Smart Plugs and Power Strips to Manage Office Devices Efficiently

As remote work becomes the norm and hybrid offices continue to evolve, the demand for smarter, more efficient ways to manage our home and office tech setups is growing. Among the simplest yet most impactful upgrades is the integration of smart power strips and plugs—devices that may look deceptively ordinary, but deliver powerful automation and energy-saving features.

By giving you the ability to schedule, monitor, and control devices from your phone or voice assistant, these compact tools are transforming how we approach office automation. Whether you’re trying to reduce standby power waste, create seamless start-up routines, or gain better oversight of device usage, smart plugs and strips are an accessible gateway into the world of energy-saving tech.

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits, practical applications, and top recommendations for integrating smart power management into your workspace.

What Are Smart Plugs and Smart Power Strips?

At their core, smart plugs and smart power strips are Wi-Fi-enabled devices that allow users to control the power supply to connected electronics remotely. But the technology has evolved significantly beyond the basic “on/off” toggle.

Key Features Include:

• App and voice control via platforms like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit
• Power scheduling (e.g. turning off devices overnight)
• Energy usage monitoring
• Individual outlet control on advanced power strips
• Automations and routines tied to time of day, occupancy, or other smart devices

These functionalities make them ideal not just for smart homes, but for office automation and productivity enhancements as well.

Why Use Smart Power Management in the Office?

While smart plugs are popular in living rooms and kitchens, they offer unique advantages in the workplace—whether in a home office, shared co-working space, or corporate setting.

1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Office equipment like printers, monitors, routers, and chargers often continue to draw power even when not in active use. Smart plugs can automatically cut power during off-hours or when idle, reducing your energy bill and carbon footprint.

2. Improved Workflow

Imagine starting your workday with lights, monitors, and heating automatically turned on. With smart power strips, you can create start-of-day and end-of-day routines that minimise fuss and maximise focus.

3. Safety and Surge Protection

Advanced smart power strips come with surge protection, reducing the risk of damage to expensive equipment during storms or outages. Some even offer overheating alerts and automatic shut-offs.

4. Remote Control and Peace of Mind

Forgot to turn off the space heater or shredder? With remote access via mobile apps, you can manage connected devices from anywhere.

5. Device Usage Tracking

Want to audit how long a monitor or device has been on each day? Many smart strips include data insights to help you monitor and optimise your workspace.

Top Applications for Smart Plugs and Strips in Office Settings

Workstation Management

Plug in your monitor, desktop computer, speakers, and lamp into a smart strip. Schedule them to turn on before your workday starts and power off after you log off.

Printer and Scanner Control

These devices are often needed occasionally but left on all day. A smart plug ensures they’re only powered when required.

Router and Modem Resets

Schedule automatic weekly reboots to improve network stability—without physically unplugging anything.

Charging Stations

Avoid overcharging your phone, tablet, or headset by setting timers or usage limits.

Break Room Automation

Use smart strips for kettles, coffee machines, and microwaves—ensuring they’re only operational during business hours.

Choosing the Right Smart Plug or Strip: Key Considerations

Not all smart plugs are created equal. Depending on your workspace, number of devices, and tech ecosystem, the ideal choice can vary.

1. Number of Outlets Needed

• Single smart plugs are ideal for controlling one device or appliance.
• Smart power strips offer 3–6 controllable outlets, often with USB ports included.

2. Voice Assistant Compatibility

Ensure the plug works with your preferred ecosystem (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri).

3. App Functionality

Look for apps with:

• Easy scheduling
• Energy tracking
• Reliable remote access
• Customisable automations

4. Wi-Fi vs. Hub-Based

Wi-Fi smart plugs are easier for beginners. Hub-based systems (like Zigbee or Z-Wave) offer more advanced automation and stability but require a central hub.

5. Surge Protection and Build Quality

Always check for proper surge protection if plugging in high-value devices.

Recommended Smart Plugs and Power Strips for Offices

TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS103 or HS105)

• Compact, reliable, and Alexa/Google compatible
• App allows scheduling, voice control, and timers
• Perfect for desk lamps or printers

Amazon Smart Plug

• Seamless integration with Alexa
• Simple, straightforward interface
• Ideal for Amazon-centric smart offices

Meross Smart Power Strip

• 4 smart outlets + 4 USB ports
• Works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant
• Great for powering a full desk setup

TP-Link Kasa Smart Power Strip (HS300)

• 6 individually controllable outlets
• Energy monitoring and surge protection
• Top-tier option for tech-heavy workspaces

Wemo Mini Smart Plug

• Slim profile, easy to hide behind furniture
• Integrates with most smart ecosystems
• Reliable performance and minimal app clutter

Creating Automation for Seamless Office Use

Here’s how you can integrate connected fitness devices, lighting, and desktop essentials into a functional smart workspace:

Start-of-Day Routine

At 8:00 AM:

• Power on monitor, speaker, and standing desk motor
• Turn on smart LED strip for task lighting
• Start coffee machine in the kitchen

End-of-Day Routine

At 6:00 PM:

• Shut off all non-essential equipment
• Enable power-saving mode on printer and scanner
• Send alert if any high-consumption device remains on

Energy Audit

Each week:

• Review app-generated energy usage reports
• Adjust settings for rarely used devices

These small habits add up—both in energy saved and stress reduced.

Ensuring Smart Office Automation Is Secure

When introducing smart power strips and other IoT devices, it’s essential to keep cybersecurity in mind.

Smart Device Security Tips:

• Change default passwords immediately
• Regularly update device firmware
• Use a separate guest Wi-Fi network for smart devices
• Avoid cheap, no-name brands with limited security features

Smart home security system integration is an optional but valuable layer of control and protection for larger setups.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Smarter energy use isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s essential for the planet.

How Smart Plugs Help:

• Reduce phantom power drain (devices using energy while “off”)
• Encourage conscious device usage
• Extend lifespan of electronics by reducing unnecessary runtime

Energy-saving tech like smart strips plays a crucial role in reducing overall consumption—particularly in energy-intensive environments like home offices.

Small Plugs, Big Impact

In the modern office—home-based or otherwise—intelligent power control isn’t a luxury; it’s a practical, sustainable upgrade. With the right smart power strips and plugs, you can streamline your workday, cut unnecessary energy costs, and take the first step into more holistic office automation.

As workspaces become more connected, the ability to manage devices efficiently, securely, and effortlessly will be key. These devices may be small, but their impact on convenience, safety, and sustainability is huge.

Take action today: Audit your workspace, identify where automation can help, and invest in a smart power solution that fits your setup and style. A smarter office starts with a single outlet.