10 Smart Devices That Actually Make Parents' Lives Easier (& Make Great Holiday Gifts)
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Parenting in 2025 means juggling a million things at once, and let’s be honest — we could all use a little help. But there’s some good news: technology has finally caught up with the complete chaos that is family life, and some truly useful smart devices have emerged from the gadget noise. Before you jump to any conclusions, we’re not talking about gimmicky devices that just end up collecting dust after a week or overly complicated systems that require a degree in engineering to set up. These are the practical, sanity-saving tools that actually deliver on their promises, whether that’s helping you keep tabs on a sleeping baby, remembering to defrost dinner, or finally getting the kids to brush their teeth without a battle.
With the holidays approaching, these devices make surprisingly thoughtful gifts for the parents in your life (or for yourself). They’re the kind of presents that won’t just get a polite thank you but will actually be used daily and genuinely appreciated.
Best Smart Devices at a Glance
Best Overall: Google Nest Wired Doorbell, $180
Best Indoor Cameras: Ring Indoor Plug-In Security Camera (2-Pack), $50 (originally $80)
Best Outdoor Cameras: Google Nest Wired Outdoor Cam (2-Pack), $250
Best Pet Camera: Wyze Indoor/Outdoor Cam Pan v3, $40
Best Smart Baby Monitor: Owlet Dream Sight Smart Baby Monitor, $100
Best Smart Locks: SimpliSafe Smart Lock Series 2, $120
Best Smart Plugs: Philips Hue Smart Plug, $38
Best Smart Lights: Philips Hue Essential Starter Kit, $100
Best Smart Thermostat: Honeywell Home Smart Color Thermostat, $100
Best Smart Speaker: Amazon Echo Dot Max, $100
Best Buy is a treasure trove of finds, especially for smart home devices. Instead of stocking only a few brands, the retailer features multiple premier brands, including Google, Philips, Amazon, Owlet, and more. Each device makes it easy for parents to manage the house, so it’s always safe for your children. From indoor and outdoor cameras that monitor your surroundings to baby monitors that track your kiddos’ sleep, these devices make life a whole lot easier. The best part? Prices are affordable, and setups are a breeze.
Ahead, see the best smart devices that make parents’ lives easier and are ready for gifting.
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BEST OVERALL
Google Nest Wired Doorbell
The Google Nest Wired Doorbell takes the title of the “best overall” smart device since it does it all. From monitoring your home to letting you speak with visitors when you’re not there, this camera offers impressive features. It detects movements for protection and sends alerts to your phone, so you’re always in the know. It constantly records with a high-quality video thanks to its weird connection. Even better, the Nest Doorbell works with other Google devices, such as smart speakers and displays, and can be paired with smart locks.
BEST INDOOR CAMERAS
Ring Indoor Plug-In Security Camera (2-Pack)
Ring’s indoor cameras are incredibly versatile: you can move and place them anywhere in your home, or mount them to a wall. They pick up motion and send alerts via the Ring app while providing 1080p HD video. The cameras also include a manual privacy cover that blocks the lens and microphone when you want privacy.
BEST OUTDOOR CAMERAS
Google Nest Wired Outdoor Cam (2-Pack)
If you’re searching for the best outdoor cameras, consider the Google Nest Wired Outdoor Cam. Similar to the indoor version, these provide high-definition video, night vision, and two-way audio. Plus, they’re easy to install and instantly connect to your home Wi-Fi. Manage your cameras with the Google Home app control, where you can adjust settings, replay recordings, communicate with visitors, and check the live feed. Lastly, the cameras are waterproof and withstand outdoor conditions.
BEST PET CAMERA
Wyze Indoor/Outdoor Cam Pan v3
Pet parents can relax when they leave their furry best friends at home thanks to the Wyze Indoor/Outdoor Cam Pan v3. It offers a 360-degree pan and a 180-degree tilt to scan your entire house, ensuring that they are safe and not up to any mischief. The camera records in 1080p full HD, offers color night vision, and provides alerts for motion and sound detection on your phone.
BEST SMART BABY MONITOR
Owlet Dream Sight Smart Baby Monitor
You’ve probably heard all about the accolades of Owlet’s Dream Sock for babies, but did you know the brand’s baby monitor is just as impressive? The baby monitor gives parents peace of mind with crisp, clear 2K HD video and night vision for “around-the-clock visibility.” It detects motion, sound, and crying, so you always know when your baby needs you. Equipped with two-way talk, you can speak to your little one to help soothe them. There is also built-in temperature and humidity tracking to ensure a safe sleeping environment. For added privacy, the monitor is protected by secure encryption and features built-in privacy safeguards.
BEST SMART LOCKS
SimpliSafe Smart Lock Series 2
Always forgetting your keys? That’s where smart locks come in. SimpliSafe’s Smart Lock Series 2 automatically locks when you arm it. The locks are a breeze to control via the app and offer multiple keyless entry options, including a PIN pad, key fob, and auto-lock function.
BEST SMART PLUGS
Philips Hue Smart Plug
Turn any plug in your home into a smart plug with these handy devices. The Philips Hue Smart Plug works with lamps, fans, coffee makers, and more, which you can control remotely with your phone or tablet. The plugs also have voice control compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit when connected to a Hue Bridge — Philips’ central hub that helps you control your devices.
BEST SMART LIGHTS
Philips Hue Essential Starter Kit
Also from Philips is the Hue Essential Starter Kit, which includes one Hue Bridge and four E26 smart bulbs. The entire kit is simple to set up and lets you create different moods with the lights, while the Bridge offers a remote control, automation, and voice assistant integration.
BEST SMART THERMOSTAT
Honeywell Home Smart Color Thermostat
Shoppers say the Honeywell Home Smart Color Thermostat is “exactly what they were looking for.” Not only is it super affordable, but it’s also sleek and gives your home a modern look. The touchscreen is entirely customizable and boasts the most vibrant colors. The thermostat also features on-screen weather forecasts, filter change reminders, and more with a mobile app.
BEST SMART SPEAKER
Amazon Echo Dot Max
It’s hard to beat the features of the Amazon Echo Dot Max. The tiny, yet mighty sphere delivers enhanced sound quality that seemingly fills an entire room. The smart hub can also answer questions, provide recipes, check the weather, make lists, and more thanks to its connection with Amazon’s technology.
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