What are the best smart plugs of 2024? Smart devices are becoming increasingly important in our households. In addition to smart smoke detectors and smart thermostat buttons, we also use sockets that are “smart”. Not without reason, because these plugs provide you with many advantages. Such as operating and making devices smart and saving energy.
In this article you can read all about the advantages of a smart socket and what you should pay attention to when purchasing. You can also read how to install and set up WiFi plugs. Of course, you can also choose from our top 5 with the best smart plugs of the year 2024.
What is a smart plug?
A smart socket connects the plug of a device to the existing socket in the house. You can then connect the device to the Wi-Fi home network. You can then not only operate and set devices remotely, but also make them smart. Just think of the lighting in the living room or the washing machine, for example. In addition to making regular devices smart, a smart plug has a number of useful functions.
For example, you can monitor the power consumption of a device in detail. You can also prevent standby consumption. With a Wi-Fi plug, you can also save on energy. You can also connect a smart socket to various smart home systems. Such as Google Home or Amazon Alexa, for example. This way, you can make every device in the house smart.
How do smart plugs work?
Smart plugs act as a go-between for your electrical appliances and a wall outlet. By plugging an appliance into the smart plug and then plugging the smart plug into a regular wall outlet, you can control the power to that appliance using an app or voice command.
The smart plug connects to your home’s Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network, allowing it to communicate with your smartphone, tablet, or voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Once connected, the smart plug receives instructions via the app or voice command to turn the power on or off, set up automations, or track energy usage.
Here’s a basic overview of how they work:
- Setup: Plug the smart plug into a wall outlet and connect it to your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network using a dedicated app.
- Device control: Once the plug is installed, you can connect an appliance (such as a lamp, coffee maker, or heater) to the smart plug. The app lets you control the appliance remotely.
- Energy usage tracking: Many smart plugs also have energy usage monitoring, which lets you track how much power an appliance is using and even set limits to reduce energy waste.
- Automation: Smart plugs can schedule on and off times, so you can automate when certain appliances start or stop working, even when you’re not home.
- Voice commands: If your smart plug is compatible with smart home systems (such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit), you can control appliances using voice commands.
Smart plugs make your existing appliances “smart,” allowing you to control them remotely, save energy, and enjoy convenience without having to replace the entire appliance.
Best Smart Plugs
1. Philips Hue Smart Plug
The Philips Hue plug is suitable for making the lighting or other devices in your home smart. In addition, this smart socket is also compatible with voice control. You can also use these smart sockets in combination with the app. Do you own a Philips Hue Bridge? Then you can also provide lighting and equipment with a timer. You can connect up to 12 light points. This smart plug works via Bluetooth.
Pros:
- Smart Lighting Control: Allows you to make existing lighting “smart” by connecting it to the Philips Hue system, which can be controlled via the app or voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
- Compact and Discreet Design: The small, compact size makes it unobtrusive, and it includes an on/off switch on top for manual control.
- Hue Bridge Compatibility: Unlocks more advanced features such as timers, remote control when you’re not home, and support for up to 50 connected devices when paired with the Hue Bridge.
- Geofencing Feature: Automatically turns on the lights when you arrive home, enhancing convenience and security.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with several major smart home platforms, including Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and more.
- Grounded Plug (Type F): Suitable for use in many European countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and more.
- Energy-efficient: No dim function, which could potentially lead to lower energy consumption in comparison to more complex smart plugs.
Cons:
- No Dimming Function: The plug does not support dimming, limiting its functionality with certain types of lighting.
- Hue Bridge Required for Full Features: While basic functionality is available via Bluetooth, advanced features (e.g., timers, remote control) require the purchase of a separate Hue Bridge.
- Indoor Use Only: This plug is designed for indoor use only, making it unsuitable for outdoor lighting or devices.
- IP20 Rating: Provides limited protection against dust and no protection against water, which might not be ideal for all environments.
- No Built-in Sensor: The plug lacks features like motion detection or other sensors, which may limit automation options.
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Only: If the user doesn’t have a compatible Wi-Fi network, setup may be more challenging.
