We Spent 2 Months Testing Smart Plugs—These Were the Easiest To Set Up and Use

Smart plugs are one of the easiest ways to dip your toes into home automation. These handy little devices plug into any standard outlet and let you control whatever’s connected to them using voice commands or a phone.

Want to turn on a lamp from bed? Set up lighting scenes for movie night? Turn off an outlet so that you don’t have to worry whether you left the curling iron on? Smart plugs make it simple. They work with everything from fans and air conditioners to holiday decorations and TVs. They also help save energy by making it easier to power down devices when not in use, and they’re much cheaper than replacing appliances with their smart counterparts.

To compile a list of smart plugs for varying tech comfort levels and budgets, we researched dozens of products and spent over 2 months testing 12 top-rated options. Once our work was complete, we tallied the scores and selected the TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug as the best overall. It’s incredibly easy to set up, has a compact design that won’t block other outlets, and will work with pretty much any smart home setup. 

Read on to learn more about the best smart plugs to make your home smarter and to see which features matter most when selecting the right one for your needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: TP-Link Kasa HS103P2 Smart Wi-Fi Plug Lite 2-Pack
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3. BEST ENERGY-MONITORING: TP-Link Kasa HS300 Smart Plug Wi-Fi Power Strip
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4. BEST FOR LIGHTS: Lutron Caséta Original Smart Dimmer Switch Kit
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5. BEST OUTDOOR: TP-Link Tapo P400M Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug
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6. BEST ALEXA: Amazon Smart Plug
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7. BEST MATTER: GE Cync Indoor Smart Plug
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8. EASIEST SETUP: Leviton Decora D215P-1RW Smart Mini Plug-In Switch
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Smart Plugs Comparison

Our Top Picks

Smart plugs might be new to you, but they’ve quickly become one of the simplest ways to make everyday devices smarter. However, with so many options on the market (not to mention lists of potentially confusing terms to decipher), it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The following picks excelled in our hands-on tests and are simple to set up, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

Best Overall

TP-Link Tapo P125M Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug

Buy at Amazon Buy at TP-Link

Pros

• Super easy setup and integration
• Wide-ranging smart home compatibility (including Matter)
• Compact design and UL-listed for safety

Cons

• Occasional Alexa lag
• No energy-monitoring feature

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Matter
• App Tapo
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

The TP-Link Tapo P125M earned our top spot because it has the three most important features a smart plug can have: easy setup, broad compatibility, and a compact design that fits almost anywhere. Thanks to its Matter certification, this little plug works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings setups right out of the box. It’s small enough to avoid blocking the second socket on outlets, yet it still handles up to 15 amps and 1800 watts, which is enough for most household devices.

This was one of the first smart plugs we tested, and setup was easy, even though we were newbies. We simply plugged it in, paired it with the Tapo app, and began setting up a schedule. The app made it easy to create routines for appliances like lamps, fans, and even our electric kettle. It was responsive to voice commands with Siri and Alexa, though we did notice an occasional lag with Alexa. 

While we do wish it offered energy monitoring, its reliable performance and cross-platform compatibility more than make up for that omission. Plus, it’s UL-listed for safety.

What our tester says: “We put this one in our daughter’s room because she loves to have her fan on while she falls asleep, but not all night. Now she just tells Alexa to turn on her fan for bedtime, and it shuts off automatically after a couple of hours.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the TP-Link Tapo P125M smart plug at Amazon or TP-Link.

Best Bang for the Buck

TP-Link Kasa HS103P2 Smart Wi-Fi Plug Lite 2-Pack

Buy at Amazon Buy at Walmart

What We Like

• Easily installs with the Kasa app Comes in a 2-pack for dual device control
• Comes in a 2-pack for dual device control
• Compact size; great for crowded counters, behind furniture

What We Don’t Like

• Makes a hissing noise when in “off” mode

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT
• App Kasa
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

Kasa’s products won more than one spot in our lineup, and the brand’s HS103P2 two-pack takes our best bang for the buck award because buyers get two reliable smart plugs at a great price. What makes this deal even better is that it’s backed by Kasa’s excellent track record for dependable performance and straightforward app integration. 

To program these smart plugs, simply plug them in, download the Kasa app, and connect them to Wi-Fi via the app. Then, use them to set appliance schedules, create a remote control electrical outlet, or sync lights with sunrise and sunset. During testing, we got both units running within minutes and programmed one to control a fan we use for our dog’s crate on hot days. We put the other plug in our coffee bar, and although these aren’t the slimmest smart plugs on the market, the relatively compact design doesn’t get in the way of any jars or appliances. The app handled scheduling without any hiccups, and both plugs responded reliably to commands.

