Smart plugs are the easiest and cheapest way to start building a smart home. Plug one in, connect it to WiFi, and suddenly you can control any dumb appliance with your voice, phone, or automated schedules.
Turn on your coffee maker from bed. Set your lamps to turn on at sunset. Make sure you never leave the curling iron on again. All without replacing any of your existing devices.
We tested the best smart plugs that work with both Alexa and Google Home to find the most reliable options for 2026.
Best Smart Plugs for Alexa and Google Home
1. SmartSocket Mini WiFi Plug
Our top pick for its reliability, tiny size, and broad compatibility. Works with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. The compact design means it does not block the second outlet. Setup takes about 2 minutes. Best overall smart plug for most people.
2. PowerTrack Energy Monitoring Smart Plug
Everything the top pick offers plus real-time energy monitoring so you can see exactly how much electricity each device is using. Great for identifying energy hogs. Best for people who want to track and reduce energy costs.
3. OutdoorSmart Weatherproof Smart Plug
IP65 weather-resistant design with two independently controlled outlets. Perfect for outdoor string lights, fountains, and holiday decorations. Long WiFi range that reaches most yards. Best for outdoor smart home applications.
4. PowerStrip Smart 4-Outlet Strip
A smart power strip with four individually controlled outlets plus four USB charging ports. Control each outlet separately via voice or app. Includes surge protection. Best for entertainment centers and desks with multiple devices.
5. MatterPlug Thread-Enabled Smart Plug
Future-proofed with Matter and Thread protocol support for the fastest, most reliable smart home connectivity. Works locally without internet once set up, which means no cloud dependency. Best for tech-forward users building a Matter-based smart home.
6. BudgetSmart Value 4-Pack Smart Plugs
Four basic smart plugs at an unbeatable price per unit. They do not have energy monitoring or fancy features, but they reliably turn things on and off via Alexa and Google Home. Best for people who want to make multiple devices smart without spending much.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Ecosystem compatibility: Make sure the plug works with your voice assistant. Most work with Alexa and Google Home. Apple HomeKit and Samsung SmartThings support is less common.
- Physical size: Some smart plugs are bulky and block the adjacent outlet. Look for compact designs if this is a concern.
- Energy monitoring: This feature lets you track how much electricity a device uses. It is not essential but very useful for identifying energy waste.
- WiFi vs Thread/Matter: Traditional WiFi plugs work fine but can strain your router if you have dozens. Thread and Matter plugs create a mesh network and respond faster.
- Amperage rating: Most smart plugs handle 15 amps, which is fine for lamps, fans, and small appliances. Do not use them with space heaters or high-draw devices unless rated for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart plugs use a lot of electricity on their own?
No. A smart plug uses about 1-2 watts when idle, which costs less than $2 per year. The energy savings from automating devices usually more than make up for it.
Can smart plugs work without WiFi?
Most WiFi smart plugs need an internet connection to work via voice or app. Thread and Matter-enabled plugs can work locally on your home network without internet. Physical on/off buttons still work without WiFi on most models.
Are smart plugs safe to use?
Yes, as long as you buy from reputable brands and do not exceed the amperage rating. Look for plugs with ETL or UL safety certification and built-in surge protection.
Can I use a smart plug with a space heater?
Most manufacturers recommend against it due to the high power draw. Some smart plugs rated for 15A can technically handle small heaters, but it is safer to use a smart thermostat instead.
Final Thoughts
Smart plugs deliver the biggest bang for your buck in smart home tech. Start with one or two for your most-used devices and you will quickly want them everywhere. Stick with our top picks and you will have reliable, frustration-free control.