The average Joe may look at a smart plug and see just a simple device for turning the lights on and off. Well, prepare to have your mind blown like a popcorn kernel in a hot-air popper. This humble device is more like a Swiss Army knife of possibilities, a veritable sorcerer’s stone of modern tech. So, hang onto your hats, folks. We’re about to step into the world of the spectacularly ordinary.
Best Smart Plugs
Exciting Ways to Enhance Your Life with a Smart Plug
1. Schedule Your Life (or at least your appliances)
Tired of walking into a dark home after work? A smart plug will be your personal wizard, illuminating your home with a simple command or set schedule. And if you’re an owl who loves late-night TV but routinely dozes off, forgetting to switch off the television, a smart plug will gently step in to save the day (and your electricity bill). Just like having a responsible ghost housemate who doesn’t eat your food or leave hair in the drain!
2. Secure Your Home from Your Vacation Destination
If Kevin McCallister from Home Alone had smart outlets, the movie would’ve ended in 10 minutes. With your smart plug acting as your own personal Marv and Harry deterrent, you can schedule lights or the radio to switch on at certain times. It’s a simple trick to make it look like you’re home, even when sipping pina coladas in the Bahamas or wrestling polar bears in Alaska.
3. Slay the Energy Vampire
Is your phone charger sucking power like a mini Count Dracula, even when unused? A smart plug can drive a wooden stake through its energy-sucking heart by turning off the power when unnecessary. And just like that, you’ve become a vampire hunter, a hero of your own energy efficiency saga!
4. Brew Coffee from Your Bed
Let’s face it; mornings can be brutal. But what if I told you you could be snug in bed and command your coffee maker to start brewing? With a smart plug and a good old drip coffee maker, you can rise and shine to the aroma of your favorite java. Alexa can become your personal barista without the hipster beard and attitude.
5. Monitor Your Energy Use
The power of knowledge is undeniable. With a smart plug, you can monitor the energy usage of your connected devices. It’s like having a personal detective investigating where all those extra dollars on your electricity bill are coming from. Who knew that the fridge was such a power hog, right?
6. Turn Your Home Into a Winter Wonderland
Lighting up your home during the holiday season can be as easy as eating a mince pie. Connecting your Christmas lights to a smart plug lets you schedule when they twinkle without venturing into the cold and risking fighting with a rogue snowman.
7. Be the Ultimate Pet Parent
Away for the day? Keep your pets entertained with music, or even turn on the fan for extra comfort. You can offer your furry friends some at-home luxury with a smart plug. They might even forgive you for that disastrous DIY grooming session last week!
And there you have it! Seven wondrous things you can do with a smart plug. This humble piece of tech can turn your home into a bustling hive of automation, from being your coffee-fetching assistant to your home security protector. And all while saving you a buck or two on the energy bill. Talk about multi-tasking!
As you can see, smart outlets are the hidden gems of smart home tech. They might not have the flashy appeal of an AI assistant or a video doorbell, but they’re the hardworking, reliable MVPs that keep the whole operation running smoothly.
So next time you glance at that smart plug, remember: It’s not just a plug. It’s a 24/7 personal assistant, a security guard, a pet sitter, and your first line of defense against energy vampires. Not bad for a little gadget you can pick up for less than a takeout dinner, eh?
Top Smart Plugs to Kickstart Your Smart Home in 2023
1. Home Outdoor Etekcity Smart Plug WiFi Outlet with 2 Sockets
Well, hello there, future homeowners and tech connoisseurs! Let’s say you’re in the market for a device that doesn’t merely serve a purpose but adds a dash of sparkle and a sprinkle of convenience to your life. Say hello to the Smart Home Outdoor Etekcity WiFi Outlet with 2 Sockets.
This gem of a device stands out with its Dual Outlet Design. No more playing “Eeny, meeny, miny, moe” when deciding between your mood-lit patio lights or your beloved fountain. You can control each socket individually via the VeSync app. It’s like having a butler on call, minus the butler’s cap!
But it’s not just about control – it’s about intelligence. The Etekcity Smart Outlet lets you set schedules and timers for each socket to turn on or off. Its energy-monitoring function allows you to monitor and control your device’s total power consumption anywhere. It’s a gadget that would make both Einstein and Captain Planet proud!
Here’s a function sure to ‘wow’ you – the sunset and sunrise options. You can synchronize individual socket schedules with local sunset and sunrise times. The result? Your home becomes a magical canvas that dances with light, especially during the festive season. It’s like living in your personal Disney movie sans the singing animals!
And don’t fret about safety. The Etekcity Outlet has built-in surge, overload, overcurrent, and overheat protections. It’s also waterproof, ETL-listed, and FCC certified. This device has more protection than a knight in shining armor!
