Smart Plugs & Power

The best smart plugs

Smart plugs are the single easiest smart-home upgrade for renters. Plug one into the wall, plug a lamp or fan into it, and you've got scheduling and voice control — no wiring, fully reversible.

Best smart plugs

#1
Kasa smart plug mini four pack
Representative photo · confirm exact model on Amazon
Best overall

Kasa Smart Plug Mini (4-Pack, No Hub)

Kasa

The definitive renter upgrade: plug it in, plug a lamp or fan into it, and get scheduling and voice control with no hub and nothing to install.

Best for
Making lamps, fans, and small appliances smart with zero wiring.
Skip if
High-draw appliances beyond the plug's amperage rating.
Watch out
2.4GHz WiFi only. Don't exceed the rated wattage; not for space heaters or large appliances.

Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon
#2
Kasa smart Wi-Fi power strip with six outlets
Representative photo · confirm exact model on Amazon
Best value

Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip (HS300, 6 Outlets)

Kasa

Six individually controlled smart outlets plus USB and surge protection turn a whole desk or entertainment center smart from one plug — no hub.

Best for
Desks and TV setups where you want to control several devices individually.
Skip if
Those needing just one or two smart outlets — the mini plugs are cheaper.
Watch out
2.4GHz WiFi only. Mind the total load across all outlets; not for high-draw heaters.

Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon

Key buying criteria

  • No hub required. WiFi plugs avoid buying a separate bridge.
  • Size. Mini plugs don't block the second outlet.
  • Rating. Match the wattage to what you'll plug in.

What to check on Amazon before buying

  • No-hub WiFi (2.4GHz).
  • Mini size.
  • Wattage rating.
  • Assistant compatibility.

Setup and usage tips

  • Automate lamps. Schedule lights for dusk or a routine.
  • Name by room. 'Bedroom lamp' beats 'Plug 3'.
  • Group with voice. Turn off everything at bedtime.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • 5GHz-only WiFi. Most smart plugs need 2.4GHz — check your network.
  • Overloading. Don't run space heaters through them.
  • Buying a hub model. No-hub WiFi plugs are simpler for renters.

How we choose

  • We start from the buyer's actual problem, not the highest commission.
  • We prioritize products with a long track record and broad availability.
  • We call out who a product is wrong for, not just who it is right for.
  • We tell you exactly what to verify on Amazon before you buy.

We only earn if you buy through our links, and it never changes the price you pay or what we recommend.

Final recommendation

A 4-pack of Kasa mini plugs is the best starting point for a rental. Add the Kasa power strip for a desk or TV setup where you want to control several devices at once.

Buying guideThe best smart power stripsComparisonSmart plug vs smart bulbGuideHow to set up a smart home in an apartment

Editorial guide last updated 2026-07-02. Product details require manual verification on Amazon before purchase.