The Best Smart Power Strips for Energy Savings: In a world where electronics power nearly every aspect of our homes, it’s easy to overlook the silent energy drainers known as “phantom loads” or “vampire power.” These are the small amounts of electricity consumed by devices when they’re turned off but still plugged in think televisions on standby, chargers left in sockets, or microwaves with digital clocks.
Over time, these add up, increasing your energy bills and carbon footprint. One simple, effective solution? Smart power strips.
Smart power strips are more than just surge protectors. They’re energy-saving tools equipped with intelligent controls that allow you to schedule, monitor, and manage power usage. Let’s dive into how these devices work, what to look for, and the best smart power strips for energy savings in 2025.
How Smart Power Strips Save Energy
Smart power strips detect when connected devices are in standby mode and cut off power automatically. Many also connect to Wi-Fi, giving you app-based control, scheduling, voice assistant integration, and energy usage analytics.
Types of Smart Power Strips:
- Timer-Based: Turn outlets on/off based on a set schedule.
- Activity-Based: Use motion sensors to detect when you’re nearby.
- Master-Controlled: Automatically power off secondary outlets when a “master” device (like a PC) shuts down.
- Remote/App-Controlled: Manage outlets through a smartphone or voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a smart power strip focused on energy savings, prioritize the following:
- Individually Controlled Outlets: Lets you turn off one device without affecting others.
- Energy Monitoring: Track power consumption and identify high-usage devices.
- Surge Protection: Protects your devices from voltage spikes.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.
- Scheduling and Automation: Automate your device routines based on time or behavior.
- Build Quality & Safety Ratings: Look for certifications like UL, ETL, or FCC for reliability.
The Best Smart Power Strips for Energy Savings in 2025
1. TP-Link Kasa Smart HS300
Best Overall for Home and Office Use
- Outlets: 6 individually controllable, 3 USB ports
- Features: Surge protection, energy monitoring, Alexa/Google Assistant support
- App: Kasa Smart
Why It’s Great: The HS300 offers an unbeatable balance of performance and price. Each outlet can be controlled separately, and real-time energy usage reports let you see which devices are costing you the most. The app is intuitive, and scheduling is seamless.
Best For: Home offices, entertainment systems, small appliances.
2. APC Smart Plug Surge Protector with USB Ports
Best for Safety-Conscious Users
- Outlets: 6 total, 2 smart, 4 always-on, 2 USB
- Features: Surge protection, remote control
- App: APC Home
Why It’s Great: Known for high-end surge protectors, APC delivers a smart strip that prioritizes electrical safety while offering app and voice control. It doesn’t offer energy monitoring but shines in build quality and durability.
Best For: Expensive electronics, like gaming PCs or high-end TVs.
3. Eve Energy Strip
Best for Apple HomeKit Users
- Outlets: 3 smart outlets
- Features: Energy monitoring, HomeKit integration, surge protection
- App: Eve for HomeKit
Why It’s Great: Designed for Apple ecosystems, this strip gives you detailed power usage data per outlet, secure local control (no cloud required), and elegant design. It’s ideal for tech-savvy users in an all-Apple environment.
Best For: Smart homes powered by Apple devices.
4. Gosund Smart Power Strip
Best Budget Smart Strip
- Outlets: 4 AC, 3 USB ports
- Features: Voice control, app scheduling, surge protection
- App: Gosund or Smart Life
Why It’s Great: If you want essential smart features without breaking the bank, Gosund delivers. While it lacks energy monitoring, it supports Alexa and Google Assistant and is easy to set up.
Best For: Dorm rooms, budget-friendly smart homes.
5. Meross Smart Wi-Fi Surge Protector
Best for Larger Smart Homes
- Outlets: 6 AC, 4 USB ports
- Features: Remote control, voice control, surge protection
- App: Meross or Apple Home
Why It’s Great: Compatible with Alexa, Google, and HomeKit, this smart strip is a versatile and affordable choice. It’s especially helpful in larger setups needing multi-platform compatibility.
Best For: Multi-device charging stations and diverse smart homes.
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Benefits of Using Smart Power Strips
1. Lower Energy Bills
By eliminating standby power usage and allowing timed control of devices, you can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
2. Increased Device Lifespan
By preventing unnecessary power flow and voltage spikes, smart strips help extend the life of your devices.
3. Remote Control and Automation
Forgot to turn off the coffee machine or space heater? Do it from your phone, even if you’re not home.
4. Voice-Controlled Convenience
Turn devices on or off using Alexa or Google with a simple voice command—no fumbling with cords.
5. Enhanced Safety
Surge protection keeps your electronics safe from electrical faults, and remote control reduces fire hazards from unattended devices.
Best Use Cases for Smart Power Strips
- Home Offices: Automate lights, monitors, and printers to turn off at day’s end.
- Entertainment Centers: Power down streaming devices, consoles, and TVs in one tap.
- Bedrooms: Set schedules for bedside lamps, chargers, and white noise machines.
- Kitchens: Avoid leaving toasters or coffee machines running.
- Workshops: Control power tools and charging stations remotely.
Smart Power Strip Maintenance Tips
- Avoid Overloading: Never exceed the wattage rating of the strip.
- Check App Settings Regularly: Confirm schedules and automation rules are still relevant.
- Update Firmware: Keep your device secure and up-to-date via the app.
- Keep Dry and Ventilated: Use indoors only and avoid placement near moisture.
FAQs
Do smart power strips work with all devices?
Most plug-in devices are compatible, but smart strips can’t control hardwired systems or devices requiring constant power, like medical equipment.
Can I monitor how much energy my devices use?
Many high-end models like the Kasa HS300 and Eve Energy Strip provide real-time energy monitoring for each outlet, helping you identify energy hogs.
Are smart power strips safe to use overnight?
Yes—if they’re UL or ETL certified and used correctly. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and avoid overloading.
How much money can I save using a smart power strip?
Depending on usage, you could save anywhere from $30 to $100+ per year per strip by cutting standby power and optimizing schedules.
Do smart power strips still work during internet outages?
Basic power control functions will work locally in most models. However, app-based or remote control features may be limited until internet is restored.