The best smart plugs in 2025

Engadget - Apr 15th, 2025

The latest review of smart plugs for 2025 highlights the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini EP25 as the best overall choice due to its ease of use and compatibility with major smart home platforms. The review also covers other top contenders like the Amazon Smart Plug for Alexa users and the Kasa Matter Smart Plug KP125M for those interested in Matter support. Each option is evaluated for specific features such as energy monitoring, outdoor use, and dual outlets, providing consumers with tailored recommendations based on their unique needs and existing smart home ecosystems.

The significance of smart plugs lies in their ability to simplify everyday tasks and enhance home automation. As the market for smart home devices continues to grow, understanding compatibility and specific functionalities becomes crucial for consumers seeking to optimize their smart home setups. The review underscores the importance of choosing the right plug that aligns with individual requirements and existing devices, thereby ensuring a seamless and efficient integration into daily routines. With the continuous evolution of smart home technology, these insights provide valuable guidance for making informed purchasing decisions.

Home Automation Smart Plugs Tp Link Kasa Amazon Smart Plug Matter Compatibility Energy Monitoring

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed and clear overview of various smart plugs, emphasizing their features, compatibility, and pricing. It excels in clarity and timeliness, offering relevant information for consumers interested in smart home technology. However, the lack of explicit source citations and transparency about the testing methodology slightly undermines its credibility. While the article is balanced in presenting different product options, it could benefit from a broader discussion on the implications of smart home devices. Overall, it serves as a useful guide for consumers but would be enhanced by greater transparency and source attribution.

Accuracy

The article provides a comprehensive overview of various smart plugs, detailing their features, compatibility, and pricing. It accurately lists the compatibility of each plug with major smart home platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, and Samsung SmartThings. The pricing information is consistent with typical market values, and the descriptions of each plug's features are precise and verifiable. However, some claims, such as the ease of setup and connectivity reliability, could benefit from user testimonials or data to enhance verifiability. Additionally, while the article mentions a recall on Emporia plugs, it lacks details on the specific issues that led to the recall, which could impact accuracy.

Balance

The article provides a balanced view by discussing both the pros and cons of each smart plug. It does not overly favor any brand, offering a range of options for different needs, such as energy monitoring, outdoor use, and dual outlets. However, the focus on technical features might overshadow other important considerations, such as customer service or warranty, which could provide a more rounded perspective.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, concise language. Each section is logically organized, making it easy for readers to follow and understand. The use of subheadings and bullet points aids in quickly identifying key information. The tone is neutral and informative, suitable for a general audience. However, some technical terms might require further explanation for less tech-savvy readers.

Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite sources, which affects the credibility of the information presented. While it appears to be based on personal testing and experience, as indicated by the first-person narrative, the lack of external validation from experts or user reviews limits the assessment of source reliability. The article would benefit from referencing studies, user feedback, or expert opinions to bolster its authority.

Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of methodology and potential conflicts of interest. It does not disclose how the smart plugs were tested or the criteria used for their evaluation. Additionally, there is no mention of any affiliations or sponsorships that might influence the review. Greater transparency about the testing process and any potential biases would enhance the article's credibility.