By Colin FosterMany smart power strips let you control each outlet from your phone, set schedules, and keep certain sockets always on for networking gear. They often include USB charging ports and built-in surge protection, which makes them a natural upgrade from a plain strip. Whether you use one behind a TV, under a desk, or for holiday lights depends largely on the features you choose.
What a smart power strip is and who it suits
A smart power strip is a power strip with wireless connectivity built in. It plugs into a wall outlet and gives you several sockets, plus sometimes USB ports. The smart part is control: you can switch outlets on or off from the manufacturer’s app or with a voice assistant, set schedules, and create routines that match how you actually use the room.
It suits people who want whole groups of devices managed at once. A home office desk is a classic example: a monitor, computer, lamp, speakers and phone charger can all be powered down at night from your phone. An entertainment center is another: one strip can control a TV, soundbar and game consoles, while keeping the router powered for your network. Holiday lights and seasonal decorations also benefit because you can set a daily schedule and stop relying on a manual timer.
If you only need to control one lamp or one small appliance, a single smart plug is simpler and cheaper. A smart power strip becomes worthwhile when you want per-outlet control of several devices in the same place.
Main types and how they differ
The simplest strips turn every outlet on or off together, like a single smart plug stretched across several sockets. These are fine for grouping but not for controlling devices independently.
The most useful type gives each outlet its own switch. You can turn off the TV while leaving the soundbar on, or switch off your desk lamp without touching your computer monitor. Many of these strips also include one or two always-on outlets for devices that should never lose power.
Some strips add USB charging. USB-A ports are the traditional style, while USB-C ports are becoming common and can charge phones and tablets faster. USB ports may be controlled with the smart outlets, or they may be always on; check the description before buying.
Energy monitoring is another differentiator. Some strips report how much power each connected device draws, which helps you spot equipment that is using power even when it appears off. Watching for that hidden standby draw is one of the most common reasons to buy a monitored strip.
Surge protection is common but not universal. A surge-protected strip absorbs voltage spikes from the grid or from nearby equipment. Strips without surge protection simply distribute power and should not be relied on to protect sensitive electronics. See the smart power strips overview for a wider look at options.
If you prefer to replace the outlet in the wall instead of adding a strip, in-wall smart outlets give you per-socket control with a clean look. However, installation involves working with household wiring, and that means turning off the breaker first and following the instructions carefully.
Features that actually matter
Not every feature is worth paying for, and some matter more than others. The table below covers the ones to evaluate first.
| Feature | Why it matters | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Individually switched outlets | Lets you turn each device on or off by itself, or set different schedules for different sockets. | Confirm the strip controls each outlet separately instead of one master switch. |
| Always-on outlet | Keeps a modem, router, or other network gear powered when the rest of the strip is off. | Look for a clearly marked always-on socket. |
| USB ports | Convenient charging for phones, tablets, and e-readers without taking up an AC outlet. | Note the number of ports, whether they are USB-A or USB-C, and whether fast charging is supported. |
| Surge protection | Dampens voltage spikes from the grid or from nearby equipment. | Look for a joule rating and an indicator light; higher ratings generally mean more protection. |
| Energy monitoring | Shows how much power each connected device draws, helping you find hidden energy use. | Check whether monitoring is per outlet or for the whole strip. |
| Scheduling and scenes | Lets you set lights and equipment to turn on and off at set times. | Check whether schedules work when the app is closed and whether they are stored on the device or in the cloud. |
| Physical buttons | Work even when your phone or network is unavailable. | Confirm buttons are present and whether they control one outlet or the whole strip. |
Individually switched outlets are the feature that separates a smart power strip from one that behaves like a single socket. If you plan to leave most things on and only control one device, an always-on outlet will matter more than per-outlet control.
Connectivity matters too. Wi-Fi strips connect directly to your router and are usually the easiest to set up. Some strips use Zigbee or Z-Wave, which need a compatible hub but can keep working reliably with local automation. A growing number support Matter, but support varies by manufacturer and firmware, so check the device box or manufacturer page before buying. Voice control may be available through the app, but not every assistant connects to every strip.
Also consider what happens if your network goes down. Some strips keep their schedules stored on the device itself, while others depend on the cloud. If you want basic scheduling to always work, look for strips that store routines locally. In general, the more you rely on a strip, the more you should check its limits. See what smart plugs can and cannot do to set expectations for any connected outlet.
Sizing, fit and compatibility
Physical size matters more than you might expect. Bulky chargers and wall adapters can cover neighboring outlets on a strip, especially if the sockets are close together. If you charge laptops or plug in large adapters, look for a strip with generously spaced outlets and a layout that gives each plug its own space.
USB ports take up their own space, so check whether the port placement works with the plugs you use. On some strips the USB ports sit on the side, which makes it easier to keep the top surface free for AC adapters. Overall dimensions, cord length, and the distance between outlets are printed on the specification sheet; compare those details against where you plan to place the strip.
