N
Common Ground News

What is a smart plug WIFI outlet?

Author

Carter Sullivan

Updated on March 02, 2026

What is a smart plug WIFI outlet?

A smart plug is a small adaptor that can be plugged into a regular electrical wall outlet. It can be connected to a Wi-Fi network. Once connected, the smart plug can be controlled remotely through an application installed on the smartphone.

Correspondingly, what is a WiFi smart plug?

A Wi-Fi Smart Plug is a great way to jump start your Connected Home, it's a simple-to-use device that you can plug into any open outlet, giving you control of whatever is plugged into it.

Furthermore, do smart plugs need WiFi? As you can see a lot of the functions that make our smart homes “smart” depends on an internet connection. Without an internet connection many Wi-Fi based plugs and switches will continue to operate, but some of the advanced options like voice control won't work.

Also know, what do you use WiFi plugs for?

Here are some of the best smart plug uses:

  1. Lights. Try combining smart plugs with motion detectors to turn on lights when you enter a room.
  2. Smart thermostats.
  3. Televisions and computers.
  4. Gaming systems.
  5. Coffee makers.
  6. Refrigerators.
  7. Washing machines.
  8. Slow cookers.

Are smart plugs worth it?

It's possible that smart plugs may save you money. But for every place that math works out, there are probably two or three places it won't. A smart plug with a coffee maker, a lamp, or the power strip you plug all your phones and tablets into probably won't save you any money. But you'll still gain automation.

Can you control smart plugs away from home?

Once connected, the Ikea Smart Plug can be controlled remotely from your smartphone through the Ikea Home Smart app and you can schedule electronics plugged into the Smart Plug to turn on or off at set times. The Ikea Smart Plug also works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.

Are WiFi smart plugs safe?

Smart plugs pass the same standard safety guidelines as any other device you plug into the wall. As with any electrical device, you should be safe as long as you don't overload the outlet. The biggest concern that people have had about smart plugs is vulnerability to hacking.

How much do smart plugs cost?

Compare SpecsThe Best Smart Plugs and Power Strips for 2021
Our PicksBelkin WeMo Insight Smart Plug See it $79.99 at AmazonAmazon Smart Plug See it $24.99 at Amazon
Energy Reporting
Google Assistant
IFTTT
Where to Buy$79.99 at Amazon$24.99 at Amazon

Do you need a smart plug for every device?

Smart outlets are a cheap way to turn your ordinary appliances and fixtures into smart devices. With a smart outlet, you can turn your appliances on and off from your phone, or (in some cases) with your voice through devices like the Amazon Echo. But not every device will work with smart outlets.

Can you plug a smart plug into an extension cord?

You can plug a smart plug into an extension cord but it isn't the most attractive idea. This is because smart plugs are large devices. If you plug one into an extension cord, it will cover some of the outlets, limiting the number of appliances you can add to the extension cord.

Can I use a smart plug to turn on my TV?

Yes, smart plugs give you the ability to turn your TV and other devices on and off wherever you are. Using a smart plug, you can turn your television on and off. Smart plugs can also operate many other devices as well as turn them into smart devices.

How does smart plug work?

The Amazon Smart Plug is a smart outlet that you plug into a regular outlet. It has a compact design so it won't block adjacent ports, and it can be controlled remotely using the Amazon Alexa app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Set a timer on the plug to turn their system off after an hour or two.

Do you need a smart bulb with a smart plug?

Smart plugs

If you're looking to smarten standalone light fixtures like lamps, consider a smart plug. Without replacing the light bulb, smart plugs allow you to connect your lamp to voice assistants and smart home hubs. Smart plugs don't just power products on and off.

Do smart plugs use data?

Smart bulbs and smart plugs

It's a cool function that requires only minimal data since they largely only use data for system updates and to very briefly respond to on/off commands. You can expect to use somewhere in the neighborhood of 50 MB each month depending on manufacturer.

Will Smart Bulbs work if WiFi goes out?

The good news is that you can use your smart light bulbs the old-fashioned way using a traditional switch. This is good to know for when the WiFi is out or you flip the switch out of habit. But keep in mind that if the physical light switch is off, the bulb is powered down and can't turn on by voice or app.

How many smart plugs do I need?

How many smart outlets do you need? If you need to power a lot of devices in one space, try a smart power strip. Some, like this $28 option from Teckin, offer power for four devices (each of which can be controlled by your phone or voice assistant), plus four USB ports and a master on/off button.

Do any smart plugs work on 5g?

The smart plug uses 2.4 GHz WiFi radio frequency to provide maximum range. That's why you don't, and likely won't, see 5 GHz smart plugs on the market. Some people on this thread confuse 5G with 5GHz, and since they're both related to wireless communications, that's understandable.