Tired of juggling multiple chargers and wishing you had more control over your home’s energy consumption? The modern home is increasingly powered by a connected ecosystem, and at the heart of it all lies the humble power strip, now reimagined with intelligent capabilities. Our comprehensive review and buying guide dives deep into the world of the best smart power strips, arming you with the knowledge to transform your chaotic tangle of cords into an organized, energy-efficient, and remotely controllable hub.
From scheduling appliances to monitoring energy usage and even integrating with your existing smart home assistants, these devices offer a level of convenience and efficiency previously unimaginable. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast looking to optimize your setup or simply want to cut down on phantom energy drain, understanding what makes a power strip “smart” and which ones truly deliver is paramount. Let’s explore the top contenders and help you make the smartest choice for your home.
Before we get to our review of the best smart power strips, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
Last update on 2025-08-28 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Understanding Smart Power Strips
In today’s increasingly connected world, the traditional power strip has evolved into a sophisticated device capable of managing and optimizing your home’s energy consumption. Smart power strips, also known as connected or intelligent power strips, integrate Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing them to be controlled remotely via a smartphone app or voice commands. This advanced functionality goes beyond simply providing multiple outlets; they offer a level of control and insight previously unavailable.
The primary advantage of a smart power strip lies in its ability to provide granular control over individual connected devices. Many models feature independently controllable outlets, meaning you can switch specific devices on or off without affecting others. This is incredibly useful for automating routine tasks, such as turning off electronics at night to save energy or ensuring a coffee maker starts brewing at a set time.
Beyond basic on/off control, smart power strips often offer advanced features like energy monitoring. This allows users to track the power consumption of individual appliances, providing valuable data to identify energy-hungry devices and opportunities for savings. Furthermore, some smart power strips support features like scheduling, scene creation, and integration with other smart home devices, enabling a more cohesive and automated living environment. When seeking the best smart power strips, consider these functionalities to maximize your home’s efficiency and convenience.
In essence, smart power strips bridge the gap between convenience and energy efficiency. They empower users to take greater control over their electronics, reduce phantom energy drain, and streamline daily routines. Whether you’re looking to automate your home, save on electricity bills, or simply have more convenient control over your devices, a smart power strip is a valuable addition to any modern household.
Top 5 Best Smart Power Strips
TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip KP303
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip KP303 offers a fantastic blend of affordability and functionality, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to smarten up their home entertainment or office setup. With three individually controllable smart outlets and three always-on USB ports, it provides ample flexibility for managing multiple devices. The Kasa app is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for scheduling, remote control, and even voice control integration with popular assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. Setting up new devices is a breeze, and the reliable Wi-Fi connection ensures your commands are executed promptly.
Beyond its core smart features, the KP303 boasts a decent surge protection rating, offering peace of mind against unexpected power fluctuations that could damage your valuable electronics. The compact design helps to minimize clutter, and the generous cord length provides good reach to your power source. While it might not have as many outlets or advanced features as some higher-end models, its performance, ease of use, and attractive price point make it a standout option for everyday smart home automation needs.
Wemo WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
The Wemo WiFi Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring is a robust and reliable option for those seeking to gain granular control and insight into their energy consumption. This single smart plug allows you to remotely control any connected device, set schedules, and, most impressively, monitor its real-time energy usage. The Wemo app is well-designed and offers a clear overview of power consumption, helping users identify energy-hungry appliances and potentially reduce their electricity bills. Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit means seamless integration into existing smart home ecosystems.
What truly sets the Wemo Smart Plug apart is its dedication to energy monitoring, a feature that’s becoming increasingly important for eco-conscious consumers. The ease with which you can track appliance usage and set up rules based on energy consumption is a significant advantage. While it’s a single plug, its robust build quality and reliable performance make it a solid investment for controlling and optimizing specific devices, especially those known for their energy demands or for simply adding a touch of smart convenience to everyday items.