One quirk worth mentioning is that they do make a slight hissing sound when switched off. It’s barely noticeable unless we’re right next to them, and it disappears completely if they’re tucked behind furniture. All in all, considering the price, this two-pack delivers exactly what we hoped for from a smart plug. 

Get the TP-Link Kasa HS103P2 smart plug at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Energy-Monitoring

TP-Link Kasa HS300 Smart Plug Wi-Fi Power Strip

Buy at Amazon

What We Like

• Six individually controllable outlets and three USB ports
• Built-in energy monitoring and surge protection
• Reliable voice assistant integration

What We Don’t Like

• Cord length is on the short side
• No Apple HomeKit support

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT
• App Kasa
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

The Kasa HS300 could have earned more than one award on our list since it was not only the only pick that offers energy monitoring, but also the only one that’s a multi-outlet power strip. It has six individually controllable outlets, each with its own on/off switch and status LED light, plus three built-in USB-A ports for phones and tablets. We did wish that the 3-foot cord was a little longer, as the shorter length limited the placement of the strip in relation to the items we wanted to plug in. On the other hand, we appreciated that the heavy-duty cord comes out of the strip’s plug at an angle, leaving the second outlet open for additional plugs.

This was definitely one of our favorite smart plugs to test. In addition to its ability to power an electric standing desk, laptop, second computer screen, and fan while charging a phone, watch, and earbuds, we really liked being able to monitor each plug’s energy use throughout the day. We could see exactly which devices used the most power and then set up schedules so that they ran only when we needed them. We also appreciated that the strip features ETL-certified surge protection, providing an extra layer of safety for all our electronics.

What our tester says: “I love being able to schedule my monitor and fan to turn on in the morning so everything’s ready when I sit down with my coffee. My office gets hot and my computer screen is old, but at least I can get a little air flowing and not use any more electricity than I have to. There’s no way I’ll go back to my old power strip in my office. “—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the TP-Link Kasa HS300 smart plug at Amazon.

Best for Lights

Lutron Caséta Original Smart Dimmer Switch Kit

Buy at Amazon Buy at The Home Depot

What We Like

• Pico switch controller is small and easy to use
• “Favorite” button dials in brightness quickly
• Side-mounted plugs maintain an exceptionally low-profile design

What We Don’t Like

• Requires a bridge for phone or voice interfacing

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Ring, Serena Shades, Sonos
• App Lutron
• Bridge required Yes

Our Ratings

Folks who want smart lighting without the expense of smart bulbs or the hassle of electrical work will want to check out Lutron’s Caséta smart switch. It’s specifically designed for lamp control and offers true dimming capability—something regular smart plugs can’t do. This unique device plugs into any standard outlet and can control two lamps simultaneously, letting users dim, brighten, or switch them on and off remotely. The kit includes a handy Pico remote that works without a hub, though connecting to Alexa, Apple HomeKit, or Google Assistant will require Lutron’s Smart Bridge (sold separately or as a kit with the hub).

We didn’t have the bridge for testing, so we were limited to remote-control use, but we rather liked the switch once we got the hang of it. It’s small and easy to use, and it has a favorite setting that immediately adjusted the lamp to our preferred brightness. We could see the convenience of attaching it to the wall like a standard switch, though it didn’t include the mount to do so. Also, we appreciated that this device has side-mounted outlets and a slim profile, making it perfect for mounting behind a couch. It’s actually lower profile than a standard plug, meaning if kids or rambunctious dogs are moving the couch back and forth, it’s less likely to hit the plug. 

Get the Lutron smart plug at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Outdoor

TP-Link Tapo P400M Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug

Buy at Amazon Buy at TP-Link

What We Like

• Weather-resistant, IP65-rated design
• Two independently controlled outlets
• Matter-certified for broad compatibility

What We Don’t Like

• Cord length is somewhat short
• Wire clip for wall mounting isn’t especially strong

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Matter
• App Tapo
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

Anyone who wants to automate holiday lighting, water features, or outdoor speakers will appreciate the TP-Link Tapo P400M outdoor smart plug. This weather-resistant plug gives users two independently controlled outlets that can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them. Thanks to its IP65 rating, the P400M protects against rain, snow, and temperature extremes. It has a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to mount off the ground with the included wire clip. 

