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The Best Smart Plugs and Power Strips for 2026

Forgot to unplug the iron this morning? The top smart plugs, outlets, and power strips we've tested let you control anything you can plug into the wall from your phone.

 & Angela Moscaritolo Managing Editor, Consumer Electronics

Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

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Smart plugs (and power outlets) are an easy and affordable way to turn ordinary appliances, lighting, and any other electronics into smart home devices that you can control straight from your smartphone and, in many cases, your voice. Although installing and using these plugs is relatively simple, choosing the right one for you isn't easy, so we're here to help. We've been reviewing smart plugs for more than a decade. TP-Link’s Tapo P110M is our top pick because it works with almost every smart home platform, reliably responds to voice commands, and tracks how much energy your connected devices use. Whether you want a more permanent, hardwired smart wall outlet or a weatherproof model for smartening your pool pump or holiday decorations, our list of the best smart plugs has many excellent options.

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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks

  • Eve Energy Outlet
    Best Hardwired Smart Wall Outlet

    Eve Energy Outlet

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Supports Matter and Thread
      • Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, and SmartThings
      • Voice control
      • Energy usage reporting
      • Pricey
      • Requires a hub for remote access and cross-platform functionality
      • Eve app only works on iOS

    Why We Picked It

    Whereas most of the options on this list plug into your existing outlet, the Eve Energy Outlet replaces it for sleek and permanent smart home controls. This dual-receptacle outlet can be controlled using the Eve app (iOS only) or with Apple’s Home app, and because it supports Matter and Thread, you can add it to your Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings ecosystems if you have the proper hub. In testing, we found it easy to install, and it worked flawlessly with the Alexa, Apple Home, and Eve apps, as well as Alexa and Siri voice commands. It shows how much power each receptacle is using, offers flexible scheduling, supports geofencing triggers, and works with routines and scenes you can create with your platform of choice.

    Who It's For

    Those seeking a hardwired indoor plug: If you're looking for a hardwired smart outlet, the Eve Energy Outlet is a top pick for its cross-platform compatibility and energy reporting. Keep in mind that, as with any electrical outlet, the Energy Outlet must be installed in a wall box and requires working with electrical wiring. The outlet has a 15W/1800A rating and is designed solely for indoor use.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Apple HomeKit
    Apple Siri
    Energy Reporting
    Google Assistant
    IFTTT
    Size 4.7 by 2.93 by 1.7 inches
    Get It Now
  • Leviton Decora Smart Mini Plug-In Dimmer
    Best Smart Plug for Lamps

    Leviton Decora Smart Mini Plug-In Dimmer

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Supports Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Matter, and SmartThings
      • Works with IFTTT applets
      • Lots of lighting customization options
      • Pricey
      • Lacks energy usage reports

    Why We Picked It

    The Leviton Smart Mini is a bit expensive for a small one-outlet smart plug, but it offers numerous features for automating your lighting. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, Matter, and SmartThings, and it supports dimming for compatible bulbs.

    Who It's For

    People looking to automate lamps: This is the smart plug to get if you want to set up dimmer routines or otherwise adjust the light levels of your non-smart bulbs from your phone.

    Platform-agnostic users: Wide compatibility means the Leviton Smart Mini should play nice with all your other smart home gadgets and will continue to work if you decide to switch platforms or voice assistants later.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Apple HomeKit
    Apple Siri
    Google Assistant
    IFTTT
    Size 1.3 by 3.1 by 1.1 inches
    Get It Now
  • Roku Outdoor Smart Plug SE
    Best for Roku-Centric Households

    Roku Outdoor Smart Plug SE

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Independent outlet control
      • Reports energy usage
      • Works with other Roku devices
      • Does not support Apple HomeKit or IFTTT
      • Few third-party integration options

    Why We Picked It

    Roku is a newcomer to the smart home market, but its first products in the category have proven very capable. Roku smart home devices can work with Alexa and Google Assistant, but their big appeal is for Roku TV and media hub users, because they're the only smart switches, bulbs, and cameras that you can control with the otherwise very limited Roku voice controls.

    Who It's For

    Roku users: The Roku Outdoor Smart Plug is an inexpensive way to remotely control your outdoor devices and has an IP64 weatherproof rating. It's most appealing if you also use Roku devices since you don't need to set up anything else to control the plug from your couch.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Energy Reporting
    Google Assistant
    Size 3.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches
    Get It Now
  • U-tec Smart Plug
    Best Affordable Smart Plug

    U-tec Smart Plug

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Reasonably priced
      • Works with lots of third-party devices
      • Supports voice control
      • Acts as a Wi-Fi extender for U-tec devices
      • Lacks energy usage reporting
      • Doesn't support HomeKit or Matter

    Why We Picked It

    The U-tec Smart Plug is a Wi-Fi-enabled single outlet plug that supports the Alexa, Google, and SmartThings home automation platforms and works with numerous third-party smart home devices via IFTTT applets. As an added bonus, it serves as a Wi-Fi extender for other U-tec products, including the brand's Ultraloq smart locks.

