Smart plugs add Wi-Fi control to a single outlet. Smart power strips do the same for multiple outlets at once. Knowing which you need depends on your setup — one device vs. an entire entertainment center. This guide breaks down the key differences and shows the best option for each use case.
Kasa KP115 Smart Plug
$19.99
Single-outlet plug with real-time energy monitoring. Best when you need to control one appliance — a lamp, coffee maker, or fan — with voice commands or a schedule.
Kasa KP303 Smart Power Strip
$24.99
Three independently controlled smart outlets plus 2 USB ports. Ideal for a nightstand, desk, or bedroom — control each socket separately via app or voice without needing three separate plugs.
Kasa HS300 Smart Power Strip
$47.99
Six individually controlled outlets and 3 USB ports with surge protection. The definitive choice for a TV entertainment center or full desk setup — control every device from one hub.
Kasa KP115 Smart Plug — Best for Single-Device Control
The KP115 is the right choice when you need to smartify one specific device. Its compact design fits any outlet without blocking adjacent sockets, and its built-in energy monitor shows exactly how much electricity your appliance consumes. One plug, one device, zero complexity — perfect for a lamp, coffee maker, space heater, or air purifier.
Pros
- Real-time energy monitoring
- Compact — leaves second outlet free
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
- 15A / 1800W max load
- Under $20
Cons
- Controls only one outlet
- Need multiple plugs for multiple devices
- No surge protection
| ASIN | B08LN3C7WK |
| Outlets | 1 smart outlet |
| Max Load | 15A / 1800W |
| USB Ports | None |
| Surge Protection | No |
| Energy Monitoring | Yes |
| Voice Assistants | Alexa, Google Home |
Kasa KP303 Smart Power Strip — Best 3-Outlet for Compact Setups
The KP303 is the smartest upgrade for a desk or nightstand. Three independently switched outlets mean you can turn your monitor, lamp, and charger on or off separately — no need to buy three individual smart plugs. The two built-in USB ports handle phone and tablet charging without eating into your smart outlets. At $24.99 it costs less than two standalone smart plugs.
Pros
- 3 independently controlled smart outlets
- 2 USB charging ports included
- Cheaper than 3 separate smart plugs
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
- ETL-certified surge protection
Cons
- No energy monitoring per outlet
- Shorter cord than HS300
- USB ports are always-on (not smart)
| ASIN | B083JKSSR5 |
| Outlets | 3 smart outlets |
| Max Load | 15A / 1800W total |
| USB Ports | 2 (always-on) |
| Surge Protection | Yes |
| Energy Monitoring | No |
| Voice Assistants | Alexa, Google Home |
Kasa HS300 Smart Power Strip — Best for Full Entertainment or Desk Setup
The HS300 is the complete solution for anyone managing multiple devices in one spot. Six individually controlled outlets let you power an entire TV setup — TV, soundbar, console, streaming stick, and two lamps — each on its own schedule. Three USB ports handle phone and tablet charging. If you’ve been stacking smart plugs into a regular power strip, the HS300 replaces all of them cleanly.
Pros
- 6 independently controlled smart outlets
- 3 USB ports (2 USB-A + 1 USB-C on some models)
- Surge protection built in
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
- Replaces 6 separate smart plugs at lower total cost
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Larger form factor
- No per-outler energy monitoring
| ASIN | B07G95FFN3 |
| Outlets | 6 smart outlets |
| Max Load | 15A / 1800W total |
| USB Ports | 3 (always-on) |
| Surge Protection | Yes |
| Energy Monitoring | No |
| Voice Assistants | Alexa, Google Home |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a smart plug and a smart power strip?
A smart plug adds Wi-Fi control to a single wall outlet — one plug, one device. A smart power strip adds Wi-Fi control to multiple outlets in a single unit, letting you independently switch each socket on or off via app or voice. Power strips also include surge protection and USB charging ports that standalone plugs typically lack.
Do I need a smart plug or a smart power strip for my TV setup?
A smart power strip is almost always better for a TV setup. With a TV, soundbar, game console, and streaming stick, you need independent control over each device. A strip like the Kasa HS300 gives you six individually switchable outlets in one unit — far cleaner than plugging multiple smart plugs into a regular power strip.
Can a smart power strip replace multiple smart plugs?
Yes, and it usually costs less. The Kasa KP303 (3 outlets, $24.99) costs less than two individual smart plugs while giving you three independently controlled sockets plus USB ports. The HS300 (6 outlets, $47.99) replaces up to six smart plugs at a fraction of the combined cost, while adding surge protection.
Do smart power strips work with Alexa and Google Home?
Yes. Both the Kasa KP303 and HS300 work natively with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Each outlet appears as a separate device in your smart home app, so you can say “Hey Alexa, turn off the soundbar” or “Hey Google, turn on the TV” independently for each connected device.
Are smart power strips worth the extra cost over smart plugs?
Yes, when you need to control more than two devices in the same location. A 3-outlet smart strip at $24.99 costs less than two individual $20 smart plugs, and also adds surge protection and USB charging. The break-even point is around two devices — after that, a smart strip is both cheaper and cleaner.
Can I plug a smart plug into a regular power strip?
Yes, you can plug a smart plug into a regular (non-smart) power strip. This lets you control individual devices on the strip independently. However, using a smart plug inside a smart power strip is redundant — and can cause control conflicts. Choose one or the other, not both.
Which uses less standby power: a smart plug or a smart power strip?
Individual smart plugs typically draw 0.5-1W of standby power each. A smart power strip draws 1-2W total regardless of how many outlets it has. For four or more devices in one spot, a smart power strip uses significantly less standby power than four separate smart plugs, making it the more energy-efficient choice for multi-device setups.