AnkerWork PowerExpand 6-in-1 USB-C PD Charging Station
While not a traditional power strip in the sense of offering multiple AC outlets, the AnkerWork PowerExpand 6-in-1 USB-C PD Charging Station is an innovative solution for managing the charging needs of modern devices. This compact powerhouse consolidates multiple essential ports into a single, stylish unit, including a 60W USB-C PD port, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, an SD card reader, and a microSD card reader. This makes it incredibly useful for laptop users, photographers, and anyone who relies heavily on USB-C connectivity.
The charging station’s strength lies in its versatility and Anker’s reputation for quality. The Power Delivery ensures fast and efficient charging for compatible laptops and devices, while the additional ports expand the functionality of your USB-C enabled machines. It’s ideal for decluttering workspaces and providing a central hub for charging and data transfer. For those whose primary need is smart device management through USB-C and data connectivity rather than traditional AC outlets, this charging station is a superior and highly functional alternative.
Gosund Smart Power Strip SP811
The Gosund Smart Power Strip SP811 is a budget-friendly yet highly capable smart power strip that delivers on its promise of convenience and control. Featuring four individually controlled smart outlets and four USB ports, it provides ample capacity for managing a variety of electronics. The accompanying Gosund app is straightforward, allowing users to easily set schedules, create custom routines, and control each outlet remotely. It also integrates seamlessly with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, adding a layer of hands-free convenience.
This smart power strip is a great entry-level option for those new to home automation. The individual outlet control is a key feature, enabling users to power down devices completely or schedule them to turn on and off at specific times, which can lead to energy savings. The inclusion of USB ports is a welcome addition, reducing the need for separate USB wall adapters. While it might lack some of the advanced features found in premium models, its core functionality, ease of use, and competitive price make the Gosund SP811 a highly recommended choice for basic smart power management.
Wyze Plug Power Strip
The Wyze Plug Power Strip is an attractive option for users already invested in the Wyze ecosystem or those seeking a simple and affordable smart power strip. It offers four individually controllable smart outlets and two USB ports, providing a good balance of functionality for everyday use. The Wyze app, known for its user-friendliness, allows for easy scheduling, remote access, and integration with other Wyze devices, creating a cohesive smart home experience. Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant is also included.
What makes the Wyze Plug Power Strip stand out is its value proposition, offering robust smart features at a very competitive price point. The ability to control each outlet independently is a significant advantage, allowing users to automate the power flow to different devices. The USB ports are a convenient bonus, useful for charging phones or tablets. While it may not offer the same level of surge protection as some higher-end models, its reliability, ease of setup, and seamless integration within the Wyze smart home platform make it an excellent choice for those looking to smarten up their entertainment center, office, or any area with multiple electronic devices.
Why You Need a Smart Power Strip
In today’s technologically advanced world, our homes are filled with an ever-increasing number of electronic devices. From chargers and entertainment systems to kitchen appliances and smart home hubs, these gadgets often draw power even when they are turned off, leading to wasted energy and higher electricity bills. This phenomenon, known as “phantom load” or “vampire power,” can significantly impact your energy consumption without you even realizing it. This is where a smart power strip becomes an invaluable tool for modern living.
Smart power strips offer a convenient and efficient way to manage your power usage. Unlike traditional power strips, they come equipped with advanced features that allow you to control individual outlets remotely or on a schedule. This means you can automatically cut power to devices that are not in use, effectively eliminating phantom load and saving you money. Imagine waking up to a house where all your standby devices are already powered down, ready to be activated only when needed.
Beyond energy savings, smart power strips also enhance the functionality and convenience of your home. Many models integrate with smart home ecosystems, allowing you to control your plugged-in devices using voice commands or through smartphone apps. This enables features like setting timers for your coffee maker to start brewing before you wake up, or ensuring that your gaming console is completely powered off after a late-night session. For those seeking the best smart power strips, this level of control and integration is a major draw.
Ultimately, investing in a smart power strip is a forward-thinking decision that benefits both your wallet and the environment. By intelligently managing your energy consumption, you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Furthermore, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your devices are not unnecessarily draining power, coupled with the added convenience of remote control, makes a smart power strip a worthwhile addition to any home.
How Smart Power Strips Enhance Your Daily Life
Smart power strips offer a level of convenience and control that traditional power strips simply cannot match. Imagine the ability to remotely turn off all your entertainment devices with a single tap on your smartphone, or schedule your lights to turn on at dusk without needing to be home. This seamless integration into your daily routine eliminates the need for manual operation of multiple switches, saving you time and effort.