    Who It's For

    Value hunters: If you want an affordable way to turn lamps, coffee makers, and other small appliances into smart devices you can control with your phone or your voice, the U-tec Smart Plug is a top pick. It does not offer energy usage reports or support HomeKit or Matter, but if those features aren't a priority, it's a solid deal.

    U-tec users: The U-tec Smar Plug's range-extending capabilities make it especially appealing to those who already use other U-tec products.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Google Assistant
    IFTTT
    Size 1.4 by 2.4 by 2.4 inches
  • TP-Link Tapo Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug (P125M)
    Best Compact Design

    TP-Link Tapo Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug (P125M)

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Supports Matter (in addition to many other connectivity standards)
      • Compact size
      • Doesn't generate power usage reports

    Why We Picked It

    The Tapo Mini is a compact smart plug from TP-Link Kasa with a wide range of smart home platform options. It supports Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, Matter, and SmartThings, making it one of the best-equipped mini smart plugs for handling whatever home automation standard you choose. It can't monitor power consumption, however.

    Who It's For

    People who need a compact plug: Look to this smart plug if you need one with a small footprint that won't block the outlets beside it.

    Interoperability fans: Despite its compact dimensions, the Tapo Mini doesn't skimp on features, supporting every major smart home platform.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Apple HomeKit
    Apple Siri
    Google Assistant
    IFTTT
    Size 2.4 by 1.5 by 1.3 inches
    Get It Now
  • Amazon Smart Plug
    Best for Alexa

    Amazon Smart Plug

    3.5 Good

    Pros & Cons

      • Affordable
      • Easy to install
      • Works with Alexa voice commands and Alexa-enabled devices
      • Doesn't work with Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant
      • No IFTTT support
      • Lacks energy reporting

    Why We Picked It

    This single-outlet smart plug lets you control devices plugged into it via Alexa voice commands and the Alexa mobile app. It's a snap to install and works with some (but not all) Alexa smart home devices, but it doesn't work with other voice platforms, and it lacks IFTTT support and energy reporting.

    Who It's For

    Alexa users: The Amazon Smart Plug is a great option for Alexa power users who want to smarten up an ordinary device, such as a coffee maker or a light.

    Budget-conscious buyers: While not the most feature-packed device, the Amazon Smart Plug is affordable and often heavily discounted.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Size 1.5 by 3.2 by 2.2 inches
    Get It Now
  • Ring Outdoor Smart Plug
    Best for Ring users

    Ring Outdoor Smart Plug

    3.5 Good

    Pros & Cons

      • Dual outlets
      • Independent outlet control
      • Alexa voice support
      • Requires bridge for smart features
      • Lacks energy reporting
      • Doesn't support Google Assistant, HomeKit, or IFTTT

    Why We Picked It

    This IP66 weather-resistant Ring Outdoor Smart Plug features two independently controlled outlets, allowing you to manage them separately using the Ring mobile app or Alexa voice commands. It also works seamlessly with other Ring smart home devices. It requires a Ring Bridge to connect to your network, but installation is easy, and the device works well.

    Who It's For

    Ring users: The Ring Outdoor Smart Plug makes the most sense if you already own other Ring smart home devices and the Ring Bridge, and you're looking for an outdoor-friendly smart plug that lets you independently control each outlet.

    Alexa fans: This smart plug is also only for Alexa users, as it doesn't support Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant.

    Specs & Configurations

    Amazon Alexa
    Size 4.9 by 3.1 by 2.9 inches
    Get It Now
The Best Smart Plugs and Power Strips for 2026

Compare Specs

Select Up To 3Select Up To 2
Our Pick
Rating
4.5 Outstanding
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
3.5 Good
3.5 Good
4.5 Outstanding
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
Best For
Best Overall
Best Hardwired Smart Wall Outlet
Best Smart Power Strip
Best Outdoor Smart Plug
Best Smart Plug for Lamps
Best for Roku-Centric Households
Best Affordable Smart Plug
Best Compact Design
Best for Alexa
Best for Ring users
Best Overall
Best Hardwired Smart Wall Outlet
Best Smart Power Strip
Size
1.5 by 2.6 by 1.6 inches4.7 by 2.93 by 1.7 inches1.2 by 14.1 by 2.5 inches1.5 by 3.2 by 4.3 inches1.3 by 3.1 by 1.1 inches3.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches1.4 by 2.4 by 2.4 inches2.4 by 1.5 by 1.3 inches1.5 by 3.2 by 2.2 inches4.9 by 3.1 by 2.9 inches1.5 by 2.6 by 1.6 inches4.7 by 2.93 by 1.7 inches1.2 by 14.1 by 2.5 inches
Amazon Alexa
Apple HomeKit
Apple Siri
Energy Reporting
Google Assistant
IFTTT

Buying Guide: The Best Smart Plugs and Power Strips for 2026


What Is a Smart Plug, and Where Can You Use It?

Let's make this clear: Whether they're marketed as smart switches, smart outlets, or any variation thereof, smart plugs are ultimately plug-in outlets (or power strips). These devices plug directly into a wall outlet or a traditional power strip and provide an outlet for other devices in your automation setup. You don't gain or lose any outlets in the process—you're simply making an existing outlet smart by connecting it to your home Wi-Fi network.

