In our search for the best WiFi sockets, we considered several factors, including the number of features, compatibility with different mobile device systems, and the aesthetic appeal of the plugs, so as not to disrupt the room’s decor. We reviewed the available models in the market, studied their specifications, and took into account the opinions of users of these devices. We have selected five products that, in our opinion, deserve to be called the best smart outlets. The list includes affordable models that are within reach of even a tight budget.
We’re excited to present our top picks for the best WiFi sockets! The first product on our list is the Gosund SP111, which offers excellent value for money and is compatible with all operating systems and applications. For those who own Xiaomi devices and want to expand their smart home with the Mi Home app, we highly recommend the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug model. If you’re looking to save a bit of money, the Vayox VA0010 is a fantastic device that performs well and works with any operating system through the SmartLife app. Completing our list are the Sonoff S26 and TP-Link Tapo P100, both of which are WiFi outlets worth considering. Be sure to review the pros and cons of each smart socket model to help you make an informed decision.
Best WiFi outlets 2023
- Gosund SP111
- Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug
- Vayox VA0010
- Sonoff S26
- TP-Link Tapo P100
1. Gosund SP111
When outfitting a smart home, it’s essential to consider Gosund products. The Gosund SP111 Smart WiFi Socket is an excellent example of how a small device can make a big impact on home comfort.
The Gosund SP111 uses WiFi transmission, enabling remote control of the plug from anywhere, even when away from home. Simply install the SmartLife app, available on Android and iOS devices with internet access, and take control of all appliances connected to the plug, reducing power consumption. Additionally, the SP111 features a power schedule and energy usage statistics.
Scheduling can be useful when controlling a child’s screen time or ensuring hot coffee in the morning. Keep in mind, however, that in the event of a power outage, the schedule will need to be reset. The Gosund SP111 Supla also allows monitoring of power consumption statistics for connected devices.
For owners of Xiaomi devices, the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug model is recommended for expanding their smart home with the Mi Home app. The Vayox VA0010 is a great-performing device that works with any operating system via the SmartLife app and is more affordable than other smart outlets. The Sonoff S26 and TP-Link Tapo P100 are both WiFi outlets also worth considering. Be sure to check the pros and cons of each smart socket model.
One major advantage of the Gosund SP111 is its extensive configurability. It can be easily connected to a variety of popular applications, such as Home Assistant and Homekit, as well as Homoticz, which may be less well-known but is still highly regarded. This flexibility was incorporated into the design of the model to ensure compatibility with as many smart home platforms as possible.
Of course, a smart plug wouldn’t be complete without the ability to control it with voice commands. Thankfully, the Gosund SP111 is compatible with Amazon Echo Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT, so users can choose the option that best suits their needs.
The construction of the SP111 Gosund is also noteworthy. It is made of the highest quality materials, which is evidenced by its fireproof rating. Despite its sturdy construction, the plug is lightweight, weighing only 18 g. When plugged in, it takes up very little space, allowing for the connection of additional plugs to the strip.
In conclusion, with the Gosund SP111, there is no longer a need to worry about leaving a light or charger on. Its versatile capabilities provide peace of mind for the safety and comfort of household members.
2. Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug
This time, we are presenting a proposal from a Chinese brand that has been winning the hearts of users around the world with its products for over 10 years – Xiaomi. The Smart Plug is one of the more popular models from their series, and let’s check out what it offers its users.
Modernity and innovation are the buzzwords that prevailed during the design of this Xiaomi model. The WiFi Nest has many functionalities that are designed to make our homes safer.
Among the classic features of the Xiaomi Power Plug, we will find a scheduling option, which is helpful when we want to turn equipment on or off at a certain time, and the ability to remotely control devices from anywhere. Of course, for this, you need to have a receiver (e.g., a smartphone) with internet access and install on it a dedicated Mi Home app available on Android and iOS. Unfortunately, the Xiaomi smart outlet is not compatible with the Homekit platform, which may be a small drawback for some. Nonetheless, the control of the plug still remains extremely simple and fast, especially when using the option to issue voice commands using Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
However, this is just the beginning of what the Xiaomi WiFi jack provides us with. The plug’s big selling point is its built-in sensor, which automatically cuts off power to prevent short circuits or fires when it detects excessive heat. The Mi Smart Power Plug has permanent protection against overheating and overloading. What’s more, the outlet’s design prevents accidental electric shocks.