Beyond simple on/off functionality, smart power strips allow for granular control over individual outlets. This means you can power cycle specific devices that might be acting up, such as a router or a smart TV, without unplugging the entire strip. This troubleshooting capability can save you from unnecessary service calls or prolonged periods of device downtime.
Furthermore, the energy monitoring features often found in smart power strips provide valuable insights into your household’s electricity consumption. By identifying which devices are consuming the most power, you can make informed decisions about energy efficiency, potentially leading to lower utility bills and a more sustainable lifestyle.
Key Features to Consider in a Smart Power Strip
When evaluating smart power strips, understanding their core features is paramount. Connectivity is a crucial aspect – look for compatibility with your existing smart home ecosystem, whether that’s Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or specific protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave. The ease of setup and the reliability of the app interface also play a significant role in the overall user experience.
Another vital consideration is the number and type of outlets. Do you need standard AC outlets, USB ports for charging devices, or even surge protection for sensitive electronics? Some advanced models offer individual outlet control, allowing you to manage each port independently, which is invaluable for optimizing power usage and scheduling.
Security and privacy are also important. Ensure the smart power strip and its associated app employ robust security measures to protect your data and prevent unauthorized access. Always opt for reputable brands that prioritize user privacy and regularly update their firmware to address any potential vulnerabilities.
Integrating Smart Power Strips with Your Smart Home Ecosystem
The true power of a smart power strip is unleashed when it’s seamlessly integrated into your existing smart home setup. Many popular models work with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, allowing you to control your connected devices using simple voice commands. This hands-free operation adds a layer of effortless convenience to managing your home.
Beyond voice control, smart power strips can be incorporated into automated routines and scenes. For instance, you can create a “Goodnight” scene that turns off all lights, entertainment systems, and other non-essential appliances with a single command. Similarly, a “Wake Up” routine could gradually turn on your bedroom lamp and start your coffee maker.
Ifttt (If This Then That) integration is another powerful avenue for automation. This platform allows you to create custom applets that connect different devices and services. You could, for example, set up an applet where your smart power strip automatically turns off a specific appliance if your smart smoke detector senses smoke, adding an extra layer of safety.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Smart Power Strips
Despite their advanced technology, users may occasionally encounter issues with smart power strips. One of the most common problems is connectivity loss. This can often be resolved by simply restarting your Wi-Fi router, ensuring the power strip is within range, or checking for any network interference from other devices.
If individual outlets are not responding, it’s worth checking the associated app to ensure the specific outlet is enabled and that there are no scheduling conflicts. Sometimes, a simple firmware update for the power strip itself can resolve erratic behavior or unresponsiveness. Always refer to the manufacturer’s support documentation for specific troubleshooting steps.
Another potential issue involves power fluctuations or surges. While many smart power strips offer surge protection, it’s essential to ensure the strip itself is plugged into a properly grounded outlet. If you suspect the power strip is not functioning correctly, it’s best to disconnect it and consult the manufacturer for assistance rather than attempting to repair it yourself.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Smart Power Strips
Smart power strips offer a convenient and efficient way to manage your electronic devices, providing remote control, scheduling, and energy monitoring capabilities. Whether you’re looking to reduce standby power consumption, automate your home entertainment system, or simply gain better control over your plugged-in devices, the right smart power strip can make a significant difference. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider to ensure you find the perfect smart power strip for your needs.
Connectivity and App Compatibility
The foundation of any smart power strip lies in its connectivity. Most smart power strips rely on Wi-Fi to connect to your home network, allowing you to control them remotely via a smartphone app. When evaluating a smart power strip, ensure it supports a reliable Wi-Fi standard (like 802.11 b/g/n) and has a strong signal range. The accompanying app is equally crucial. Look for an app that is intuitive, user-friendly, and offers robust features such as individual outlet control, scheduling, timers, and energy usage monitoring. Compatibility with major smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit is a significant advantage, enabling voice control and seamless integration with your existing smart home setup.
