These affordable, internet-connected devices are easy to install and are one of the fastest ways to bring modern technology and automation into your home. Plus, smart plugs can help you monitor your energy usage and save money on your power bills.
How did we choose these products?
There are countless smart plugs available these days, so we took a diligent approach to find the best ones on the market. We looked at several criteria, including the product’s design, features, and value for the money – just to name a few. You can use this device to set timers and activate lights, fans, or appliances in your home, either through the Wemo app or a voice assistant. The Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Plug also comes with “Away Mode,” which automatically turns lights on and off at randomized intervals for extra protection when you’re out of the house. It’s hard to beat the value that the Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Plug delivers – especially if you’re an Apple HomeKit user. Like other smart plugs on our list, this Wemo product is available as a single device or in a multi-pack. Pros:
Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and SiriGreat price point
Cons:
It doesn’t include energy monitoring toolsCheaper options are available if you’re looking for Alexa or Google compatibility
This smart power strip has built-in surge protection to keep your electronics safe from power surges. It also includes energy monitoring, which lets you understand your power usage habits, shut off appliances when you don’t need them, and save money on your power bills. As an extra bonus, the Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip has three USB ports that can be used for charging smartphones, tablets, and similar devices. This six-outlet smart plug is pricier than the others on our list. However, it presents good value if you can make use of the multiple outlets and USB ports (perhaps in a home office or with a gaming system). Pros:
Six independently controlled outlets and three USB portsIncludes surge protection
Cons:
More expensive than other smart plugsIt doesn’t integrate with Apple HomeKit
With the Wyze app, you can set up Custom Scheduling rules to turn appliances on or off at a certain time each day (for example, you can schedule your coffee pot to turn on at 7 am during the workweek). The app also allows you to turn off smart plugs remotely, helping you reduce energy usage and keep your home safe. Overall, the Wyze Smart Plug offers excellent value for the money – particularly if you have other Wyze smart home products. Pros:
AffordableEasy to set up
Cons:
It doesn’t integrate with Apple HomeKitIt only includes one outlet
Once connected to your home wireless network, the Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini can be paired with Alexa, Google Assistant, and other Kasa Smart devices. You can then create on/off schedules for your appliances, set up timers, and turn your smart plugs on and off through the Kasa app. It also includes an “Away Mode” setting to appear like someone is home while you’re at work, on vacation, or running errands. The Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini delivers excellent value for the money. Or, if you need more than one smart plug, you can pick up a two-pack or four-pack. Pros:
Budget-friendlyPairs with other Kasa Smart devices to control multiple devices simultaneously
Cons:
No Apple HomeKit compatibilityEnergy monitoring features aren’t as robust as competitors
With this smart plug, you can turn appliances on and off – either instantly or set to a schedule. However, you can also create more complicated Alexa routines, which perform multiple steps with a single command. For example, you could set up a bedtime routine to switch off your lights and turn on your fan when you say, “Alexa, time for bed.” Pros:
Easy to install and manageAllows you to orchestrate Alexa routines
Cons: As part of our review process, we read extensive industry coverage of these products and brands. We also dove into consumer reviews of each product and researched customers’ experiences with each supplier.
Which is the right one for you?
Many of these smart plugs share similar features, so choosing the right one comes down to a few differentiating factors. If you’re looking for a plug that integrates with Apple HomeKit, then the Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Plug is the best fit on this list. It can respond to voice commands from your iPhone, Apple Watch, HomePod, or any other Siri-enabled device. Plus, it’s compact and simple to set up. For example, if you’re concerned about budget, opt for a wallet-friendly pick like the Wyze Smart Plug or the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini. Or, if you’d rather have multiple outlets in a single smart plug, check out the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip.
Are there alternatives worth considering?
For the purposes of this list, we focused on indoor smart plugs. However, there are also a wide variety of outdoor smart plugs that you can use for things like Christmas lights, smart doorbells, security cameras, and more. First, you’ll want to ensure that your smart plug has an app that allows you to control the appliances that are plugged into it. And if you want to use a particular voice assistant with it, you should be sure that your chosen smart plug is compatible with your preferred voice assistant (whether that’s Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri). Outside of that standard functionality, you can then decide which extra features you want from your smart plug – whether that’s multiple outlets, USB charging, or energy monitoring. After this initial set-up process, you can connect your smart plug to a wall socket and plug an appliance into it. From there, you’ll launch the smart plug app, from which you should be able to view and control the appliance. Here are three of our recommendations for outdoor smart plugs:
Wyze Outdoor Smart Plug TP-Link Kasa Smart Outdoor Smart Plug Ring Outdoor Smart Plug
