Welcome to the world of smart homes! If you’ve been thinking that creating a connected, automated home is a complex and expensive project reserved for tech billionaires, I’m here to tell you that’s simply not the case. You can start your journey with one of the most versatile and affordable gadgets out there. We’re on a mission today to find the Best Smart Plug Under 20 dollars, a tiny device that packs a massive punch in convenience, energy savings, and, let’s be honest, that cool “living in the future” feeling. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to turn any regular appliance into a smart one, without hurting your wallet.
So, What on Earth Is a Smart Plug, Anyway?
Think of a smart plug as a clever adapter that sits between your wall outlet and the plug of any regular appliance—like a lamp, a fan, or your coffee maker. On the outside, it looks simple. But on the inside, it’s got a Wi-Fi chip that connects it to your home network. This little connection is where the magic happens. It allows you to control whatever is plugged into it using an app on your smartphone or with a simple voice command to an assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant.
It feels like a recent invention, but the concept has been evolving for a while. We’ve gone from those clunky, mechanical dial timers of the 80s to these sleek, tiny powerhouses that you can control from halfway across the world. The goal has always been the same: to gain control over our “dumb” devices. Today’s smart plugs are the culmination of that dream, made incredibly accessible and affordable.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Smart Plug Under 20
When you’re shopping on a budget, it’s easy to assume you’ll have to sacrifice features. But you’d be surprised what you can get for less than the price of two movie tickets. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for to find a real gem.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: This is a big one. Does it work with the ecosystem you’re already in? Most budget-friendly plugs work seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. If you’re an Apple user, finding one compatible with HomeKit under 20 dollars can be a bit trickier, but they do exist.
- A User-Friendly App: You’ll be using the companion app for setup and control, so it needs to be intuitive. Look for features like scheduling, timers, and an “away” mode that can randomly turn lights on and off to make it seem like someone’s home.
- Scheduling and Timers: This is the core of automation. You want to be able to set your lamp to turn on at sunset, your fan to turn off after you’ve fallen asleep, or your holiday lights to run on a specific schedule. This feature is non-negotiable.
- Energy Monitoring: While not always standard on the absolute cheapest models, finding a best smart plug under 20 with energy monitoring is the holy grail. It shows you exactly how much power a connected appliance is using, helping you identify energy hogs and save money on your electricity bill.
- Compact Design: Some older, bulkier smart plugs were notorious for blocking the second outlet on a wall plate. Modern designs are much more considerate. Always look for a plug with a slim or offset profile so you don’t lose precious outlet space.
How Do You Set Up a Smart Plug? It’s Easier Than You Think!
If the thought of setting up a new tech gadget makes you a little nervous, take a deep breath. I’ve personally tested dozens of these little gadgets, and the setup process is usually painless and takes less than five minutes.
Here’s a typical step-by-step guide:
- Download the App: The instruction manual will direct you to download the manufacturer’s specific app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Go ahead and create an account.
- Plug It In: Plug the smart plug into the wall outlet you want to use. A little indicator light will usually start blinking, which means it’s in pairing mode and ready to connect.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions. This usually involves tapping an “Add Device” button. You’ll then select your home Wi-Fi network (make sure it’s the 2.4GHz band, as most smart plugs don’t work with 5GHz) and enter the password.
- Name Your Device: The app will discover the plug and connect to it. Once connected, give it a logical name like “Living Room Lamp” or “Bedroom Fan.” This is what you’ll call it when using voice commands.
- Link to Your Voice Assistant: Open your Amazon Alexa or Google Home app. Go to the “Skills & Games” (Alexa) or “Works with Google” (Google Home) section, search for the smart plug’s brand, and link your accounts. That’s it!
Now you can say, “Hey Google, turn on the living room lamp,” and watch the magic happen.
Beyond Turning Lights On: Creative Ways to Use Your Smart Plug
Okay, so controlling a lamp is cool. But the real fun begins when you start thinking creatively. A smart plug can be your secret weapon for automating the little annoyances of daily life.
The Morning Coffee Magician
Plug your simple, non-digital coffee maker (the kind with a physical on/off switch) into a smart plug. Set a schedule for it to turn on five minutes before your alarm goes off. You’ll wake up to the glorious smell of freshly brewed coffee. Talk about a better way to start the day!
The Holiday Light Hero
Tired of crawling behind the Christmas tree every night to unplug the lights? A smart plug solves this instantly. Set a schedule for your decorations to turn on at dusk and off at bedtime. You can even group multiple plugs together to control all your holiday cheer with a single tap or command.
The Peace-of-Mind Provider
Ever leave the house and have that nagging feeling: “Did I turn off the hair straightener?” Plug it into a smart plug. If you forget, you can just open the app and turn it off from your office, the grocery store, or anywhere you have an internet connection.
