We’re officially in the era when just about everything for your home can become “smart”, whether it’s smart thermostats that keep your home at a comfortable temperature automatically or smart speakers that you can control from anywhere. Now, you can even make non-smart appliances and electronics smart by using a smart plug, which lets you create schedules for your plugged-in devices and control them remotely via a mobile app.
Our pick for the best smart plug is the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Slim With Energy Monitoring, which is Matter-compatible and has a compact design to fit conveniently into most outlets without interfering with other outlets. Control the plug using its compatible mobile app or with one of several voice assistants, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
We’ve rounded up several of the best home smart plugs after testing and researching them to help you find the best options for your home.
The Best Smart Plugs in 2024
| Product | Estimated Price | Features | Voice Assistant Compatibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Slim (KP125M) | $34.99 | Energy Monitoring, Compact Design, Matter-Compatible | Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings | Best Overall |
| Leviton Decora Smart Plug | $34.99 | Wi-Fi Connection, Compatible with Multiple Devices, Easy Installation | Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Home | Runner-Up |
| Govee Smart Plug 15A | $12.99 for 1; $29.99 for 4 | Budget-Friendly, Compact Design, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Amazon Alexa, Google Home | Best Budget Smart Plug |
| Amazon Smart Plug | $24.99 | Alexa Exclusive, Compact, No Hub Required | Amazon Alexa | Best for Alexa |
| Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug | $24.99 | Outdoor Use, IP64 Weather Resistance, Extended Wi-Fi Range | Amazon Alexa, Google Home | Best for Outdoors |
| Linkind Matter Smart Plug | $9.98 | Matter Compatibility, LAN Connectivity | Matter-Compatible | Best for Matter |
| TP-Link Tapo Wi-Fi Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring | $35.99 for 4 | Energy Monitoring, Device Scheduling, Surge Protection | Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings | Best for Energy Monitoring |
Best Smart Plug Overall: TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Slim (KP125M)
Compatible With: Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Works with major smart home platforms
- LAN connectivity without internet
- Tracks energy consumption
- Compact, flame-retardant design
- Control with app or voice commands
The smart plug that deserves our overall top pick is affordable and easy to use yet packs just about every feature you could want from a smart plug into its small frame. That title goes to the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Slim With Energy Monitoring, which has a compact body that takes up no more room than one receptacle, leaving the other receptacle open for another smart plug or device to connect to. It’s compatible with many of the most popular voice assistant platforms as well as Matter-certified devices, so it should work seamlessly with other smart home devices.
This well-rounded plug connects to the Kasa mobile app, which you don’t need a subscription to use. In addition to controlling the smart plug using your phone or tablet, you can also monitor the energy usage on each device you connect to the smart plug. Learn how much energy your devices use and sync their usage to your unique billing periods to help you capture the most accurate information. You can also set energy usage caps within each billing period, which allows the smart plug to automatically turn off your device if it reaches the energy threshold you set.
Runner Up Smart Plug (another great choice): Leviton Decora Smart Plug
Compatible With: Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Home
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Direct On/Off control, no hub
- Voice control with Google, Alexa, Siri
- Matter-compatible firmware update
- Standard outlet, 2.4 GHz
- App-based scheduling and scenes
The Leviton Decora Smart Plug is a close runner-up to the TP-Link Kasa smart plug, as it offers many of the same features, like a simple Wi-Fi connection, Matter compatibility, and an easy-to-use mobile app to control the device remotely. The downside is that it isn’t compatible with Samsung SmartThings like our top pick is, nor does it offer comprehensive energy monitoring.
Where this smart plug does shine is its easy installation, which requires no additional hub and can be completed in just a couple of minutes, max, using the connected app. Using the app, you can turn devices on and off and create schedules for devices. The plug also includes a manual button to turn the plug on and off without using the app.
Leviton also makes several connectable devices, like light dimmers, switches, fan speed controllers, and outdoor smart plugs that work seamlessly with your smart plug to create a fully connected home.
Best Budget Smart Plug – Govee Smart Plug 15A
Compatible With: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Control via WiFi/Bluetooth with Govee App
- Works with Alexa, Google Home
- Create schedules, group control
- Compact 15A plug for high-power use
- Certified safe and fire-resistant
For just under $13, you can buy a Govee Smart Plug, although the most budget-friendly option is the four-pack, which costs less than $30. That means you can potentially upgrade all or most of the outlets in your home for a few hundred dollars if you’re ready to go the smart device route.
The rectangular shape of this smart plug keeps it compact enough to avoid taking up needed space. You can cleanly fit two of these plugs in one receptacle to plug your devices in as usual. Setup is a breeze and doesn’t require a hub of any kind. Just download the connected mobile app, plug in the smart plug and your device, and the app will automatically connect to the smart plug for you using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. You can rename each of your Govee Smart Plugs in the app to keep track of what they’re connected to.
