Best Smart Plugs for 2026: An Upgrade for Any Home - CNET

As this guide step into the new year, home automation is becoming an increasingly popular choice among tech enthusiasts and homeowners alike. One of the simplest yet most transformative devices in any smart home setup are smart plugs. These small but powerful gadgets can turn your home into a smarter space with ease. In this review, we’ll dive deep into CNET’s recommendations for the best smart plugs of 2026, focusing on their compatibility, features, and overall value.

What Are Smart Plugs?

Smart plugs are devices that allow you to control electrical appliances via a smartphone or other connected device. They can be programmed to turn on or off at specific times, controlled manually, or set up to respond to voice commands from smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home. Essentially, they transform any standard plug into a smart one, making it easier for users to manage their home’s energy usage and automate tasks.

The Best Smart Plugs for 2026: CNET’s Picks

CNET has recently published an updated guide on the best smart plugs available in 2026. Among them is the Ikea Trådfri Smart Plug. This plug stands out with its affordability and Matter protocol support, making it a strong contender for homeowners who already have or are planning to set up a compatible hub.

Pros of the Ikea Trådfri Smart Plug

1. Affordability: At just $25 per unit, this smart plug offers exceptional value for money compared to many competitors.

2. Matter Compatibility: The Trådfri Smart Plug supports Matter, which means it can work seamlessly with a wide range of devices from different manufacturers. This is especially useful if you already have an Amazon Echo or Apple TV as your hub.

3. Ease of Setup: Thanks to its user-friendly interface and straightforward installation process, even tech novices can set up this smart plug quickly and efficiently.

4. Reliability: Tested extensively by CNET, the Trådfri Smart Plug proved itself to be a reliable device with minimal issues during testing.

Cons of the Ikea Trådfri Smart Plug

1. Limited Functionality Without Matter Hub: While the plug supports Matter, it still requires an existing Matter hub like Amazon Echo or Apple TV to fully utilize its features. This might not appeal to users who prefer a more self-contained smart home system.

2. Compatibility Issues: Although widely compatible, there may be rare instances where certain devices do not work as expected without additional setup.

Who is this for?

The Ikea Trådfri Smart Plug is ideal for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable solution that integrates well with existing Matter-supported hubs. If you are already invested in a smart home ecosystem or planning to expand one, this plug offers a budget-friendly way to add more control and automation without breaking the bank.

However, if you prefer a standalone system or don’t have any compatible devices at hand, you might want to explore other options that offer more comprehensive features right out of the box. Additionally, if you are keen on having all your smart home devices work under one roof (i.e., a single hub), then this plug could be an strong pick.

Final Verdict

For those who value cost-effectiveness and smooth integration with their existing Matter ecosystem, the Ikea Trådfri Smart Plug is definitely competitive for the category. While it might not offer all the bells and whistles of more expensive smart plugs, its affordability and reliability make it a compelling option for many homeowners.

Conclusion and Call-to-Action

If you’re ready to upgrade your home with the convenience of smart plug technology, check out to see if this device is right for you. It’s a fantastic way to start building or expanding your smart home without overspending.

Feel free to leave us a comment below and let us know which smart plugs you’re currently using or planning to use in your home!