Sonoff • Athom/Tuya • Meross • Matter • Energy Monitoring • Local Control
By Ümit Sönmez • December 16, 2025
Smart plugs are the easiest way to start a smart home in 2025. Matter support, accurate energy monitoring, local control (no cloud), and high power ratings are now standard – especially on AliExpress where prices are unbeatable.
I tested popular models for reliability, energy accuracy, app quality, and Home Assistant integration.
| Plug | Protocol | Power Rating | Energy Monitoring | Matter | AliExpress Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athom/Tuya Pre-flashed Best Overall | Wi-Fi (Tasmota/ESPHome) | 16A | Yes (accurate) | No | $8–12 | 9.8/10 |
| Sonoff S60/Zigbee | Zigbee/Wi-Fi | 16A | Yes | No | $10–15 | 9.5/10 |
| Meross MSS315 | Wi-Fi | 16A | Yes | Yes (Matter) | $12–18 | 9.3/10 |
| TP-Link Kasa/Tapo | Wi-Fi | 15A | Yes | Some models | $10–15 | 9.0/10 |
Pre-flashed with Tasmota or ESPHome – no cloud dependency, perfect for Home Assistant. Accurate energy monitoring and rock-solid reliability.
Local only • Energy monitoring • EU/US/UK versions
$9–12
Sonoff's 2025 plugs: Excellent build, accurate metering, Zigbee for mesh network.
16A • Energy monitoring • eWeLink app or local
$12–16
Native Matter over Wi-Fi, works with Apple Home, Alexa, Google – no hub needed.
16A • Energy monitoring • Future-proof
$14–18
In 2025: Athom pre-flashed plugs for local control lovers. Sonoff for reliability. Meross for Matter ecosystem.
All links are affiliate – small commission at no extra cost to you. Only tested and recommended models.