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Smart home

Do smart plugs use power when they're off?

The real standby cost, in dollars

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01 / 05

Short answer: yes

Most smart plugs draw about 1 watt on standby, even when switched off.

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02 / 05

About $1.59 a year

That is roughly 8.8 kWh per plug at about 18.2 cents per kWh, the 2026 US average.

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03 / 05

Why it stays awake

A tiny radio keeps a Wi-Fi link so your app and schedules respond instantly.

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04 / 05

When it pays off

A schedule that switches off a forgotten lamp can save more than the plug uses.

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05 / 05

When it's a waste

A plug on a device you never turn off just adds standby power.

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Do the math

See the standby cost table

Swipe up for the full guide on getgearlab.com