This specification-based comparison of the best smartthings electrical outlet switches covers plug-in options using Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, and Matter. The selection emphasizes documented SmartThings compatibility, control features, electrical capacity, network behavior, and useful designs such as dual outlets or outdoor housings. It is based on public listing data rather than hands-on testing, and it does not summarize customer opinions or volatile marketplace metrics.
This is a specification-based comparison, not a hands-on product test. Editorial scores use a published weighted formula: smartthings integration (25.0%), control and automation features (20.0%), electrical capacity and certification (20.0%), network connectivity and hub options (20.0%), physical design utility (15.0%). A limited non-published marketplace adjustment is applied internally after the editorial formula; its underlying values are not reproduced. The combined result determines rank, while the displayed editorial score is calibrated proportionally across the selected products from 9.9 for the highest weighted result to 8.3 for the lowest. Potential limitations are editorial inferences based on documented category-relevant attributes; they are not observations from hands-on testing.
The Revactic ranking
The MP26Z provides two independently controlled outlets, Z-Wave LR features, SmartThings compatibility, S2 security, and a 15A/1875W total rating. It suits rooms where separate control is more useful than energy measurement.
This compact Z-Wave 800 Series plug combines SmartThings compatibility with energy monitoring, scheduling, S2 security, SmartStart, and a documented 15A/1875W maximum load. It is a complete single-outlet choice when usage data matters.
This two-pack offers compact 15A/1875W Z-Wave plugs with SmartThings compatibility, repeater functionality, S2 security, SmartStart, schedules, and group control. It is designed for coordinated expansion rather than energy measurement.
The Linkind Matter plug supports SmartThings and several other ecosystems, offers local Matter communication after setup, scheduling, remote control, and an 1800W/15A capacity. A Matter-compatible controller is needed for SmartThings platform control.
This outdoor meross plug has two independently controlled AC sockets, an IP44 weatherproof housing, SmartThings compatibility, schedules, sunrise and sunset settings, and overload protection. It is a purpose-built outdoor option in the ranking.
This four-pack supports SmartThings through Matter, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth setup, app timers, schedules, scenes, and a 120V/15A/1800W rating. It suits multi-room automation where a larger pack is useful.
The Satco Starfish plug uses 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, works with SmartThings without a hub, includes a manual on-off switch, and is rated for 15A/1875W. Its straightforward single-outlet design fits everyday lamps and small appliances.
The GE Enbrighten plug-in switch provides two grounded Z-Wave outlets, SmartThings compatibility, manual operation, scheduling, alerts, and repeater capability. Both outlets are controlled together rather than independently.
The SONOFF S40 Lite uses Zigbee, works with SmartThings through a compatible hub, supports schedules and sunrise or sunset routines, and is designed not to block adjacent outlets. It is a focused choice for basic on-off automation.
Samsung's F-OUT-US-2 provides smartphone control, Alexa compatibility through a hub, schedules and arrival-based routines, energy alerts, and Zigbee repeater functionality. It has one outlet and requires hub-based setup for the listed voice integration.
The best smartthings electrical outlet switches are not all built around the same radio or setup method. The products in this comparison include Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, and Matter designs. Choosing between them starts with the hub or platform already installed in your home, then moves to outlet count, electrical rating, automation features, and location.
Zigbee and Z-Wave products generally need a compatible hub, but they can be a natural fit when SmartThings is already the center of your automation system. The SONOFF S40 Lite and Samsung F-OUT-US-2 use Zigbee and are described as repeaters. The Samsung model is directly positioned for SmartThings, while the SONOFF listing emphasizes compact size and routine support.
Z-Wave products offer another hub-based path. The Minoston MP31Z, Minoston MP26Z, Minoston MP31Z two-pack, and GE Enbrighten 14282 all document SmartThings compatibility. The Minoston models add 800 Series or Z-Wave LR features, S2 security, and SmartStart details. The GE model uses Z-Wave Plus and lists several compatible hubs. Check the exact hub, region, and current platform requirements before buying.
Wi-Fi and Matter products can be preferable when you do not want to add a dedicated Zigbee or Z-Wave device. Satco’s Starfish plug states that no hub is required for its SmartThings compatibility. Matter products such as the Linkind and GHome Smart plugs support multiple ecosystems, but their listings distinguish between initial app setup and direct control through a Matter ecosystem. A Matter-compatible controller may be required for SmartThings platform operation.
A single outlet is sufficient for a lamp, fan, coffee maker, or other individual appliance. It also tends to be easier to position in a crowded receptacle. The Samsung, SONOFF, Satco, Linkind, and Minoston MP31Z single-plug designs serve this use case.
Dual-outlet products are more useful when two devices share one wall position. Independent control is the important distinction. The Minoston MP26Z and meross MSS620 let the two sockets operate separately, allowing different schedules. The GE Enbrighten 14282 also has two outlets, but its listing says they cannot be controlled individually; both connected devices operate together.
