What is a smart plug?
A smart plug is the simplest smart home device you can buy. You plug it into a wall socket, plug your appliance into it, and suddenly that appliance is smart. Control it from your phone, set schedules, monitor energy usage — no electrician, no wiring.
Why start with smart plugs?
They are cheap, instant, and give you a “wow” moment within 5 minutes of unboxing. Perfect first step into home automation.
Top 5 smart plugs in 2026
1. TP-Link Tapo P110 — Best Overall
Energy monitoring, scheduling, voice control with Alexa and Google. Matter-certified. Under €15. The gold standard for beginners.
2. Amazon Smart Plug — Best for Alexa Users
Zero setup if you already have an Echo device. Just say “Alexa, discover devices” and it works. Limited to Alexa ecosystem.
3. Eve Energy — Best for Apple HomeKit
Thread-enabled, no hub needed if you have a HomePod. Tracks energy cost down to the cent. Premium price, premium build.
4. TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini — Best Compact
So small it does not block the second socket. Reliable WiFi, no hub needed. The workhorse of smart plugs.
5. Meross Smart Plug — Best Budget
Under €10. Works with Alexa, Google, and SmartThings. Basic but gets the job done.
Which one should you buy?
Start with the Tapo P110. It does everything you need at a great price. If you are all-in on Apple, go with Eve Energy. If you want the simplest Alexa experience, grab the Amazon Smart Plug.
Ready to start?
Pick one, plug it in, and control your first appliance from your phone tonight.