Are you tired of manually turning off lights and unplugging appliances when you leave the house? Well, it’s time to step into the future with smart plugs! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing our top picks for the best smart plugs to make your life easier and your home smarter. From voice control to energy-saving features, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

What is a smart plug?

In this first section, we’ll delve into what exactly a smart plug is and what different types of smart plugs are available. A smart plug is an electronic device that allows you to control your home appliances and electronics through an app or voice control system. It is essentially a small adapter that plugs into a traditional wall socket and provides an additional outlet for you to plug in your devices.

There are a variety of smart plugs on the market, each offering different features and capabilities. Some of the common types include standard smart plugs, smart dimmer plugs, smart power strips, and outdoor smart plugs. Standard smart plugs are basic devices that simply allow you to control the power to the device you’ve plugged in. Smart dimmer plugs are similar, but they also allow you to adjust the brightness of any lamps or lights you have connected. Smart power strips offer multiple outlets that can be controlled collectively or individually, making them ideal for connecting and controlling multiple devices at once. Outdoor smart plugs are designed to be weatherproof and are suitable for use outside, allowing you to control outdoor lights and other devices from the comfort of your home.

Smart plugs offer a variety of benefits, including convenience, energy savings, and increased safety. With the ability to control your devices from anywhere, you can easily turn off lights or appliances that you may have forgotten when you left home. They also allow you to create schedules, so you can set your lights or appliances to turn on or off at specific times. This can help you save energy and money, as you’ll be able to turn off devices when they’re not in use. Additionally, smart plugs provide an added level of safety by allowing you to easily turn off power to a device in the event of an emergency, such as a fire.

Overall, smart plugs offer a convenient and efficient way to control your home devices and electronics. Whether you’re looking for a simple way to control your lights or want to create schedules to save energy, there is a smart plug available to meet your needs. In the following sections, we’ll delve into our top picks to help you choose the best smart plug for you.

Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Plug-in Switch (2nd Gen) (model D215P) — Best smart plug for most people

The Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Plug-in Switch (2nd Gen) is the best smart plug for most people. This plug is both versatile and easy to use, making it a great choice for anyone looking to get started with smart home technology. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control it with your voice, and it can also be controlled through the Leviton Decora app or through an integrated device, like a smart speaker.

The Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Plug-in Switch is available in two configurations, as either a single or a double plug. The double plug is particularly convenient, as it allows you to control two separate devices with just one switch. This is especially useful if you want to control multiple lights or appliances in the same room, without having to buy multiple smart plugs.

The Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Plug-in Switch also comes with a number of advanced features, such as the ability to create schedules and routines, as well as the ability to set timers. This means that you can have your lights or appliances turn on or off at specific times, making it easy to create a smart home that operates according to your schedule.

Overall, the Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Plug-in Switch is a fantastic smart plug that offers a great balance between functionality and ease of use. Whether you are a seasoned smart home user or a newcomer to the technology, this plug is sure to make your life easier and more convenient.

Wyze Plug (two-pack) — Best budget-priced smart plug

The Wyze Plug (two-pack) is our best budget-priced smart plug. This smart plug is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the convenience of smart home automation without breaking the bank. It’s small, compact, and has a sleek design that will fit nicely into any electrical outlet without blocking the adjacent one.

The Wyze Plug is easy to set up and use, and can be controlled through the Wyze app or voice-controlled using Alexa or Google Assistant. It has a feature called “Away Mode” that makes it seem like someone is home even when you’re away. This is accomplished by randomly turning the lights on and off in your home, deterring potential intruders and making it look like you are home.

In addition to its low price, the Wyze Plug is also very energy-efficient. It will only consume energy when it is turned on, and you can monitor your energy usage in the Wyze app. The Wyze Plug is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to integrate into your existing smart home ecosystem.

Overall, the Wyze Plug (two-pack) is an excellent choice for those who want a budget-priced smart plug that provides a high level of convenience, energy-efficiency, and compatibility with popular smart home platforms.

Lutron Caséta Wireless Smart Lighting Lamp Dimmer Starter Kit (Model P-BDG-PKG2P) — Best smart plug for power users

Lutron Caséta Wireless Smart Lighting Lamp Dimmer Starter Kit (Model P-BDG-PKG2P) is a smart plug designed specifically for power users who demand more control and versatility in their home lighting. This kit comes with a smart bridge, which allows you to control all your smart lights and other Lutron smart home devices using the Lutron app or a voice assistant. It also includes two lamp dimmer switches, making it a great choice for a room where you want to control multiple lights.