With that in mind, the first thing to consider is where you want to place your smart plug. While most are svelte enough to fit next to one another in your typical wall outlet, not all of them are, and power strips are a different story entirely. If you have a crowded power strip, it's important to consider the location of the plug outlet. For instance, some feature outlets on the side. Whether this layout is easier or more difficult to access depends on the type of power strip you're using.

Note that some smart plugs are intended for use inside your home. Others that can withstand the elements are a better choice for your backyard or porch.


What Does a Smart Plug Do?

Once you're sure a smart plug fits properly in your home, it's important to consider what it can do. Every plug we've tested lets you use your phone to control power—so if you've plugged in a lamp, for instance, you can turn it on or off no matter where you are. And most smart plugs also offer some form of scheduling. If you simply want to turn your connected coffee machine on at the same time every weekday morning, you can do that with any of the plugs on this list.

Scenes (the term most often used, though it may vary) let you program several devices to interact with each other. Some let you program scenes based on conditions such as temperature, humidity, and sunrise or sunset times. Others have preset "away" scenes for when you're on vacation, that turn connected devices on and off to make it look like someone is home. Scene options vary from plug to plug, so it's good to keep in mind what automation options fit your lifestyle.

If you're concerned about the environment or hoping to save a few bucks, look for a plug that supports energy monitoring. Just keep in mind that the energy data collected isn't uniform across all plugs. Some provide a detailed breakdown of how long your device has been on over the entire day, your daily average "on" time, your (estimated) monthly and daily power costs, and your average power usage in watts. Others simply give a cursory overview of the hours you use over a set period or don't report power usage at all.

Features aside, installation and app design are also major factors. Luckily, pretty much all the plugs we've tested are easy to install—you basically just plug them in and connect them to an app on your phone. App quality, on the other hand, varies. We take a close look at each plug's companion app in our reviews and consider its usability in our rating.


Are Smart Plugs Worth the Money?

Ultimately, the best smart plug for you is the one that integrates easily with the products you already have, especially smart speakers and smart displays. For example, if you like Siri or are an avid iPhone user, you can get the best experience from a plug that supports Apple's HomeKit protocol. Similarly, if you already use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, make sure to get a plug that supports your voice assistant of choice.

Some plugs feature native support for a particular brand of smart home products, while others can interact with nearly anything via IFTTT. We've noted which features each plug supports in the chart below to help you determine which one best fits your needs.

So, if you can't settle on a family of smart light bulbs or you don't want to shell out big bucks for a set of new connected kitchen appliances, consider connecting the products you already own with a smart plug. Whether you're just dipping a toe into smart home tech, enhancing your rental unit, or creating custom IFTTT applets, smart plugs make it simple and affordable to automate just about anything in your home.

About Our Expert

Angela Moscaritolo

Angela Moscaritolo

Managing Editor, Consumer Electronics

My Experience

I'm PCMag's managing editor for consumer electronics, overseeing an experienced team of analysts covering smart home, home entertainment, wearables, fitness and health tech, and various other product categories. I have been with PCMag for more than 10 years, and in that time have written more than 6,000 articles and reviews for the site. I previously served as an analyst focused on smart home and wearable devices, and before that I was a reporter covering consumer tech news. I'm also a yoga instructor, and have been actively teaching group and private classes for nearly a decade. 

Prior to joining PCMag, I was a reporter for SC Magazine, focusing on hackers and computer security. I earned a BS in journalism from West Virginia University, and started my career writing for newspapers in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

The Technology I Use

My little Florida beach bungalow is brimming with smart home tech. I have a smart speaker or display in every room, allowing me to control other connected devices by voice. The Nest Hub on my bedside table lets me set wake-up alarms, control my smart light bulbs, and set the temperature on my smart thermostat. I use the Amazon Echo Show 8 on my kitchen counter to browse recipes, reorder protein powder, check the weather, and watch the news while I do dishes. 

Because I suffer from allergies, air purifiers are essential. My favorite model is the Dyson Purifier Cool TP07, which doubles as a fan and continuously sends indoor pollution data to its companion mobile app. 

My pitbull Bradley sheds, so a good robot vacuum is a must. I currently use a premium Ecovacs Deebot that can both vacuum and mop, empty its own dustbin, and wash its own mop cloth. 

For fitness, I like to mix up my routine with cycling, indoor rowing, running, and strength training in addition to yoga. I take classes on the Tonal 2 smart strength training machine, I row indoors on an Aviron machine, and track my beach runs with an Apple Watch while listening to music on my Apple AirPods Pro. On the weekends, I love riding e-bikes like the rugged, beach-friendly Aventon Aventure for fun and fitness.

My job involves a lot of virtual meetings, so a quality webcam, microphone, and ring light are important. I use the Jabra PanaCast 20 webcam, the Elgato Wave: 3 microphone, and a Yesker tripod ring light. 

As for my preferred phone platform, I'm an iPhone person, but I've also extensively used Android for product testing.

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