People are more eager than ever to get their visitors out of the house and into an (ideally) lush outdoor setting, filled with all the conveniences of home but with the extra bonus of unlimited fresh air. While the desire to entertain outside more began as a hoop to leap through in order to gather safely, it is now simply a desire to be outside more, preferably with friends and extended family.
With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of the top outdoor entertainment items for this year. Whether you want to make your outdoor space a must-visit neighborhood hangout or you just want to make sure you and your guests can enjoy it comfortably, read on for all the new and best outdoor smart home devices for 2023.
Best Outdoor Smart Plug: Wyze Plug Outdoor
Famous for their remarkably economical security cameras, Wyze has unveiled the latest addition to their robust smart home gadget lineup – the Wyze Plug Outdoor. With an unbeatable price tag of only $11.99, it stands as not only the most cost-effective outdoor smart plug we’ve evaluated, but also as one of the most adaptable. This dual-outlet device is user-friendly and easily installed, offering compatibility with both Alexa and Google voice commands. Furthermore, it is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Wyze products and several third-party devices through the use of IFTTT applets.
Best Outdoor Smart Security Camera: Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera
Outdoor smart security cameras offer a convenient and secure method to monitor the exterior of your home from the comfort of your living room. However, the installation can be somewhat challenging for many models due to their reliance on hubs and wiring. In contrast, the wireless Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera, priced at $199.99, is a weatherproof, high-resolution security camera. This device not only records video when motion is detected, but also illuminates any movement on your premises. The installation process is remarkably swift and the camera offers precise and intelligent motion detection. In addition, it provides detailed 2K video footage, enhanced with color night vision capabilities, ensuring a comprehensive surveillance solution.
Best Outdoor Smart Light Strips: Govee Lynx Dream Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Outdoor String Lights
While light strips provide a gentle, understated ambiance, for a more celebratory and vibrant lighting effect, string lights are the optimal choice. Consider options such as the Govee Lynx Dream for brightening up your patio, porch, or any other open-air areas. Sold in lengths of either 48 feet for $69.99 or 96 feet for $119.95, each of these strands features adjustable multicolor LED bulbs. These lights can be manipulated via voice command or through your smartphone, and are compatible with IFTTT applets. Additionally, they offer a broad array of pre-set lighting scenes and an exciting Music Sync feature, perfect for creating a lively party atmosphere.
Best Outdoor Smart Speakers: JBL Charge 5
JBL’s recent addition to its renowned series of portable, outdoor-ready Bluetooth speakers, the Charge 5, boasts a handful of enhancements that sustain its lead in the market. First and foremost, this speaker is not only waterproof but also dust-proof, allowing you to effortlessly transport it to places like the beach without any concern. The speaker drivers have also received a modest power upgrade, and, supported by dual passive radiators, the Charge 5 is capable of producing an impressive volume for its compact size. Although it lacks speakerphone functionality and a customizable EQ in its accompanying app, these shortcomings are outweighed by the numerous benefits the Charge 5 offers. If you’re in the market for a durable speaker priced under $200, capable of withstanding wet conditions and providing hours of portable sound with a notable bass depth, then the JBL Charge 5 is the ideal choice.
Best Outdoor Smart TV: SunBriteTV 55-Inch Veranda Series 3 (SB-V3-55-4KHDR-BL)
Unlike most conventional TVs, which aren’t engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions like heavy rain, extreme cold, sandy gusts, or intense heat, SunBriteTV’s Veranda Series 3 is specifically constructed for outdoor use. This high-tech outdoor TV offers several notable improvements over its predecessors, including an enhanced, brighter display with more vibrant colors, along with Dolby Vision support. It also boasts an array of Android TV features, including access to various streaming media services, Google Assistant voice control, and smartphone mirroring capabilities. Although the 55-inch SB-V3-55-4KHDR-BL model we reviewed carries a significant price tag of $2,898.95 – which is more than even some high-end indoor TVs – it’s a worthwhile investment for a TV that guarantees hassle-free outdoor use.
Best Outdoor Projector: Anker Nebula Solar Portable
The Anker Nebula Solar Portable projector is a compact device that packs an array of features. Its portability is guaranteed by an inbuilt rechargeable battery, which boasts a lifespan long enough to power through most full-length films. The device is equipped with Android TV 9, enabling streaming over Wi-Fi, screen mirroring, and an HDMI port for connection to other video sources. A standout feature that sets it apart from many competitors is its ability to handle 4K input, which it seamlessly downconverts. Measuring just 2.3 by 7.6 by 8.6 inches (HWD), the Nebula is conveniently compact, fitting perfectly into a briefcase or backpack. This allows for easy transport, whether moving it between rooms or setting it up for an outdoor movie night in your backyard.
Best Smart Pool Monitor: WaterGuru Sense
While the market isn’t flooded with smart pool water monitors, those we’ve examined usually float in your pool and necessitate a hub for network and mobile app connectivity. The WaterGuru Sense, however, employs a distinct method: it is positioned in your pool’s skimmer basin and links straight to your home network through an integrated Wi-Fi module. Although it lacks voice control capabilities, it is simple to install, requires no subscription fee, and provides vital information about when to introduce chemicals and how to maintain balanced water chemistry.
Best Smart Pool Cleaner: Polaris Alpha IQ+
Polaris’ line of robotic pool cleaners has consistently earned PCMag Editors’ Choice awards over the years, thanks to their robust construction and exceptional cleaning efficacy. Therefore, it’s no surprise that their latest model, the Polaris Alpha IQ+, stands as their finest yet. Like its predecessors, the Alpha IQ+ is extremely user-friendly and is equipped with a debris canister that is easy to empty and clean without soiling your hands. This model introduces several innovative features, including water temperature monitoring, extra cleaning modes, and a more advanced navigation system. Although the Alpha IQ+ carries a premium price tag, its ability to maintain a pristine pool while saving you countless hours of labor makes it a worthwhile investment.
Best Smart Lawn Mower: Worx Landroid M 20V Cordless Robotic Lawn Mower (WR140)
Just like every other robotic lawnmower we’ve tested, the Worx Landroid M 20V Cordless Robotic Lawn Mower (WR140) is a significant investment. However, it’s among the more affordable options available, and it excels at maintaining and trimming your lawn. Equipped with GPS and Wi-Fi functionalities, it pairs with an intuitive mobile application, enabling remote control from any location. The app allows you to start and stop the mower, alter mowing schedules, and monitor the device’s progress. It also sends status updates, keeping you informed about the mower’s current operation and any potential problems. Moreover, if someone were to attempt to remove it from your premises, the app can even provide the mower’s exact location.
