Best Smart Plugs and Smart Power Strips 2026: 5 Cheap Upgrades That Make Any Home Smarter

Want a smarter home without replacing every appliance? A smart plug is the cheapest, easiest way to start. Plug it in, connect it to your Wi-Fi, and suddenly that old lamp, fan, or coffee maker responds to your voice, your phone, and a schedule. With fall in full swing and Prime Big Deal Days pushing prices down, 2026 is a great moment to stock up.

Why smart plugs are worth it

Smart plugs cost a fraction of most smart home gear, but the payoff is real: automated lighting for darker evenings, holiday decorations on a timer, and the peace of mind of switching off a space heater from your phone. Many models also track energy use, so you can see which devices quietly drain power.

What to look for before you buy

• Ecosystem support: Check compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, or Matter, the cross-platform standard that makes setup easier.
• Size: Compact "mini" designs let you use both outlets on a wall socket.
• Energy monitoring: Handy for finding power-hungry devices.
• Load rating: Most plugs handle about 15 amps, but check the rating before using one with heaters or other high-draw appliances.
• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: Many budget plugs only connect to 2.4GHz networks, so confirm yours supports it.

5 smart plugs and power strips worth considering

1. Kasa Smart Plug Mini (TP-Link)

A long-time crowd favorite: compact, reliable, and easy to set up, with scheduling and voice control. Great as a first smart plug. Check Kasa Smart Plug Mini on Amazon.

What we like: Small footprint, simple app, works with major voice assistants.
Other things to know: Needs a 2.4GHz network. Often sold in multi-packs, which is where the best value is.

2. Amazon Smart Plug

The no-fuss pick for Alexa households. Setup takes moments, and it works naturally with routines. Check Amazon Smart Plug on Amazon.

What we like: Painless Alexa setup and an inexpensive price that often dips during sales events.
Other things to know: Best suited to Alexa users, with fewer extras than some rivals.

3. Wemo / Matter-Enabled Smart Plugs

If you want flexibility across Apple, Google, and Amazon platforms, look for a Matter-compatible plug. They make it easy to switch ecosystems later without replacing hardware. Browse Matter smart plugs on Amazon.

What we like: Future-proof and works across platforms.
Other things to know: Pairing steps vary by brand, so read the setup guide first.

4. Outdoor Smart Plugs

Perfect for patio lights, fall displays, and holiday decorations. Look for a weather-resistant rating and a dual-outlet design. Browse outdoor smart plugs on Amazon.

What we like: Set lights to switch on at sunset automatically.
Other things to know: Check the IP rating and keep connections protected from direct water.

5. Smart Power Strips

Ideal for a home office or entertainment center: individually controlled outlets plus surge protection and USB charging ports. Cut power to standby-hungry gear with one command. Browse smart power strips on Amazon.

What we like: One device controls several outlets, and surge protection guards your electronics.
Other things to know: Bulkier than a single plug, so check cord length and outlet spacing.

Smart ways to use them this fall

• Schedule lamps to switch on before you get home as evenings get darker.
• Put your router on a plug for a quick remote reboot when the Wi-Fi acts up.
• Turn off chargers and entertainment gear at night to reduce standby power.
• Automate string lights and seasonal decor.

Safety note: Always check a device's wattage against the plug's rating, and be cautious with high-power appliances like space heaters. Follow the manufacturer's guidance.

How to snag a real deal

Smart plugs are frequently discounted in multi-packs during sales events. Compare the per-plug price, check that the brand supports your ecosystem, and don't pay extra for features you won't use.

The bottom line

For a small spend, smart plugs deliver one of the best returns in home tech. Start with a two-pack, automate a lamp and your router, and expand from there.