Smart plugs are one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to add automation to your home. When paired with SmartThings, a leading smart home platform, these plugs allow you to control lamps, appliances, and other devices from anywhere using your smartphone or voice commands. In this article, we’ll explore the best smart plugs for SmartThings in 2024, highlighting their key features, compatibility, and what makes them stand out.

1. Aeotec Smart Home Plug

Why It’s the Best Overall

The Aeotec Smart Home Plug is designed specifically for compatibility with the SmartThings ecosystem, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to expand their smart home. It offers reliable performance, energy monitoring, and easy integration with other SmartThings devices.

Key Features

• SmartThings Compatibility: Fully compatible with the SmartThings platform, ensuring seamless integration with other smart home devices.
• Energy Monitoring: Track the energy usage of connected devices in real-time, helping you identify energy hogs and save on utility bills.
• Compact Design: Its small size means it won’t block adjacent outlets, making it practical for everyday use.
• Overload Protection: Built-in safety features protect your devices from electrical surges and overloads.

Pros

• Designed specifically for SmartThings
• Real-time energy monitoring
• Compact and unobtrusive design
• Reliable and consistent performance

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than generic smart plugs
• Limited to Zigbee connectivity

Best For

SmartThings users looking for a reliable, feature-rich smart plug that integrates seamlessly with their existing smart home setup.

2. Samsung SmartThings Wi-Fi Smart Plug

Why It’s a Top Contender

The Samsung SmartThings Wi-Fi Smart Plug is a natural choice for anyone already invested in the SmartThings ecosystem. This smart plug offers seamless integration, easy setup, and robust performance, all backed by the reliability of Samsung’s smart home products.

Key Features

• Seamless Integration: As an official SmartThings product, this plug integrates flawlessly with the SmartThings app and ecosystem.
• Voice Control: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free control of your devices.
• Scheduling and Automation: Create schedules or automate the plug based on triggers from other SmartThings devices.
• Energy Monitoring: Monitor the power usage of connected devices, helping you manage your energy consumption more effectively.

Pros

• Direct integration with SmartThings
• Easy to set up and use
• Supports voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant
• Energy monitoring capabilities

Cons

• Limited to Wi-Fi connectivity, which may cause issues if your network is crowded
• Slightly bulkier design compared to other smart plugs

Best For

Homeowners deeply invested in the SmartThings ecosystem who want a plug that offers easy setup and seamless integration.

3. Innr Zigbee Smart Plug

Why It’s Great for Zigbee Users

The Innr Zigbee Smart Plug is a fantastic option for those who prefer Zigbee connectivity, known for its reliable performance and low power consumption. This smart plug is fully compatible with SmartThings and offers a great balance of features and affordability.

Key Features

• Zigbee Connectivity: Uses the Zigbee protocol, which provides a stable and responsive connection with minimal latency.
• Compact Design: Small form factor that doesn’t block other outlets, making it convenient for everyday use.
• Energy Monitoring: Track energy consumption of connected devices to optimize usage and save on electricity bills.
• Easy Setup: Simple to install and pair with the SmartThings hub, making it accessible for all users.

Pros

• Reliable Zigbee connection
• Compact and space-saving design
• Affordable price point
• Easy integration with SmartThings

Cons

• Lacks advanced features like overload protection
• No native support for energy monitoring (varies by region)

Best For

SmartThings users looking for a reliable, affordable Zigbee smart plug that offers excellent performance and ease of use.

4. TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug (HS103)

Why It’s a Versatile Option

While not natively designed for SmartThings, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug is compatible with the platform through third-party integrations. This plug is known for its reliability, ease of use, and broad compatibility with other smart home ecosystems.

Key Features

• Voice Control: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana, allowing for versatile voice command options.
• Remote Control: Control devices from anywhere using the Kasa app, even when you’re away from home.
• Scheduling: Set schedules and timers for your devices, ensuring they turn on or off at the right times.
• Away Mode: Randomly turns devices on and off to make it look like someone is home, enhancing security when you’re away.

Pros

• Reliable performance and connectivity
• Works with multiple smart home platforms
• Easy to set up and use with the Kasa app
• Affordable price

Cons

• Requires third-party integration to work with SmartThings
• No energy monitoring features

Best For

Users who want a versatile smart plug that can work across multiple platforms, including SmartThings (with some setup), Alexa, and Google Assistant.

5. Sengled Smart Plug

Why It’s a Budget-Friendly Choice

The Sengled Smart Plug is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable, reliable smart plug that works well with SmartThings. It offers basic functionality with easy setup and stable performance, making it a great entry-level option.

Key Features

• Zigbee Connectivity: Pairs easily with SmartThings using the Zigbee protocol, ensuring a reliable connection.
• Compact Design: Slim profile that won’t obstruct other outlets, perfect for tight spaces.
• Voice Control: Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free operation.
• Scheduling: Allows you to set up schedules and timers for connected devices.

Pros

• Affordable and budget-friendly
• Simple to set up and use
• Compatible with SmartThings and other Zigbee hubs
• Compact design

Cons

• Lacks advanced features like energy monitoring or overload protection
• Basic functionality compared to more premium options

Best For

Budget-conscious homeowners who want a simple, effective smart plug that integrates easily with SmartThings.

6. GE Enbrighten Smart Plug

Why It’s Ideal for Outdoor Use

If you’re looking to extend your smart home capabilities to your outdoor spaces, the GE Enbrighten Smart Plug is the perfect choice. This weather-resistant plug is designed for outdoor use and works seamlessly with the SmartThings ecosystem.

Key Features

• Outdoor Rated: Weather-resistant design ensures reliable operation in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
• Z-Wave Connectivity: Uses the Z-Wave protocol, offering a strong, reliable connection with minimal interference.
• Voice Control: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for convenient voice commands.
• Scheduling and Automation: Set schedules for outdoor lighting, fountains, and other devices to enhance convenience and security.

Pros

• Durable, weather-resistant design
• Strong Z-Wave connection
• Works well with SmartThings and other Z-Wave hubs
• Easy setup and integration

Cons

• Slightly bulkier due to outdoor design
• More expensive than indoor smart plugs

Best For

Homeowners who want to automate outdoor devices like lights, fountains, or holiday decorations and need a reliable, weather-resistant smart plug that works with SmartThings.

Conclusion

Smart plugs are an essential component of any smart home, offering convenience, energy savings, and enhanced control over your devices. The best smart plugs for SmartThings in 2024 provide a range of options, from budget-friendly models to feature-rich devices that offer advanced functionality. Whether you’re looking for a simple plug to automate your lamps or a weather-resistant option for outdoor use, there’s a smart plug on this list that’s perfect for your needs.

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FAQs

What is the best smart plug for SmartThings?

The Aeotec Smart Home Plug is widely regarded as the best overall option for SmartThings users, offering reliable performance, energy monitoring, and seamless integration with the SmartThings platform.

Can I use Wi-Fi smart plugs with SmartThings?

Yes, many Wi-Fi smart plugs can be integrated with SmartThings through third-party services like IFTTT, though native Zigbee or Z-Wave plugs often offer more seamless integration.

Do smart plugs work with voice assistants?

Most smart plugs, including those compatible with SmartThings, work with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, allowing for hands-free control.

Is energy monitoring important in a smart plug?

Energy monitoring is a valuable feature if you want to track and reduce your energy consumption, helping you save on utility bills and optimize your smart home’s efficiency.

Are there smart plugs designed for outdoor use?

Yes, smart plugs like the GE Enbrighten Smart Plug are designed specifically for outdoor use, offering weather-resistant features and compatibility with SmartThings and other smart home systems.