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Our Picks for the Best Smart Plug in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, UL Certified, 2.4G WiFi Only, 4-Pack(EP10P4) , White |
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| 2 | Govee Smart Plug, WiFi Plugs Work with Alexa & Google Assistant, Smart Outlet with Timer & Group Controller, WiFi Outlet for Home, No Hub Required, ETL & FCC Certified, 2.4G WiFi Only, 2 Pack |
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| 3 | Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A, Apple HomeKit Supported, Smart Outlet Works with Siri, Alexa & Google Home, UL Certified, App Control, Scheduling, Timer, 2.4G WiFi Only, 4 Count (Pack of 1) (EP25P4), White |
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| 4 | Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, Remote Control, 15 Amp, UL Certified, 4-Pack, White |
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| 5 | Amazon Basics Smart Plug, Works with Alexa Only, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, No Hub Required, 2 Pack, White |
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| 6 | Govee Smart Plug, WiFi Plugs Work with Alexa & Google Assistant, Smart Outlet with Timer & Group Controller, WiFi Outlet for Home, No Hub Required, ETL & FCC Certified, 2.4G WiFi Only, 4 Pack |
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| 7 | Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, Remote Control,15 Amp,UL Certified, (Pack of 2) White |
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| 8 | Kasa Smart Plug Ultra Mini 15A, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, UL Certified, 2.4G WiFi Only, 2 Count (Pack of 1)(EP10P2) , White |
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| 9 | Amazon Basics Smart Plug, Works with Alexa Only, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, No Hub Required, 4-Pack, White |
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| 10 | TP-Link Tapo Matter Supported Smart Plug Mini, Compact Design, 15A/1800W Max, Super Easy Setup, Works with Apple Home, Alexa & Google Home, UL Certified, 2.4G Wi-Fi Only, White, Tapo P125M(3-Pack) |
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Do Smart Plugs Really Save You Money on Electricity?
Yes, they absolutely can, especially when you target devices that are notorious for “vampire power.” Vampire power, or phantom load, is the energy that electronics consume even when they’re turned off or in standby mode. Think about your TV, game console, or computer chargers. A smart plug can completely cut off power to these devices when they’re not in use, putting a stop to that silent energy drain.
“The true power of home automation isn’t just in convenience; it’s in providing granular control over your home’s energy consumption. A few well-placed smart plugs can lead to noticeable savings on your monthly utility bill by eliminating wasted standby power, which can account for up to 10% of a household’s electricity usage.”
— James Peterson, Smart Home Technology Analyst
By using the scheduling feature to ensure devices are only on when you absolutely need them, you’re taking an active role in managing your energy usage. If you snag a best smart plug under 20 that includes energy monitoring, you can even pinpoint the worst offenders and make smarter decisions.
Integrating Your Smart Plug into a Larger Smart Home
Your first smart plug is often a “gateway drug” into the wider world of smart home technology. It’s the first easy, low-cost step. Once you see how simple and useful it is, you’ll start thinking about what else you can connect.
- Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant: This is the most common integration. You can create “Routines” in your Alexa or Google Home app. For example, a “Good Morning” routine could be triggered by your voice command to turn on your smart-plug-connected lamp, read you the weather, and start playing your favorite morning playlist.
- Apple HomeKit: HomeKit offers a very secure and streamlined experience, but compatible devices are often pricier. However, the market for affordable HomeKit-compatible smart plugs is growing.
- The Future is Matter: You might see a new logo called “Matter” appearing on smart device packaging. Matter is a new universal connectivity standard backed by Apple, Google, Amazon, and others. Its goal is to make all smart devices work together, regardless of the brand. Buying a Matter-compatible plug now is a great way to future-proof your smart home.
The Ultimate Checklist Before You Buy
Ready to make a purchase? Run through this quick checklist to ensure you’re getting the perfect device for your needs.
- [ ] Voice Assistant: Is it compatible with my preferred system (Alexa, Google, HomeKit)?
- [ ] Wi-Fi Network: Do I have a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network? (Most routers have this).
- [ ] Size and Shape: Will it block my other outlet?
- [ ] Power Rating: Does it support the amperage of the device I want to plug in? (Most are rated for 10A or 15A, which is fine for lamps and fans but check for high-power appliances).
- [ ] Safety Certification: Does it have a UL or ETL certification logo? This is crucial for electrical safety.
- [ ] Location Specifics: Am I buying the right plug type for my country? (e.g., Type B for the US, Type G for the UK).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best smart plug under 20?
The best smart plug under 20 is one that offers reliable connectivity, compatibility with your chosen voice assistant (like Alexa or Google), a user-friendly app with scheduling, and a compact design that doesn’t block other outlets. Brands like Kasa Smart (by TP-Link) and Wyze often have excellent, highly-rated options in this price range.
Do cheap smart plugs pose a fire hazard?
Any low-quality electrical device can be a risk. To stay safe, always buy smart plugs from reputable brands that have safety certifications like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek). These marks indicate the product has been tested and meets safety standards.
Can I use a smart plug with any appliance?
You can use a smart plug with most small appliances that have a physical on/off switch, like lamps, fans, coffee makers, and slow cookers. However, you should avoid using them with major appliances like refrigerators or washing machines, and always check the plug’s maximum power rating (in amps or watts) to ensure it can handle the device.
Do I need a special hub for a smart plug?
Most of the best smart plugs under 20 connect directly to your home’s Wi-Fi network and do not require a separate hub or bridge. This makes them incredibly easy and affordable to set up. Some other smart home devices use protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave, which do require a hub.
Can a smart plug be used outdoors?
You should only use a smart plug outdoors if it is specifically rated for outdoor use. Outdoor models are built to withstand moisture, dust, and temperature changes. Using an indoor plug outside is a safety hazard and will likely cause it to fail.
Your Smart Home Journey Starts Here
Stepping into home automation doesn’t require a hefty investment or a degree in computer science. It can start with a simple, clever device that costs less than a pizza. Finding the best smart plug under 20 is an empowering first step that delivers immediate value, giving you more control, convenience, and even a little bit of savings on your energy bill. So go ahead, grab one, and discover just how smart your home can be.