Best of · Plugs & power
Best outdoor smart plugs of 2026: weatherproof, Matter-ready picks
Tapo’s P400M and Kasa’s EP40M give you two independently controlled weatherproof outlets with Matter. Here is how they compare to Leviton and others.
Our pick: Tapo P400M for most yards; Kasa EP40M if you already run Kasa
Tapo
Outdoor Smart Plug with Matter (P400M)
8.8Typically $20–$35
Two outlets you can control separately, IP65, and Matter. The best outdoor smart plug for most people.
Pros
- • 2 independently controlled outlets
- • IP65 weather rating
- • Matter over Wi-Fi
- • 1,800 W max
Cons
- • No energy monitoring
- • Needs Wi-Fi reach outdoors
Kasa
Outdoor Smart Plug with Matter (EP40M)
8.6Typically $20–$35
Kasa’s Matter outdoor plug: two 15 A outlets, IP64.
Pros
- • 2 outlets
- • 1,875 W max
- • Matter
- • Kasa schedules and sunset timers
Cons
- • IP64 (vs IP65 on the Tapo)
Leviton
Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug
8.1Typically $30–$45
A single heavy-duty outlet rated for motor loads like pond pumps.
Pros
- • IP65
- • Supports 3/4 HP motors
- • Leviton build quality
Cons
- • One outlet
- • Pricier
An outdoor smart plug puts holiday lights, string lights, pond pumps, and inflatables on a schedule without a trip into the cold. The best outdoor smart plugs in 2026 are weatherproof to IP64 or IP65, have two independently controlled outlets, and support Matter, so they work with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home.
| Plug | Outlets | Independent control | Weather rating | Protocol | Max load |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tapo P400M | 2 | Yes | IP65 | Wi-Fi + Matter | 1,800 W |
| Kasa EP40M | 2 (15 A each) | Yes | IP64 | Wi-Fi + Matter | 1,875 W |
| Leviton Decora Smart Outdoor | 1 (15 A) | n/a | IP65 | Wi-Fi | 3/4 HP motor rated |
| Minoston Matter Outdoor | 1 (15 A) | n/a | IP65 | Matter | 15 A |
Best outdoor smart plug: Tapo P400M
The P400M gives you two outlets with separate on/off control, an IP65 housing, and Matter certification, which is everything most patios need. Pair it once and it appears in every smart home app you use. It’s rated for 1,800 W total.
Runner-up: Kasa EP40M
Kasa’s EP40M matches the two-outlet layout with a slightly higher 1,875 W rating and a slightly lower IP64 rating. If your Kasa schedules and away-mode routines already run the house, it fits right in.
Best for pumps and motors: Leviton Decora Smart Outdoor Plug
Pond pumps, fountains, and bug zappers draw a surge at startup. Leviton rates its outdoor plug for 3/4 HP motors, and it is the one we would trust on a pump that runs all summer.
Outdoor smart plug installation tips
- Use a GFCI-protected receptacle with an in-use cover, required by code for wet locations.
- Point the plug’s outlets downward so water can’t pool in them.
- Check Wi-Fi signal at the outlet before buying. Exterior walls block a lot.
- Use sunset and sunrise schedules instead of fixed times so lights track the seasons.
Questions we get
Can you use a regular smart plug outside?
No. Indoor plugs aren’t sealed against rain, dust, or condensation. Use a plug rated at least IP64, and plug it into a GFCI-protected outdoor receptacle with an in-use (bubble) cover.
What IP rating does an outdoor smart plug need?
IP64 resists splashing water from any direction. IP65 adds protection against water jets. Both are fine under an in-use cover. For exposed spots, prefer IP65 or better.
Do outdoor smart plugs work in winter?
Most are rated for freezing temperatures (check the spec sheet’s operating range). The bigger winter problem is Wi-Fi range through exterior walls. A mesh node or Wi-Fi extender near the door helps.
What is the best outdoor smart plug for Christmas lights?
A two-outlet Matter plug like the Tapo P400M or Kasa EP40M. Put roofline lights on one outlet and yard inflatables on the other, then set both to follow a sunset schedule.