Consider the ease of setup for both the power strip and the app. A straightforward pairing process will save you time and frustration. Some brands offer proprietary apps, while others integrate with broader smart home platforms. If you’re already invested in a particular ecosystem, choosing a smart power strip that works with it will enhance your overall smart home experience. Additionally, check if the app receives regular updates, as this indicates ongoing support and potential new features.
Number of Outlets and Individual Control
The number of outlets a smart power strip provides is a primary consideration, directly impacting how many devices you can manage simultaneously. Assess your current and future needs. Do you need to control a few devices, or a complex entertainment center with multiple components? Smart power strips typically come with 4 to 8 individually controllable outlets, but some offer more. Beyond the total number, the ability to control each outlet independently is a key differentiator. This feature allows you to turn specific devices on or off without affecting others, offering granular control and energy-saving opportunities.
Individually controlled outlets are particularly useful for devices that have different power requirements or usage patterns. For example, you might want to schedule your modem and router to power cycle daily, while keeping your gaming console or television on standby. The physical layout and spacing of the outlets also matter. Ensure there’s enough room between outlets to accommodate larger power adapters and wall warts without blocking adjacent sockets.
Surge Protection and Safety Features
While smart functionality is a major draw, the core purpose of a power strip remains to protect your valuable electronics from power surges and voltage spikes. Look for smart power strips that explicitly state their surge protection capabilities, often measured in Joules. A higher Joule rating generally indicates better protection. It’s also important to consider the clamping voltage, which is the voltage level at which the surge protector begins to divert excess electricity. A lower clamping voltage provides more effective protection.
Beyond surge protection, investigate other safety features. Many smart power strips incorporate overload protection, which automatically shuts off power if the total current draw exceeds a safe limit, preventing overheating and potential fires. Look for certifications from reputable safety organizations like UL or ETL, which ensure the product has been tested for safety and meets industry standards. Some advanced models might also offer features like undervoltage protection or GFCI outlets for added safety in specific environments.
Energy Monitoring and Management
One of the most significant benefits of smart power strips is their ability to track and report energy consumption. This feature allows you to identify energy-hungry devices and make informed decisions about how to reduce your electricity bill and carbon footprint. Look for smart power strips that provide detailed energy reports, often broken down by individual outlet. This data can be presented in various formats, such as real-time wattage, daily or monthly kilowatt-hour (kWh) usage, and estimated costs.
Effective energy management can lead to substantial savings. By understanding which devices consume the most power, especially in standby mode (vampire drain), you can strategically turn them off when not in use. Some smart power strips offer advanced energy-saving modes or automation routines based on your energy usage patterns. This proactive approach to energy management is a key reason why many consumers opt for the best smart power strips.
Integration with Voice Assistants and Smart Home Ecosystems
For users who have already invested in a smart home ecosystem, seamless integration with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit is paramount. This allows you to control your smart power strip and connected devices using voice commands. For instance, you can say, “Alexa, turn off the living room TV,” or “Hey Google, turn on the desk lamp.” This hands-free convenience adds a significant layer of usability to your smart home setup.
Consider the breadth of integration beyond basic on/off commands. Can you set schedules or routines using your voice assistant? Does the power strip integrate with other smart devices in your home? For example, you could create an automation where turning off your smart TV also turns off the soundbar and game console connected to the smart power strip. The more comprehensive the integration, the more powerful and convenient your smart home becomes.
Build Quality and Design
While functionality is key, the physical construction and design of a smart power strip should also be taken into account. A well-built power strip will feel robust and durable, with sturdy casing and reliable internal components. Pay attention to the quality of the power cord and the plug; they should feel solid and secure. The overall design should also be practical for your intended use. Consider the length of the power cord to ensure it can reach your desired power source without stretching or creating tripping hazards.
The aesthetics of the power strip might also be a factor, especially if it will be visible in your living space. Some smart power strips feature a sleek, modern design that blends in well, while others are more utilitarian. Additionally, think about the mounting options. Some smart power strips can be mounted to a wall or desk, which can help with cable management and keep your space tidy. The placement of the power button and any indicator lights should also be considered for ease of access and clarity.
