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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Smart Plugs

Make any device smart with voice control and scheduling. The easiest and cheapest way to start your smart home.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall
Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack

TP-Link

Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack

4.6 (127,583 reviews)

The most reliable and user-friendly smart plugs available. Excellent app interface and rock-solid WiFi connectivity.

Max Load

15A

Connectivity

2.4GHz WiFi

Size

Compact

Features

Scheduling, Away Mode

Pros

  • βœ“ Excellent app
  • βœ“ Reliable WiFi
  • βœ“ Compact design

Cons

  • βœ— No energy monitoring
  • βœ— WiFi only
  • βœ— Blocks second outlet

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack
Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack Best
TP-Link
4.6
$25 View
Amazon Smart Plug
Amazon Smart Plug
Amazon
4.5
$25 View
Wyze Plug 4-Pack
Wyze Plug 4-Pack Value
Wyze
4.3
$20 View
WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitor
WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitor
Govee
4.4
$12 View
Outdoor Smart Plug
Outdoor Smart Plug
Meross
4.5
$19 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack

TP-Link

Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack

4.6 (127,583 reviews)

The most reliable and user-friendly smart plugs available. Excellent app interface and rock-solid WiFi connectivity.

Max Load

15A

Connectivity

2.4GHz WiFi

Size

Compact

Features

Scheduling, Away Mode

Pros

  • βœ“ Excellent app
  • βœ“ Reliable WiFi
  • βœ“ Compact design

Cons

  • βœ— No energy monitoring
  • βœ— WiFi only
  • βœ— Blocks second outlet
Amazon Smart Plug

Amazon

Amazon Smart Plug

4.5 (234,567 reviews)

If you're all-in on Alexa, these offer the smoothest integration and most reliable voice control available.

Max Load

15A

Connectivity

WiFi

Compatibility

Alexa optimized

Setup

Voice setup

Pros

  • βœ“ Perfect Alexa integration
  • βœ“ Simple setup
  • βœ“ Reliable

Cons

  • βœ— Alexa ecosystem only
  • βœ— No energy monitoring
  • βœ— Basic features
Best Value
Wyze Plug 4-Pack

Wyze

Wyze Plug 4-Pack

4.3 (34,567 reviews)

Unbeatable value with features that cost extra elsewhere. Great for trying smart plugs or bulk installations.

Max Load

15A

Connectivity

WiFi

Features

Usage tracking, Vacation mode

Size

Compact

Pros

  • βœ“ Incredible price
  • βœ“ Vacation mode
  • βœ“ Usage tracking

Cons

  • βœ— Occasional connectivity
  • βœ— Customer service
  • βœ— Build quality concerns
WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitor

Govee

WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitor

4.4 (8,934 reviews)

Budget option with energy monitoring features usually found on expensive plugs. Perfect for understanding device power usage.

Max Load

15A

Connectivity

WiFi

Monitoring

Energy usage

Display

Real-time watts

Pros

  • βœ“ Energy monitoring
  • βœ“ Very affordable
  • βœ“ Good app

Cons

  • βœ— Bulkier design
  • βœ— App learning curve
  • βœ— Limited automation
Premium Pick
Outdoor Smart Plug

Meross

Outdoor Smart Plug

4.5 (15,234 reviews)

Perfect for outdoor holiday lights, pool pumps, and garden equipment. Weatherproof design with smart scheduling features.

Rating

IP44 weatherproof

Outlets

Dual controlled

Max Load

15A total

Features

Sunrise/sunset scheduling

Pros

  • βœ“ Weather resistant
  • βœ“ Dual outlets
  • βœ“ Individual control

Cons

  • βœ— Larger size
  • βœ— WiFi range limitations
  • βœ— Setup complexity

Buying Guide: How to Choose Smart Plugs

Smart Plug Buying Guide

Indoor vs Outdoor: Indoor plugs aren't weatherproof. Use IP44+ rated plugs for outdoor applications.

Size matters: Some smart plugs are bulky and block adjacent outlets. Check dimensions.

Energy monitoring: Useful for understanding device power consumption but adds cost.

Voice assistant compatibility: Check if your preferred assistant is supported.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Plugs

Do smart plugs use power when devices are off?

Yes, smart plugs use 0.5-2 watts continuously for WiFi connectivity. This costs about $2-5 per year per plug.

Can smart plugs handle high-power devices?

Most handle 15A (1800W) safely. Avoid using with space heaters, hair dryers, or other high-heat appliances for extended periods.

Will smart plugs work during internet outages?

Basic on/off functionality usually works via the physical button, but app control and scheduling require internet connectivity.

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