Best Smart Plugs 2026: Top Picks for Energy Monitoring & Automation
We tested 20+ smart plugs for reliability, app quality, and energy monitoring accuracy. Here are the best options for every budget and ecosystem.
Our Top Picks
Why Use Smart Plugs?
Kill Vampire Power
Devices on standby waste 5-10% of home energy. Smart plugs cut power completely when off.
Remote Control
Turn off forgotten devices from anywhere. Set schedules for lamps, fans, and more.
Track Energy Use
Energy monitoring plugs show exactly what each device costs to run monthly.
Detailed Reviews
TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (EP25)
What We Like
- Built-in energy monitoring
- Excellent app with usage history
- Compact design (doesn't block other outlets)
- Rock-solid WiFi connection
What Could Be Better
- No HomeKit support
- 2.4GHz WiFi only
Our Verdict: The best all-around smart plug. Energy monitoring lets you see exactly what devices cost to run. The Kasa app is intuitive and reliable.
Amazon Smart Plug
What We Like
- Seamless Alexa integration
- Simple setup (under 2 min)
- Compact size
- Often on sale for $5-8
What Could Be Better
- No energy monitoring
- Alexa only (no Google)
- Basic scheduling
Our Verdict: If you're all-in on Alexa, this is the easiest and cheapest option. Wait for sales when they drop to $5-8.
Emporia Smart Plug
What We Like
- Detailed real-time energy data
- Historical usage charts
- Set energy budgets/alerts
- Great value for monitoring
What Could Be Better
- App has learning curve
- Slightly larger size
- Limited automation features
Our Verdict: Best for energy nerds who want detailed consumption data. The Emporia app shows real-time watts, daily/monthly kWh, and estimated costs.
Wemo Smart Plug (WSP080)
What We Like
- Native HomeKit support
- Thread/Matter compatible
- Works with all ecosystems
- Away mode (random on/off)
What Could Be Better
- More expensive
- No energy monitoring
- Bulkier than competitors
Our Verdict: The only major smart plug with native HomeKit support. Worth the premium if you're in the Apple ecosystem.
TP-Link Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug (EP40)
What We Like
- Weather-resistant (IP64)
- Two independently controlled outlets
- Energy monitoring
- Sturdy build quality
What Could Be Better
- Larger form factor
- Higher price
- Needs outdoor outlet
Our Verdict: Perfect for holiday lights, pond pumps, or patio string lights. The dual outlets let you control two devices independently.
Smart Plug Buying Guide
Check Your Amperage Needs
Most smart plugs handle 15A (1800W), which covers lamps, fans, and small appliances. Space heaters and window ACs often need 12-15A—check the device label first.
Choose Your Ecosystem
Alexa users: Amazon Smart Plug is cheapest. Google users: TP-Link Kasa works great. Apple users: Wemo is your only native HomeKit option.
Energy Monitoring: Worth It?
Yes, if you want to identify energy hogs. Seeing that your old TV uses $8/month on standby makes it easy to justify upgrades. TP-Link and Emporia have the best monitoring features.
Affiliate Disclosure: SageHome earns a commission from qualifying purchases. This doesn't affect our editorial independence. See our editorial policy.