Smart plugs are the easiest way to start automating your home. Plug one in, connect to your app, and suddenly any "dumb" device becomes schedulable, voice-controllable, and energy-trackable.
We tested 15+ models for reliability, app quality, energy monitoring accuracy, and ecosystem compatibility. Here are the 5 best smart plugs of 2026 — chosen for real-world performance, not just specs.
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#1 — Kasa KP125M (Matter)
The Kasa KP125M is our top pick for 2026 and the smart plug we recommend to most people. It's one of the first widely available Matter-certified smart plugs, meaning it works natively with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings — all without a separate hub. On top of universal compatibility, it packs real-time energy monitoring so you can see exactly how much power your devices are drawing. The compact design fits snugly in a standard outlet without blocking the second socket, and the physical button on the side lets you toggle power even when Wi-Fi is down. Setup via the Kasa app takes under two minutes, and the plug has proven rock-solid in long-term reliability testing. If you only buy one smart plug in 2026, make it this one.
Pros
- Matter-certified — works with every major platform
- Real-time energy monitoring built in
- Compact, doesn't block adjacent outlet
- Physical button for manual override
- Fast, reliable Wi-Fi connection
Cons
- Slightly higher price than basic plugs
- Kasa app can feel sluggish at times
- No Thread radio (Wi-Fi only)
Best for: Anyone who wants a future-proof, do-it-all smart plug that works with any ecosystem — especially those mixing Alexa, Google, and Apple devices in the same home.
#2 — Amazon Smart Plug
Amazon's own smart plug is the easiest entry point into home automation in 2026. It pairs with Alexa in seconds — just say "Alexa, set up my smart plug" and you're done. No app required, no account linking, no fuss. It's consistently on sale for under $10, making it the most affordable option on this list. The plug is reliable for basic on/off scheduling and voice control, and it integrates seamlessly with Alexa routines. The trade-off is that it's firmly locked into the Alexa ecosystem and offers no energy monitoring. But if your home already runs on Echo devices, this is a no-brainer purchase.
Pros
- Effortless Alexa setup — voice-guided pairing
- Frequently on sale under $10
- Deep Alexa Routines integration
- Compact and unobtrusive design
Cons
- No energy monitoring
- Alexa ecosystem only — no Google or HomeKit
- No physical button
Best for: Alexa households looking for the cheapest, simplest way to add smart control to lamps, fans, and other basic appliances.
#3 — Meross Smart Plug Mini
The Meross Smart Plug Mini is the best choice for iPhone and iPad users who want native Apple HomeKit control without paying a premium. It's one of the most compact HomeKit-compatible plugs available — slim enough to leave the second outlet completely free. Setup through the Apple Home app is straightforward, and once connected, it works reliably with Siri, HomeKit automations, and the Home app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. It also supports Alexa and Google Home for households with mixed ecosystems. The app is basic but functional, and the price is competitive for a HomeKit device. Energy monitoring is absent, but for most HomeKit users that's an acceptable trade-off.
Pros
- Native Apple HomeKit support
- Ultra-compact — doesn't block second outlet
- Also works with Alexa and Google Home
- Competitive price for a HomeKit plug
- Reliable long-term performance
Cons
- No energy monitoring
- Meross app is fairly basic
- Not Matter-certified
Best for: Apple ecosystem users who want a reliable, affordable HomeKit plug that fits neatly in any outlet.
#4 — TP-Link Tapo P125M
The TP-Link Tapo P125M brings Matter compatibility to a lower price point than the Kasa KP125M, making it the best budget Matter plug of 2026. It connects to Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings without a hub, and the Tapo app is one of the cleaner smart home apps available — well-organized, fast, and feature-rich. The plug supports scheduling, countdown timers, and away mode (random on/off to simulate occupancy). It lacks energy monitoring, which is the main reason it sits below the KP125M, but for users who don't need power tracking, it's an excellent value. Build quality feels solid and the design is slim enough for most outlet configurations.
Pros
- Matter-certified at a lower price
- Excellent Tapo app experience
- Works with all major platforms
- Away mode for security simulation
- Slim, well-built design
Cons
- No energy monitoring
- Slightly larger than Meross Mini
- Tapo and Kasa apps are separate (TP-Link brand split)
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want Matter compatibility and a great app experience without paying for energy monitoring.
