10 Smart Gadgets That Could Instantly Upgrade Your Backyard

You have the itch to upgrade your backyard but aren't sure where to start. A smart gadget could be the answer. If you already use some of the best smart gadgets of 2026 , you know what a game-changer they can be. If you're new to connected tech outdoors, you may be surprised by how much you can change with a single gadget.

Entertainment is an obvious place to start with backyard upgrades. Hosting, family time and relaxation can all benefit from a more enjoyable outdoor space, but convenience, maintenance and security can make just as much of a difference. Smart technology can help with all of them, from taking some of the work out of everyday chores to making your backyard more comfortable and secure.

I've put together 10 smart gadgets I've come to love in and around my own backyard. Some are unique gadgets you may not have considered. Others are simple devices that can make things you already own a little smarter. Whether you're looking for more entertainment, easier yard maintenance or a better outdoor setup after dark, there's something here for a range of needs and budgets.

The X7 2000 ANSI Smart Projector is an easy way to add more entertainment to your backyard without committing to a permanent setup. It has native 1080p resolution, 2,000 ANSI lumens, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, plus autofocus and keystone correction. It can also rotate 180 degrees and has built-in speakers. It's currently about $200 on Amazon.

I was a little worried about spending that much on a projector and ending up with something that was hazy or dim. Fortunately, the picture has been sharp enough for outdoor movie nights and bright enough for the way I use it. I'm also a big proponent of gadgets being easy to use. I don't want to read a book of instructions before being able to enjoy something, and setup here was quick and straightforward. It connected to my phone and laptop without any major issues.

I mostly use it for movie nights. We bring blankets, pillows and snacks, set up outside and spend the evening watching a movie together. That's probably my favorite use for it, but it's not the only one. You could hook up a gaming console, put on a football game while everyone hangs out outside or use it to show photos during a backyard get-together. If you're considering a projector for more than just backyard movie nights, the best projectors for a home theater in 2026 will offer the features you need. And since it's portable, you can also bring it back inside or use it somewhere else.

A smart bird feeder is something I didn't realize I needed until I started watching the birds visit my mother-in-law's backyard on her HARYMOR Smart Bird Feeder . It has a camera, solar charging, motion alerts and an app that lets you watch birds from your phone. Its AI can also identify different species. It's currently around $116, making it a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy your backyard even more.

Sometimes we sit in the breakfast nook visiting when she receives a notification that a bird is at the feeder. If we can't see it clearly from the window, we pull up the app to view the camera feed to see the bird in real time. The solar panel is another nice touch because there's no need to worry about manually recharging or using a cord. The AI identification is pretty good at getting the bird right, although, as expected, it has been wrong a handful of times.