Top 7 Smart Plugs That Help Renters Save Energy Without Breaking the Lease

Smart plugs are a renter’s secret weapon for slashing energy bills, automating homes, and living sustainably—without compromising your lease agreement. Highly portable and easy to install, these small devices turn ordinary appliances into energy-smart machines, make controlling devices a breeze, and offer deep insights into your power usage.

If you’re ready to cut costs and your energy footprint, check out these top smart plugs tailored for renters. We cover the best models, key features to look for, and actionable ways to maximize savings without tools or landlord approval.

Why Smart Plugs Are Perfect for Renters

Traditional home automation often requires rewiring or installing new outlets—major no-nos in most rental agreements. Smart plugs bypass these barriers:

No modifications required: Plug them in and control devices instantly.
Portable: Take them with you when you move.
Energy tracking: See actual usage, helping you understand and cut down waste.
Compatible with major voice assistants: Control via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.

How Smart Plugs Help You Save Energy

Think of smart plugs as the gatekeepers between your devices and the wall socket. They eliminate “vampire” energy drain from idle electronics, automate schedules to ensure nothing stays on by accident, and can allow remote shut-off if you forget to turn something off before leaving home.

Practical Ways Renters Use Smart Plugs

Automate lamps and lights to turn off when not home
Turn off TVs and entertainment systems after bedtime
Manage kitchen appliances (e.g., kettle or coffee maker schedules)
Cut standby power to gaming consoles and computers
Remotely check if devices are still on (and turn them off from anywhere)

Top 7 Smart Plugs for Renters: Stay Efficient and Lease-Friendly

When selecting smart plugs for your rental, consider energy monitoring features, smart home compatibility, app convenience, and size (so they fit behind furniture!). Here are the top seven models dominating the 2024 market for renters focused on energy savings.

1. Kasa Smart Plug HS103P4

Energy Monitoring: No, but offers extensive app-based scheduling for energy saving.
Voice Control: Yes, works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Best Feature: Group control multiple plugs at once from the app—great for larger spaces or small offices.
Size: Compact for tight spaces.

Why it’s great for renters: At under $10 per plug, this 4-pack is affordable for outfitting your entire apartment. No hub required, just Wi-Fi.

2. TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug KP125P2

Energy Monitoring: Yes, with detailed reports and history for each connected device.
Voice Control: Supports Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, and Siri Shortcuts.
Best Feature: Energy usage tracking and robust scheduling for power-hungry appliances.
Form Factor: Small enough to double-stack in duplex wall outlets.

Why it’s great for renters: Perfect for tracking the energy drain of entertainment centers, AC window units, or kitchen appliances, leading to meaningful monthly savings.

3. Wyze Plug

Energy Monitoring: No, but app is simple and responsive.
Voice Control: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Best Feature: Vacation mode triggers randomized on/off cycles, making your home look lived-in even when you’re away.
Price: Extremely budget-friendly for renters on a tight energy (and rent!) budget.

Why it’s great for renters: Emphasizes security with random lighting automation, which is a bonus for those in urban rentals. Minimal setup, great app interface.

4. Amazon Smart Plug

Energy Monitoring: No, focused on seamless Alexa integration.
Voice Control: Best for Alexa users; setup happens automatically via the Alexa app.
Best Feature: Plug-and-play setup for renters who prioritize ease of use over granular energy stats.
Design: Subtle footprint and streamlined look.

Why it’s great for renters: Zero-fuss setup for anyone already using Alexa-powered devices. Ideal for tech-eschewing renters or those new to smart home gear.

5. Emporia Smart Plug

Energy Monitoring: Yes, with extremely detailed device-level reporting.
Voice Control: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Best Feature: Track real-time and historical energy data; schedule and control remotely.
Unique Value: One of the highest-rated for energy monitoring accuracy and detail.

Why it’s great for renters: Emporia’s cloud dashboard helps compare weekly/monthly consumption, making it easy to pinpoint savings and compete with utility company reports.

6. Meross Smart WiFi Plug Mini

Energy Monitoring: Only on upgraded versions; base model focuses on automations.
Voice Control: Supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Best Feature: Wide platform compatibility and reliable schedules, even without internet access.
Low-Profile Design: Fits outlets blocked by furniture or low-clearance spaces.

Why it’s great for renters: Especially suited for Apple users or those needing HomeKit control in rental apartments or dorms.

7. Geeni Spot Smart Plug

Energy Monitoring: No, but affordable and simple for casual users.
Voice Control: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant without an added hub.
Best Feature: Super easy app interface, and can stack to create custom scenes (e.g., “Good Morning” routine for multiple devices).
Affordability: One of the most accessible price points for students or minimalist renters.

Why it’s great for renters: Fast setup and strong schedule automation for those who want to plug in, program, and forget.

What Features to Look For When Choosing a Smart Plug

Not all smart plugs are created equal. Before purchasing, consider these essential factors:

Energy Monitoring: Want to see detailed use or just schedule on/off?
App Control: Is the app intuitive for managing multiple devices?
Voice Assistant Support: Do you use Alexa, Google, or Apple HomeKit?
Size and Positioning: Will the plug fit behind your furniture or power strip?
Scheduling and Automation: How granular and reliable are your automations?
Price: Sometimes, a basic plug hits all your needs at half the cost.

How to Use Smart Plugs for Maximum Energy Savings

1. Schedule High-Usage Devices

Set daily schedules so things like coffee makers, space heaters, or entertainment systems power off completely when not needed.

2. Cut Standby (Vampire) Loads

Electronics often drain power even in “off” mode. Smart plugs can completely cut their connection outside of active use hours.

3. Travel With Peace of Mind

Use remote app control to double-check or disable unsafe or unnecessary devices, reducing risk and wasted energy.

4. Compare & Learn

If your plug offers energy monitoring, use the data! See which devices use the most energy and adjust your habits or schedules for maximum monthly savings.