#5 — Wemo Mini Smart Plug
Wemo has been making smart plugs longer than almost anyone, and the Wemo Mini remains a dependable choice in 2026 for users who prioritize long-term reliability and a no-subscription, cloud-optional setup. The Wemo Mini works locally on your network — no cloud required for basic operation — which means it keeps working even if Wemo's servers go down. It supports Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, and the Wemo app offers solid scheduling and automation features. The main drawbacks are price (it's the most expensive on this list) and the fact that it hasn't adopted Matter yet. But for users who've had bad experiences with cheaper plugs dropping off the network, Wemo's track record speaks for itself.
Pros
- Local control — works without cloud
- Proven long-term reliability
- Supports Alexa, Google Home, and HomeKit
- No subscription required
- Compact design
Cons
- Most expensive option on this list
- No Matter support yet
- No energy monitoring
- App feels dated compared to competitors
Best for: Users who want maximum reliability and local control, and don't mind paying a premium for a plug that just works — every time.
Smart Plug Buying Guide
Ecosystem compatibility: Check whether the plug works with your existing smart home platform — Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, or Matter (works with all). Matter is the safest long-term bet in 2026.
Energy monitoring: Worth paying extra for if you want to track which devices are costing you the most electricity. Only the Kasa KP125M on this list includes it.
Size: Some smart plugs are bulky and block the second outlet. Look for "mini" or "compact" designs if space is tight — the Meross Mini and Wemo Mini are the slimmest here.
Matter support: The universal smart home standard that works across all platforms without a hub. The Kasa KP125M and Tapo P125M both carry Matter certification in 2026.
Local vs. cloud control: Most smart plugs require a cloud connection. The Wemo Mini is the exception — it can operate locally, which means it keeps working during internet outages.
Who Should Buy Which
- Best overall / mixed ecosystem: Kasa KP125M (Matter) — Matter support plus energy monitoring makes it the top pick for almost everyone.
- Best for Alexa users on a budget: Amazon Smart Plug — the cheapest, easiest option if you're all-in on Alexa.
- Best for Apple HomeKit users: Meross Smart Plug Mini — native HomeKit at a fair price, compact enough for any outlet.
- Best budget Matter plug: TP-Link Tapo P125M — Matter compatibility without the energy monitoring premium.
- Best for reliability / local control: Wemo Mini Smart Plug — the most dependable plug on the list, works without the cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Matter and do I need it in a smart plug?
Matter is a universal smart home standard launched in 2022 and now widely adopted in 2026. A Matter-certified smart plug works natively with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings without any hub or extra setup. If you use more than one smart home platform — or plan to switch in the future — a Matter plug like the Kasa KP125M or Tapo P125M is the safest choice. If you're firmly in one ecosystem (e.g., Alexa only), a non-Matter plug will work just fine.
Do smart plugs work without Wi-Fi?
Most smart plugs require a Wi-Fi connection for remote control, scheduling, and voice assistant integration. However, many plugs — including all five on this list — have a physical button that lets you toggle power manually even when Wi-Fi is down. The Wemo Mini goes further with local network control, meaning it can be operated from the app on your local network even without an internet connection.
Are smart plugs safe to leave on all the time?
Yes, smart plugs are designed for continuous use and are UL-listed for safety. They draw a small amount of standby power (typically 0.5–1W) even when the connected device is off. For high-draw appliances like space heaters or air conditioners, make sure the plug's amperage rating (usually 15A) matches or exceeds the device's requirements. Never exceed the rated load.
Which smart plug is best for energy monitoring?
Of the five plugs on this list, only the Kasa KP125M includes real-time energy monitoring. It tracks wattage, voltage, and cumulative kWh usage, and the Kasa app lets you view historical consumption data. If energy tracking is a priority — for example, monitoring a chest freezer or EV charger — the KP125M is the clear choice. The other plugs on this list do not offer energy monitoring.
Can I use a smart plug with a surge protector or power strip?
Yes, you can plug a smart plug into a surge protector or power strip, as long as the total load on the strip doesn't exceed its rated capacity. This is a common setup for controlling a group of devices (like a home theater system) with a single smart plug. Just make sure the smart plug itself is not a surge protector — stacking surge protectors is not recommended.
What's the difference between a smart plug and a smart outlet?
A smart plug is a portable adapter that you plug into an existing standard outlet, adding smart control to whatever is plugged into it. A smart outlet replaces your wall outlet entirely and requires electrical installation. Smart plugs are far easier to install (no wiring needed), portable, and renter-friendly. Smart outlets offer a cleaner look and are better for permanent installations, but they're more expensive and require an electrician or DIY wiring knowledge.