Rating of the best smart sockets and switches for 2020

Relentless progress changes everything that comes in its way, so technology is rapidly evolving, acquiring new advanced functions and acquiring its own "mind".

Development has not spared such familiar household items as electrical outlets and switches, the main task of which was simply stable and uninterrupted operation. Then an aesthetic function was added - the devices began to complement the interior, changing their appearance in relation to the style of the room.

Sockets and switches are part of the smart home system, turning into multifunctional devices and allowing you to control your work from a distance. We are not talking about simple remote control using a push-button remote control, but about complete control over the device regardless of distance: control can be carried out even while on a trip, travel, etc. This happens using the Internet through the appropriate applications on the smartphone, which allows you to literally customize your home by assigning a smart outlet to perform certain tasks at a specific time.

What can smart sockets do and what are they for?

Initially, such devices were planned to be used in private households to control the lighting of the area, watering plants and other tasks necessary in everyday life.

The owners of city apartments have no less household tasks. The peak of activity usually occurs in the morning, when it is necessary to rush to work and some of the tasks can be transferred to a smart outlet, which, for example, will turn on the electric kettle or coffee machine in time. This frees up time to spend the morning not in a rush, but in a calm rhythm.

The device can control the distribution of electricity by turning off household appliances in the event of a malfunction or voltage problem in the network. It can report the current status, operate according to a timer, and perform a number of other tasks. For example, before leaving work, you can program the inclusion of an air conditioner or boiler so that a comfortable temperature is ready for coming home.

What types of smart plugs are the most popular?

By installation principle

1. Overhead. They are adapters and are quite popular on the market, since their use does not require special skills: it is enough to plug such an adapter into a regular outlet, configure the necessary functions, and then connect the desired equipment.
2. Mounted.This type of smart sockets is installed instead of a regular outlet, so you need to think over and choose the most convenient place for it in advance in order to ensure comfortable use of the device. This type of sockets also has different power indicators, so when buying, you need to take this parameter into account.

By control method

1. Radio controlled. This is a socket controlled by a remote control, the signal of which spreads over a distance of up to 30 meters. It connects to a regular outlet, like an adapter, equipped with an indicator button on the external panel, showing the activity of the device and the response to signal reception. There is also a button that allows you to find the remote control if you lose it. Outdoor models are protected from moisture and dust.
2. SMS-driven. This type of socket is equipped with a special slot for a SIM card, and is also equipped with indicators showing the receipt of a signal and the presence of power in the network. To control such an outlet, it is enough to send a message to the device, which will serve as a command to turn on one or another device. For example, you can send an SMS message and turn on the split system, electric kettle or lighting before returning home. There are models that send an SMS message to the owner in the event of a power outage. Additional indicators can also be purchased for this type of outlet, such as temperature and humidity sensors. Many models have a time setting for turning the devices on and off, and are equipped with a timer.
3. Internet-driven. This type of control does not depend on the distance, as it uses the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile). You can control a smart plug from anywhere in the world where there is access to the Network. Such gadgets can be equipped with additional functions such as built-in video camera, motion sensor, temperature and humidity sensor, timer.

By design features

1. Single socket on remote control.
2. Single model with several independent control outputs, each accepting a separate command.
3. An outlet that controls a group of dependent devices.
4. GSM-line filter, which accepts commands both for several outputs at once, and for each separately.

The best smart plugs

The devices are very popular on the market, where a rich assortment of various models from Russian and foreign manufacturers is presented. In this review, we reviewed the highest quality and most durable devices that ensure smooth operation and a high degree of safety.

ELARI Dual Smart Socket NRG-DEU16PM

This is a device of the Elari Smart Home series, which is designed to control a smart home. The model is plugged into an ordinary outlet and allows you to turn on / off devices connected to it with a voice or at a distance: a lamp, a fan, a heater, a multimedia system, a TV, etc.

2 independent gadget outputs make it possible to control 2 devices separately by means of a proprietary program for a Smart Home smartphone (distributed free of charge).

By synchronizing the device with a smartphone, the user can monitor the status of each outlet in his phone (whether they are on or off), set timers, organize a schedule, or set operating scenarios in automatic mode. For example, in the evening, turn on the power supply for the light in the garden area, and when the temperature rises, turn off the working heater. It is also possible to turn off the iron if the user is already far from home.

By connecting the proprietary smart home service in the Yandex program, the user can turn to the Alice voice assistant with a request to turn on or off the outlet through the Smart Beat smart speaker from Elari. The model has a power consumption control function and overload protection.

The average price is 2,000 rubles.

