Not every device in your home needs to be smart, but you can still stay in control with one of the best smart plugs for Google Home and Alexa. Whether you bought into either ecosystem or are balancing devices on both, having a smart plug that works with either is a huge relief. When it comes down to it, one of the main strengths of a smart plug is being able to control it from just bout anywhere, and getting smart plugs with good support for both AI assistants that don't need a hub makes controlling your devices much simpler.
These are the best smart plugs for Google Home and Alexa
Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini - White
No hub required
The Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini is a super affordable smart plug for Google Assistant and Alexa. It's just as reliable as larger smart Wi-Fi plugs and lets you set schedules for any devices plugged into the plug, as well as operate your plugs even when you're away from home. Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi, no hub is required to get things connected.
Amazon Smart Plug - Works with Alexa
Exclusively Alexa
The easiest way to invest in the Amazon smart ecosystem is to invest in products from Amazon itself. For example, the Amazon Smart Plug works exclusively with Alexa and is easy to set up out of the box. This smart plug supports 15A so that you can plug just about any home electronic as well. Just plug it in, open the Alexa app, and go.
Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300
Control more at once
Instead of one smart plug, why not get a smart power strip? This one lets you plug in and independently control up to six different devices using Alexa outlets or Google Assistant. You get proper surge protection built in along with three USB ports for charging even more devices. You can also opt for a KASA power strip with just three outlets.
Kasa Smart Plug Mini with Energy Monitoring
Watch that energy usage
The Kasa Outdoor Smart Plus is IP64 rated for outdoor operations with two outlets. The plugs feature protective doors to protect from moisture when the plugs aren't in use, and manual switches for each plug make it easy to control whether you're outside or inside your house. This plug is ideal for setting up outdoor lighting that you can control from anywhere, even if you're away from home.
Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip KP303
Perfect for desktop power
Like its bigger brother, this Kasa power strip features surge protection for multiple devices with individual control. This power strip comes with three standard plugs and two USB ports, making it a great desktop companion for work-from-home professionals. You can charge your mobile tech while powering your PC and monitor with energy monitoring.
Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug EP40
Dual outdoor power
One of the best reasons to get a smart plug is to keep track of what is using the most power and when. This can help you get a handle on an out-of-control energy bill or find energy vampires that draw far more power than expected while set to standby. Its compact size makes it easy to fit in your home with a design no wider than a standard socket cover.
Treatlife WiFi Smart Outdoor Plug
Outdoor lighting with a dimmer
The Treatlife Outdoor smart plug lets you create the perfect backyard ambiance with a dimmer that you and your family can use to adjust the brightness or take advantage of sunrise and sunset mode. The plug is waterproof, so it'll endure any storm and works with Alexa and Google Assistant or through an app, with no hub required.
Lutron PD-15OUT-BL Outdoor Smart Plug - Black
Year-long power
This Caséta outdoor smart plug is IP65 rated so that you can leave it on your front porch or in your backyard all year long. As long as you have a smart bridge, this plug is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Ring, and more. With this convenience, you can get everything connected to control your lights or appliances with your voice through the app, a wireless remote, or on the plug.
Geeni Current Smart Wi-Fi Outlet
A more permanent solution
The Geeni Current Smart Wi-Fi outlet is a smart plug that replaces you current power outlets. Replacing your outlets, or rather, having them replaced by a professional ensures your wiring is up to date and provides a good and secure hold for your plugs. This also allows for your plugs to be more flush with the wall reducing wire clutter and reduces the chance of heavier plugs falling out due to aging outlets losing grip.
Upgrade your smart home with smart plugs for Google Home and Alexa
Amazon Echo and Google Home/Nest are some of the best smart speakers that crossed over from the early adopter phase and took their rightful place within mainstream culture. Luckily, there are thousands of smart devices that work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. If you're just getting started building your smart home, Google offers a new smart home directory to help you pick the best devices.
But of all the ways to upgrade your smart home, smart plugs offer the best multipurpose uses and are easy to set up. Being able to control your favorite reading lamp or other small appliance using just your voice and your preferred smart assistant legitimately feels like magic. Kasa Smart Plug Mini is one of the best picks to get you started as it's not only affordable but reliable, letting you operate your devices even when you're not at home.
For a more weatherproof solution to upgrading a bunch of your favorite tech all at once, you'll want to consider the Caséta outdoor smart plug from Lutron. It offers an IP65 rating so that you can set it up on the front porch or in your backyard. What's more, it's compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Ring if you own a smart bridge.
When Samuel is not writing about networking or 5G at Android Central, he spends most of his time researching computer components and obsessing over what CPU goes into the ultimate Windows 98 computer. It's the Pentium 3.