Some strips include mounting holes so you can attach them under a desk or behind a TV stand. Mounting keeps cords tidy and reduces the risk of someone tripping on plugs. If you plan to mount the strip, make sure it has room to breathe and that the power cord reaches the wall outlet without stretching.
Connectivity compatibility is as important as physical fit. A Wi-Fi strip needs a strong signal where it sits. A Zigbee or Z-Wave strip needs its own hub, and that hub must be within range. A Matter-compatible strip should work with the ecosystems it advertises, but confirmation depends on the current firmware, so verify compatibility on the manufacturer page before you buy. Also, avoid choosing a strip that requires a hub you do not already own.
Load limits and electrical safety
A smart power strip is not a substitute for a properly rated electrical circuit. Every power strip carries a maximum load, which is printed on the device label. The rule for any strip is to stay well below that maximum with margin to spare. Overloading a strip is the most common safety mistake people make.
Never plug high-draw appliances into a power strip. Space heaters, portable air conditioners, hair dryers, toasters, electric kettles, and similar devices should always go directly into a wall outlet. These appliances draw heavy current that can overheat the strip’s internal wiring even if the total load seems manageable. If you want to automate one of these devices, use equipment made for high loads and follow its own safety instructions; the standard advice is to keep high-draw appliances out of any power strip altogether.
Never daisy-chain power strips. Plugging one strip into another, or connecting a strip to an extension cord, can overload the first strip and create a fire risk. A strip must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, and you should not use another strip, a plug-in adapter, or a multi-outlet tap to extend it. If the cord will not reach, move the strip closer or have a proper outlet added, and ask a licensed electrician if you are unsure.
Also avoid covering a strip with carpet, blankets, furniture, or fabric that traps heat. Leave the strip in open air. If the strip or cord feels hot to the touch, unplug it and reduce the load. Check the plug connection in the wall outlet and make sure it sits snugly.
Surge protection has its own maintenance. Surge protectors absorb spikes, but they degrade with each major surge and can fail silently. A common indicator is a small light on the strip; if it goes dark, the protective components may be worn out. After a major surge, such as one caused by a nearby lightning strike or a large grid event, replace the strip even if the light is still on. The manufacturer instructions should tell you when a strip is no longer providing protection. Do not assume that an old strip protects your equipment just because it still supplies power.
Common buying mistakes
- Picking a strip that controls all outlets together when you wanted each socket separate. Check that individual control is per outlet and not one master switch.
- Ignoring the always-on outlet. If your router or modem is plugged into a controlled outlet, switching the strip off will take your whole network offline.
- Judging a strip by outlet count alone. A high count means little if the spacing is too tight for your adapters.
- Assuming USB ports are fast-charging. Check whether the ports are USB-A or USB-C and what charging speed they offer.
- Choosing a strip that requires a hub you do not have, or buying a hub-based strip when Wi-Fi would be simpler for your setup.
- Not checking surge protection. A smart strip without surge protection will not protect your gear from voltage spikes.
- Overlooking physical buttons. If the app is the only way to control the strip, a network outage leaves you with no local switch. Buttons are helpful even if you rarely touch them.
- Loading a strip beyond its rating because it has many outlets. The number of sockets does not increase the maximum load.
Care, cleaning and upkeep
Unplug the strip before cleaning. Use a dry cloth to wipe the outside and the cord, and never spray liquid into the sockets. Dust can build up in the openings, so with the strip unplugged you can gently brush the outlet face clean with a dry cloth or a soft brush.
Inspect the cord and plug for cracks, and check that the plug is not loose in the wall outlet. A warm strip, as noted, is a sign to reduce the load or replace it. Test the surge protection indicator light from time to time, and follow the manufacturer’s replacement instructions. Do not use a strip with a damaged cord.
Keep the strip accessible. If it is mounted behind furniture, make sure you can reach it to unplug it or reset it. Many smart strips have a reset button that you may need to press during setup; keeping it reachable saves frustration.
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FAQ
Can I plug a power strip into another power strip?
No. Daisy-chaining power strips is unsafe because the second strip can overload the first and create a fire risk. Plug every power strip directly into a wall outlet and avoid using extension cords to extend a strip.
Can I use a smart power strip for a space heater?
No. Space heaters, portable air conditioners, hair dryers, and other high-draw appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Check the instructions for both the appliance and the strip, and never use a power strip for these devices.
What is an always-on outlet for?
An always-on outlet stays powered when the other outlets are switched off. Use it for your modem, router, or any device that must stay online even if you turn the rest of the strip off.
How do I know if my surge protector still works?
Look for the indicator light on the strip. If it is off, the surge protection may be used up. Replace the strip after a major surge, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions about when it should be replaced.
A smart power strip is most useful when you match it to the devices you actually plug in. Think about which outlets need individual control, which ones should stay on, and whether USB charging or energy monitoring adds real value for you. Then respect the strip’s electrical limits, plug it directly into the wall, and check the manufacturer’s instructions before installation. With a little planning, one strip can tidy up a desk or entertainment center while making your whole setup easier to manage.
About Colin Foster
Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our smart home guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
