So, you're on the hunt for the best smart plugs and power outlets in the UK to elevate your home automation setup. With an ever-growing market of tech-savvy gadgets promising smarter control, energy savings, and voice assistant compatibility, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

Don’t worry, we’ve done the homework for you. In this guide, we break down the top smart plug and power strip options available in the UK, from full-featured extension leads to compact, budget-friendly plugs.

Whether you're looking to schedule your appliances, monitor energy use, or streamline your setup with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit, we’ve got something for every budget and home.

After testing a range of smart plugs across different scenarios, from media units and bedrooms to home offices, we found the Meross Smart Power Strip to be our Editor’s Pick for its solid performance, individual socket control, and seamless integration across smart home platforms.

Want something Matter-certified with advanced monitoring? The Tapo P304M stands out as a practical, space-saving runner-up. Just dipping your toes into smart home tech? The UPXNBOR Smart Plug delivers impressive features at an affordable price.

And if you're wondering which one to avoid, we've included that too, so you won’t waste time or money. Let’s dive in and find the smart plug that fits your lifestyle.

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The Features That Make a Smart Plug Truly Smart

When shopping for a smart plug or power strip, certain features should be considered non-negotiable. These are the core functionalities that define a reliable and efficient smart outlet:

Essential Features That Should Be a Given

• Wi-Fi Connectivity: A strong, stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection without frequent dropouts or the need for a separate hub.
• App Control: Ability to control plugs via a dedicated smartphone app (such as Smart Life, Tapo, or Meross), accessible from anywhere.
• Voice Assistant Compatibility: Integration with at least Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant; HomeKit and SmartThings support is a bonus.
• Scheduling & Timers: Basic on/off scheduling, with options to automate appliances by time of day or week.
• Compact Design: Slim form that doesn’t obstruct other sockets or block adjacent outlets on power strips.
• Energy Monitoring: Real-time usage data to help reduce electricity waste and monitor consumption (should be accurate and intuitive).
• Safety Certifications: CE or UKCA certified with surge protection and overload safety as standard for UK use.
• No Hidden Costs: All functions are accessible without requiring subscriptions or paid features.

Design and Build Quality

Smart plugs should not only be intelligent, but they also need to be durable, discreet, and well-engineered for everyday use. Here's what to expect from top-tier models:

• Robust Construction: Solid casing with heat-resistant and flame-retardant materials for longevity and safe usage.
• Flush-Fit or Low-Profile Plug: Should fit snugly against the wall or power board without protruding unnecessarily.
• LED Indicator Lights: Useful for checking power status at a glance, but brightness should be soft enough for bedroom environments.
• Socket Spacing: For power strips, the socket layout should allow enough room for larger adaptors or plugs without crowding.
• Mounting Options: Wall-mountable strips provide a tidy and secure installation, especially near desks or media units.

Advanced Functions That Go Beyond the Basics

Beyond the basics, many smart plugs and power strips come with additional features that add genuine convenience, safety, or energy efficiency:

• Matter Certification: Ensures cross-platform compatibility across HomeKit, Alexa, Google, and Samsung SmartThings for future-proofing.
• Grouped USB Ports: For charging multiple devices simultaneously, ideally with fast-charging (18–20W total output).
• Sunrise/Sunset Automation: Automate lighting and appliances based on natural light cycles.
• Away Mode: Mimics occupancy by turning devices on/off randomly to enhance home security while you're away.
• Anti-Overcharging Function: Automatically cuts power when devices (like phones) are fully charged to protect battery health.
• Zero-Crossing Detection: Improves device longevity by reducing electrical stress when turning on/off.

Choosing the best smart plug or power outlet involves more than just price; it’s about reliability, safety, compatibility, and how seamlessly it integrates with your daily routine.

Stick to models that tick the above boxes, and you'll avoid common frustrations like weak signals, clunky apps, or short-lived hardware.

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Editors Pick

Meross Smart Power Strip, Smart Extension Lead with 20W USB Ports

The Meross Smart Power Strip offers an easy way to control multiple devices at once, with individual control of sockets, app scheduling, and wide smart home compatibility. It’s a smart solution for automating your setup while maintaining a clean and compact layout.

Key Features

• 4 AC Outlets + 4 USB Ports: Individually controlled sockets plus grouped USB charging with 20W max output for gadgets and phones.
• Voice and App Control: Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings for seamless integration.
• Smart WiFi Scheduling: Set timers and automate based on time of day or sunset/sunrise, with no hub required.
• Wall-Mountable: Supports secure installation to keep spaces neat and organised.
• 3250W Max Load: Built-in overload protection ensures safety with high-power appliances.
• LED Indicators: Visual power status indicators on each socket.
• Stable WiFi: Strong wireless connectivity over 2.4GHz networks with low dropout rates.
• Compact Design: Clean, non-bulky profile suitable for desks, bedrooms, or media units.

