Smart Home & Security · Comparison
Tapo P100 (2-Pack) Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Plug, App Remote Control, Alexa Plug, Voice Control with Alexa & Google vs Govee WiFi Smart Plug, Smart Outlet Works with Alexa and Google Assistant, Voice and App Control with Timer Function: Which Smart Plugs & Switches Is Better?
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-113 min read
Our pick: the Tapo P100 (2-Pack) Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Plug, App Remote Control, Alexa Plug, Voice Control with Alexa & Google — the best Smart Plugs & Switches we tested, from £14.99.
Choosing the right smart plug can make controlling your home’s lighting and appliances incredibly simple. The Tapo P100 (2-Pack) from TP-Link is currently a popular choice with 53,587 reviews and a 4.6 star rating, while the Govee WiFi Smart Plug boasts 54,000 reviews and achieves a respectable 4.4 stars – but which offers the best value for your money?
See the full range in Smart Plugs & Switches.
| Tapo P100 (2-Pack) Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Plug, App Remote Control, Alexa Plug, Voice Control with Alexa & Google | |
|---|---|
| Price | £14.99 |
| Rating | Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars (53,587) |
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Price tier | Budget |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (No hub required) |
#1 Pick
Tapo P100 (2-Pack) Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Plug, App Remote Control, Alexa Plug, Voice Control with Alexa & Google- Wi-Fi (No hub required)
£14.99
Pros
- Two-pack keeps the per-socket cost very low
- Away mode randomises on/off timings to simulate occupancy
- No hub required — sets up directly in the Tapo app
Cons
- No energy monitoring on this base P100 model
FAQ
What size are the Tapo P100 smart plugs? And do they fit UK sockets?
The Tapo P100 smart plugs measure approximately 75mm (diameter) x 48mm (height). They are designed to be compatible with standard UK mains outlets, ensuring a snug fit and reliable connection.
What materials are the Govee smart plugs made of?
The Govee WiFi Smart Plugs feature a plastic housing, likely ABS or a similar durable polymer. This material is chosen for its resistance to wear and tear, making them suitable for everyday use in various environments.
How much do Tapo P100 smart plugs typically cost?
You can generally find the Tapo P100 (2-pack) on Amazon UK for around £35 - £45. Prices may fluctuate depending on sales and retailer promotions.
How do I clean smart plugs – are they waterproof?
Both the Tapo P100 and Govee plugs should be wiped clean with a damp cloth, but never submerge them in water. Neither is certified IP rated, so avoid using them in areas exposed to splashing water.
Are smart plugs safe to use? Are there any regulations I need to consider?
Smart plugs operate at low voltage and should be safe when used correctly. However, always ensure the plug is properly inserted into the socket and avoid overloading circuits – check the socket's maximum current rating.
Should I buy smart plugs for Christmas or other seasonal events?
Smart plugs are incredibly useful during the festive season for controlling lights, heaters, or other electrical devices remotely. Their timer functions allow you to automate your decorations and ensure they switch on and off as needed.
What's the difference in range between the Tapo P100 and Govee plugs?
Both brands offer good Wi-Fi connectivity, but the Tapo P100 generally has a slightly stronger signal strength due to its dedicated Wi-Fi chip, potentially offering a marginally longer range within your home network.
Which smart plug is better for voice control – Alexa or Google Assistant?
Both the Tapo P100 and Govee plugs seamlessly integrate with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control them using voice commands, making your home automation even more convenient.
Are there any smart plugs with timers that offer more advanced scheduling options?
The Tapo P100 offers a more granular scheduling system allowing you to set specific times and durations for operation. The Govee plugs also have timer functionalities, but they may be less flexible in terms of precise control.
How do the prices compare between these smart plug brands?
Generally, the Tapo P100 (2-pack) tends to be slightly more expensive upfront (£35 - £45), while Govee plugs often appear at a lower price point, typically around £20 - £30 for a single unit or a 2-pack. Consider your budget and desired features when making your choice.
In depth
When evaluating smart plugs and switches for the UK market, it’s essential to consider several factors that can significantly impact their functionality and suitability. The climate in the UK is characterized by frequent changes and relatively high humidity levels, which means any smart plug or switch should be built robustly enough to withstand moisture without compromising its performance or safety standards. Additionally, the typical home sizes in the UK range from compact apartments to sprawling villas, so the choice of a smart plug needs to consider both the number of devices you might want to control and the physical layout of your home.
In terms of regulations, it's crucial for any smart plugs and switches to comply with British standards such as BS 7671 (Electrical Installations Code of Practice), which ensures they are safe and meet quality requirements. While not all products will display specific compliance information, reputable brands like Tapo and Govee generally adhere to these standards. Moreover, the UK market has a high penetration rate for voice control systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making compatibility with these platforms a key consideration.
Price-wise, smart plugs can be broadly categorized into budget, mid-range, and premium tiers. Budget options often offer basic functionality at a lower cost, suitable for those who need a simple solution or are testing the waters before investing in more advanced devices. Mid-range products provide additional features such as scheduling, remote control via mobile apps, and sometimes voice integration, offering better value for money. Premium smart plugs frequently come with enhanced security measures, advanced energy monitoring capabilities, and seamless integration with multiple home automation systems.
UK shoppers often fall into the trap of overlooking installation complexity when choosing their smart devices. Smart plugs can be straightforward to install by simply unplugging your existing power source, inserting the plug, and plugging it back in, but some users may miss out on key features if they don’t follow detailed setup instructions carefully. Additionally, while both Tapo P100 and Govee offer voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant, compatibility issues can arise if you have multiple devices from different manufacturers, leading to a less cohesive smart home experience.
Another common mistake is assuming that all smart plugs are created equal in terms of energy efficiency. While many models claim to help reduce electricity consumption by turning off devices remotely or scheduling their use, the actual savings can vary significantly based on the technology used and how effectively it’s implemented. It's important for users to read reviews and seek out products with solid performance in this area, as even a slight improvement in energy efficiency can translate into significant cost savings over time.
Finally, while both Tapo P100 and Govee WiFi Smart Plugs offer robust features including voice control, app remote control, and the ability to work with Alexa and Google Assistant, it's crucial for UK buyers to consider their specific needs. For example, if you have a large home or garden, the 2-pack feature of the Tapo P100 might be particularly advantageous, allowing for more extensive smart home automation without needing additional devices. Conversely, Govee’s inclusion of timer functions could be beneficial for users who want to automate their routine tasks with precision.
In conclusion, when selecting smart plugs and switches for your UK home or garden, it's vital to consider the specific climate conditions, home size, regulatory compliance, price points, installation requirements, and energy efficiency. By carefully evaluating these factors and understanding common pitfalls, you can make an informed decision that meets both your functional needs and budget constraints.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-11.