2. Igonic Smart Plug
This Igonic plug can be used in combination with the SmartLife app on your phone or tablet. There you can also keep track of the power consumption per device. This smart socket has an automatic on and off switch, but also a timer. In addition, you can use this smart wifi plug in combination with Alexa or Google Home. Via the application, the plugs are easy to manage in one group or separately, but you can also share devices.
Pros:
- Easy Installation: The plug can be set up in under 5 minutes via the free SmartLife app, making it accessible even for beginners.
- Energy Monitoring: Comes with an integrated energy meter, allowing users to track energy consumption and make informed decisions to save on electricity costs.
- No Hub Required: The smart plug works directly with a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network, eliminating the need for an additional hub or bridge.
- Voice Control: Compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, enabling hands-free control via voice commands.
- Customizable Automation: Allows for automatic on/off schedules based on set times, sunrise/sunset, or arrival/departure, making it convenient for users who want full automation.
- Group Management: Multiple smart plugs can be grouped together in the app, so you can control several devices (like all the lights in a room) with one button.
- Family Sharing: The app supports multiple users, so all household members can access and control the smart devices.
- Remote Control: Devices can be controlled remotely from anywhere via Wi-Fi or 4G, making it ideal for managing home appliances while away.
Cons:
- Indoor Use Only: The plug is designed exclusively for indoor use, limiting its versatility for outdoor lighting or appliances.
- No Dimmer Function: Lacks the ability to dim lights, which may be a downside for users looking for more control over lighting intensity.
- No Built-in Child Protection: Does not feature child safety mechanisms, which could be a concern for homes with young children.
- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi: Only compatible with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, which might be restrictive for users with 5 GHz networks.
- Not Waterproof: The plug is not water-resistant, which could be a limitation in humid or damp environments.
- No USB Ports: It lacks additional USB ports, which could be useful for charging other devices.
- Basic Smart Home Protocol: It uses a brand-specific protocol and may not support more advanced smart home ecosystems like Matter in the future.
3. TP-Link Tapo P115
This compact plug from TP-Link makes all your household appliances smart. You can control the smart socket with your voice via Google Home or Alexa. In addition to voice control, you can also save money with the energy monitoring mode in the app. You can manage devices in one room in one group and switch them on or off. In addition, this smart WiFi plug from TP-Link has an automatic switch-off. The Tapo is made of flame-retardant material and is equipped with a child lock for extra safety.
Pros:
- Compact Design: The small size allows you to use adjacent sockets, making it practical for tight spaces or multiple devices.
- Energy Monitoring: The plug includes real-time power consumption monitoring, helping users track energy usage and save on electricity costs.
- Remote Control via App: Devices can be controlled remotely from any location using the Tapo app, providing convenience for managing appliances on the go.
- Voice Control: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free operation of connected devices via voice commands.
- Scheduling and Timers: You can set up automated schedules or timers for connected devices, ensuring they only operate when needed, which can save energy and add convenience.
- Group Management: Devices can be grouped with other Tapo smart devices, allowing for one-tap control of multiple devices simultaneously.
- Power-Off Memory: In case of a power outage or loss of internet connection, the plug will still execute pre-set schedules once the power is restored.
- Safety Features: Made with flame-retardant materials (UL94-V0 PC) and includes safety features like child protection and anti-tampering measures to prevent electrical shocks.
- No Hub Required: The plug connects directly to Wi-Fi without needing a separate hub or bridge, simplifying installation and use.
Cons:
- Indoor Use Only: The plug is designed exclusively for indoor use, which limits its versatility for outdoor applications.
- No Dimming Function: The device lacks a dimming feature, which may be a downside for users who want more control over lighting.
- No USB Ports: There are no additional USB ports, which could have been useful for charging smaller devices like phones or tablets.
- No Built-in Switch: The plug does not include a physical on/off button, meaning all control must be done through the app or voice command.
- No Smart Home Platform Integration: While it works with Alexa and Google, it lacks deeper integration with broader smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit or Matter.
- Limited Safety Certifications: While the product meets CE and UKCA standards, some users may prefer more comprehensive international safety certifications.