We tested the Meross Smart Power Strip across various rooms and setups, and it proved consistently reliable. Each socket worked flawlessly via app or voice, making it perfect for home routines.

We appreciated the sunrise/sunset settings for lighting and the strong WiFi signal that didn’t drop, even in the corners of the house. While the USB ports are grouped rather than individually controllable, they offered enough power for most devices.

The LEDs are quite bright, so they may not suit bedroom use, but the solid build and ease of setup make up for that. Setup took a few tries with HomeKit, but once connected, control was seamless. If you're managing multiple smart devices, this power strip simplifies everything with one central hub.

For smart homes looking to stay tidy, this is an excellent choice.

Runner Up

Tapo P304M Smart Plug Power Strip, Energy Monitoring, MATTER Certified

The Tapo P304M is a reliable smart plug extension ideal for anyone looking to modernise their home setup with convenience and control. With Matter certification, energy monitoring, and smart scheduling features, it delivers excellent value and everyday practicality without clutter or fuss.

Key Features

• Matter Certified: Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings ecosystems.
• Energy Monitoring: Track power usage per socket and estimate your electricity bills easily.
• Voice Control: Use Siri, Alexa, or Google to switch devices on or off hands-free.
• Smart Scheduling: Set timers and routines for lights, heaters, or chargers.
• Anti-Overcharging: Automatically shuts off charging to prevent battery wear.
• Surge Protection: Protects devices from power spikes with a 13A, 3250W capacity.
• Zero-Crossing Detection: Extends relay lifespan and improves load stability.
• Compact Design: Saves space compared to four individual smart plugs.
• Remote Control: Manage connected devices from anywhere via the Tapo app.
• Away Mode: Mimics occupancy by randomly turning devices on and off.

We tested the Tapo P304M in our home office and quickly appreciated its simplicity and smart control. Setup took minutes, and the app made it easy to customise each plug individually.

Scheduling our heater and charging station became effortless, while remote control from outside the house proved surprisingly useful. Energy monitoring gave clear insights into usage, and the added safety of surge protection and anti-overcharging was reassuring.

It worked seamlessly with Google Assistant and Alexa, with snappy voice responses. The build is solid and compact, although the spacing between sockets is slightly tight with large adaptors.

Overall, the P304M streamlines multiple smart plug needs into one sleek solution. It’s a smart, affordable choice for anyone seeking reliable automation with energy awareness in mind.

Budget Pick

UPXNBOR Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Outlet Compatible with Alexa, Google Home

The UPXNBOR Smart Plug is a compact, affordable device that adds serious smart functionality to your home without any hassle. With fast setup, remote control, and voice assistant compatibility, it's a solid budget option for anyone starting out with home automation.

Key Features

• Quick Setup: Connects to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi without the need for a hub. The Smart Life app detects the plug instantly, making installation fast and straightforward.
• Voice Control: Works with Alexa and Google Home for simple hands-free commands.
• Remote Access: Use the app to control devices from anywhere, ideal when you're away from home.
• Scheduling: Offers daily timers and can sync with sunrise/sunset for custom routines.
• Energy Monitoring: Built-in tracking lets you see your energy use in real time, helping reduce waste.
• Compact Build: Slim profile doesn’t block other outlets.
• Reliable Connection: Maintains strong connectivity without frequent resets.
• No Subscription Needed: All features are accessible without extra charges.

We recently tested the UPXNBOR Smart Plug and found it incredibly easy to get started with. The setup took less than a minute, and the Smart Life app was simple to navigate.

Voice commands through both Alexa and Google Home worked smoothly, which added to the convenience when using lights or small appliances. What impressed us most was how much functionality this plug delivers at a low price.

The scheduling tools gave us full control over our daily routines, and the energy monitoring feature helped highlight areas where we could cut back on electricity use. Even while travelling, we could turn devices on and off from the app, giving us peace of mind.

For a reliable, entry-level smart plug that’s easy to use and doesn’t compromise on core features, this is one of the best cheap smart plug options we’ve come across.

Most Compact Smart Plug Pick

Meross Matter Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring, Mini WiFi Plug with Matter Simple Setup(MSS)

The Meross Matter Smart Plug is a space-saving solution for smart homes that need versatility in tight areas. It delivers strong performance with Matter compatibility, energy tracking, and seamless voice control, without taking up extra socket space.

We found it practical, reliable, and ideal for modern, multi-platform households.