Pack size matters when several rooms need automation. The Minoston MP31Z two-pack and GHome Smart four-pack reduce the need to select multiple individual units. Confirm that every unit will use the same protocol and platform path.
Electrical capacity should be treated as a selection filter. Several products state a 15A rating: the Minoston MP31Z and MP26Z list up to 1875W, Satco lists 15A/1875W, GHome Smart lists 120V/15A/1800W, and Linkind lists 15A/1800W. These figures describe the documented maximums supplied for the products, not a recommendation to operate every appliance at its limit.
The Minoston MP26Z listing specifies that its 15A/1875W capacity applies to the plug’s total load. For dual-outlet designs, confirm whether the rating is shared across both sockets. Use the manufacturer’s instructions and the appliance label when deciding whether a smart plug is appropriate.
Certification language also varies. Selected products mention ETL, cETLus, FCC, or other listings in their supplied evidence. These references can help narrow a comparison, but they do not eliminate the need to use the device only in the location and electrical conditions described by its documentation. The Samsung listing does not provide a maximum load in the supplied specifications, so obtain that information before connecting a higher-draw appliance.
Basic on-off control is enough for a table lamp or simple routine. Scheduling is documented across much of this list, including the Minoston, SONOFF, Satco, GHome Smart, Linkind, and GE products. If your routine follows daylight, the SONOFF, meross, and Samsung listings specifically mention sunrise, sunset, arrival, or departure-related automation.
Energy monitoring is a narrower feature. The Minoston MP31Z with Energy Monitoring explicitly includes energy monitoring and power-meter capability. It can help you observe usage through the supported hub or platform, but it should not be treated as a guarantee of lower bills.
Manual control is also practical. Satco includes an on-off switch on the outlet, and GE documents manual operation. Minoston’s Matter listing describes a child-lock option for its manual switch. These features matter when someone needs to operate the connected device without opening an app.
A compact body may help preserve access to the neighboring receptacle. SONOFF, Minoston MP31Z, Minoston MP26Z, and Linkind emphasize space-conscious designs. The GE plug-in switch is described as leaving the second outlet free. Measure available wall space if the receptacle sits behind furniture.
Network results depend on hub placement, walls, interference, and the rest of the network. The Minoston MP31Z and MP26Z cite long-range behavior, with the MP31Z energy-monitoring model noting that extended range depends on hub support.
Outdoor placement requires a different standard. The meross MSS620 documents IP44 weatherproof housing and socket covers. IP44 should not be interpreted as permission for every exposed installation. Follow the location and protection instructions supplied with the device.
Minoston MP26Z Dual-Outlet Z-Wave Plug ranks first overall in this specification-based comparison under the published weighted criteria.
Minoston MP31Z Z-Wave Plug with Energy Monitoring is the first overall specification-based choice among the best smartthings electrical outlet switches. It combines SmartThings compatibility, energy monitoring, 800 Series Z-Wave features, security, scheduling, repeater capability, and a documented 15A/1875W capacity. Choose the Minoston MP26Z when independent dual-outlet control is the priority, or the meross MSS620 when outdoor use and two separately controlled sockets matter most.
The top smartthings electrical outlet switches also include alternatives for different installation plans. Satco is a straightforward no-hub Wi-Fi option, while Linkind and GHome Smart suit households building around Matter. The GE Enbrighten 14282 is practical for paired lamps when shared control is acceptable. SONOFF and Samsung are Zigbee choices for an existing hub-based network, and the Minoston two-pack is useful when several compact Z-Wave endpoints are needed.
Before ordering, verify the hub or Matter-controller requirement, wireless band, total load, outlet-control behavior, and indoor or outdoor location. Those checks are more important than choosing by brand name alone.
Not all of them. Satco’s Starfish S11266 states that no hub is required for SmartThings compatibility, while the Zigbee and Z-Wave models require a compatible hub. Matter models may require a Matter-compatible controller for direct SmartThings platform control, even when an app is available for initial setup.
The Minoston MP26Z and meross MSS620 document two independently controlled outlets. The GE Enbrighten 14282 has two outlets, but its listing says both are controlled together. If separate schedules are important, select a model whose listing explicitly describes independent control.
The Minoston MP31Z with Energy Monitoring explicitly includes energy monitoring and power-meter capability. The other selected products do not provide the same energy-monitoring evidence in the supplied listings, so do not assume that a SmartThings-compatible plug measures consumption.
Only choose a product whose documentation supports the intended location. The meross MSS620 is selected for outdoor use because its listing documents IP44 weatherproof housing and socket covers. Indoor models should not be treated as outdoor products merely because they support schedules or remote control.
Compare the appliance’s electrical requirements with the plug’s documented voltage, amperage, wattage, and any total-load limits. The Minoston MP31Z and MP26Z list 15A/1875W, Satco lists 15A/1875W, GHome Smart lists 15A/1800W, and Linkind lists 15A/1800W. For dual-outlet designs, confirm whether the rating is shared across both sockets and follow the product instructions.
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