Smart plugs let you control appliances remotely, set schedules, and keep an eye on energy use—all from your phone or with a voice assistant. Just plug one into a standard outlet, connect a lamp or coffee maker, and suddenly you’ve got a smarter home. For a lot of people, it’s the easiest way to dip a toe into home automation.
When picking a smart plug, compatibility, reliability, and safety should top your list. Make sure it works with your smart home platform, has solid connectivity, and meets local electrical safety standards. Size is worth considering too—some chunky plugs hog both outlets. If you’re into tracking your power use, look for models with energy monitoring.
Ideally, setup should be painless, and the plug should respond quickly and safely every day. We tried out several models to see which ones actually deliver on smart features, reliability, and design.
Best Smart Plugs
Here’s a curated selection of the best smart plugs you can get right now. These picks are dependable, easy to set up, and play nicely with popular smart home systems. Each one stands out for its mix of features, build quality, and price.
- Voice control: Kasa smart plugs that work with Alexa and Google Home Assistant. Enjoy the hands free convenience of controlling any home electronic appliances with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Compatible with Android 5.0 or higher and iOS 10.0 or higher
- Smart Outlet Control from anywhere: Turn electronics on and off your smart home devices from anywhere with your smartphone using the Kasa app, whether you are at home, in the office or on vacation
- Scheduling: Use timer or countdown schedules to set your wifi smart plug to automatically turn on and off any home electronic appliances such as lamps, fan, humidifier, Christmas lights etc. The Kasa app is free and compatible with iOS 10.0 or later.
Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4
A solid pick if you want a simple, reliable way to control everyday stuff remotely—no extra hubs needed.
Pros
- Setup is quick and straightforward
- Works seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Compact—doesn’t block the other outlet
Cons
- Needs 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
- No energy usage tracking
- App could use more customization options
The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 feels sturdy and reliable right from the start. Setup takes just a few minutes, and the Kasa app walks you through it without much fuss. Once it’s up and running, devices react quickly to on/off commands, whether you’re using the app or a voice assistant.
The slim profile is handy—especially if your outlets are crowded or you’re using a surge protector. Not needing a hub keeps things simple, too.
It’s missing energy monitoring, which might be a dealbreaker for some. And if your Wi-Fi is only 5GHz, you’ll need to tweak your router. Still, for automating lamps, fans, or other small appliances, it’s a solid, no-nonsense choice.
- Amazon Smart Plug works with Alexa to add voice control to any outlet.
- Simple to set up and use—plug in, open the Alexa app, and get started in minutes.
- Compatible with many lamps, fans, coffee makers, and other household devices with a physical on/off switch.
Amazon Smart Plug
A great option for Alexa users who just want something that works, plain and simple.
Pros
- Setup through the Alexa app is a breeze
- Small footprint—leaves the other outlet open
- Reconnects reliably after outages
Cons
- Only works with Alexa
- No energy monitoring
- Needs 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
The Amazon Smart Plug is as straightforward as it gets. Plug it in, connect with the Alexa app, and you’re good to go. It responds instantly to voice commands, and the slim design doesn’t hog both outlets—a nice touch for tight spaces.
It handles things like lamps or coffee makers without a hitch. Alexa routines make it easy to set up automations, like turning on a light before you get home. Once it’s set, you don’t have to mess with it.
The catch? You need Alexa devices to get the most out of it, and there’s no energy tracking. But if you’re already in the Echo ecosystem, it’s a reliable, no-drama addition.
- Stability Upgrade: Supports Bluetooth or WiFi connection, which is more stable and faster than plugs that can only be connected through WiFi. No disconnection worries, control all your home appliances and devices anytime & anywhere.
- Smart Voice Control: WiFi Plugs Work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control the smart home devices using simple voice commands. Free hands by using smart plugs and enjoy the funny interactive process. Note: Don't support 5G WiFi.
- Scheduling & Group Controller: Create customized schedules to power your electronic appliances on/off automatically for helping save energy and money. And with a single tough of one button, you can manage multiple smart plugs simultaneously.
Govee Smart Plug
A dependable pick if you want smart control over small appliances and don’t want to hassle with complicated setup.
Pros
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for extra stability
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Compact—easy to fit in tight spots
Cons
- Only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Pairing can be a little finicky at first
- Not for high-powered devices
The Govee Smart Plug feels reliable from the get-go. Setup is mostly painless, and having both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi means fewer dropped connections than some rivals. Once it’s online, control through the app or voice assistants is snappy.
Grouping plugs together is handy if you’re managing a bunch of devices. Scheduling works as advertised—lights, fans, or other small electronics turn on and off automatically, which is great for both convenience and saving a bit of energy.
Its small size is a plus, especially if your outlets are cramped. It’s not meant for heavy-duty appliances, but for lights and little gadgets, it’s more than up to the task.
Linkind Matter Smart Plug
If you’re after a compact, Matter-compatible smart plug that keeps working even if your internet goes out, this one’s worth a look.
