TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Smart home technology is intended to make our lives easier, whether it’s through automating tasks or making our homes more energy efficient. From smart thermostats to smart security cameras, there’s a smart gadget that can level up your home and your life. But if you haven’t swapped your devices fully into smart territory, a smart plug is a way to do so, without having to spend a ton of money.
What is a smart plug?
A smart plug is a great way to level up your devices. It’s a power adapter that uses Wi-Fi to turn “dumb” appliances into smart ones. The small adapter plugs into a wall outlet and works by controlling the electricity between the plug and the device. When connected to a device and an outlet, the smart plug allows you to control the device without having to switch a flip. Typically, the smart plug connects to a smart home system, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, that unlocks voice controls and functions through an app on your phone.
Smart plugs can be used with a range of items; however, they work best with devices and appliances that have on-and-off controls. Smart plugs work well with lighting, fans, and simple devices, like a Wi-Fi router.
Where to buy smart plugs
Smart plugs are available at many retailers, including Amazon and Walmart. Amazon is an especially good place to look right now with early Amazon Prime Day deals rolling in ahead of the big sale, which launches on Tuesday, June 23. We spotted a deal on the Amazon Smart Plug, which is a customer favorite that’s nearly 50% off.
Amazon Smart Plug
The Amazon Smart Plug is a must for anyone who wants the convenience of automating devices and appliances, and it is already integrated into the Amazon Alexa smart system. It’s compatible with the Alexa app and Alexa devices, making it easy to control devices remotely or with voice commands.
Benefits of a smart plug
If you find any appeal to the convenience of smart home devices, chances are you’re going to enjoy a smart plug. Like many smart devices are intended to do, they automate simple tasks that minimize your workload and can help make your life easier.
For starters, smart plugs give you the power to control devices remotely, which is a major advantage. Whether you’re not home or in another room, you can turn devices on and off with ease. If you forgot to turn a light off before you left the house, you can easily whip out the app and turn it off, a move your electricity bill and your wallet will thank you for. With summer heat upon us, they can be used to turn on a fan to circulate the air in a hot, stuffy room before you get home, which is also great for keeping pets cool and comfortable while you’re not home.
Many smart plugs also let you set up routines and schedules for your devices. Again, this feature works great with lighting. You can turn on lamps in your bedroom, living room, kitchen, and more at specific times, aligning with sunrise, sunset, or when you want to wake up or wind down. I love using smart plugs around the holidays, specifically with holiday lighting. Indoors, I put them on a timer to turn on when it gets dark out and turn off before midnight so they’re not left on all night long. They’d be great for outdoor lights, too, but make sure you use a smart plug that’s outdoor-friendly. In addition to lights, many use smart plugs with basic coffee makers. Just set up the grounds, filter, and water the night before, and you can set a timer to brew a batch of coffee before you even get out of bed.
Smart plugs can also potentially save you money on your electricity bill. While they use a little energy on their own, they can help with energy vampires, also known as phantom loads. The energy vampire devices and appliances continuously use power, even when they’re not actively in use. Instead of dealing with the hassle of unplugging the item and replugging it when you need it, smart plugs help reduce energy consumption when an item isn’t being used by cutting off the power. Automated timers and schedules, and remote control also help reduce energy use.
Is a smart plug worth it?
Yes, smart plugs are a great addition to homes. If you don’t have a smart version of a device or appliance, they can easily upgrade what you already have. They are very convenient, making life easier by automating everyday tasks. Plus, they can help you reduce your energy consumption and, in turn, potentially help lower your electricity bill.
More smart plugs
TP-Link Tapo Matter-Supported Smart Plug 3-Pack
GHome Smart Plug 4-Pack
Eightree Smart Plug 4-Pack
Kasa Smart Plug Ultra Mini 2-Pack
Govee Smart Plug Outlet Extender
TheStreet Shopping is your guide for shopping insights and advice. We look beyond the price tag to find the best value in home, tech, and wellness gear based on product features and real-world use. Read more about our Editorial Standards and How We Choose Our Shopping Deals.
