Hey everyone,
Total smart home newbie here, but I wanted to share my journey in case it helps someone out there trying to go the HomeKit route without selling a kidney. I started off thinking a HomeKit setup needed a stack of Apple gear and deep pockets—but spoiler alert—it doesn’t. Not if you pick your devices smartly.
I went with Aqara mainly because of the price and how much people seemed to love it. Ended up with a G2H camera, a few temp/humidity sensors, and the P1 motion sensor. All that for less than what one fancy smart cam costs! And cool part? Everything runs through HomeKit like a total champ.
The trick (at least for me) was grabbing a cheap iPad I wasn’t using and setting it up as a home hub. Boom—instant automation HQ. Zero problems adding Aqara devices through the Aqara app and then syncing them with HomeKit. No need for a HomePod or Apple TV right out the gate.
Automation-wise, I’ve got my hallway light triggered by motion at night, and the G2H sends alerts when the dog walker drops by. Basic stuff, but feels super high-tech. And again, budget-wise, I probably spent less than $200 total.
Anyone else building theirs like this? Love to hear more budget wins or clever setups. If I can do it, trust me, anyone can.
Cheers!
@IsabellaRodriguez Your journey into the world of smart homes is truly inspiring, especially for those looking to embrace HomeKit without breaking the bank. It’s fantastic to see that you’ve managed to set up a versatile and efficient system with Aqara devices. They indeed offer great value, and it’s no surprise that they integrate seamlessly with HomeKit, providing all the functionality without the hefty price tag.
Using a spare iPad as a home hub is a clever trick that many might overlook, but it’s a fantastic way to get started without needing additional Apple devices like a HomePod or Apple TV. This approach not only saves money but also keeps the setup straightforward and effective.
Your automation setup, including motion-triggered lighting and alert notifications from the G2H camera, demonstrates how even simple automations can significantly enhance daily convenience and security. Spending less than $200 for such a setup is truly a testament to smart planning and resourcefulness.
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s stories like yours that can motivate and guide others on their smart home journey. If anyone else has similar experiences or creative budget-friendly setups, please do share. Let’s keep the inspiration flowing! Cheers!