FEATURES
Here are the Key Features of the Smart Home Outdoor Etekcity WiFi Outlet with 2 Sockets:
- Control Method: The device can be controlled via smartphone using the VeSync app or through voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Network Requirements: A secured 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network is required for the smart outlet to function.
- Dual Outlet Design: The smart outlet features two sockets, which can be controlled individually through the VeSync app.
- Power Rating: The power rating is 15A/1800W, allowing two appliances to be used simultaneously.
- Schedules & Timers: The device allows for scheduling each socket to turn on and off at specified times.
- Energy Monitoring: The smart outlet has an energy-monitoring function to track and control your device’s total power consumption.
- Sunset & Sunrise Options: The device can coordinate individual socket schedules with local sunset and sunrise times.
- Safety Measures: The device features built-in surge, overload, overcurrent, and overheat protections.
- Certifications: The outlet is IPX4 Waterproof, ETL listed, and FCC certified, indicating its compliance with safety standards.
- Indoor/Outdoor Use: While designed for outdoor use, this smart outlet can also be used indoors.
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
In a nutshell, the Smart Home Outdoor Etekcity WiFi Outlet with 2 Sockets is a marvel of smart technology. It’s efficient, convenient and sprinkles a dash of magic to your daily life. It isn’t just a smart plug; it’s an assistant, a caretaker, and a magician all rolled into one compact, sleek device!
2. Review: Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug
Hey, tech aficionados, and smart home pioneers! I’ve got a little gem for you today that’s guaranteed to light up your life – literally and figuratively. Step into the spotlight, the Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug!
Tailored exclusively for dimmable lights, this Smart Dimmer takes your smart home experience outdoors. Rain or shine, this weather-resistant marvel lets you adjust the brightness of your outdoor lights from anywhere using the Kasa app. Or, if you’re feeling particularly futuristic, you can use voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant. Just remember, your lights must have the superpower of “dimmability” to benefit from this feature!
Now, let’s chat about its durability. Sporting an IP64 rating, this Smart Dimmer scoffs in the face of dust intrusion and water splashes. On top of that, its Wi-Fi connectivity is stable and covers a whopping 300ft range. Imagine controlling your garden lights from the end of a football field on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi!
But that’s not all! The Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug is also a team player. You can group multiple dimmers and lights to control them together via the Kasa app. And with the scheduling function, your outdoor lighting can switch on and off on a schedule. It’s energy-saving, time-saving, and downright cool!
Now, let’s set something straight – this dimmer plug is EASY to set up. Plug in, open the Kasa app, follow the simple instructions, and voila! You’re in the 21st century. It’s perfect for outdoor string lights, landscape lighting, swimming pool pumps, holiday lights – you name it!
FEATURES
Here are the Key Features of the Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug:
- Exclusive Design for Dimmable Lights: The Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug is designed specifically for dimmable lights, allowing brightness control via the Kasa app or voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant.
- IP64 Weather Resistance: With an IP64 rating, the device offers protection against dust intrusion and water splashes, making it perfect for outdoor use.
- Long-Range Wi-Fi: The Smart Dimmer Plug features stable Wi-Fi connectivity with a coverage range of up to 300ft. It requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
- Grouping & Scheduling Functions: This feature allows users to control multiple dimmers and lights and set schedules for automatic light switching, providing energy-saving and convenient automation.
- Easy Setup & Use: The setup process is straightforward, with simple instructions in the Kasa app.
- Trusted & Reliable: The Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug is IP64 water-resistant, ETL certified, and has a fire/heat resistant UL94-V0 PC shell. It comes with a 2-year warranty.
- Voice Control: The smart plug is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for voice command operation.
- Max Power: The device can handle up to 300W for incandescent lights and 150W for LED/CFL lights.
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
Finally, the Kasa Outdoor Smart Dimmer Plug is a trusted and reliable addition to your smart home. It’s water-resistant, ETL-certified, and fire/heat-resistant. And did I mention the 2-year warranty? So, let Kasa take the spotlight in your home, and you can bask in the glow of tech-savvy convenience and style!
3. Review: GHome Smart Power Strip
Hello, digital dynamos and smart home enthusiasts! Buckle up because today, we’re revving the engines of convenience, safety, and smart control with the GHome Smart Power Strip!
This smart power strip is like a superhero – but instead of fighting crime, it’s fighting the hassles of everyday life. With its ability to work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, your voice becomes your most powerful tool. “Alexa, turn off the smart plugs!” – and voila! They’re off. Perfect for those days when you’re juggling a million tasks or when you simply can’t reach the switch!
But hold on; it’s not just about voice control. With its dedicated app, you can control this smart power strip from your smartphone – anytime, anywhere! Whether you’re upstairs or across the city, power is at your fingertips (literally).