FAQs
What is a smart power strip?
A smart power strip is essentially a power strip with integrated Wi-Fi connectivity and often Bluetooth or Zigbee, allowing you to control each individual outlet remotely. This remote control is typically managed through a smartphone app, and many smart power strips also offer voice control integration with popular virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Beyond basic on/off functionality, smart power strips often provide features like scheduling, timers, energy monitoring for individual outlets, and the ability to group outlets for synchronized control. This level of automation and insight makes them a versatile tool for managing your home electronics.
What are the benefits of using a smart power strip?
The primary benefits of using a smart power strip revolve around convenience, energy savings, and enhanced control. You can turn devices on or off from anywhere using your smartphone, which is incredibly useful for devices you might forget to switch off or for activating appliances before you arrive home.
Furthermore, smart power strips can help reduce “phantom load” or standby power consumption by completely cutting power to devices when not in use. The energy monitoring features also provide valuable data on which devices are consuming the most power, allowing you to make informed decisions about energy efficiency and potentially lower your electricity bills.
How do I set up a smart power strip?
Setting up most smart power strips is a straightforward process that involves downloading the manufacturer’s dedicated app to your smartphone or tablet. Once the app is installed, you’ll typically need to create an account or log in, and then follow the in-app instructions to connect the power strip to your home Wi-Fi network.
This usually involves putting the smart power strip into pairing mode, often by pressing a button on the strip itself, and then selecting it from a list of available devices within the app. Once connected, you can start assigning names to each outlet, configuring schedules, and linking it to your preferred voice assistant.
Can I control individual outlets on a smart power strip?
Yes, a key feature of most smart power strips is the ability to control each individual outlet independently. This means you can turn on a lamp plugged into one outlet while keeping a fan plugged into another outlet off, all through the same smart power strip.
This granular control allows for more precise automation and energy management. For example, you could set a schedule to turn on your coffee maker in the morning and turn off your gaming console at bedtime, without affecting other devices connected to the strip.
Do smart power strips work with voice assistants?
Absolutely. A major advantage of smart power strips is their compatibility with popular voice assistants. Most models are designed to integrate seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and some may also support Apple’s HomeKit or Samsung’s SmartThings.
Once linked, you can use simple voice commands to control your connected devices. For instance, you could say, “Alexa, turn on the living room lamps,” or “Hey Google, turn off the TV,” providing a hands-free and convenient way to manage your electronics.
What are some common features to look for in a smart power strip?
When choosing a smart power strip, consider features like the number of smart outlets, whether they are individually controllable, and the type of surge protection offered. Also, look for compatibility with your existing smart home ecosystem, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or HomeKit.
Other important features include energy monitoring capabilities, the ability to set schedules and timers, USB charging ports for convenience, and robust security protocols to protect your network. The ease of use of the accompanying app and the overall build quality of the power strip are also worth evaluating.
Are smart power strips safe to use?
Generally, smart power strips are designed with safety in mind and include features like surge protection to safeguard your connected electronics from power fluctuations. However, as with any electrical device, it’s crucial to purchase from reputable brands and ensure the product meets relevant safety standards, such as those set by UL or ETL.
It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use, avoid overloading the strip beyond its stated capacity, and ensure it’s used in a dry, indoor environment. Keeping the firmware updated through the associated app can also help maintain security and performance.
Final Words
Investing in a smart power strip is a strategic decision for any modern home or office seeking enhanced control, convenience, and efficiency. By offering individual outlet management, energy monitoring capabilities, and seamless integration with voice assistants and smart home ecosystems, these devices empower users to optimize their energy consumption and streamline their daily routines. Whether you’re looking to automate your morning coffee routine, reduce phantom power drain from idle electronics, or simply gain greater command over your connected devices, the right smart power strip can significantly improve your living or working environment.
Our comprehensive review and buying guide aimed to equip you with the knowledge necessary to identify the best smart power strips that align with your specific needs and budget. By understanding the key features and benefits, and considering the diverse options available, you can confidently select a solution that not only simplifies your life but also contributes to a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. Embrace the intelligence and convenience of smart power strips and transform how you interact with your electronics.