During testing, we found this outdoor two-outlet plug easy to install, although the clip that holds it in place sometimes gets knocked askew by our crazy dogs. In terms of operation, setup follows the same simple process as other Tapo devices: plug it in, scan the Matter QR code, and connect through the app. It responds quickly to commands, even from inside the house, and the scheduling features worked perfectly for automating our patio string lights.

What our tester says: “The timer function is perfect for our outdoor lights. They come on automatically at sunset and turn off at 10, so we’re not wasting electricity or having to get out of bed to unplug them.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the TP-Link P400M smart plug at Amazon or TP-Link.

Best Alexa

Amazon Smart Plug

Buy at Amazon Buy at The Home Depot

What We Like

• Included QR code makes setup quick and easy
• Lower-profile design doesn’t block other outlets
• Supports IFTTT programming to create dialed-in scenes

What We Don’t Like

• Relatively bare-bones app features

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa
• App Amazon Alexa
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

The Amazon Smart Plug offers a very easy path to smart home automation, especially for those who are already invested in the Alexa ecosystem. Amazon markets this as “Certified for Humans,” meaning users don’t need any technical expertise to get it running. Setup couldn’t be more straightforward: just plug it in, open the Alexa app, and start adding household devices. From there, Alexa handles scheduling, routines, and grouping devices together for commands like “turn off all the lights.” 

Even though this is a relatively basic smart plug, there’s a lot to like. Connecting to Wi-Fi was quick thanks to the included QR code setup. The plug responded reliably to voice commands and worked seamlessly with Alexa routines. We set up timers for lamps and created groupings that let us control multiple devices with a single command. Also, this is one of the smallest smart plugs in the lineup. It measures 1.5 inches tall by 3.2 inches wide by 2.2 inches deep, making it more convenient than many of the others. In terms of downsides, this pick is only compatible with Alexa, and the app is pretty bare bones (no energy monitoring—it literally just turns on and off), but it does support IFTTT for more complex automations.

Get the Amazon smart plug at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Matter

GE Cync Indoor Smart Plug

Buy at Amazon Buy at Wayfair Buy at Target

What We Like

• Broad Matter and platform compatibility
• Compact, outlet-friendly design
• UL-listed for safety

What We Don’t Like

• Occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues
• Doesn’t offer energy monitoring

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Matter
• App Cync
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

Anyone wanting broad compatibility across smart home platforms should consider the GE Cync Wi-Fi smart plug. This pick is Matter-certified, meaning it enables all of the smart devices in the home to work together seamlessly no matter what system they use. Its compact design won’t hog space on outlets, and the 15-amp, 1800-watt rating means it can handle everything from table lamps to space heaters.

By the time we tested this plug, we were pros at setup: plug in, connect through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and pair with the Cync app or directly to a smart home platform. During testing, we were impressed by how quickly it responded to commands and how reliably it stayed connected. The scheduling features worked without issue for automating our living room lamps, and voice control through both Alexa and Google Assistant was consistently responsive. 

Like most of the plugs on our list, the GE Cync isn’t a smart plug with energy monitoring, but its combination of Matter compatibility, solid performance, and a reasonable price still makes it a great pick. 

Get the GE smart plug at Amazon, Wayfair, Target, or GE.

Easiest Setup

Leviton Decora D215P-1RW Smart Mini Plug-In Switch

Buy at Amazon Buy at The Home Depot Buy at Leviton

What We Like

• No hub required for setup
• Intuitive app simplifies scheduling and scene setup
• Automations keep working even if internet goes down

What We Don’t Like

• Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
• A little more expensive than other single-outlet options

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Product Specs

• Major compatibility Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Matter
• App My Leviton
• Bridge required No

Our Ratings

The Leviton Decora smart mini plug-in switch takes our easiest setup award not because the process itself is different—plug it in, scan the QR code, and pair through the app like most smart plugs—but because of the exceptional support it comes with. Leviton includes a detailed instruction manual and offers multiple ways to get help: live chat, email, phone support, and comprehensive resources on the website. For those who find smart plugs a little intimidating, this is an ideal pick. 

But easy setup isn’t all that sets this option apart. This plug stores schedules locally, meaning automations continue to run even if the internet goes down. The My Leviton app goes beyond basic on/off control, offering scene creation and device grouping, as well. And Matter certification means it works with any smart home system. 

We also like that it has a manual on/off button, status LED, and Leviton’s signature Decora styling—that flat, rectangular design that matches modern wall switches—so it looks more polished than typical chunky smart plugs. It is a couple of dollars more than the other single-outlet options on this list, but for that slight financial step up, users get superior customer support, reliable local scheduling, and premium features that go beyond basic smart plugs.