Despite its affordability, the Govee Smart Plug 15A doesn’t skimp on safety. It’s FCC and ETL-certified and is designed with fire-resistant material for an added layer of protection.
Best Smart Plug for Alexa – Amazon Smart Plug
Compatible With: Amazon Alexa
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Alexa voice control
- Quick setup, no hub needed
- Compact design
- Task automation with Routines
- Auto reconnects after outages
It should come as no surprise that the Amazon Smart Plug is the best one for Alexa-rich homes. If you use Alexa to control other devices, like TVs, speakers, and appliances, then it makes sense to add the Amazon Smart Plug to your list of devices. With that said, if you typically use another voice assistant platform, like Siri or Google Home, with your smart devices, this plug won’t be the right choice for you, as it’s exclusive to Alexa.
Connect this smart plug right away using the Alexa app, just as you would other Alexa devices, like the Echo Dot. Two smart plugs fit into one receptacle, so you don’t need to give up any valuable space for your plugged-in devices. Once connected, you can use the Amazon Smart Plug to turn on and off lights, TVs, stereos, small appliances, and more, using the app or your voice to send voice commands to Alexa.
You can also set up routines using the Amazon Smart Plug, like a morning routine that turns on your bedroom lamp, the coffee maker, and the TV as you get ready to start the day, giving you hands-free control over the devices you use most.
Best Outdoor Smart Plug – Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet
Compatible With: Amazon Alexa, Google Home
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Separate outlet control
- Weather-resistant design
- Voice and app control
- Quick setup with scheduling
- Reliable, long-range Wi-Fi
Not all smart plugs are designed for outdoor use, so it’s crucial to buy a smart plug specifically for outdoor use to protect the plug and its components from the elements. The Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug fits the bill, made with a waterproof cover to keep dirt and dust from making their way into unoccupied receptacles. It also has an IP64 weather resistance rating, proving that it can withstand hose splashes and typical weather.
Another perk of this smart plug is that it offers an extended Wi-Fi range of up to 300 feet, so you can feel confident that your plug will successfully reach your internet connection for steady, reliable use.
As for features, the Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug packs a lot into its modest frame, including voice control with Alexa and Google Home Assistant, precise scheduling via the mobile app, and a plug-and-play setup that even non-techies can complete. You can also group your smart plug-connected devices to control multiple devices at the same time.
Best Smart Plug for Matter – Linkind Matter Smart Plug
Compatible With: Matter-compatible, so it works with most voice assistants
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- No extra apps, direct setup on Matter-compatible platforms
- Offline-ready, works within LAN without internet
- Remote access, voice control, flexible scheduling
- Compact, FCC-certified, 1800W capacity
If you’re not aware of why Matter matters, so to speak, let us explain: Matter is a set of standards that compatible devices must meet to work with the most popular voice assistant platforms, like Alexa, Google Home Assistant, and Siri. For example, a Matter-compatible microwave can work with Alexa, Siri, or any voice assistant you prefer to use to control your devices. Matter makes your smart home devices more compatible with one another, regardless of the voice assistant you prefer.
The Linkind Matter Smart Plug complies with Matter standards, so it can work with virtually any voice assistant you choose. However, unlike many of the other smart plugs on this list, you’ll need a Matter-compatible hub to connect this plug to, which can require a few additional setup steps to get the plug fully functional. Once set up, you can use the app to turn devices on and off manually or set schedules and timers for lights, appliances, and more. You can also use the app to connect your devices via your LAN, so if your internet connection drops, your Matter-compatible devices can still communicate with one another.
Best Smart Plug for Energy Monitoring – TP-Link Tapo Wi-Fi Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
Compatible With: Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings
Wireless Protocol: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Track energy usage and costs with scheduling
- Automatic charging cut-off to prevent overcharging
- Auto-shutoff for overload protection
- Voice and remote app control options
Being able to monitor your devices’ energy usage can make it easier to manage your energy bill and cut back where necessary. The TP-Link Tapo Wi-Fi Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring helps you do just that by tracking how much energy your plugged-in devices use and showing you those results via the mobile app.
The app tracks device energy usage for the day, month, or year, so you can see how much it uses in real time in addition to its usage history and trends. It also estimates your summer and winter energy bills based on the energy usage of your devices. If you want to set parameters for energy-hogging devices, use the app to set an automatic shut-off when a device reaches your maximum desired energy usage.
On top of its energy monitoring features, this smart plug offers all the must-haves you’d expect, like surge protection, voice control, and device scheduling. You’ll also get unique perks, like device overcharging prevention and an automatic Away Mode that turns lights on and off randomly for an extra layer of security when you’re away from home.
Other Smart Plugs We Tested
We tested dozens of top-rated smart plug options to ultimately choose the best solutions. While the following ones didn’t make our list of the very best home smart plugs, they deserve honorable mentions.
- GE CYNC Indoor Smart Plug: This Matter-compatible smart plug has a single outlet for indoor use and is designed to be small enough to not obstruct the use of your other outlet.
