5 Best Smart Plugs for Beginners
Smart plugs are the gateway drug to home automation. For under $25, you can turn almost any "dumb" appliance into a smart device. They are perfect for lamps, fans, holiday lights, and coffee makers.
But not all smart plugs are created equal. Some block the second outlet on your wall, some disconnect randomly, and some use outdated software. Here are the top three I recommend for 2026.
1. The Best Overall: Kasa Matter Smart Plug
Kasa (by TP-Link) has been making the most reliable cheap smart plugs for years. Their new Matter-certified version is incredible because it works natively with Apple, Google, and Amazon right out of the box. Plus, it monitors your energy usage so you can see exactly how much electricity that old space heater is wasting.
Kasa Matter Smart Plug w/ Energy Monitoring
Monitor energy usage and control any device from anywhere. Extremely reliable.
2. The Best for Tight Spaces: Wyze Plug
If you need to plug two smart plugs into the same wall outlet, the Wyze Plug is the way to go. Its ultra-compact horizontal design ensures it never blocks the second socket.
3. The Best for Outdoor Lights: Govee Smart Outdoor Plug
When December rolls around, you do not want to be walking outside in the freezing cold to unplug your holiday lights. Govee's dual-outlet outdoor plug is IP64 weatherproof and lets you control two separate strings of lights independently.
Govee Dual Smart Outdoor Plug
Weatherproof outdoor plug perfect for patio lights or holiday decorations.