The Lutron Caséta smart plug has a sleek and stylish design, making it a great addition to any home decor. It’s easy to install and use, simply plug in your lamp or light fixture, connect it to the smart bridge, and start controlling your lights from your phone or voice assistant. The plug also has a unique tap button feature that allows you to turn your lights on or off with just a tap, making it a convenient and practical solution for those who are always on the go.

One of the standout features of the Lutron Caséta smart plug is its compatibility with a wide range of voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This makes it easy for you to control your lights with just your voice, without having to get out of bed or off the couch.

The Lutron Caséta Wireless Smart Lighting Lamp Dimmer Starter Kit is perfect for those who want complete control over their home lighting, including the ability to dim their lights to the perfect level for any occasion. With its sleek design, easy setup, and compatibility with multiple voice assistants, the Lutron Caséta smart plug is a great choice for power users who demand the best in home lighting control.

Wemo Smart Plug with Thread (model WSP100) — Best smart plug for Apple HomeKit fans

When it comes to choosing a smart plug that integrates seamlessly with your Apple HomeKit setup, the Wemo Smart Plug with Thread is the perfect choice. One of the standout features of this smart plug is its compatibility with Apple HomeKit, which allows you to control your connected devices using the Home app or through voice commands with Siri.

The Wemo Smart Plug with Thread also boasts a sleek, compact design that won’t block adjacent outlets or impede the flow of power. You can plug in any device you want to control, whether it’s a lamp, coffee maker, or anything else. Once connected, you’ll be able to control your devices remotely, set schedules and routines, and even monitor energy usage.

Another standout feature of the Wemo Smart Plug with Thread is its integration with the new Thread protocol, which allows for low-power, secure, and reliable device-to-device communication in your home. This feature provides increased reliability, faster communication speeds, and lower power consumption compared to traditional Wi-Fi smart plugs.

In conclusion, if you’re an Apple HomeKit fan looking for a smart plug that offers seamless integration and control, the Wemo Smart Plug with Thread is definitely worth considering. With its compact design, compatibility with Apple HomeKit, and integration with the new Thread protocol, it offers the perfect blend of form and function for your smart home setup.

TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug — Best Matter-certified smart plug

The TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug is a great option for those looking for a Matter-certified smart plug. Matter, formerly known as Project CHIP, is a new, unified standard for the Internet of Things (IoT) that will make it easier for smart home devices to work together. The TP-Link Tapo P125M is the perfect example of a smart plug that is Matter-certified and provides a seamless integration into your smart home system.

The compact design of the TP-Link Tapo P125M makes it easy to install and fit into any outlet without blocking adjacent sockets. You can control your smart home devices using the Kasa app, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant, making it easy to turn on and off your devices no matter where you are. You can also schedule the device to turn on or off automatically, so you can control your home’s lighting and appliances even when you’re away.

One of the great things about the TP-Link Tapo P125M is that it provides fast and stable Wi-Fi connections, ensuring a seamless and responsive experience. It’s easy to set up and use, making it the perfect smart plug for first-time smart home adopters or for those who are looking for an affordable and simple smart plug.

Overall, the TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a Matter-certified smart plug that offers a seamless integration into your smart home system and provides fast and stable Wi-Fi connections.

Wyze Plug Outdoor — Best outdoor smart plug

If you’re looking for a smart plug that’s up for the task of outdoor use, the Wyze Plug Outdoor is the way to go. This smart plug is weather-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor lights, fountains, or even your holiday decorations. The Wyze Plug Outdoor is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can easily control your outdoor lights with just your voice. Plus, the Wyze Plug Outdoor is super easy to install, simply plug it into an outdoor outlet, download the Wyze app, and you’re ready to go.

What makes the Wyze Plug Outdoor stand out is its compact size, so it won’t block the other outlet in a duplex and its affordable price point. With a two-pack costing only $20, you can smarten up your entire yard without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile smart plug for your outdoor needs, the Wyze Plug Outdoor is definitely worth checking out.

TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Dimmer Plug (model KP405) — Best outdoor smart dimmer

The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Dimmer Plug is a great option for those looking to control the ambiance of their outdoor space. This smart plug can be used to control a variety of outdoor lighting fixtures and can be scheduled, controlled remotely, or voice controlled using Alexa or Google Assistant. This smart plug is also weather-resistant, ensuring its durability even in harsh outdoor environments.

With a compact design and easy installation, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Dimmer Plug is a great option for anyone looking to add a touch of smart functionality to their outdoor lighting setup. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy atmosphere on your patio, or simply want to be able to turn your lights on and off with ease, this smart plug is sure to meet your needs. With its reliable and efficient performance, it’s no wonder the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Dimmer Plug is a top choice for outdoor smart plugs.

TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip (model HS300) — Best smart power strip

The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip (model HS300) is a versatile and convenient smart plug option that offers multiple outlets and Wi-Fi connectivity. With six outlets that can be controlled individually or together, the HS300 provides an easy way to make all your devices smart. You can control your lights, fans, and appliances with just a tap of your smartphone, voice, or even with the touch of a button. The power strip also features two USB ports for charging your devices.

The HS300 has a sleek design that blends well with any decor, and the power strip is compact enough to fit in tight spaces, like behind a couch or in a small corner. The device can be set up in minutes with the Kasa app, and it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana, so you can control your devices with voice commands.

One of the most convenient features of the HS300 is the schedule function. You can set specific times for your devices to turn on and off, and you can even set custom schedules for each outlet. This means you can have your coffee maker start brewing before you even get out of bed, or your lights can turn on as soon as you walk in the door. The HS300 also offers energy monitoring, so you can keep track of how much energy your devices are consuming and adjust your usage accordingly.

In conclusion, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip is an excellent choice for those who want to make multiple devices smart, and for those who want a convenient and versatile solution for controlling their lights, fans, and appliances. With its compact design, six outlets, and two USB ports, the HS300 provides an easy and affordable way to make your home smarter.

How to choose the best smart plug for you

In this section, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the best smart plug for your needs. Smart plugs can seem like a simple and straightforward product, but there are actually a lot of different variables to take into account. From compatibility with different smart home systems to size, design, and functionality, here are a few of the things you should keep in mind when choosing the best smart plug for you:

Compatibility: Consider which smart home system you already use and make sure the smart plug you choose is compatible with that system. Some smart plugs are specifically designed for use with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, while others are compatible with both.

Design and size: Think about where you want to use the smart plug and make sure you choose a design and size that will fit well in that space. Some smart plugs are more compact than others, making them ideal for use in tight spaces.

Functionality: Consider what you want the smart plug to be able to do. Some smart plugs allow you to control the power on and off with your voice, while others also have a built-in dimmer switch for controlling the brightness of your lights.

Energy monitoring: Some smart plugs come with an energy monitoring function that allows you to see how much power your devices are using. This can be a helpful feature for managing your energy usage and cutting down on your electricity bills.

Price: Finally, consider your budget when choosing a smart plug. Prices can vary greatly depending on the features and capabilities of the smart plug, so it’s important to choose one that fits both your needs and your budget.

With these factors in mind, you should be able to find the best smart plug for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple way to control your lights with your voice or a more advanced smart plug that provides energy monitoring and other features, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Why get a smart plug?

Smart plugs provide a quick and easy way to upgrade your home to a smart home. These devices allow you to control lights, appliances, and other electronics using your smartphone or voice commands. By connecting to your Wi-Fi network, you can turn your devices on and off, set schedules, and control them remotely. Smart plugs also allow you to automate your devices, creating a smarter and more convenient home.

For example, you can use a smart plug to set your coffee maker to turn on automatically in the morning, so you wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee. Or, you can use a smart plug to control your lights and set the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Smart plugs are also great for safety, as you can turn off your lights and appliances when you’re not home, giving the illusion that someone is there.

The beauty of smart plugs is that they’re easy to use, don’t require any wiring, and are compatible with any device that uses a standard electrical outlet. Plus, they’re affordable, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical expertise. If you’re looking to upgrade your home to a smart home, a smart plug is a great place to start.

The criteria for our list of best smart plug choices

When putting together our list of the best smart plugs, we considered a variety of factors, including ease of use, compatibility, features, and performance.

Ease of use is key, so we looked for smart plugs that are simple to set up and use, with user-friendly apps and clear instructions.

Compatibility was also important, so we prioritized smart plugs that are compatible with a range of platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and more.

Features are what set smart plugs apart, so we considered options with a range of features, including timer and schedule functionality, energy monitoring, and more.

Performance is also a crucial factor, so we looked for smart plugs that are reliable and work as advertised.

With these factors in mind, we believe our list of the best smart plugs provides a great starting point for anyone looking to upgrade their home with smart technology.

Summary

In conclusion, smart plugs are a fantastic addition to your home automation setup. With the various types available, you can easily find the perfect smart plug to fit your needs and preferences. Whether you want to control your lights with your voice or power on a fan while you’re away, smart plugs make it easy to take control of your home.

Our top picks in this list provide a range of options, from budget-friendly to high-end, indoor to outdoor, and even a smart power strip. No matter what you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that comes with having a smart home.

Remember, when choosing a smart plug, consider the features that matter to you the most, as well as the devices you’d like to control with it. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find the best smart plug for you and your home.

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