TP-Link

    Tapo P100 Smart Plug (2-Pack) Review (2026)

    A budget-friendly entry point into home automation that allows for remote control and scheduling of standard UK household appliances.

    Reviewed 3 July 2026 Updated 3 July 2026
    Tapo P100 Smart Plug (2-Pack)

    Quick verdict

    The Tapo P100 is an excellent value-for-money choice for those wanting simple automation without a high upfront cost. However, it lacks the energy monitoring hardware found in its more expensive sibling, the P110, making it harder to track precise savings.

    PowerGuardian Rating

    Overall
    4.1out of 5
    Energy Saving3.2
    Ease of Use4.5
    Value4.8
    Features3.5
    Installation4.7
    Reliability4.2

    Who it's best for

    • Budget-conscious beginners to smart home tech
    • Controlling lamps and seasonal decorations
    • Automation of non-critical standby devices

    Who should avoid it

    • You specifically want to track kWh energy usage
    • You have a cluttered 2.4GHz Wi-Fi environment

    Overview

    The TP-Link Tapo P100 is a compact Wi-Fi enabled smart plug designed to fit into standard UK sockets without obstructing adjacent outlets. It operates via the Tapo app, requiring no central hub. While it is marketed heavily on convenience features like voice control and 'Away Mode' (which toggles lights to mimic occupancy), its primary utility for the energy-conscious user is its ability to hard-kill power to devices that typically linger on expensive standby modes, such as older televisions or desktop PC setups.

    Key features

    • Remote control via Tapo App
    • Voice control (Alexa & Google Assistant)
    • Schedule and Timer functions
    • Away Mode for home security
    • Compact flame-retardant design
    • No hub required

    Real world performance

    In testing, the P100 is highly responsive over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. The app allows for complex scheduling, which is particularly useful for ensuring chargers aren't left on overnight or that floor lamps are only active when needed. The 'Away Mode' is a nice security bonus, but the lack of power-draw data means you are essentially guessing the impact of your automation. Reliability is high, though it is worth noting that like most smart plugs, it cannot physically 'press' a soft-start button on modern appliances like washing machines once power is restored.

    Energy saving potential

    The energy saving potential of the P100 is indirect and modest. By automating the shutdown of 'vampire' devices that consume 2-5W on standby, a household might save between £5 and £15 per year depending on the appliance. Because this specific model (P100) does not include active energy monitoring, users won't be able to identify which specific devices are the worst offenders, making it a 'blind' saving tool compared to the P110 model.

    Installation

    Setup is remarkably straightforward: plug it in, download the Tapo app, and follow the Bluetooth-assisted pairing. No separate bridge or zigbee hub is required, which lowers the barrier to entry.

    Running costs

    The plug itself consumes approximately 0.5W to 1W while active and connected to Wi-Fi. At current UK electricity prices, this represents a running cost of roughly £1.50 to £2.50 per year per plug.

    Pros

    • Extremely competitive pricing for a 2-pack
    • Compact design doesn't block neighboring UK sockets
    • User-friendly app and stable Wi-Fi connection
    • No expensive hub or subscription required

    Cons

    • No energy monitoring functionality included
    • Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi bands only
    • Max load of 13A is standard, but high-heat appliances should be monitored

    Alternatives

    Tapo P110

    Almost identical but includes real-time energy monitoring for a few pounds more.

    Philips Hue Smart Plug

    Better if you are already in the Hue ecosystem, but significantly more expensive.

    Frequently asked questions

    Does the Tapo P100 show how much electricity I am using?

    No, the P100 model does not have energy monitoring. You would need the Tapo P110 for that feature.

    Can I use this with a 3-pin UK extension lead?

    Yes, but ensure the total load of the extension lead does not exceed the 13A limit of the smart plug.

    Do I need a hub for this to work with Alexa?

    No, it connects directly to your home Wi-Fi and the Alexa skill enables voice control.

    Will it work if my internet goes down?

    Standard schedules stored on the device should continue to run, but remote app control will be lost until the internet returns.

    Final verdict

    4.1 / 5

    The Tapo P100 is an excellent value-for-money choice for those wanting simple automation without a high upfront cost. However, it lacks the energy monitoring hardware found in its more expensive sibling, the P110, making it harder to track precise savings.

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