Smart Plug Buying Guide: Convenience and Energy Savings

Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

A hard-to-reach lamp behind the sofa, Christmas lights you have to manually turn on and off every evening, or devices that needlessly consume power in standby mode. Sound familiar? A smart plug offers a simple and affordable solution for these kinds of everyday inconveniences.

But not all smart plugs are created equal. Some work with an app, others with a simple remote control. Some are for indoor use only, while others are specially made for the garden. This article will help you make the right choice by outlining the different types and functions, so you can find a model that fits your needs.

What to Look for When Choosing a Smart Plug?

Before you make a choice, it's useful to consider how and where you want to use the plug. Here are a few key points to consider.

1. Control: Wi-Fi App or a Simple Remote Control?

The method of control is the biggest difference between smart plugs.

• Wi-Fi plug: You connect these plugs to your home network. With an app on your smartphone, you can turn devices on or off from anywhere in the world, set schedules, and sometimes even measure power consumption. Many models, like those from TP-Link Tapo, also work with voice assistants. This is ideal if you want complete control and automation.
• Socket with remote control (RF): This type works via a radio frequency (RF) signal and doesn't require an internet connection. You control the plug with a physical remote. This is a very reliable and straightforward solution, perfect for people who don't want to use a smartphone or for places with a weak Wi-Fi signal, like the basement or shed. It is, in effect, a modern wireless switch.

2. Suitable for Indoor or Outdoor Use?

Not every plug can withstand a rain shower. If you plan to use garden lighting, a fountain, or power tools outside, you'll need an outdoor smart plug. Pay attention to the IP rating. A plug with an IP44 classification is splash-proof and therefore suitable for outdoor use, provided it's not placed directly in puddles of water.

3. Extra Features: Energy Monitoring and Timers

Some smart plugs offer more than just switching on and off.

• Plug with energy meter: Want to know which devices are the biggest power hogs in your home? A model with energy monitoring gives you direct insight into consumption via the app. This allows you to save on your energy bill in a targeted way.
• Timer socket: Almost every Wi-Fi plug has a timer function. This allows you to create a timer socket. Set the lights to turn on automatically at sunset or have the fan switch off by itself after an hour. This is not only convenient but can also enhance security by creating the impression that someone is home when you're on holiday.

Popular Smart Plugs to Consider

Based on functionality and use cases, we've listed some popular options for you.

Dewenwils Wireless Switch with Remote Control

Why this product stands out: Its simplicity. No apps, no Wi-Fi, no setup. Plug it into the socket and control your device instantly with the included wall switch, which also functions as a separate remote control.

Pros:

• Ready to use right out of the box without any programming.
• The wall switch can be mounted anywhere without pulling any wires.
• Strong RF signal with a range of up to 30 metres, even through walls and furniture.
• Suitable for high-power appliances up to 3680W.

Who is this product for? Ideal for anyone looking for a simple on/off solution for hard-to-reach devices, such as floor lamps or ambient lighting. Also very suitable for seniors or people who don't want a technical setup.

Dewenwils Outdoor Smart Plug with Remote Control

Why this product stands out: Its robust and weather-resistant design. With an IP44 rating, this plug is specially made to withstand the elements, making it perfect for use in the garden or on the balcony.

Pros:

• IP44 water-resistant, designed for safe outdoor use.
• Simple operation with a remote control, no Wi-Fi or app needed.
• A 30-metre range allows you to control outdoor devices from inside your home.
• According to the manufacturer, the plug remains off after a power outage to save energy.

Who is this product for? For anyone who wants to remotely control seasonal lighting, a pond pump, or other electric garden tools without worrying about the weather.

TP-Link Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug with Energy Monitoring

Why this product stands out: The combination of smart features and energy monitoring. This is a full-featured Wi-Fi plug that not only gives you complete control but also helps you reduce your energy consumption.

Pros:

• Control devices remotely and set comprehensive schedules via the user-friendly Tapo app.
• The built-in plug with energy meter shows real-time power consumption.
• Works with voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
• Compact size, which leaves the adjacent socket free.
• Away Mode turns devices on and off at random times to simulate presence.

Who is this product for? Perfect for the tech enthusiast and anyone who wants to make their home smarter, have control over their devices, and actively save on energy costs.

Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

The world of smart plugs is broad and diverse. The products mentioned above are popular choices for common situations, but there are many more possibilities. Are you looking for a set with multiple plugs, a different design, or specific technical features?

Check out our full range of electrical plug & socket connectors for more options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Smart Plugs

What can you do with a smart plug?

With a smart plug, you can make any traditional appliance 'smart'. The main functions are: turning devices on and off remotely, setting schedules (for example, for lighting or a coffee maker), monitoring energy consumption, and controlling devices with your voice via a smart speaker.

How much power does a smart plug itself consume?

The smart plug's own power consumption, also known as phantom load, is very low. It is usually under 1 watt. According to the manufacturer, the TP-Link Tapo P110, for example, consumes only 0.7 W in standby. The energy you save by completely turning off devices instead of leaving them on standby is almost always significantly higher.

Does a smart plug work without internet?

That depends on the type. A socket with a remote control (RF model) works completely independently of the internet. A Wi-Fi plug needs an active internet connection to be controlled remotely via the app. However, many Wi-Fi models, including the TP-Link Tapo, save set schedules locally. According to TP-Link, these schedules will continue to work even if the internet connection temporarily drops.