- Lacks Water Resistance: The plug is not water-resistant (no IP rating), so it cannot be used in damp or humid environments.
4. Docci SP77 Wifi Smart Plug
This smart plug from Docci can be used to make all your household appliances smart. Without needing a subscription or a bridge. You can also control the smart plug with your voice. Via SmartThings, Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The Docci SP77 smart plug with wifi can also be used with the Apple HomeKit. For this you do need a hub that is compatible with the above systems. Via the app you can keep track of how much power a device uses or set the timer function.
5. Smartify Smart Plug
With the Smart Plug from Smartify you can make all devices with a plug smart. You do not need a bridge or base station for this. Via an application on your phone you can switch connected devices on and off remotely. You can also automate this by using the timer function. In addition, you can keep track of exactly how much energy a device uses. The smart plug from Smartify has an energy meter. You can also operate your devices with your voice. The smart plug is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. The socket works via a 2.4 Ghz wifi network.
Pros:
- Remote Control: The Smartify smart plug allows you to control connected devices remotely via the SmartLife app, making it convenient to turn appliances on or off from anywhere.
- Energy Monitoring: The integrated energy meter tracks the power consumption of your devices, helping you identify energy-hungry appliances and save on electricity bills.
- Timer Function: You can set timers to automate when devices are turned on or off, which can save energy and ensure appliances like lights or coffee makers are ready when needed.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: It is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free voice control of connected devices.
- Easy Installation: The plug is easy to set up without any complex technical knowledge, making it accessible for all users.
- No Hub Required: The Smartify smart plug connects directly to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network, eliminating the need for an additional hub or bridge.
- Smart Notifications: The app sends notifications when a device is turned on or off, keeping you informed about your appliances’ status.
- Affordable Energy Savings: By turning off devices remotely and monitoring their energy usage, the plug helps prevent unnecessary power consumption, saving both money and energy.
Cons:
- Indoor Use Only: The plug is designed for indoor use, which limits its applications for outdoor devices or areas exposed to moisture.
- No USB Ports: There are no additional USB ports for charging other devices, limiting its versatility.
- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi: The plug only works on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, which could be a limitation for users with more advanced 5 GHz networks.
- No Dimmer Function: The plug lacks a dimming feature, which might be a disadvantage for users looking to control the brightness of their lights.
- No Child Safety Features: The plug does not include built-in childproofing, which might be a concern for families with young children.
- Not Water-Resistant: The plug is not waterproof, which means it cannot be used in humid environments or outdoors.
- No Integration with Other Smart Home Systems: While it works with Alexa and Google Assistant, it lacks compatibility with more advanced smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit or Matter.
Benefits of using smart plugs
Energy saving and efficiency
With smart plugs you can save a lot on the final energy bill. You can easily switch off devices that consume a lot of power remotely or provide them with an automatic switch-off. In addition, a WiFi plug also offers more insight into consumption. Something that is almost impossible with a normal socket.
Convenience and remote control
Smart sockets also have many advantages in terms of ease of use. You can control any connected device remotely via an application on your phone. Not only when you are at home, but also on the road. Like the thermostat, for example.
Integration with smart home systems
Do you have a smart home system? You can easily integrate a smart plug with it. This allows you to even control devices via your voice. For example, via Apple Home Kit.
Important features to consider
The best smart plugs of 2024 have a number of important features. You can consider these when purchasing. For example, choose a smart socket with wifi or bluetooth, or go for smart plugs that you can connect to a smart home system.
- Compatibility with smart home systems: if you not only want to make the devices in your home smart but also want to be able to control them with your voice via your smart home system, it is important that the smart plug is suitable for this. Compatibility with systems such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home is an important feature.
- Connectivity: there are smart sockets that you can connect to the WiFi network, but there are also smart plugs that work on Bluetooth. A smart plug with Bluetooth has a shorter range than sockets with WiFi. These plugs are often used in combination with Apple’s HomeKit home system.
- Energy monitoring: not every smart socket has a monitoring function for the consumption of a device. Do you want to measure and keep track of how much power a device uses? Then the energy monitoring function is an important feature.
