genuinely useful, well reviewed, and wallet friendly.
Whether you're dipping your toes into home tech or adding affordable upgrades to your existing setup, this guide will help you get the most bang for your buck.
Why Budget Tech Is Worth a Look
Budget doesn’t mean basic anymore. Advances in manufacturing and competition in the smart home market mean you can now enjoy clever features and dependable quality without shelling out hundreds.
More importantly, starting small is often the best way to build a smart home. You can test out different ecosystems (Google, Alexa, HomeKit, etc.), experiment with automation routines, and find out what actually makes your life easier before committing to pricier investments.
What to Expect for Under £50
With a £50 budget, you can comfortably buy:
Smart lighting
Plugs and switches
Home security basics (sensors, mini cameras)
Voice assistant accessories
Useful kitchen tech
Charging or cable management tools
Let’s explore the best gadgets available now that deliver both value and functionality.
1. TP Link Tapo Smart Plug (2 Pack) | £22.99
Turn any regular device into a smart one with these compact WiFi plugs. Plug in a lamp, coffee maker, or fan, and control it remotely via the Tapo app or voice assistant (compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant).
Why we love it:
No hub required
Schedule and timer settings
Works with routines and automations
Energy monitoring in upgraded models
It’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to introduce smart automation into your home.
2. Amazon Echo Pop | £44.99
The Echo Pop is Amazon’s latest compact smart speaker, perfect for bedrooms, kitchens, or even bathrooms. With Alexa built in, you can set timers, play music, control other devices, check the weather, or add items to your shopping list, all hands free.
Why we love it:
Clear sound for the size
Affordable way to enter the Alexa ecosystem
Compact and stylish
Wide colour choices
Occasionally discounted to around £35 during sales.
3. IKEA TRÅDFRI Smart Bulb (E27) | From £9
IKEA’s TRÅDFRI range offers excellent value in smart lighting. This bulb works with the IKEA app, Apple HomeKit, Alexa, or Google Assistant (with a gateway), and offers adjustable brightness and colour temperature.
Why we love it:
Budget friendly and reliable
Warm or cool light options
Expandable system with dimmers and motion sensors
Perfect for mood lighting
Pair it with a £12 remote or use voice/app control for full flexibility.
4. Xiaomi Mi Temperature & Humidity Monitor 2 | £12.99
Tiny but mighty, this monitor shows real time temperature and humidity levels, which is especially handy for baby rooms, conservatories, or anyone sensitive to environmental changes.
Why we love it:
Compact, minimalist design
Syncs with Mi Home app
Can trigger automations (e.g., turning on a fan)
Long battery life
It's one of those tools you didn’t know you needed until you had it.
5. Kasa Smart Light Strip (2m) | £29.99
Add ambience to your home with a smart LED strip that you can control via app or voice. Stick it under cabinets, behind your TV, or along a headboard for an instant upgrade.
Why we love it:
Vibrant colours and effects
Can sync with music
Great for gaming setups or children’s rooms
Easily cut to fit
You’ll feel like your space just levelled up without spending a fortune.
6. Anker PowerExtend 3 Outlet Extension Lead with USB | £23.99
This clever power strip is ideal for modern households with more devices than sockets. It has three standard UK plugs and three USB ports, helping you stay organised and reduce clutter.
Why we love it:
Compact but powerful
Built in surge protection
Ideal for home offices or bedside tables
No adapter blocks needed
It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly useful.
7. Tile Mate (2022 Edition) | £19.99
Lose your keys a bit too often? The Tile Mate tracker helps you locate them using your smartphone or vice versa. Attach it to keys, bags, or remotes, and get alerts when you leave something behind.
Why we love it:
Find lost items via app or voice
Replaceable battery
Works with Alexa
Great for forgetful households
Also handy for luggage when travelling.
8. Blink Mini Indoor Camera | £29.99
While full home security systems can cost hundreds, this indoor camera gives you motion alerts, two way audio, and live streaming all in a small, discreet package.
Why we love it:
1080p video
Works with Alexa
Motion detection zones
Plug and play setup
Great for checking in on pets, kids, or just peace of mind when you’re out.
9. Russell Hobbs 3 in 1 Hand Blender | £24.99
Tech doesn’t stop at WiFi. This powerful hand blender comes with a whisk, chopper, and blending stick, making it a must have for quick meals and smoothies.
Why we love it:
Great value with multiple attachments
Compact for small kitchens
Time saving and versatile
Easy to clean
A perfect budget upgrade for home cooks.
10. Ugreen Cable Management Box | £18.99
Fed up with messy wires behind the TV or under your desk? This simple cable organiser helps hide and protect power strips while keeping everything tidy.
Why we love it:
Clean, minimal design
Flame retardant build
Keeps children and pets safe
Improves the look of your space instantly
Sometimes, the smartest tech is just well thought out design.
Honorable Mentions (Still Under £50)
Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD) | £39.99
Stream from your phone or enjoy apps like Netflix and YouTube on your telly.
Aqara Door & Window Sensor | £19.99
Add it to a smart security system and get alerts when windows or doors open unexpectedly.
USB Rechargeable Motion Sensor Lights | £16.99 (2 Pack)
Perfect for wardrobes, hallways or under stairs, lights up only when needed.
Tips for Buying Budget Home Tech
Check compatibility: Not all smart gadgets work with every ecosystem. Make sure what you buy fits your setup (e.g., Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit).
Watch for bundles: Brands like TP Link, Tapo, or IKEA often offer multipacks at a discount.
Read reviews carefully: Focus on reliability and app experience, especially with lesser known brands.
Consider privacy: For gadgets like cameras or sensors, always check what data is collected and how it’s stored.
Final Thoughts: Smart Living on a Small Budget
You don’t need deep pockets to dip into smart living. With just £50 (or less), you can bring convenience, safety, and efficiency into your home. Whether it’s simplifying your morning routine, keeping an eye on your dog while you’re at work, or just lighting your hallway when it gets dark, budget gadgets can make a big difference.
These devices aren’t just fun, they’re practical additions that genuinely enhance your home life. So next time you’ve got £20 or £30 to spare, consider a clever tech upgrade. Your future self (and your WiFi connected kettle) will thank you.
— Elizabeth Mooreland, Smart Home & Appliances | The Tech Advisor
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