4 Best Smart Power Strips

That’s why we’ve put together this guide reviewing some of the best options currently available on the market, which will help you make an informed choice. So, let’s get started!

Using A Smart Power Strip Safely

Before we dive into the reviews, it is important to understand how to use a smart power strip safely. This is because certain factors, such as the supported wattage, determine whether a particular option is suitable for your requirements or not. 

Both smart and regular strips have a specified wattage, which determines the safety of the users. That is why you should check the ampere rating of the product and use it to find out the maximum supported wattage by multiplying the amps with the voltage. 

In the UK, the mains has a voltage of 230V and can support a smart power strip of 13 amp capable of handling 2990W. But this wattage should be distributed across all the devices connected to the strip. In most cases, you can easily use devices like laptops, TVs, and phones with a smart power strip since they consume less power, But avoid high-power ones like hair dryers, fridges, heaters, and kettles. 

Quick summary

1. TP-Link Kasa: Best Overall 
2. Meross Power Strip: Largest Smart Power Strip
3. Meross Power Strip (HomeKit Edition): Best For HomeKit 
4. Woox: Budget Option 

Top Four Smart Power Strips

TP-Link is best known for its range of computer networking products and it offers high quality smart electrical devices, such as this power strip. The TP-Link Kasa comes with two USB ports and three outlets, with the former enabling you to connect your phone chargers directly.

It can easily connect to any smart home device using the Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for an additional hub, and has individual switches for every outlet. But, the best thing about this smart power strip is that you can control it remotely using voice or app commands.  

Additionally, you can easily integrate this smart power strip with Google Home, Alexa, and Smart Things using the smartphone app. It also allows you to name the different plugs and then use them with the various smart assistants. 

However, the USB ports always remain on and you cannot control them using the app or by voice commands. This may be resolved with a firmware update. Also, the Kasa app does not allow grouping the various power sockets, so you will need to use Alexa for this purpose. 

On the positive side, the smart plugs make it easy to check the power usage through the provided tab in the app. It displays the power usage for each socket separately, which can be helpful in preventing wastage. 

The strip also comes with surge protection that will protect your sensitive appliances and electronics from power spikes and surges. And, you can use the schedule and timer functions to make the smart plug automatically turn various connected devices on or off as required. 

For connectivity, this power strip comes with a metre long cable and has two holes at the back which can be used for wall mounting purposes. 

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The Meross Power Strip is the perfect choice if you need a larger option and it comes with four power outlets and four USB ports. It also comes with safety features like built-in short circuiting and surge protection. Additionally, the child protection feature ensures that the socket does not turn on unless a device is connected to it. 

This power strip connects to your Wi-Fi directly without requiring a dedicated hub and can be used for all types of gadgets, including phones, tablets, and others. It also features schedule and timer functions along with the sunrise and sunset settings for added convenience. 

Another thing that makes it one of the best smart plugs is its high-quality construction. It is made of flame-retardant PC material and has an inbuilt overload protection mechanism. These features make it one of the safest options in the segment. 

It does lack individual switches for different sockets, but has a master switch for controlling all of them. This may be inconvenient for those who only need some sockets turned on instead of all. To turn individual sockets on or off, you will need to use voice commands or the app. 

Additionally, the smart power strip supports Google Home, Alexa, and IFTTT but lacks HomeKit support for integrating it into your home. Fortunately, the power cord, in this case, is longer, measuring 1.8 metres, making it a more versatile option. It can even be attached to a wall if required. 

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The HomeKit Edition of the Meross smart power strip is similar to the previous option but with HomeKit support. It even supports the Apple ecosystem since it uses components certified by the company. Unfortunately, this makes the option a bit costlier than the others that offer HomeKit support. 

This is a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi-compatible unit that works without requiring a hub and allows you to control six devices simultaneously. The four USB ports and four AC outlets are more than enough to meet the needs of any smart home. Additionally, you can use Alexa smart plugs for automatically scheduling devices connected to the power strip. 