The GHome Smart Power Strip also earns serious brownie points for its versatility. With 3 USB charging ports, it’s like a mini charging station for your devices. Cellphones, tablets, and other USB gadgets can all refuel simultaneously – no more fighting for the USB port!
But wait, there’s more! The strip’s timer function lets you schedule your devices to turn on and off according to your needs. Coffee maker, lamps, humidifiers, lights – all under your control. Plus, this function can help you lower your electricity bill. Saving money and energy? Now that’s smart!
FEATURES
Here are the Key Features of the GHome Smart Power Strip:
- Voice Control Compatibility: Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home Assistant for voice-controlled operation.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection for setup and use.
- App Control: Uses a dedicated app for remote control from any location.
- Multi-Plug Outlet: Features 3 USB charging ports for simultaneously charging multiple devices.
- Timer Function: Allows scheduled on/off cycles for home electronic appliances to conserve energy.
- Multiple Safeguards: Built with a circuit breaker that automatically cuts off when the current exceeds the threshold and PC-V0 materials for fire resistance.
- Power Specification: Supports 100-240V, 10A maximum load.
- No Paid Subscription Service: The device’s functions are fully available without a paid subscription.
- Safety Standards: Ensures high safety with automatic overload protection and high-quality construction materials.
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
On the safety front, this smart power strip is rock-solid. It supports a 100-240V, 10A maximum load. A built-in circuit breaker that cuts off when the current exceeds the threshold prevents potential damage from high-temperature devices. Plus, its PC-V0 materials ensure top-notch fire resistance. So, you get convenience, control, and peace of mind with the GHome Smart Power Strip! Let’s plug into the future, shall we?
4. Review: Kasa Smart Plug Home Wi-Fi Outlet
Greetings, tech connoisseurs and convenience chasers! Let’s set sail into the future of home automation with our trusty sidekick, the Kasa Smart Plug Mini!
First up, let’s talk about voice control. This nifty little device works with both Alexa and Google Home Assistant, meaning you can orchestrate your electronic devices using the sweet symphony of your voice. How cool is that? No more fumbling for switches in the dark. Just say the word, and your devices spring to life!
Setting up the Kasa Smart Plug Mini is a breeze. All it requires is a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection, and you’re good to go. The Kasa app walks you through the setup process, making it as easy as pie. And speaking of the app, it also lets you control your electronics from anywhere. Forgot to turn off the fan before you left for work? No problem. Just use the app, and it’s sorted!
Another feature that steals the spotlight is the scheduling function. With this, you can set your smart plug to turn on and off your appliances automatically. It’s like having a super-efficient assistant who always remembers to switch off the lights! This feature is also great for seasonal decorations, like Christmas lights, ensuring they shine bright at just the right time.
FEATURES
Here are the Key Features of the Kasa Smart Plug Mini:
- Voice Control Compatibility: Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home Assistant.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection for setup and use.
- App Control: Uses the Kasa app for remote control from any location.
- Scheduling Capability: Allows for timer and countdown schedules to automate on/off cycles for home electronic appliances.
- Compact Design: Small enough not to block the second outlet when plugged in.
- Safety Features: UL Certified with a flame-retardant shell (UL94-V0 PC) and nickel-plated phosphor bronze pins.
- Additional Features: Includes Auto-Off Timer, Away Mode, and Group Control for added flexibility and control.
- Certifications and Awards: Trusted by over 6 Million users and the Reader’s Choice of PCMag 2020.
- Warranty: Comes with a 2-year warranty.
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
But the Kasa Smart Plug Mini isn’t just about convenience—it also prioritizes safety. The UL Certified plug features a flame-retardant shell and nickel-plated phosphor bronze pins to minimize burn hazards and ensure stable connections. Plus, with over 6 million users and the PCMag Reader’s Choice accolade, Kasa is a brand you can trust.
It also boasts other cool features like an Auto-Off Timer, an Away Mode that gives the impression someone is home, and a Group Control feature that lets you combine your smart plug with other Kasa devices. In short, it’s the compact and convenient smart plug your smart home has been waiting for!
5. Review: Amazon Smart Plug
Alright, all you tech enthusiasts and lovers of simplicity, gather around. I’ve got a little gem to discuss here, a device so brilliant yet so simple it could only come from the geniuses over at Amazon: the Amazon Smart Plug!
It takes convenience to a whole new level, integrating with Alexa to give voice control to any outlet. Have you ever dreamed of commanding your electronics like a symphony conductor directs an orchestra? Dream no more, my friend, because the Amazon Smart Plug makes it a reality! No more walking across the room to switch something on or off—say the word, and Alexa does it for you!