- Design and build quality: if you want to buy a smart plug, it is also important to pay attention to the design and the material. Of course, you want your socket to last a long time. The size of the plug is also important.
- Especially when you also want to use a duo socket for the plug of another device. Safety features: safety is also an important feature for a smart socket. Make sure that the plug has an automatic switch-off function. This allows you to switch devices on or off automatically or via an app. Even when you are not at home. You can also have the lighting switch on automatically when you are away. This gives the impression that you are at home. This contributes to burglary protection.
How to choose the right smart plug
Of course you want to choose a smart socket that completely meets your needs and the characteristics of your devices or home system. First of all, it is important to determine the budget for a smart plug. They are available in different price ranges. On average, the price for a good smart socket varies from approximately € 15.00 to € 50.00.
If you want to connect multiple devices to a smart socket, it is smart to buy a 4-pack or 3-pack. In many cases, this is cheaper than buying the plugs individually. When choosing the right smart plug, the functions are also important.
If you want to be able to switch devices on or off remotely at a specific time, a timer function is important. Do you want to keep track of exactly how much power a device uses?
Then pay attention to the presence of an energy meter that you can monitor via the app.
Do you have a Google, Alexa or Apple home system and do you also want to be able to control devices with your voice? Then it is important that the smart plug is compatible with voice control.
Installation and setup
Installing and setting up a smart socket is not difficult. For most plugs, it is necessary to first install the corresponding app. Then you turn on the smart plug and put it in the socket. You can connect the smart plug to the home WiFi network via the application on your smartphone or tablet. Once you are connected, you can put the plug of the desired device in the smart socket. You can then add this device in the app. You can then also set up the device via the app.
- For example, the Philips Hue Smart Plug is a smart plug via Bluetooth. When connecting your devices to the smart socket, make sure that Bluetooth is turned on.
- The Igonic Smart Plug is a smart socket that you can only use with a 2.4 Ghz WiFi network. This applies to most smart plugs. The Igonic does not work with 5G WiFi.
- The TP-Link Tapo P 115 has a simple setup via the application. In addition, you can use this smart plug for most devices, without needing a bridge.
- The Docci smart plug can be installed on both an iOS and an Android phone. For installation, you can easily download the Smart-Life application or the Tuya application.
- The Smartify Smart Plug has a clear application. From here you can install and set the socket. You can use timers and an energy meter.
- Veelvoorkomende problemen oplossen
Smart plug does not want to connect to the wifi network
If a smart plug does not want to connect to the wifi network, it is important to first check whether the regular socket works. For example with a different plug. If this is the case, you can try whether the smart plug works in a different socket.
Reset the smart plug according to the manual and try to connect to the wifi network again. Also check whether the smartphone uses the same network. Please note that most smart sockets only work via 2.4 Ghz wifi.
Smart plug does not show power consumption in the app
Sometimes it happens that the power consumption is not shown in the app. Please note that not all smart sockets have this function. It takes some time before the consumption display is shown in the application. Unplug the smart plug and plug it in. The consumption is often displayed correctly afterwards.
Smart plug no longer works after a power outage
If there has been a power outage, the smart socket will switch itself off. So switch the smart plugs on manually when the power outage is over. This can be done manually via the button on the socket, but also via the application, for example.
Smart Plug Applications
Smart plugs can be used in countless ways to make your daily life easier, more energy efficient, and safer. Here are some practical applications of smart plugs to consider:
- Automatically turn lights on and off
Smart plugs make it easy to turn lights on or off remotely, both at home and away. You can set timers or schedules so that lights automatically turn on when it gets dark, or turn off when you go to bed. This not only helps save energy, but can also increase security by giving the impression that someone is home, even when they are not. - Save energy with standby appliances
Many appliances consume power even when they are not actively in use. With smart plugs, you can completely switch off these “silent consumers” when they are not needed, such as televisions, computers or coffee makers. This can have a significant impact on your energy bill. - Manage heating and cooling systems
Smart plugs can be linked to fans, heaters or air conditioners, so that you can switch them on or off remotely. For example, you can turn on the heating before you get home or automatically switch off a fan after a certain time, reducing energy waste. Automate appliances for convenience
Make your daily routines easier by pre-programming appliances such as coffee makers, toasters or kettles. For example, you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee in the morning by setting your coffee maker to automatically turn on at a certain time. - Appliance security
Smart plugs are ideal for making appliances such as irons or hair dryers safer. With the ability to turn these devices off remotely, you can always leave the house with peace of mind without worrying whether you left an appliance on. - Manage electrical appliance charging
You can use smart plugs to manage the charging of electrical appliances such as phones, tablets or laptops. For example, set a timer to stop charging when the device is fully charged, to prevent overloading and save energy. - Automate seasonal lighting
For holidays or special occasions, you can use smart plugs to automatically switch on and off decorative lighting such as Christmas lights. This provides convenience and better management of your electricity consumption.