The Xiaomi Mi Smart Plug WiFi is an excellent choice for people who are looking for a small but functional outlet. It will allow you to control the operation of all home appliances without having to get up from your chair.
Note: Conversion from Polish units of measurement to American units was not necessary, as the text did not contain any such units. Also, currency conversion was not required as the text did not include any prices in Zloty.
3. Vayox VA0010
Vayox specializes in connecting cables, computer accessories, and smart devices, including smart outlets. However, this ranking will focus specifically on the VA0010 plug, which has received numerous positive user reviews.
This model has a built-in WiFi module, allowing us to control home appliances from any location. To do this, we need a receiver with internet access, such as a tablet or smartphone, and we also need to install the SmartLife application. This popular smart home control platform is available on iOS and Android but is not entirely in Polish. Nevertheless, configuring it is not difficult. SmartLife is highly regarded for its wide range of functions, including home monitoring and lighting control in 30 different categories.
Furthermore, if we connect the Vayox VA0010 with Google Home or Amazon Alexa, we can control it with voice commands, making it very convenient for daily use.
Other noteworthy features of the plug include the option to set schedules, the ability to turn off power after a certain time, and an electricity meter to monitor power consumption. With the current meter, we can control the energy consumption of specific equipment and take measures to optimize power usage.
The scheduler is responsible for automatically turning on or off a particular appliance at the time you specify. However, the function that users appreciate the most is the ability to automatically turn off the switch after a certain period of time. This feature is not only convenient but also safe, allowing you to plug in a phone overnight and be confident that the power supply will be automatically cut off after 3-4 hours.
Other features of this model ensure that you feel secure when using it, including overvoltage protection. If a load of more than 3540 watts lasts for over 30 seconds, the outlet will automatically shut off. Additionally, the plug is made of fire-resistant PC V0 material.
If you want to simplify and enhance your daily activities, you should definitely consider purchasing a Vayox outlet. Its capabilities will be appreciated even by the most demanding users.
4. Sonoff S26
Our list of smart sockets wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a company whose mission is to create smart and user-friendly products that are affordable for everyone – Sonoff. The S26 socket from their series perfectly embodies this vision. With its built-in WiFi module, the Sonoff S26 Supla allows you to control your household appliances remotely. You can check whether you’ve left anything on while at work or on vacation using the eWeLink app. The Sonoff S26 Supla can be installed on devices running Android or iOS.
In addition to the standard on/off switching of devices, the Sonoff outlet allows you to set schedules, either one-time or cyclic, to automatically control the operation of equipment in your house. You can program up to 8 events per day. Moreover, the Sonoff smart outlet supports the latest systems such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Google Nest, Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Amazon Tap, and Google Home. This gives you a vast range of options to manage your Nest, including the ability to control it with voice commands.
For many users, another essential feature of the Sonoff S26 is its compatibility with HomeKit. One of Apple’s platform’s most significant advantages is the ability to group devices according to their location (e.g., ground floor/first floor) or create automation, such as turning on lights automatically when the app detects your presence.
Although the Sonoff WiFi outlet may take up a lot of space with other plugs, considering its price and capabilities, we confidently recommend its purchase. It will undoubtedly provide comfort and convenience in performing daily activities.
5. TP-Link Tapo P100
TP-Link is a well-known and respected brand in the global market, primarily producing high-end networking equipment. They also offer WiFi outlets, and we took a closer look at their TP-Link Tapo P100 model.
The Tapo P100 model features a built-in WiFi module for the socket, allowing users to remotely turn home appliances on and off, even when away from home. The remote mode is especially useful for longer trips, as it can help simulate the presence of household members, deterring potential thieves.
To use the device, simply install the Tapo app on your smartphone or other device, giving you constant access to the control panel. Authorized household members can also manage the outlet from their mobile device if it supports Android or iOS. For even more convenience, the device is compatible with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, enabling control through voice commands.
The TP-Link smart outlet also allows you to create weekly schedules for your devices, automatically turning them on or off at specified times, potentially leading to electricity savings.
In conclusion, the TP-Link WiFi outlet exemplifies the idea that smart solutions provide not only convenience, but also safety and the potential for reducing electricity bills. This model offers significant advantages for users and is an excellent option to consider.
How to Choose a Smart Outlet: Selecting a Smart Plug
What is a Smart Socket? Before delving into the benefits of this device, let’s briefly define what a smart socket is.
A smart socket is an add-on for any 220V outlet in our home. It typically consists of a small rectangular device containing advanced electronics and a plug that we insert into the outlet.
A smart outlet has the ability to regulate the electricity flowing to specific devices and is constantly connected to the corresponding mobile app on our smartphone. It can also be integrated with a smart home control panel.
How Does a Smart Plug Work?
A smart plug can be best described as a smart, remote-controlled switch for electrical appliances. Many models also have the ability to measure the energy consumed. The installation process is very easy, and you don’t need to have any electrical knowledge. The smart plug simply needs to be removed from the box, inserted into a standard wall outlet, and any electrical appliance can be plugged into it.
Once installed, the smart plug will control the supply of electricity, allowing you to remotely turn the device on and off and monitor the energy consumption. All of this information can be easily accessed on your smartphone or tablet. An example of a smart plug is the TP-Link HS110. Smart plugs can also use different wireless communication standards, such as Ultra Low Energy (ULE) or Z-Wave.
Do you need a control panel for your smart outlet?
The question of whether a control panel is necessary for a smart outlet is likely asked by those who do not yet have a smart home system. Different manufacturers may have varying requirements, but in general, if we want to control the outlet within our home, a control panel is not necessary.
However, the real appeal of this type of technology is the ability to control it from anywhere in the world. To achieve remote control, we do need a control panel that will collect signals and send them to our mobile device. A smart outlet with instant notifications can inform us, for example, if there is a power outage at home or if someone tries to tamper with the outlet.
Investing in a smart outlet and control panel is a great way to monitor and manage energy consumption. By tracking the amount of energy used by each appliance, we can make informed decisions about our energy usage, leading to lower utility bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
How to Choose a Smart Outlet: What’s Important?
When choosing a smart outlet, it’s important to first pay attention to its functions, particularly remote switching on and off of connected devices. Additionally, some models allow us to monitor the energy consumption of the devices connected to the outlet. A smart outlet with energy consumption statistics can inform us which devices in standby mode consume the most power.
Another useful feature is the ability to schedule when devices turn on and off. For instance, why leave our TV in standby mode in the middle of the night? By scheduling it to turn off during certain hours, we can save on energy costs.
When shopping for a smart outlet, consider the price, brand, and compatibility with your smart home system. With the right smart outlet, we can take control of our energy consumption and make our homes more convenient and efficient.
Visualizing Energy Consumption
Some outlets can display energy consumption by using LED lights. As the power consumption increases, the color of the LED changes.
Temperature Control
Some smart sockets can also control the temperature. If a regular outlet begins to overheat, a smart outlet with an overheat sensor will alert the homeowner.
Short Circuit Detection Function
There are also smart outlet models that can detect a short circuit in a device and cut off the power supply, protecting the entire network from overvoltage.
Communication in Smart Outlets
When considering which smart outlet to choose, it is important to pay attention to the wireless communication standard it supports. It is beneficial if our mobile device supports the same standard. The most common type of smart socket on the market is the WiFi Smart Socket, such as the Ferguson Smart Wi-Fi Plug or TP-Link HS110. However, Z-Wave Smart outlets are also readily available.
Range of the Smart Outlet
It is worth noting the range of the smart outlet. This information will tell us the maximum distance at which the receiver, which can be either our mobile device or the control panel, should be located.
