Smart plugs are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade your home to a “smart home.” With just a simple device, you can control your lights, appliances, and other electronic devices from your smartphone or with voice commands. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about smart plugs, including our top picks for the best smart plugs on Amazon.
What Are Smart Plugs and Why Do You Need One?
A smart plug is a small adapter that fits between your electrical outlet and any device you want to control. Once connected to your Wi-Fi network, the smart plug lets you turn devices on or off remotely via a smartphone app or with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Smart plugs are perfect for automating routine tasks, such as turning off lights or setting a schedule for your coffee maker.
Benefits of Smart Plugs:
- Energy Savings: Turn off devices when not in use to save energy and reduce electricity bills.
- Convenience: Control devices from anywhere, whether you’re at home or away.
- Automation: Set schedules or timers to automate daily routines.
- Security: Use smart plugs to turn on lights when you’re not home, deterring potential intruders.
Top 5 Best-Selling Smart Plugs on Amazon
Here are five of the best-selling smart plugs on Amazon that offer great features, ease of use, and reliability:
1. TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 – Best Overall
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4 is one of the most popular and highly rated smart plugs on Amazon. It’s compact, easy to set up, and works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana. You can control your appliances remotely via the Kasa app, set schedules, and even use “Away Mode” to turn devices on and off randomly to make it look like you’re home when you’re not.
- Pros: Easy setup, compatible with multiple voice assistants, no hub required, compact design.
- Cons: Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
2. Amazon Smart Plug – Best for Alexa Users
The Amazon Smart Plug is designed specifically for Alexa users, allowing for seamless integration with Amazon Echo devices. It’s super simple to set up—just plug it in, and Alexa will recognize it automatically. Use voice commands to control your appliances, set schedules, or even create routines that automate multiple devices at once.
- Pros: Easiest setup for Alexa users, reliable performance, compact design.
- Cons: Limited to Alexa and the Amazon ecosystem, slightly pricier than some competitors.
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
3. Gosund Mini Smart Plug – Best Value
The Gosund Mini Smart Plug is a budget-friendly option that offers a lot of features for its price. It’s compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and you can control it via the Gosund app or through voice commands. The compact design ensures that it won’t block adjacent outlets, making it ideal for any home setup.
- Pros: Affordable, works with Alexa and Google Assistant, compact size.
- Cons: The app can be slightly glitchy at times.
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
4. Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Plug – Best for HomeKit Users
The Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Plug is a great option for Apple users, as it’s fully compatible with Apple HomeKit, as well as Alexa and Google Assistant. The Wemo app allows for remote control, scheduling, and an “Away Mode” to randomly turn devices on and off. It’s a bit larger than some competitors but offers reliable performance and strong integration with smart home ecosystems.
- Pros: Compatible with HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant, robust app features.
- Cons: Larger size, slightly more expensive.
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
5. Meross Smart Plug Mini – Best for Advanced Features
The Meross Smart Plug Mini offers a wide range of features at a competitive price, including compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. It’s known for its reliable performance, ease of setup, and ability to handle high loads, making it perfect for larger appliances like space heaters or coffee makers.
- Pros: Compatible with all major smart home systems, easy to set up, handles high power loads, affordable price.
- Cons: Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection; the app interface could be more intuitive.
- Check the Latest Price on Amazon
How to Choose the Right Smart Plug for Your Home
When selecting the best smart plug for your home, consider these important factors:
1. Compatibility
Ensure the smart plug is compatible with your existing smart home devices and voice assistants. For instance, if you primarily use Amazon Alexa, the Amazon Smart Plug or TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug might be the best choice. If you are an Apple user, the Wemo or Meross smart plugs are ideal due to their compatibility with Apple HomeKit.
2. Size and Design
Consider the size and shape of the smart plug. Some plugs are bulkier and may block adjacent outlets, while others, like the Gosund Mini or TP-Link Kasa, are designed to be more compact and unobtrusive.
3. Features and Functionality
Look for features like scheduling, remote access, energy monitoring, and automation routines. Advanced models like the Meross Smart Plug Mini offer robust features and can handle high-power appliances, while budget-friendly options like the Gosund Mini offer basic functionality at a lower cost.
4. Price
Smart plugs vary in price, and it’s important to find one that offers the best value for your needs. While higher-priced models like the Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Plug offer more advanced features, there are also affordable options like the Gosund Mini Smart Plug that still provide excellent performance.
5. Reliability and User Reviews
Check customer reviews to get a sense of the plug’s reliability and performance in real-world situations. Brands like TP-Link and Amazon have consistently high ratings due to their reliable performance and customer support.
Tips for Using Smart Plugs Effectively
- Automate Daily Routines: Use smart plugs to automate your daily tasks, such as turning on your coffee maker in the morning or setting lights to turn off automatically at bedtime.
- Save Energy: Set schedules to turn off devices when they’re not in use, helping to save energy and reduce electricity costs.
- Enhance Security: Use smart plugs to create an “Away Mode,” turning lights on and off randomly when you’re not home to deter potential burglars.
- Monitor Usage: Some smart plugs offer energy monitoring features, allowing you to track the energy consumption of individual devices and identify energy hogs.
Conclusion
Smart plugs are a simple and cost-effective way to begin automating your home, offering convenience, energy savings, and improved security. Whether you’re looking for the best overall performance with the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug, seamless integration with Amazon’s ecosystem using the Amazon Smart Plug, or an affordable option like the Gosund Mini, there’s a smart plug out there that fits your needs. Be sure to check out our top picks on Amazon and start enjoying the benefits of a smarter home today!
