
This works best when the device has a mechanical switch that will still be in the “on” position until you physically change it. When you turn a device on and off with an app, it’s the same as unplugging the device. Appliances with a mechanical switch (one you physically toggle back and forth to turn on and off) are a better match for a smart plug. The type of power switch the device uses determines how compatible it will be with a smart plug. To control an appliance using an app and a smart plug, the appliance needs to be left on at all times.

You can pick up a smart plug for under $30.Smart plugs use apps for remote control and scheduling.Devices you plug into a smart outlet don’t have to be smart.Smart plugs work in any standard outlet.You don’t need to do anything mechanical to use a smart plug.Smart plugs are also known as smart outlets or smart switches.To keep it simple, here are the only things you really need to know: This means that you can turn off a lamp or start the slow cooker with a swipe of your finger-no matter where you are.Īnd if you don’t even want to do that much work, just set up a schedule, and let the devices connected to your smart plug take care of themselves. Once the outlet is smart, any appliance you plug into it becomes smart. What makes it smart is a connection to a mobile app that lets you control the outlet from your phone. Once it’s plugged in, voilà! You have a smart outlet!


A smart plug is a device that you can plug into any wall outlet in your home.