• remote control by means of the SmartHome program for smartphones by Elari company or by means of the voice assistant "Alice" of the "Yandex" corporation;
• you can turn on and off household appliances on a schedule or timer;
• the ability to install operating scenarios for a number of devices;
• automatic control taking into account external factors: morning / evening, temperature and humidity level changes;
• compatibility with other Elari Smart Home devices;
• two independent outputs make it possible to turn on / off 2 electrical devices separately;
• control of electricity consumption by means of a smartphone program;
• availability of overload protection.

• overpriced, according to users, the price.

DIGMA DiPlug 200S

This smart socket is available in a compact housing, the design features of which provide 1 outlet for electrical appliances. The highlight of the device is the presence of an integrated unit of the wireless Wi-Fi network, which allows it to be synchronized with the phone, through which the user can monitor the status of household appliances.

This model operates at a voltage of 110 to 240 V. The total power of the devices connected to the gadget should not exceed 3.5 kW. This indicator indicates that the user can easily plug a certain number of devices into the outlet in order to remotely monitor their operation.

It can be controlled through Digma's proprietary Smart Life program, which applies to smartphones running on iOS and Android operating systems. Among the options supported by DiPlug 200S, it should be noted scenarios of work in automatic mode and support for the voice assistant "Alice" of the "Yandex" corporation.

The average price is 1,100 rubles.

• voice control via Yandex. Alice";
• the ability to remotely control devices from any corner of the planet using a smartphone program distributed free of charge;
• support for mobile devices running on Android and iOS;
• connects to an ordinary socket with a voltage of 100 to 240 V and does not need to rework engineering networks;
• fashionable laconic appearance.

• not detected.

Aqara SP-EUC01

This model gives the user the ability to control the connected devices through the phone, as well as with the help of voice, which was achieved thanks to compatibility with the voice assistant "Alice" of the "Yandex" corporation. The smart socket has support for energy consumption control, giving the user the opportunity to view information in the program regarding current strength, power, mains voltage and consumed kW / h.

The device is made of highly reliable fireproof plastic, which does not require installation in the wall and is mounted in an ordinary outlet as a nozzle. To control Aqara SP-EUC01, the Zigbee 3.0 wireless communication protocol is used. The model is suitable for use in tandem with high-power household appliances such as an electric kettle, iron, multicooker, etc.

This gadget will be a great purchase for controlling the switched on device when the user is not at home. You can also control household appliances with your voice. With this smart plug, turning on / off TV, air conditioner and other household appliances will become much easier and more comfortable. A special program makes it possible to collect and analyze statistical data on electricity consumption.

The average price is 2,000 rubles.

• remote control;
• compatibility with the voice assistant "Alice" of the "Yandex" corporation;
• ease of installation;
• control of electricity consumption;
• compactness.

• expensive.

HIPER IoT P04

This is a device from HIPER that makes it possible to control switched on household appliances using a smartphone.With this smart plug, the user can calculate the amount of electricity consumed and turn off the appliances if not at home.

The device supports work with voice assistants "Alice" by "Yandex" and Google Home.

In appearance, the model is identical to an ordinary outlet, therefore it fits perfectly into any room interior. The device is made of highly durable white ABS plastic, resistant to high temperatures, so the socket can withstand the connection of even high-power household appliances.

The smart socket is suitable for indoor use only. The manufacturer does not recommend placing it outdoors or in rooms with high humidity levels. To start using the device, there is no need to install it - you just need to insert it into an ordinary socket as an adapter.

The smart socket can be operated in a temperature range from 0 to +40 degrees Celsius.

The average price is 1,500 rubles.

• withstands high power electrical appliances;
• compatible with the voice assistants "Alice" of the corporation "Yandex" and Google Home;
• ease of installation and customization;
• practical scenario settings;
• cloud compatibility;
• high security and remote on / off;
• control of electricity consumption;
• schedule management;
• settings are not reset in the event of a power outage.

• some users doubt the high reliability of the assembly (flimsy terminals).

koogeek KLSP1

This smart socket features functionality that makes controlling your home appliances comfortable and accessible from any distance. The device is easily configured and automatically synchronizes with the phone. In addition to practicality, the model guarantees auxiliary safety in the operation of electrical appliances. The user can check at any time whether he turned off the iron or not, and whether he forgot to turn off the light in the room before leaving for work.

Among other things, the owner of a smart socket will be aware of how connected home appliances function in his absence. A special program provides a complete report on the level of energy consumption. Through this model, you can remotely activate and deactivate various processes, set personal and complex timers, and a schedule.

For example, you can set the automatic start of the night light during the night rest, set the preparation of coffee at a specific time, or turn on the air conditioner before coming home.

The average price is 1,350 rubles.