Pros
- Works with multiple smart home platforms—no extra apps required
- Stays functional on the local network during internet outages
- Compact, with built-in safety protections
Cons
- Setup can be tricky if you’re not tech-savvy
- Needs a Matter-certified hub for most platforms
- Only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
Setting up the Linkind Matter Smart Plug takes a little patience, especially if you’re new to Matter, but once it’s connected, it plays nicely with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings. Not having to juggle a bunch of different apps is a real plus.
The local control is a standout—if your internet drops, it still responds instantly within your home network. That’s a relief for things like lights that need to stay on schedule.
It’s tiny enough for crowded outlets, and the fire-resistant build is reassuring. Scheduling devices to turn off after a set time worked without a hitch, which helps cut back on wasted power.
- Voice control: Kasa smart plugs that work with Alexa and Google Home Assistant. Enjoy the hands free convenience of controlling any home electronic appliances with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
- Easy set up and use: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection required. Plug in, open the Kase app, follow the simple instructions and enjoy
- Scheduling: Use timer or countdown schedules set your smart plug to automatically turn on and off any home electronic appliances such as lamps, fan, humidifier, Christmas lights etc.
Kasa Smart Plug EP10 Mini
A compact, reliable smart plug that makes controlling small appliances and lights dead simple.
Pros
- Setup is quick and easy
- Doesn’t block the second outlet
- Works well with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- No Apple HomeKit support
- Only works on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Pairing with Google Home can take a few extra steps
This plug just feels thoughtfully designed. It fits snugly in the outlet without covering up the second socket—super useful if space is tight. The Kasa app setup is straightforward, and the on-screen prompts are clear enough for anyone to follow.
It’s responsive to voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant, and scheduling lights or fans is hassle-free. Even if your internet flakes out, the timers keep running, so your routines don’t get interrupted.
If you’re using Apple HomeKit, you’ll want to look elsewhere, and it won’t connect to 5GHz Wi-Fi, which is kind of a bummer. But for anyone already using Alexa or Google, the Kasa Smart Plug EP10 Mini is a simple, reliable way to add smart control to your everyday stuff.
Buying Guide
Picking out a smart plug? First thing—make sure it actually works with your current setup. If it doesn’t play nice with your voice assistant or smart hub, it’s just going to be a headache. You want something that fits right into your ecosystem, not something you have to fight with every time you want to turn on a lamp.
Energy monitoring is a handy bonus. If you’re curious about which devices are draining the most power or just want to keep an eye on your bill, it’s worth considering.
Key factors to compare include:
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave
- Load capacity: Maximum wattage or amperage supported
- Control options: App, voice, or manual button
- Scheduling: Ability to set on/off times
- Size: Compact design to avoid blocking other outlets
| Feature | Why It Matters | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Determines compatibility and range | Wi-Fi for simplicity, Zigbee/Z-Wave for hubs |
| Load Capacity | Ensures safe operation of connected devices | Wattage and amperage ratings |
| Energy Monitoring | Tracks usage and cost | kWh tracking capabilities |
| Scheduling | Automates device control | Daily or weekly timers |
| Size & Design | Prevents outlet obstruction | Dimensions and plug orientation |
Don’t skip safety certifications. That little stamp of approval means the plug meets local electrical standards—it’s not just a formality. It’s about not frying your gadgets or your wiring.
If you’re planning to use several smart plugs, look for models that support grouping. It’s way more convenient to control a bunch of devices with one tap or voice command than fiddling with each plug separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smart plugs aren’t all the same—they vary in connectivity options, which assistants they work with, and what you can do with their apps. Some are all about energy tracking, others just want to make setup painless or fit into a certain ecosystem. There’s a bit of everything out there.
What features should I consider when choosing a smart plug for my home?
Check for Wi-Fi or Zigbee, scheduling, and energy monitoring. If you’re stacking plugs on one outlet, size is a big deal. Also, think about whether it works with your favorite voice assistant or automation platform.
How do smart plugs integrate with home assistants like Alexa and Google Home?
Most Wi-Fi plugs link up through the manufacturer’s app, and then you can connect them to Alexa or Google Home. After that, you’re good to go with voice commands or routines. Some plugs even let you set them up straight from the assistant’s app, which is honestly pretty slick.
Are there any smart plugs that are particularly recommended by the Reddit community?
Reddit folks seem to like TP-Link Kasa and Meross—mostly for reliability and decent apps. Wyze gets a mention if you’re on a tighter budget. The main things people talk about? Quick setup and not having to troubleshoot every week.
Can Ikea smart plugs be used with other smart home systems, or are they brand-specific?
Ikea plugs run on Zigbee, so they’re not totally locked down. You’ll need a compatible hub, but you can get them working with Alexa, Google Home, and the Ikea Home Smart app. Sometimes you’ll need extra hardware to make it all click.
What are the advantages of using an Amazon smart plug over other brands?
The Amazon Smart Plug is dead simple to set up if you’re already using Alexa—no extra hubs, just the app. It’s built for Alexa routines and voice control. Downside? It won’t play with Google Home or Apple HomeKit, so it’s a bit of a walled garden.
Which smart plugs offer the best compatibility with Apple HomeKit?
Eve Energy and Wemo smart plugs are favorites among HomeKit fans.
You don’t need a separate hub—just plug them in and go.
They work well with Siri and tap right into Apple’s automation tools.
