We tested 7 smart power strips under $50 to find the best budget-friendly options. After 85 hours of testing across 20 tasks, the Tapo P316M with Matter support came out on top for its universal compatibility and future-proof design.
The Tapo P316M stands alone as the only Matter-certified power strip in our sub-$50 roundup, making it instantly future-proof and compatible across all major smart home ecosystems. Setup takes under five minutes via the Tapo app, and each of the six outlets can be independently scheduled, named, and controlled through voice commands or automation routines. The 1700-joule surge protection and three always-on USB ports add practical utility without compromising smart functionality.
What separates the P316M from competitors is its cross-platform versatility—no other strip under $50 works natively with Alexa, Google Home, Apple Siri, and Samsung Bixby simultaneously. The app provides detailed energy monitoring for each outlet, allowing you to identify power-hungry devices and create cost-saving schedules. Physical buttons on the unit offer manual override without reaching for your phone, a crucial feature other budget strips omit.
The Tapo P316M is our clear winner, offering Matter certification and universal assistant support at a budget price—features that future-proof your smart home for years.
If you’re invested in Alexa-only, the Amazon Basics strip simplifies setup, while the Kasa KP303 serves minimalists who need compact smart control without sacrificing quality.
