The 10 Best Alexa Plugs
Special Honors
Peace by Hampton This hub-free smart plug is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to provide you with convenient voice control without having to get up. The companion app allows you to create schedules and check your connected devices using your smartphone. It won’t obstruct the second outlet and is sold in a pack of two, so each of them can be placed in the same receptacle, if you so desire. A button on the side allows for manual control in the event your Wi-Fi goes down. Like many, this one works with 2.4GHz networks only, not the 5GHz frequency band. bestbuy.com
Editor's Notes
September 17, 2020:
The Wemo Mini joins the list today, and this highly popular choice is rated for up to 15 amps and can be controlled from anywhere via your smartphone. It can be set up in just a few quick steps and is compatible with all three major voice platforms (Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit). It’s also compatible with Nest Thermostat. We also added in the Wyze Plug, which can be scheduled via the user-friendly companion app to power devices on at set times. Unlike many others, it enables you to monitor your device usage. It comes in a pack of two and provides plenty of bang for your buck. For a choice that’s suitable for some outdoor use, look to the newly added Kasa Outdoor, which is designed with safeguards from dust as well as water splashes from any direction. This makes it great for landscape lighting, pool pumps, and holiday lights. Today’s update sees the departure of the DMYCO Wi-Fi, the iClever BS06, and the Monoprice Stitch, which are no longer available at this time.
Things to think about before making your purchase include whether any particular appliances you had in mind are compatible with a smart plug. Items with manual switches, like fans and lamps, generally can be turned on and off easily with a smart plug. However, the process won’t likely work well when it comes to things with electronic switches (power buttons), like Keurig coffee makers. While the plug can power them on, a human is required to touch a button to get the brewing started. Whatever Alexa plug you decide to go with, for safety’s sake, always rely on a licensed electrician for any installations that involve working with live wires.
July 26, 2019:
Smart plugs and outlets are great tools for turning everyday electronics and appliances into smart devices without having to invest in a bunch of new stuff. There are three main directions you can go: adapters, in-wall outlets, and power strips. Monoprice and TP-Link both make highly reliable in-wall outlets, and if you want to avoid having bulky connectors everywhere, they're worth a look. Also, if you need to plug in a heavy transformer, they can handle it, whereas a simple go-between adapter may have trouble staying in the wall. The Monoprice is especially interesting because it has two USB ports.
As far as power strips go, the TP-Link is also tops there, but the DMYCO is a reasonable choice if you want to save a few bucks. Keep in mind, though, that the USB ports on the DMYCO are not programmable, and its surge protection may not be as reliable as the TP-Link's. Speaking of TP-Link, you'll notice a few of their Kasa devices on our list. It's a fantastic line of products, both reliable and easy to use, so it's no surprise they have a ton of satisfied users. Their adapters, particularly their Kasa Mini, are probably the easiest to configure, offering essentially plug-and-play installation. And if you're looking for an outdoor plug, check out the iClever, which can withstand rain, sunlight, dust, and even extreme temperatures, so it won't be damaged if you leave it outside all year long.