Smart Plugs and Compatibility with Energy Plans
A key benefit of smart plugs is that they can help you save energy, especially when combined with energy plans that have variable rates, such as peak and off-peak. These are energy plans where the cost of electricity fluctuates based on demand throughout the day. Smart plugs can help optimize energy usage by automatically switching appliances on or off based on these rates.
Here are a few ways smart plugs can be compatible with different energy plans:
- Off-peak usage: Smart plugs let you schedule appliances to turn on during off-peak hours, when electricity prices are lower. This includes charging appliances like phones, laptops, or turning on a washing machine in the early morning or late evening when rates are lower.
- Automatic shut-off during peak hours: If your smart plug is compatible with an energy plan that has peak rates, you can schedule high-energy appliances like air conditioners or space heaters to automatically turn off during peak hours. This can help significantly reduce your energy costs.
- Real-time energy usage monitoring: Smart plugs with energy monitoring features give you insight into the energy usage of your appliances. This allows you to see which appliances are using the most power and decide to only use them during cheaper hours.
- Integration with smart energy management systems: Some smart plugs are compatible with advanced energy management systems that connect directly to your energy provider. These systems can automatically manage your smart plugs based on current energy prices and your household’s consumption patterns.
By using smart plugs in combination with variable energy plans, you can optimize your energy usage and ultimately save money on your electricity bill. This makes them a smart choice for any household trying to be more conscious about energy usage and costs.
Smart Plugs for Outdoor Use
Smart plugs are not only useful for indoor use, but there are also special models that are suitable for outdoor use. These outdoor smart plugs offer the same benefits as indoor ones, such as remote control of appliances and automating schedules, but they are designed to withstand the elements, such as rain, snow, and dust. Here are some uses and features of smart plugs for outdoor use:
- Automate outdoor lighting
With a smart outdoor plug, you can easily automate garden and patio lighting. Set a schedule so that the lights automatically turn on at sunset and turn off at sunrise. This not only provides convenience, but also increases the security around your home. - Control electric garden tools
Connect electric garden equipment, such as lawn mowers, water pumps or pond filters, to a smart plug to control them remotely. This can be useful when you are on holiday or when you only want to run appliances at certain times. - Control heated patios or pools
Smart plugs can be used to turn on outdoor heaters or pool pumps remotely. This allows you to save energy by only turning them on when needed, for example just before your guests arrive. - Compatibility with weatherproof materials
Smart outdoor plugs are specially designed with weatherproof housings and IP ratings (usually IP44 or higher) that provide protection against rain and dust. This makes them ideal for use in outdoor areas and other demanding environments. Safety measures for outdoor devices - Outdoor smart plugs can also increase safety. For example, you can set a schedule to automatically turn off devices such as a patio heater, which not only saves energy but also reduces safety risks.
- Ease of use via apps and voice control
Just like indoors, most outdoor smart plugs are compatible with apps and smart home systems such as Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. This makes it easy to control devices outside with your voice or via an app, without having to go outside.
Conclusion
In this buying guide for the best smart plugs of 2024, you have been able to read how these smart sockets work and what the benefits are of making your household appliances smart with a smart plug. Of course, you can also choose from the 5 best smart sockets of the moment. This allows you to switch devices on and off remotely and gives you more insight into the power consumption of the equipment in your home.