But what sets the Amazon Smart Plug apart is its philosophy: Keep It Simple, Smartypants (KISS). It’s struggle-free, tinker-free, and stress-free. In other words, if you’ve ever been baffled by technology, this little gadget is here to say, “Fear not, I’ve got you!”
FEATURES
Here are the Key Features of the Amazon Smart Plug:
- Alexa Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Alexa to add voice control to any outlet.
- User Experience: Certified for humans, designed to be struggle-free, tinker-free, and stress-free.
- Scheduling: Allows you to automatically schedule lights, fans, and appliances to turn on and off.
- Easy Setup: Simple to set up and use—plug in, open the Alexa app, and start using it in minutes.
- Compact Design: Small design keeps your second outlet free.
- No Hub Required: Does not need a smart home hub. Set up routines and schedules directly through the Alexa app.
- Remote Control: Can be controlled remotely when you’re away.
- Energy Monitoring: Track and manage the energy usage of your connected devices with the Alexa app.
- Device Compatibility: Works with compatible devices that have a mechanical on/off switch.
- Wi-Fi Simple Setup: Easy integration with your home Wi-Fi network.
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
Setting it up is a breeze: plug it in, open the Alexa app, and you’re ready in minutes. Its compact design frees your second outlet, ensuring it won’t hog your wall socket. And the best part? It doesn’t require a smart home hub! You can set up routines and schedules directly through the Alexa app.
It even lets you track and manage the energy usage of your Alexa-connected devices. Want to know how much energy your lamp uses during your late-night reading sessions? Just check the energy dashboard in the Alexa app.
In conclusion, the Amazon Smart Plug might be small but convenient and simple. It’s the perfect gadget to transform your house into the smart home you’ve always wanted! Remember: Home isn’t just where the heart is—it’s where the smart is!
Peek into the World of Smart Plugs: What Varieties Do They Come In?
Smart plugs aren’t one-size-fits-all – they come in diverse types like mini plugs, outdoor plugs, and the magical dimmer plugs. If you’re a fan of mood lighting, dimmer plugs are your best friend, as they can tweak the light levels of your table or floor lamps. If you’re the type who loves decking out your yard with twinkle lights, outdoor smart sockets are your trusty companions, designed to brave the elements while keeping your festive lights aglow.
How does a smart plug work? Glad you Asked!
Alright, imagine you’re a magician, and your magic wand is your smartphone. Your smart plug is your loyal assistant, ready to do your bidding! They fit snugly into your boring old wall socket, transforming it into a shiny, new, magical portal of convenience. You then plug your device – your lamp, coffee machine, or what-have-you – into the smart plug.
With a flourish of your wand (or rather, a swipe on your smartphone app), you command your appliances to switch on or off, all without lifting more than a finger. The smart plug talks to your Wi-Fi network, meaning you can make your appliances dance to your tune from anywhere in the world – you could be lying on a beach in Bali and still turn on your slow cooker back home. Magic? Nope, just a smart plug!
Frequently Asked Questions: The Smart Plug Edition
A smart outlet is a little device that turns your ‘dumb’ appliances into smart ones faster than a chameleon changes color! Simply plug it into an outlet, connect your appliance, and voila, you can now control your device remotely through your smartphone or with voice commands if you have a smart assistant.
Not at all! Installing a smart outlet is as easy as making instant noodles. Just plug it into the wall socket, connect it to your Wi-Fi network through the plug’s app, and then connect your appliance to the smart plug. It’s a three-step dance even a penguin could master!
If your lava lamp can be turned on or off by plugging it into a socket, then yes! A smart plug doesn’t discriminate. Whether it’s your nifty new coffee maker or your disco-era lava lamp, the smart plug’s got its back.
Absolutely! With a smart outlet, you can schedule your coffee maker to start brewing just as you wake up. It’s like having your own personal barista without the side of hipster judgment.
Yes, it can! Your smart socket can be like the Superman of your home, swooping in to save the day (and your electricity bill) by cutting off power to devices when they’re not in use.
As long as Timbuktu has internet, you’re good to go! You can schedule your lights to turn on and off at specific times or control them on-demand from your smartphone.
Most smart plugs play well with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. However, always check the specifications before buying to ensure you get the right plug for your digital assistant.
While it can’t whip up a fancy Eggs Benedict, a smart plug can definitely switch on your electric griddle, toaster, or coffee maker from your bed. You just need to arrange the ingredients the night before!
If you’ve been enjoying the myriad benefits and conveniences of smart plugs, you might be ready to take the next big step in smart home technology. Check out my in-depth review of the Powsav Smart Power Strip – a game-changer that can redefine how you experience your modern home!
So there you have it, folks! We hope this clears up any confusion about these superhero plugs. If you have any other burning questions, feel free to ask, and we’ll add them to the roster. Stay plugged in!
