Do I need a hub for a smart home in an apartment?

Usually no. Many renter-friendly devices (smart plugs, Kasa bulbs, cameras) work over WiFi with no hub. A smart speaker acts as your voice hub.

Voice Assistants

The best smart speakers for renters

A smart speaker is the no-install hub of a rental smart home: plug it in and control plugs, bulbs, and cameras by voice. When you move, it unplugs and comes with you.

Our top smart speakers

Best overall

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen)

Amazon

The cheapest way into a voice-controlled smart home — it just plugs in and controls plugs, bulbs, and cameras hands-free, then unplugs when you move.

Best for: A first smart-home hub and voice control on a budget.
Skip if: Those who prefer a screen (get the Show) or the Google/Apple ecosystem.
Watch out: Voice assistants are always-listening by design; review privacy settings. Confirm the generation you're ordering.

Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon

Best value

Amazon Echo Show 5

Amazon

A compact smart display adds a screen for camera feeds, video calls, and visual timers, with a physical camera shutter for privacy — all from a shelf, no install.

Best for: A nightstand or kitchen hub that shows camera feeds and does video calls.
Skip if: Anyone who only needs audio control — the Dot is cheaper.
Watch out: Has a camera/mic; use the shutter and mic-off when wanted. Confirm the generation.

Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon

Key buying criteria

Ecosystem. Pick the assistant your other gear supports (Alexa is broadest).
Screen or not. A display shows camera feeds and does video calls.
Privacy controls. Mic-off and camera shutters matter.

What to check on Amazon before buying

Which assistant/ecosystem.
Speaker vs display.
Privacy features.
Generation/variant.

Setup and usage tips

Start with one room. Add speakers as you expand.
Name devices clearly. So voice control is reliable.
Use routines. Group actions into one command.

Common mistakes to avoid

Mixing ecosystems. Buy gear that works with your chosen assistant.
Ignoring privacy. Review always-listening and camera settings.
Overbuying. One hub speaker is enough to start.

How we choose

We start from the buyer's actual problem, not the highest commission.
We prioritize products with a long track record and broad availability.
We call out who a product is wrong for, not just who it is right for.
We tell you exactly what to verify on Amazon before you buy.

We only earn if you buy through our links, and it never changes the price you pay or what we recommend.

Final recommendation

The Echo Dot is the cheapest way to add voice control to a rental. Step up to the Echo Show 5 if you want a screen for camera feeds and video calls.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a hub for a smart home in an apartment?: Usually no. Many renter-friendly devices (smart plugs, Kasa bulbs, cameras) work over WiFi with no hub. A smart speaker acts as your voice hub.

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Editorial guide last updated 2026-07-02. Product details require manual verification on Amazon before purchase.