While the four smart outlets can be controlled individually, the USB ports can only be controlled in a group. Both iOS and Android devices can be used to control this power strip, and the 1.8 metre-long cable is adequate for most users. 

This smart power strip also supports the Apple ecosystem and is ideal for those using Siri and Homekit. Connecting the power strip to the HomeKit will allow you to control various devices connected to the local network using Siri and you can use the Meross app remotely. 

But, you will need an Apple TV or HomePod to use it remotely. And aside from Siri, this smart power strip supports Google Home, Alexa, and Smart Things. 

One thing this device misses out on is Wi-Fi energy monitoring, which would have made it easier to minimise energy wastage and reduce your power bills. Also, for those looking for an affordable option, it may not be the most sensible choice. 

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Woox is a relatively new brand that has been making waves thanks to its high-quality offerings and impressive customer support. Based out of the Netherlands, the company has a wide selection of lighting, power, and security products. And this smart power strip from the brand is the ideal choice for those looking for a budget option. 

It features three sockets, which you can control separately by integrating with Google Home and Alexa, or by using the companion app. And, like the other options, it does not require a separate hub for connection and can be used with any 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection. The installation and setup processes are also very easy and do not require much effort. 

For safety, it comes with a surge overcurrent overload short-circuit, over-heating, and anti-lighting protection, which can easily absorb energy surges to protect your devices. Also, it is made from a special ABS flame retardant polymer, which offers flame retardancy up to 750 degrees Celsius, reducing the risk of fire hazards. 

Then there is the smart timing control, which allows you to schedule the power strip to turn on and off automatically at preset times. However, you can only use Google Home to control group functions. There are also two USB ports on one end, but these may be difficult to access depending on the location where the strip is mounted. 

Since the Woox strip is a budget option, it has fewer additional features than the other options on the list. You do not get separate switches for different sockets, and there is no HomeKit support. But the manufacturer provides a two-year warranty on the smart plug.  

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Factors To Consider When Buying A Smart Power Strip

Knowing about the best options can help you narrow your choices, but making the final selection depends upon several factors. Considering these factors when buying a smart power strip will ensure that you have the most suitable option. 

1. USB Charging

Selecting a power strip that includes USB ports for charging smartphones and tablets can go a long way in adding to your convenience. Good quality smart power strips and surge protectors generally come with USB-A charging ports that provide the required amps of power, eliminating the need for power adapters. 

This also leaves more outlets free for devices that require AC power. 

2. 20-Amp Rating

Power strips offering 20-amp capacity can support high voltage devices and come with a circuit breaker. This eliminates the chances of any hazards which may occur if the strip cannot handle high voltages. 

3. GFCI Plug

GFCI, or ground-fault circuit interrupter, is a fast-acting circuit breaker that can quickly shut off electrical power in case of any ground fault. It compares the amount of power received by and emitted from various devices and can safely distribute power to all appliances. It’s especially useful in humid or wet environments for protection against electrical shocks.

4. Anti-microbial Coating

Power strips from reputable manufacturers often come with an anti-microbial coating that contains a silver ionic powder which can inhibit the growth of bacteria. Using such an option reduces the chances of infections and the spread of diseases, thereby ensuring maximum safety. 

5. Surge Protection Level

Different power strips offer varying levels of surge protection, usually mentioned on the label or on the manufacturer’s website. You should check the amount of energy that a power strip can handle without failing. This will help you know whether it is suitable for your home or not.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Smart power strips can make everyday living highly comfortable and more enjoyable. Just keep in mind that one of the most important factors to consider while purchasing a strip is safety. The above-mentioned options are some of the best on the market and have great safety features. 

You can compare each option by considering the factors we’ve mentioned in the buying guide. But make sure to clear any doubts regarding the option you are considering to ensure the best experience. 

With that said, it is time to wrap up. Until next time!