The Best Smart Plugs for Every Budget
Smart plugs were my first step into home automation. A $12 Walmart plug that let me turn a lamp on from my phone. Five years later, I have 11 smart plugs running in my house. Here are the ones worth buying.
Under $10
Amazon Smart Plug – $8 on sale (regularly $25, always on sale). Compact, reliable, works with Alexa instantly. No hub needed. This is the plug I recommend to everyone starting out.
Under $20
Kasa Smart Plug Mini (EP10) – $10-15. Works with Alexa and Google Home. The Kasa app has better scheduling options than the Amazon plug. Also tracks energy usage on the EP25 model ($18).
Outdoor Plugs
Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug (EP40) – $22. Two outlets, weather-resistant, individual control. I use one for my porch lights and holiday decorations.
What to Plug In
Lamps (turn on at sunset), fans (schedule for bedtime), coffee makers (brew before your alarm), space heaters (pre-warm your bathroom). Avoid high-draw appliances like portable ACs – most smart plugs max out at 15 amps.
