The easiest way to move forward is to start small
A smarter kitchen does not have to start with a full remodel—this Smart Kitchen Starter Picks guide focuses on a handful of small, high‑impact upgrades that make everyday cooking easier, safer, and more consistent.
Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of contents
✅ The 5 Starter Picks (Quick Wins)
1) 🔌 Smart Plugs (with Voice Control)
Why it’s worth it: Turn “dumb” appliances smart (coffee makers, kettles, slow cookers). Plus, they’re the cheapest way to test Alexa/Google routines.
- Best for: renters, beginners, budget upgrades
- What to look for:
- Works with Alexa + Google Home
- Reliable scheduling + “on/off” status
- Compact size (doesn’t block the second outlet)
- Good starter routines:
- “Good morning” → coffee station plug ON (only for appliances that safely resume power)
- “Cooking mode” → under-cabinet lights ON via smart plug
- ✅Shop for Voice-Assistant Compatible Plugs →
Linkind Matter Smart Plug (affiliate link) – kitchen-safe, reliable
- Safety note: Avoid automating heat-producing appliances unless the appliance is designed for it and you can supervise use.
2) 🍟 Countertop Multi-Cooker Air Fryer (with Smart Features)
Why it’s worth it: Guided programs and app timers reduce guesswork. As a result, weeknight meals get faster without changing the apartment.
- Best for: faster dinners, repeatable results, meal prep
- What to look for:
- Guided cooking programs
- App timers/alerts you’ll actually notice
- Easy-clean basket/pot + widely available accessories
- Examples of “wins”:
- Faster crispy vegetables/protein without turning on the oven
- Consistent cook times with reminders (flip/shake/rest)
- ✅Shop Smart Multi-Cookers → Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven (affiliate link)
3) 💧 Leak Sensor Under the Sink
Why it’s worth it: Catches drips early and sends alerts. In other words, it’s low-cost insurance for renters who can’t install shutoff valves.
- Best for: renters, anyone with dishwasher/fridge line risk
- Place it here:
- Under the kitchen sink (rear corner near supply lines)
- Near dishwasher (if accessible)
- Near fridge water line (if you have one)
- What to look for:
- Loud local alarm + phone notification
- Long battery life + low-battery alerts
- ✅Shop Leak Sensors → Eve Water Guard (affiliate link)- Smart Home Water Leak Detector, 6.5 ft Sensing Cable, 100 dB Siren & Energy (Matter) – Smart Plug, App and Voice Control
4) 🌬️ Air-Quality Sensor (PM/VOC) for the Kitchen Area
Why it’s worth it: Helps you notice when cooking smoke lingers. Then, you can trigger a fan, open a window, or run an air purifier sooner.
- Best for: frequent searing/frying/broiling, open-plan homes
- Where to put it:
- 6–10 ft from the stove (not directly in steam/heat)
- At breathing height, where air mixes
- What to look for:
- PM2.5 tracking + trend charts
- VOC/IAQ indicator (best used for trends, not perfect absolutes)
- Simple “action rules”:
- PM2.5 rising fast → fan/hood ON + crack a window
- VOC spike → ventilate + avoid sprays until levels drop
- ✅Shop PM/VOC Air Sensors → Professional 15-in-1 Air Quality Monitor with Smartphone APP(affiliate link) – Sensors Detect CO2, PM2.5/PM10, HCHO, TVOC | Real-Time Alerts & Custom Thresholds
5) 🗣️ Smart Speaker or Smart Display (Hands-Free Timers)
Why it’s worth it: Timers, conversions, and shopping lists are easier by voice. Consequently, you’ll touch your phone less while cooking.
- Best for: everyday cooking flow, families, multitasking
- What to use it for immediately:
- “Set a timer for 8 minutes”
- “Convert 375°F to Celsius”
- “Add olive oil to my shopping list”
- What to look for:
- Clear microphone pickup in a noisy kitchen
- Multi-timer support + room-based device naming
- ✅Shop Smart Displays → Pick yours now – Smart Display – Amazon Echo Show 15 (newest model), Full HD 15.6″ kitchen hub (affiliate link) – kitchen-safe, reliableSmart display (kitchen command center for timers + routines)
🎯 What to Buy First (Pick One Path)
- If you want the cheapest “win”: 🔌 Smart plugs + 🗣️ smart speaker/display
- If you want risk reduction first: 💧 leak sensor
- If you cook at high heat often: 🌬️ PM/VOC air-quality sensor
- If dinners feel chaotic: 🍟 smart air fryer or multi-cooker
❓ FAQ – Smart Kitchen Starter Picks
For most people: a smart speaker/display for timers or smart plugs. They’re low cost and immediately useful.
They can be, but only if the appliance is designed to safely resume power and you supervise use. Avoid automating unsafe or heat-intensive appliances without manufacturer guidance.
Start under the sink, then add one near the dishwasher and fridge water line (if applicable).
Not required, but it’s helpful if you fry/sear often or have an open-plan layout. It helps you react faster to PM2.5/VOC spikes.
– Air fryer: fastest crisping + easiest “weeknight win.”
– Multi-cooker: more versatility (pressure/slow cook/rice) with guided programs.
🔗Explore the full curated list by category → Shop Smart Kitchen Best Picks