Smart plugs are a simple, affordable way to cut energy waste and lower your bills. As energy prices climb and household budgets tighten, controlling devices remotely from your phone becomes increasingly valuable. These devices allow you to switch off forgotten lights, appliances, and electronics, preventing unnecessary energy consumption.
Here’s a breakdown of the best places to buy smart plugs, with an emphasis on value and compatibility.
IKEA: Affordable Smart Home Integration
IKEA is making a significant push into accessible smart home technology, with plans for further expansion by 2026. Currently, they offer a £6 smart plug that integrates with their DIRIGERA hub.
This plug stands out due to its Matter compatibility, meaning it works seamlessly with major smart home ecosystems: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, and Samsung SmartThings. Choosing IKEA offers a cost-effective entry point into smart home automation, especially if you want to stick with one ecosystem.
Amazon: Convenience and Variety
Amazon’s strength lies in its vast selection and fast shipping, especially for Prime members. They stock top-rated smart plug brands, alongside their own Amazon Basics Smart Plug (£12.49).
The Amazon Basics plug supports voice control via Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings. However, note that most smart plugs require a compatible hub to function fully. Amazon’s marketplace makes finding the right combination easier.
Argos: Quick Access and Expansion Options
Argos provides the benefit of same-day collection in many locations, making it ideal for urgent needs. They carry popular brands like Tapo and Philips, plus smart extension tables – which are useful if you need to smartify multiple devices at once.
Argos strikes a balance between convenience and choice, making it a solid option for those who want to quickly upgrade their home.
Long-Term Savings and Considerations
While there is an upfront cost to buying smart plugs, especially if you want to equip many outlets, the savings over time can be substantial. These devices eliminate phantom energy drain from appliances left on standby.
The initial investment pays off if you’re prone to forgetting to switch things off, or if you want to automate lighting and appliance schedules for added efficiency. The convenience and long-term savings make smart plugs a worthwhile investment.
