TP-Link launches new Matter-compatible Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip

Tapo's Matter-compatible smart home lineup is expanding once more with today's release of a new smart power strip. Available now through Best Buy, the Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip offers multiple remote controllable AC outlets, convenient USB ports, and energy monitoring capabilities, making it well-suited for a home office or theater.

Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip: design and specs

The Tapo P316M appears to be based on TP-Link's previous, non-Matter-compatible smart power strip—the Kasa HS300—with an almost identical design and port offerings. The power strip features a slim and compact frame, measuring 14.17 x 2.49 x 1.48 inches, and has a built-in three-foot cord complete with a space-saving flat head plug.

On its front, the P316M sports a total of six, generously spaced, individually controllable AC outlets, each with an on-device power button, and three always-on USB-A ports. Tapo's power strip supports a maximum of 1875 watts through its 15-amp AC electrical outlets, and its 5V USB ports can supply a total of 4 amps when all three are in use.

Unlike the company's P400M outdoor smart plug, the new power strip is rated for indoor use only. The strip can safely operate in dry environments with temperatures ranging between 32°F-104°F, and 10%-90% relative humidity, and features FCC, ETL, and RoHS safety certifications.

Although it isn't UL-listed, the P316M features flame retardant materials throughout its chassis and includes a real-time power monitoring chip that offers several safety protections. These include surge and overload protection, and the strip can automatically shut off ports or outlets when a device finishes charging, or when an appliance exceeds a set energy threshold.

Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip: smart features and connectivity

As with most Tapo devices, the P316M relies on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi for its wireless smart home connection to Matter. Wi-Fi connectivity allows the strip to operate without an additional hub—outside of a Matter Controller—and it can be set up in seconds by scanning its included QR pairing code.

Thanks to Matter, the power strip works seamlessly with all the major smart home players, including Amazon's Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, and Samsung's SmartThings. In addition, the P316M can also be paired directly with the TP-Link Tapo app through an onboarding process that utilizes Bluetooth before switching over to Wi-Fi.

Connected features include the ability to create schedules and timers, automation and routines, and remote out-of-home controls. And as you might have guessed, the power strip also supports hands-free voice commands when used in conjunction with a smart speaker.

Finally, the P316M provides energy monitoring and tracking for connected devices. Users can view real-time energy usage and access a detailed consumption history through interactive charts via the Tapo app.

Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip: pricing and availability

While the Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip is still listed as "coming soon" on TP-Link's online storefront, it is available for purchase now through Best Buy in the United States. The power strip is currently priced at $59.99 with delivery times starting early next week, and we expect it to hit other marketplaces such as Amazon soon.