Key Features

• Matter Simple Setup: Connects effortlessly via Echo using MSS or through standard Matter pairing with other smart home hubs.
• Energy Monitoring: Tracks energy usage in real time and stores data for long-term analysis to help save energy.
• Cross-Platform Control: Works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home.
• Offline Functionality: Continues working over the local network even when Wi-Fi is down.
• Compact Build: Small footprint makes it ideal for crowded plug points or limited spaces.

We recently tested the Meross Matter Smart Plug and were impressed by how well it fit into narrow socket areas without obstructing adjacent outlets. Setup was quick with Alexa via Matter Simple Setup, and for Apple users, HomeKit integration worked smoothly.

The plug provided instant voice control and kept functioning even when the Wi-Fi briefly cut out. We appreciated the built-in energy monitoring, especially when tracking solar panel output on our balcony.

The app offered helpful real-time insights, and the scheduling feature allowed us to automate lights and appliances easily. Device sharing with family members via the Meross app was also straightforward.

Most importantly, the compact design did not compromise its power or compatibility. This plug is a great choice if you want full Matter support, privacy, and reliable performance in a discreet format. Perfect for anyone managing a smart home on Apple, Google, or Amazon ecosystems.

Most Reliable Smart Plug Pick

BG Electrical Double Switched Power Wall Plug Socket with Smart Home Control

The BG Electrical Smart Power Socket offers a reliable, built-in alternative to bulky smart plugs. With seamless app control, voice compatibility, and a clean white finish, it’s a smart home upgrade that blends in, works consistently, and installs like a standard socket, with no extra fuss or clutter.

Key Features

• Reliable Connectivity: Maintains connection even after power cuts or router resets: no need to re-pair.
• Smart Integration: Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri: supports voice commands.
• No Hub Required: Connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi using the BG Home app: no additional subscriptions.
• Manual Switches: Includes physical switches with LED indicators: ideal for visitors or manual use.
• Individual Socket Control: Name and schedule each socket separately through the app.
• Modern Design: White moulded faceplate with rounded edges and colour-matched screw caps.
• Quick Installation: Fits standard 25mm back boxes: no rewiring needed.
• Security Features: Includes timer settings, countdowns, and parental lock options.

We recently installed the BG Electrical Double Smart Socket in place of a traditional wall outlet, and the results have been impressive. The clean, flush design blends in perfectly with our décor, and we appreciated not having bulky adapters sticking out anymore.

Setup was straightforward, though we recommend using the manual AP mode and disabling 5GHz temporarily for a smoother connection. Once connected, it stayed online reliably across router resets and power cycles, something we’ve struggled with using plug-in smart options.

The ability to control each socket individually through the BG Home app made it easy to tailor use for different appliances. Voice control via Alexa worked flawlessly, and for guests or family members unfamiliar with smart setups, the physical push-button switches offered an intuitive alternative.

If you’re ready to move beyond plug clutter and want a reliable, smart-ready alternative that looks like a standard socket, this is one of the most dependable options we've tested.

One To Avoid

EIGHTREE Matter Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring, Mini WiFi Plug

We tested the EIGHTREE Matter Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring and found it to be one of the most frustrating smart home devices we've used. While the setup was quick using the Matter pairing code, the reliability issues began almost immediately.

Some plugs refused to enter pairing mode at all, while others disconnected after minor changes like moving them to a different outlet (a basic action you'd expect any plug to handle).

Voice control with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant did work when the plugs stayed online, but that connection was often short-lived. Remote access and scheduling were available through the Smart Life app, though performance was inconsistent at best. Most disappointing was the energy monitoring.

Despite being advertised as a key feature, it only functions within the vendor app and fails to report anything useful on platforms like Apple Home or Google Home. In several cases, plugs displayed 0.0 Wh despite running actual devices.

We appreciated that the plug doesn’t require extra accounts, offering better data privacy. However, warranty information was hard to track down, and support felt out of reach. In the end, despite a few positives, this plug proved too unreliable for everyday use. For us, it’s firmly one to avoid.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Smart Plugs & Power Outlets in the UK

When choosing the best smart plugs and power outlets, we went well beyond simply turning devices on and off. We explored every aspect that matters: connectivity, ease of use, safety, and value. Here's how we tested each model to ensure only the top performers made the list.

Ease of Setup

We began by setting up each device from scratch, taking note of how quickly and reliably it paired with its companion app and Wi-Fi.

We tested whether the instructions were clear, whether platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit connected without issue, and how user-friendly the mobile interface felt during the process. Some plugs took just seconds, while others needed troubleshooting or multiple pairing attempts.