- GHome Smart Plug: The GHome Smart Plug has a unique round design that takes up minimal space. It offers protection for short-circuiting, surges, and overloads.
- Emporia Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring: The slim design of this plug lets you comfortably fit two of them in your outlets. You can track power consumption through the app to keep tabs on the energy you use.
- Roku Smart Home Indoor Smart Plug: Use the Roku Smart Home mobile app to control this smart plug from anywhere. It features a simple guided, no-hub setup for convenience.
- TP-Link Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug: This outdoor smart plug has two outlets that are water-resistant and Matter-compatible. You’ll get long-range Wi-Fi coverage to ensure you stay connected to your plugged-in devices.
Are Smart Plugs Worth It?
Smart plugs provide one of the most affordable ways to save money at home and add convenience while doing it. Many smart plugs are under $10, and it’s easy to find multipacks of smart plugs for $40 or less. However, these inexpensive devices can amount to decent savings if you use them properly, like scheduling timers and creating schedules for electronic devices to turn on and off. This way, you can reduce energy waste from appliances, electronic devices, lights, and more, by having them automatically shut off when you don’t use them.
Smart plugs can also help you keep tabs on everything you keep plugged in when you’re not at home or in the same room. Did you forget to turn off a light before you left for work? Hop on the smart plug’s app to turn it off, even when you’re away from home. Or, start your coffee maker remotely before you get in the shower to have hot coffee ready as you head out the door.
Many homeowners can likely find a use for adding several smart plugs to their homes, especially at such an attractive price point.
What Other Customers Are Saying
There are hundreds of top-rated smart plugs on the market aside from those we’ve mentioned in this guide. If you’re looking for additional suggestions, Reddit is an excellent place to get suggestions from other people who give firsthand accounts of their favorite smart plugs.
Here are a few models with positive reviews from Redditors:
Philips Hue Smart Plug ($34.99 on Amazon):
SwitchBot Smart Plug Mini 15A ($11.99 on Amazon):
Sonoff S31 WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring ($21.99 on Amazon):
— itinerantham
Eve Energy Smart Plug ($39.95 on Amazon):
Factors To Consider When Shopping for Smart Plugs
Many smart plugs have similar features, but there could be just one or two differences that might make one better than the other for your specific use. Here’s what to consider when comparing the best home smart plugs:
Smart home integration: First and foremost, a smart plug should play nicely with your devices. Determine what smart home platforms a plug is designed to integrate with, as some—like the Phillips Hue smart plugs—are made to integrate seamlessly with other products by the same company.
Wireless protocol: Most smart plugs connect over Wi-Fi, but others use Thread, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth, or other wireless protocols. Make sure its connection requirements align with what you use for wireless connections.
Voice control: One of the most helpful features of smart plugs is their ability to control devices hands-free. Check that a smart plug works with the voice assistant you like to use, like Alexa or Siri.
Price: Smart plugs can be priced as little as about $10 up to around $50 or more. If you’re buying plugs for all your outlets, it’s important to look for a budget-friendly option. Consider buying smart plugs in bulk, if available. Some are offered in packs of four, shaving a bit off the per-plug price.
Size: Do you want just one smart plug per outlet? If so, consider the size of the plug you buy. Some have compact designs that don’t interfere with the second receptacle, but others are larger and could make it difficult to plug another device into the same outlet. Depending on your outlet and plug sizes, you might benefit from a mini smart plug.
Features: What features do you need? Some higher-priced smart plugs might offer perks like energy monitoring or automated vacation modes, but if you don’t need those features, there’s no reason to pay extra for them.
App functionality and ease of use: Smart plug apps should have everything you need to control your plugged-in devices at your fingertips. Read reviews to make sure a plug’s app is as easy to set up and use as it claims.
Final Thoughts About Smart Plugs
Finding the best smart plug for your home, whether you want just a couple of them or plan to upgrade most or all of your receptacles with smart plugs, boils down to how you want to set up your smart home and what features you need. This guide offers several options for various needs along with a few additional suggestions that have worked with Redditors to point you in the right direction.
Pricing, features, voice control, wireless protocol, and integration with your smart home should be the most important factors to consider when comparing smart plugs.
FAQs
Smart plugs are worth their relatively low cost for homeowners who want to control lights, small appliances, and other electronic devices remotely. Additional features like scheduling, vacation mode, and energy monitoring can make them even more useful for many homeowners.
Smart sockets and smart plugs work similarly to control devices remotely. However, a smart socket gets hardwired into your home’s electrical system, while a smart plug simply plugs into an existing receptacle for a simpler setup.
Yes, smart plugs use an app for setup and device control. The mobile app usually makes setting up your smart plug an easy process, even if you’re not tech-savvy. You can also use the app to schedule timers for devices, track energy usage with energy-monitoring plugs, and create groups to sync devices.
Related reading:
