Home automation has allowed us to provide intelligence to our home , so that, currently, we have at our disposal from security cameras to smart light bulbs through all kinds of sensors that warn us of any danger. In this sense, a simple device that can serve as a starting point to create a home automation ecosystem is a WiFi socket .
It is enough to connect it to a WiFi network to pair it with our mobile phone and insert it into an outlet, and we can remotely control the on and off of any device that we connect to it: a router, the heater, the heating, a lamp … Next, we review what must be taken into account when buying one and we compile the best models that exist in the market.
What to consider before buying a plug
As we said, smart plugs allow us, in a simple and remote way, to supply or interrupt the current to the devices that are plugged into them. How? Through the mobile, so that it is possible, for example, to turn on a light as a deterrent when we are away, activate the air conditioning or heating before arriving home, or start the coffee maker without getting out of bed.
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In the market, there are a multitude of proposals from different brands , but before acquiring a specific model, we must take into account a series of considerations:
- Compatibility: smart plugs are controlled through an app, which in the vast majority of cases (if not all) is available for iOS and Android. However, not all models are compatible with all voice assistants, so if you intend to give it spoken commands, you should see if they offer support for Alexa, Siri and / or Google Assistant.
- Connectivity: these devices usually connect via Wi-Fi in the 2.4 GHz band, so if you have a latest generation router with dual band (2.4 and 5 GHz) you must connect them to the Wi-Fi network with which they are compatible. And be careful, because there are some that only have bluetooth and can only be controlled within a range of 10 meters.
- Current intensity: although in most cases it is usually 10 amps, it is important to know the maximum amperage that the plugs support to ensure that your appliances and other devices are compatible with that intensity.
On a practical level, it is also important to consider whether they are suitable for indoor and outdoor use , and to look at their dimensions, since they are usually bulky devices. And something fundamental: they all require an earth connection, very common in current homes, but not so much in older ones.
TP-Link Tapo P100
In addition to bulbs and security cameras, TP-Link’s TAPO range includes several smart plugs that are controlled directly from the TAPO mobile app. This model allows you to program automatic on and off, as well as set a timer to disconnect electronic devices.
It supports voice commands through Alexa or the Google Assistant, and has an away mode that automatically turns lamps or other equipment on and off at different times to simulate someone being home.
TP-Link Tapo P100 – Mini-size WiFi Smart Plug to Control Your Device From Anywhere, No Hub Needed, Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, 1 Pack
Today on Amazon for € 11.99
Retail price in El Corte Inglés € 12.99RRP in Media Markt € 12.99PVP in PcComponentes € 11.99
SPC Clever Plug
Within the SPC home automation ecosystem , we have the Clever Plug smart plug, which, through the SPC IoT app, allows you to control household electrical appliances from your mobile. It is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant , as well as IFTTT.
In addition to establishing rules such as automatic on and off at specific times, this socket monitors consumption data to optimize energy consumption. It works with a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection.
SPC Clever Plug – Wi-Fi Smart Plug
Today on Amazon for € 23.68
PVP in PcComponentes € 32.94
Amazon Smart Plug
How could it be otherwise, this Amazon proposal works with Alexa , allowing you to control any outlet with your voice. It does not require any drivers: to configure it, just connect it, open the app and start using it with your voice.
Among other functions, it offers the possibility of programming the automatic on and off of lights, coffee makers and any other device, or control them remotely when you are away from home. Of course, it needs a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection and can only be used indoors.
