Sense + Smart Plug = Improved User Experience

Instead of buying smart plugs for a bunch of appliances, could I put a few devices on the smart plugs, once they are identified, move the plugs elsewhere? Is there a particular brand that works best with Sense? Putting a bunch of appliances on smart plugs runs up into real money. Particularly when I have no plans to turn the devices on/off with the plugs.

Why does a smart plug help Sense identify a device?