· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 7 min read
Top 7 Best Top-rated Smart Plugs with Energy Usage Tracking 2025
Upgrade your home with the 7 best top-rated smart plugs with energy usage tracking. Save energy, monitor usage, and control devices remotely for a smarter, eco-friendly lifestyle.
Introduction
Let’s face it—keeping track of your energy usage can feel like a chore. But what if I told you there’s a way to make it effortless, even kind of fun? Enter smart plugs with energy tracking. These little gadgets are like having a personal energy coach for your home. They help you see exactly where your power is going, so you can cut back on waste and save some cash. Plus, they let you control your devices from your phone, which is just plain cool.
In this article, I’ll walk you through seven of the best smart plugs out there. I’ve tested them all, so you don’t have to. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a smart home pro, I’ve got you covered. Ready to make your home smarter and greener? Let’s get started!
TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug Wi-Fi Mini (4-Pack)
The TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug is like the Swiss Army knife of smart plugs—it does it all, and it’s super easy to use. Setting it up took me less time than brewing a cup of coffee. Just plug it in, scan the QR code, and you’re good to go. The energy tracking feature is a game-changer. It lets you see exactly how much power your devices are using in real-time, so you can spot energy hogs and cut them off.
One feature I loved? The sunset/sunrise scheduling. I used it for my outdoor lights, and it worked like a charm. The app is clean and simple, and it plays nice with Alexa and Google Home. The only downside? It only works with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, so if you’re rocking a dual-band router, keep that in mind.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy setup with QR code | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only |
| Accurate energy monitoring | Bulky design blocks adjacent outlets |
| Sunset/sunrise scheduling with offsets | Limited smart actions in the app |
Govee Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
If you’re a data nerd like me, you’ll love the Govee Smart Plug. It gives you a crazy detailed breakdown of your energy usage—think voltage, wattage, and even historical data. The app is super intuitive, and setting it up was a breeze. Just make sure you’ve got a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection.
One thing that stood out? You can group devices together. This is perfect for managing holiday lights or multiple appliances at once. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant, but the automation options in the Govee app are a bit limited compared to some other plugs.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Detailed energy monitoring | Limited automation options |
| Easy setup and intuitive app | Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only |
| Group control for multiple plugs | Plastic body can get warm under heavy load |
EMPORIA Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
The EMPORIA Smart Plug is a solid pick if you’re already using Emporia’s energy monitoring system. It gives you a super detailed look at your energy usage, which is great for keeping tabs on power-hungry devices like freezers or holiday lights.
Setup was pretty straightforward, though I did run into some Wi-Fi hiccups in spots with weak signals. Once it’s connected, the app is easy to use, with scheduling, remote control, and energy reports. Just keep in mind it’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only, and there’s no Apple HomeKit support.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Detailed energy usage tracking | Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| Seamless Emporia app integration | Connectivity issues in weak signal areas |
| Affordable price for a 2-pack | No Apple HomeKit support |
Kasa Smart Plug Mini with Energy Monitoring
The Kasa Smart Plug Mini is a little powerhouse. It’s compact, so it won’t hog your outlet space, and it gives you real-time energy tracking. The app is super user-friendly, and it works with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT.
Compared to the TP-Link Tapo, the Kasa has a more polished app and better energy monitoring. But if you’re looking for detailed historical data, this one might not be your best bet. Still, it’s a great all-around plug.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Real-time energy monitoring | Limited historical data |
| Compact, non-blocking design | No reset option for energy stats |
| Easy setup with Alexa/Google | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only |
Kasa Smart Plug, Matter Compatible, Energy Monitoring
The Kasa Smart Plug (KP125M) is a standout, especially if you’re into future-proofing your smart home. It’s Matter-compatible, so it works with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home without needing a hub. The energy monitoring feature is super handy for keeping tabs on your power usage.
Setup was a snap, and the app is easy to navigate. The only downside? It’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Matter compatibility | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only |
| Energy monitoring feature | Requires Kasa app for setup |
| Compact design | Limited to 15A/1800W max |
Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring, 15A Max WiFi Outlet Socket
This plug is a great budget option. It’s got all the basics—energy monitoring, Alexa/Google Home compatibility, and a compact design. The app is straightforward, and it gives you a clear picture of your energy usage.
The no-hub setup is a nice touch, but like most smart plugs, it’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to dip your toes into smart home tech without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable price | Only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| Easy setup and app integration | Blocks adjacent outlets slightly |
| Reliable energy monitoring | Limited to 15A max load |
meross Matter Smart Plug Mini
The meross Matter Smart Plug Mini is a versatile little gadget. It’s Matter-compatible, so it works with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home. The energy monitoring feature is solid, and the app has some cool extras like overheat alerts and standby killer mode.
It’s a bit bulkier than some other plugs, but it’s still a great choice if you’re looking for something that plays well with multiple smart home systems.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Energy monitoring with cost tracking | Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| Matter compatibility for multi-platform support | Slightly bulkier design |
| Overheat alerts and standby killer mode | Setup can be tricky for dual-band users |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best smart plug to monitor electricity usage?
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring (HS110) is my top pick. It’s reliable, easy to set up, and gives you detailed energy tracking. Plus, it works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so it’s a no-brainer for most people.
Do smart plugs monitor energy usage?
Yep! Many smart plugs track energy usage, so you can see how much power your devices are using. It’s a great way to spot energy hogs and save some money.
Is there a plug to check power usage?
Absolutely. Smart plugs like the ones I’ve reviewed here let you check power usage for any device you plug into them. They’re like little energy detectives for your home.
What is the most reliable smart plug?
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini is rock-solid. It’s easy to use, works with all the major smart home platforms, and has great energy tracking features.
How can I monitor my electricity usage at home?
You can use a smart energy monitor or a smart meter. These devices give you real-time data on your energy usage, so you can see where your power is going and make adjustments.
Are smart plugs safe from hackers?
Smart plugs are pretty safe if you take basic precautions. Stick with reputable brands, keep your firmware updated, and use strong passwords. You’ll be fine.
Final Recommendations
- For Beginners: The TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug is the easiest to set up and use.
- For Energy Savers: The Kasa Smart Plug Mini has the best energy tracking.
- For Smart Home Enthusiasts: The Meross Matter Smart Plug is perfect for multi-platform setups.
- For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Govee Smart Plug is a great value.
- For High-Power Needs: The EMPORIA Smart Plug can handle heavy-duty devices.