Get the Leviton smart plug at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Leviton.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Smart Plugs

To ensure we could recommend a solid selection of the best smart plugs on the market, we tested 12 popular options over a 2-month period in real-world home conditions. We set up each plug, navigated their apps, programmed schedules and automations, and tested voice integration with Alexa and Apple HomeKit via Siri. We used them to control various household devices, including everything from low-power electronics to high-draw appliances like coffee makers and fans. In addition to basic on/off functionality and scheduling, we also tested advanced features like energy monitoring and scene creation.

We evaluated each plug’s setup process, app usability, response times, and reliability. We also assessed build quality, outlet accessibility, and special features like local schedule storage and Matter compatibility. Smart plugs that consistently delivered reliable performance, offered good value, and excelled in specific areas earned spots on our final list. 

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Smart Plug

If you want to cash in on convenience but are confused about which smart plug to buy, keep reading. This section outlines key factors to consider when shopping for the best smart plug for any home. From app support to connectivity, these features help maximize the power of a smart plug.

Smart-Home Compatibility

While each smart-plug brand has its own app that lets users control power, set timers, and create schedules, smart plugs can actually do much more. In addition to app-based controls, many smart home systems also support voice commands. With a simple phrase, a voice assistant can turn off specific lights, start the radio, or manage multiple devices—all without users having to lift a finger.

With the right smart home system, users can also program scenes (a series of device activations) that power up several devices simultaneously, triggered by one simple action like unlocking the front door. To truly take advantage of all that smart plugs have to offer, look for one that’s compatible with the specific system already in use in the home, whether Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, or Samsung SmartThings. Those who don’t want to worry about compatibility can opt for a Matter-certified option. Matter is a protocol that smart home product manufacturers can opt into which ensures that their products will work with any system without requiring an additional hub.

App Inclusion and Support

Some choose to control their smart devices with an app rather than a smart-home hub, but not all apps are intuitive or reliable. Before purchasing a smart plug, ensure that it’s backed by a quality app that’s reliable, easy to navigate, and capable of managing multiple plugs under one account.

When planning to use smart plugs throughout a home, it’s a good idea to stick with the same brand in every room. Otherwise, users could end up juggling several different apps just to get all the lights on. Interestingly, we did discover an overlap between Kasa and Tapo products and apps during our test, so those two brands might be the exception to this rule. 

Connectivity 

Network connectivity is one of the most common issues smart-device owners encounter. Whether connecting to a smartphone app, Bluetooth device, or smart home system, pairing should be straightforward.

The majority of smart plugs are designed to tap into the home’s Wi-Fi, but some also include Bluetooth connectivity. However, Bluetooth connectivity is generally only for initial setup or limited local control, not for independent long-term control of other Bluetooth devices. 

Some devices require an additional component (known as a bridge) to connect to the home’s Wi-Fi. By linking the bridge to the network, users can control the smart plug with Wi-Fi through the app or a smart home system. It’s essential to determine whether a device requires a bridge before purchasing to avoid frustration.

USB Charging

To squeeze a bit of extra functionality out of a smart plug, look for a model with a built-in USB charger. Some even include multiple ports but don’t take up additional electrical outlet space, making them especially useful in certain areas.

Some models include 5-volt USB ports that are “always on,” meaning there’s no need to use an app to activate them before charging. With these, users can simply plug in a smartphone or tablet and let it charge overnight without programming anything—a convenient advantage over standard smart plugs.

USB ports also eliminate the need for a charging cube, which is especially helpful since the smart plug already protrudes from the wall. Adding a cube would make it stick out even farther, unnecessarily occupying more space.

Automated Schedule 

A smart plug paired with a reliable app or smart home system enables users to set up automated schedules. For example, a smart lock may detect the user’s phone via Bluetooth and unlock the door automatically. That same system can trigger other actions, like turning on entry lights as soon as the door opens.

Smart plugs can also help make it look like users are at home, even when they’re not. By scheduling the plugs to work in sequence—turning lights on and off throughout the day—users can add an extra layer of security while they’re at work, out for the evening, or away on vacation.

For even more advanced automation, look for smart plugs that support “If-This-Then-That” (IFTTT) programming. With IFTTT, users can create custom automation rules that connect smart plugs to other online services and devices, enabling unique routines—like turning on lights when an email notification arrives, or activating devices based on weather conditions.

