Category comparison
Smart plug or smart power strip?
One outlet and several outlets are different jobs
A smart plug normally controls one receptacle connected to a single relay. A smart strip or outlet extender may provide several sockets, multiple control zones or a different physical arrangement. Those differences affect how many devices can be switched, what the package includes and how the electrical ratings apply. Do not count an extender or strip as equivalent to a compact single plug.
Count devices, then inspect control granularity
If one wall socket needs to power a lamp and a fan, ask whether one smart-plug outlet can safely feed an approved power strip and whether one on/off action should control everything together. If you need separate schedules for each device, check that the strip actually provides independently controlled outlets and that the app supports the individual routines. An outlet count alone does not answer either question.
Compare ratings and placement separately
Read the full load instructions for the specific plug, strip or extender. A combined device may have an overall current limit in addition to per-outlet limits. Do not multiply a per-socket rating by the number of sockets. Check grounding, cord length, overcurrent protection, spacing, mounting and indoor/outdoor rating in the exact manual.
Do not let package names hide function
Several single plugs sold together remain separate packages of similar units; that is not the same as one multi-outlet smart strip. Conversely, a multi-outlet extender with one controlled group may not provide the independent controls a buyer expects. Compare the exact diagram, model, package count and control zones before choosing a format.
The TP-Link US category also lists outlet extenders, kits and outdoor multi-outlet products alongside single plugs. We record these as observed catalog candidates and resolve their category separately rather than silently folding them into the current one-plug review. Use the review library for the configurations actually assessed so far.