Explore smart plugs that add connected control to compatible household appliances and devices. Learn how smart-plugs work, what features to compare and how scheduling, remote control and smart-home integration can make everyday devices easier to manage without replacing the appliances themselves.
How Smart Plugs Work
Explore smart plugs that add connected control to compatible household appliances and devices. Learn how smart plugs work, what features to compare and how scheduling, remote control and smart-home integration can make everyday devices easier to manage without replacing the appliances themselves.
Smart plug compatibility tip: Before buying a smart-plug, check whether it supports your preferred smart-home platform. Some devices support Matter, a standard designed to improve compatibility between different smart-home ecosystems. Learn more about Matter smart-home compatibility.
Wi-Fi Smart Plugs
Wi-Fi smart-plugs connect to your home Wi-Fi network and can usually be controlled through the manufacturer’s app. They can be a straightforward option where you want connected control without adding a separate smart-home hub.
Smart-Plugs With Energy Monitoring
Some smart-plugs with energy monitoring can measure electricity consumption for the connected device. Available information varies by model but may include current usage, historical consumption or estimated energy use over time.
Indoor & Outdoor Smart-Plugs
Smart plugs are designed for specific operating environments. Indoor models should be used only as directed, while outdoor smart plugs are designed with additional protection appropriate to their stated outdoor rating. Always follow the manufacturer’s location and electrical-use requirements.
Smart Power Strips
Smart power strips can provide connected control for several compatible devices from one unit. Some models allow individual outlets to be controlled separately, while others may include USB connections, scheduling or energy-monitoring features.
Important Smart-Plug Features to Compare
Electrical Rating & Device Compatibility
Check the smart plug’s electrical rating and the power requirements of the appliance or device you intend to connect. Never exceed the manufacturer’s stated load limits, and avoid using a smart-plug with equipment the manufacturer identifies as unsuitable.
Scheduling & Automation
Compatible smart-plugs can switch connected devices on or off according to schedules and smart-home routines. Consider whether the available automation controls match the way you actually use the connected device.
Smart-Home & Voice Compatibility
If you already use a smart-home platform or voice assistant, check that the smart plug supports it before purchasing. Compatibility can make it easier to include connected devices in existing household routines and controls.
Smart-Plug Products & Buying Guides
Choosing the right smart-plug depends on the devices you want to control, their electrical requirements and the smart-home system you already use. Our buying guides will help you compare practical options based on connectivity, scheduling, energy monitoring, compatibility and whether the plug is designed for indoor or outdoor use.
Wi-Fi Smat-Plugs
Compare Wi-Fi smart plugs for adding app control, schedules and automation to compatible household appliances and devices.
Energy Monitoring Smat Plugs
Explore smart-plugs with energy monitoring for controlling compatible devices while tracking their electricity consumption and usage patterns.
Outdoor Smart Plugs
Discover outdoor smart plugs designed for compatible outdoor equipment, with attention to weather protection, electrical ratings and smart-home connectivity.
Wi-Fi or Zigbee Smart Plugs?
Choosing a smart plug also means deciding how it will connect to your smart-home system. Wi-Fi smart-plugs can provide a simple starting point because they usually connect directly to your home network, while Zigbee smart-plugs are better suited to households already using a compatible hub or planning a larger connected-home setup. Our Wi-Fi vs Zigbee Smart-Plugs comparison explains the differences in setup, connectivity and everyday use to help you choose the approach that best fits your home.
Compare Wi-Fi vs Zigbee Smart Plugs →
Planning Your Smart Home Upgrades?
Smart-plugs are an affordable way to make everyday devices smarter. Plan your improvements, prioritize purchases and manage your budget with our Home Upgrade Planning Toolkit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smart-Plugs
What can I use a smart plug for?
Smart plugs can add connected on/off control to many compatible household devices such as lamps and some small appliances. Always check both the smart plug’s electrical rating and the connected device manufacturer’s requirements before use.
Do smart-plugs work without Wi-Fi?
It depends on the model. Wi-Fi smart-plugs normally require a network for remote and connected features, while some products may support limited local control or use another communication protocol. Check the manufacturer’s connectivity requirements.
Can smart plugs help monitor electricity use?
Some energy monitoring smart-plugs can measure the electricity consumed by the connected device and display usage information through an app. The measurements and reporting features available vary between models.
Can I use a smart-plug with any appliance?
No. Check the plug’s maximum electrical load and the requirements of the appliance before connecting it. Some high-power, heating, motor-driven or safety-critical devices may be unsuitable for smart-plug control, so follow both manufacturers’ instructions.
Are outdoor smart plugs different from indoor smart plugs?
Yes. Outdoor smart-plugs are specifically designed and rated for appropriate outdoor conditions. Indoor smart-plugs should not be used outdoors unless the manufacturer explicitly states that they are suitable for that environment.