Privacy and Security

Before buying a smart plug, it’s a good idea to review the brand’s privacy policy to understand what information is collected and how it’s used. Most reputable brands only ask for basic account info during setup, but device schedules, automation routines, and network details may be stored in the cloud for remote access and notifications. Some smart plugs support local scheduling and automation so that routines can run without sending data to the cloud. 

A few of the plugs on our list (the TP-Link Tapo P125M, P400M, and the Kasa HS300 power strip) offer two-factor authentication (sometimes shortened to 2FA), which requires both a password and a second verification step (like a code sent to a phone) to log in to reduce the chances of unauthorized access. To add another layer of protection, look for plugs that are Matter-certified, and make sure the home Wi-Fi network has a strong password.

The Advantages of Owning a Smart Plug

Using smart plugs can increase a home’s security. By pairing smart plugs with an app or a smart home system, users can create the illusion that they’re home even when they’re far away by programming lights and other devices, like radios, to turn on and off. Also, apps that integrate with a security system can program smart plugs to turn lights on throughout the house if the alarm activates, potentially scaring away would-be intruders. 

Smart plugs can transform standard devices into well-oiled machines that offer enhanced flexibility and convenience. For instance, a standard coffee pot paired with a smart plug can have coffee hot and ready the second the alarm goes off in the morning. By programming the plug and turning the pot’s switch to the “on” position the night before, the plug powers up the coffee pot at the specified time without fiddling with the pot’s often-complex program function.

Smart plugs can help reduce “vampire” energy loss, sometimes also called phantom load, which refers to the power that devices consume when they’re in standby mode. A smart plug with remote controllability lets users cut power to those devices completely when they’re not in use, all while using very little energy to remain connected to a smart-home system. 

Smart plugs can:

• Increase a home’s security
• Improve the usability of standard devices
• Reduce vampire energy loss

FAQs 

If you still have concerns about turning your home’s electrical sockets into automatic power outlets, the following answers to some commonly asked questions may provide the additional information you need.

Q. Do smart plugs increase the electricity bill?

It depends. If you use smart plugs only for their connectivity and do not change your habits or device usage, they will add a very small amount to your bill. But if you use them to eliminate phantom loads, smart plugs can cut energy usage to reduce your overall electricity costs.

Q. How long do smart plugs last?

Most smart plugs are designed to last 3 to 5 years, depending on their quality, how frequently you use them, and the electrical conditions in the home. 

Q. How far away will a smart plug work?

Smart plugs rely on home Wi-Fi or hub networks, so their effective range is generally the same as the Wi-Fi coverage, though walls, floors, and interference from other electronics can reduce this distance. If you’re experiencing connectivity issues, consider the plug’s location relative to the router or invest in a Wi-Fi extender to boost coverage.

Q. Is it safe to leave smart plugs on?

Smart plugs are designed for continuous operation, so it’s generally safe to leave them plugged in and turned on, especially if they’re UL-listed or certified. Don’t overload them with high-wattage appliances. Watch for signs of overheating or unusual behavior, and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage.

Q. What can I use with a smart plug?

Any device with a standard plug works, but devices with on/off switches that stay in the “on” position (lights, fans, etc.) are ideal. High-wattage appliances (like heaters) should be used with caution and only if the plug is rated for the load.

Q. Is a smart plug available that works with 5GHz?

Most smart plugs only support 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, but a few models (such as the GHome Smart Plug and Eightree Smart Plug) offer dual-band support. None of the plugs on our list support 5GHz, as 2.4GHz offers better range and is sufficient for smart home devices.

Q. How do you set up a smart plug?

Most smart plug apps walk you through the device setup procedure, which typically involves installing an app and pressing a button on the plug while the app scans for the signal. After that, you can set up timers and schedules.

Q. Do smart plugs block other outlets? 

Rarely. Most smart plugs fit over one outlet and allow access to the other plug. However, some larger smart plugs block both outlets, but they have several built-in ports to compensate for the blockage.

Meet the Testers

Michelle Larson has been a writer and editor for more than 10 years in the fields of health, business, and the home. Because she’d rather spend a little more up front than buy a tool or appliance twice, she strongly believes in the power of research and reviews for finding quality items that are meant to last. 

Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer and has been involved in the trades for over 15 years as both a contractor and a commercial building mechanic. His work has been featured on This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. As a lover of all things tools, construction, and DIY, he’s always looking for new tools and techniques while also sharing his knowledge with the DIY world. 

 

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