Connectivity and Stability

Over several days, we checked whether the smart plugs remained connected to the network, even when placed in hard-to-reach corners of the home. We also tested response times when controlling devices remotely, using both home Wi-Fi and mobile data.

Any plug that frequently dropped offline or delayed commands was marked down.

Functionality

To evaluate everyday use, we set schedules, experimented with sunrise/sunset automations, grouped devices, and tried various app routines.

We assessed how well each plug responded to voice commands via different assistants and how effectively they handled routine tasks like switching lamps, chargers, or heaters. The best models offered accurate timers, fast voice activation, and smooth app control.

Energy Monitoring

For models that offered power tracking, we plugged in devices with known wattage and compared the reported usage against expected values. We checked how clearly each app displayed usage data, whether the information was broken down over time, and if it helped us identify potential savings.

A few devices impressed with detailed energy insights, while others gave inconsistent or limited feedback.

Load Handling and Safety

We tested each plug’s ability to handle high-powered appliances by running devices close to the maximum 3250W limit. We monitored whether they maintained stability under pressure and looked for any signs of overheating.

Overload protection and auto shut-off were checked to ensure that plugs cut power safely when necessary. Any model that lacked clear safety features or felt unstable under load was rated poorly.

Design and Build Quality

Each smart plug was examined for build strength, material finish, and daily practicality. We looked at how well they withstood frequent plugging and unplugging, whether the LED indicators were subtle or distracting, and how well the plugs fit into UK sockets without blocking nearby outlets.

Power strips were also assessed for socket spacing and whether they offered wall-mounting options.

Extra Features

We explored any added functions that went beyond the basics. This included USB charging ports, anti-overcharging protection, zero-crossing detection, and away modes that simulate occupancy. We tested how useful these features actually were in practice and whether they enhanced the overall experience.

Some features felt genuinely helpful, like auto shut-off after full charge, while others added complexity without real benefit.

Value for Money

Lastly, we compared performance against price. We looked at whether the plug justified its cost based on features, stability, and long-term usefulness. Warranty terms and customer support access were also considered.

A great smart plug should be affordable, reliable, and backed by support if something goes wrong.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between a Smart Outlet and a Smart Plug?

The difference between a smart outlet and a smart plug lies in their design and installation. A smart plug is an external device you plug into a standard outlet, while a smart outlet replaces the existing wall socket entirely. Both provide remote control and scheduling, but differ in permanence and setup.

What Should You Not Plug Into a Smart Plug?

You should not plug high-powered or heat-generating appliances, such as space heaters, air conditioners, or large kitchen devices, into a smart plug. These items can exceed the plug’s power rating, leading to overheating or damage.

Always check the wattage limits before connecting any device to a smart plug.

Do Smart Plugs Use a Lot of Electricity?

Smart plugs do not use a lot of electricity. When idle, they typically consume around 1 watt or less of power, which is minimal. Their energy use is outweighed by the savings they offer through scheduling, automation, and energy monitoring, especially for frequently used or standby electronics.

Do Smart Plugs Slow Down Your Wi-Fi?

Smart plugs do not significantly slow down your Wi-Fi. They use minimal bandwidth and usually operate on the 2.4 GHz band. However, having dozens of smart devices on a crowded network could impact performance slightly, depending on your router's capacity and how many devices are connected overall.

Can You Use a Smart Plug on a Refrigerator?

You can use a smart plug on a refrigerator, but it’s not generally recommended. Frequent power cycling can affect the appliance’s compressor and temperature stability.

Smart plugs are better suited for devices that benefit from automation without risking food safety or interfering with a fridge’s power requirements.

Why Are Smart Plugs Only 2.4 GHz?

Smart plugs are only 2.4 GHz because this frequency offers better range and wall penetration compared to 5 GHz. Most smart plugs prioritise stable, long-distance connections over speed.

Since smart plugs transmit very little data, the 2.4 GHz band is ideal for consistent connectivity in various home environments.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the best smart plugs and power outlets in the UK has helped you narrow down the right choice for your home. With so many great options offering energy monitoring, voice control, and app scheduling, it’s easier than ever to make your space smarter and more efficient.

For us, the Meross Smart Power Strip stands out as the top pick—its reliable performance, HomeKit compatibility, and individual socket control make it a fantastic all-rounder. The Tapo P304M is another strong contender, especially if you’re after Matter support and advanced energy tracking.

Looking for value? The UPXNBOR Smart Plug is a brilliant budget smart plug option that doesn’t cut corners. But not every product made the cut. EIGHTREE’s Matter Smart Plug disappointed with unreliable performance and inconsistent energy monitoring, so we recommend steering clear.

What did you think of our picks? Are you ready to power up your smart home, or still deciding? Let us know below!