An in-wall smart outlet looks and works like an ordinary electrical outlet, yet it can also give you the power to automate any appliance or device you plug into it. And you can control it with an app or by voice commands using a smart speaker. Some in-wall smart outlets also have USB ports for charging portables or even directly powering devices (such as indoor security cameras).
We like the Geeni Current+Charge because it offers all of those features at an affordable price, and it has an easy-to-use app. (Unlike some models, however, it doesn’t allow you to monitor how much electricity you’re using.)
Our pick
Geeni Current+Charge
This inexpensive model has two receptacles that can be controlled individually and two USB ports that can be controlled together, and it will send smartphone notifications if you have connection issues.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
The Geeni Current+Charge is the only model we tested with two receptacles that can be controlled independently and two charging USB ports that can be controlled together. It’s also one of the most inexpensive smart outlets we tested, so if you plan to install several, it’s especially cost-effective. In our testing, the Geeni was reliable and its app was easy to use. And it includes scheduling options based on the location of your phone, as well as local weather and sunrise/sunset times. However, unlike some other models we tested, the Geeni doesn’t include energy monitoring and doesn’t support Apple HomeKit or IFTTT.
Runner-up
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
If you prefer having one receptacle that is always on, we recommend the Top Greener In-Wall Smart Wi-Fi USB Charging Outlet (TGWF215U2A). Pricier than the Geeni, it has one controllable receptacle and one non-controllable one that provides constant power. It also has two USB ports that can be controlled together. Like the Geeni, the Top Greener allows you to schedule use based on phone location and local weather and sunrise/sunset times. Unlike the Geeni, this model offers energy monitoring on the one controllable receptacle and support for IFTTT (but not Apple HomeKit). And if you don’t need the USB ports, you can save a few bucks by opting for the In-Wall Smart Wi-Fi Outlet.