• compatible with Koogeek Life App;
• you can control the switched on device using a smartphone or by voice thanks to compatibility with Alexa and Google assistants;
• for voice control, you can use Amazon's Echo, Google's Home, or other integrated voice assistants;
• the user can remotely monitor and control the connected equipment from any corner of the planet;
• in the program, you can configure the current, voltage and power consumption of custom devices.

• not detected.

REDMOND RSP-103S

This model is made of high strength plastic, which is resistant to mechanical damage. The smart socket works in tandem with a 220 V power supply. Remote monitoring is performed using Ready for Sky technology.

Through a tablet PC or phone, you can set a schedule for the operation, a timer, or block a smart socket. The model can be connected to a TV, a humidifier, a lamp and other devices, the power of which does not exceed 2.2 kW.

Compactness and ergonomics make the REDMOND RSP-103S practical both to work and to carry. The gadget supports any portable devices running on Android or iOS.

The average price is 1,000 rubles.

• availability;
• ease of installation;
• fast synchronization;
• can be used both in tandem with control center and without it;
• comfortable operation.

• creates noise pollution;
• synchronization failures occur.

Yandex smart socket

The device is designed as an external power outlet module connected to the mains. The device makes it possible to connect an external device to electricity. Connecting external equipment through this model makes it possible to control its electrical connection via the Network (on / off).

The average price is 1,200 rubles.

• good connector - no need to buy an adapter, as is the case with Chinese devices;
• small in size;
• stability of functioning;
• high assembly reliability;
• demonstrated exemplary performance in tandem with Yandex. Station".

• lack of timer control.

Eve Energy 1EE108301001

The Elgato Eve system is based on the Bluetooth Smart communication protocol, so it does not require any common center. The smart plug works with Apple's HomeKit and is easily controlled by voice through the Siri voice assistant.

The model has support for remote power control of household appliances, and also makes it possible to create schedules for its on and off. The device supports all Apple devices and identifies the commands of the voice assistant Siri.

Considering the above, the owner of a smart socket only needs to say a code word in order to change the operating mode of the device or launch the necessary scenario for the functioning of the smart home system. Among other things, on the phone display, the user has access to statistics on electricity consumption and maximum loads.

The average price is 5,300 rubles.

• works in conjunction with the iPhone;
• controlled by voice through the voice assistant Siri;
• exquisite design;
• remote control of household electrical appliances;
• saves energy.

• it happens that it cannot sync with the outlet, but notifies about it with an exclamation mark;
• high price;
• large dimensions.

Sonoff S20

This is a smart socket with a remote control, which is well suited for beginners who are starting to master the smart home system, since the model is equipped with basic functions and is not designed to execute complex commands. The power is 2,000 watts.

The outlet is controlled using the eWELink mobile application, which allows you to set commands directly from your smartphone. In addition to turning it on and off, it is possible to set up a timer and create a schedule for the device - the equipment connected to the outlet will work at the time specified in the settings.

The average price is 700 rubles.

• quick response;
• good build quality;
• the convenience of use;
• simple and straightforward smartphone application;
• scheduling function;
• additional features of the timer - cycling and countdown.

• does not work in the absence of access to the Internet;
• there is no function of collecting information on electricity consumption

Kebidumei KBT001929

A model with many advantages, one of which is high build quality. This device is equipped with various sensors to monitor electricity and power, which is very convenient for obtaining data on the status of the network and accounting for electricity costs.

The outlet is controlled using the WiWo mobile application or another, more convenient, according to user reviews, e-Control application. As an added convenience, the device has a USB connector for charging a mobile phone and other portable gadgets.

The average price is 750 rubles.

• stable work;
• easy and quick setup;
• the presence of a USB port;
• a clear instruction manual is included.

• Difficulty connecting to Wi-Fi
• no load indicator.

Xiaomi Wi-Fi Power Strip 6 Ports

This model is equipped with 3 European style plugs and 3 universal plugs. The opposite end of the extension cord is made with a Chinese plug, which must be taken into account when ordering and purchase the appropriate adapter for the European plug. The power of the device is 2,500 W, which means that it is designed for household appliances that have low power consumption.

The smart socket is controlled through a special mobile application Mi-Home, which allows you to set the timer and schedule the device. The smart plug sends statistics on the dynamics of energy consumption to the smartphone.

The average price is 2,150 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• stable work.

• there is no way to control individual sockets;
• flimsy forks.

Broadlink SP3

This is a model of the famous popular Chinese manufacturer Broadlink, whose products are of high quality and reliability. The power of this device is 3,500 W. This is enough for connecting large household appliances to a smart outlet, such as an air conditioner, washing machine, water heater or TV.

Control is carried out using a special smartphone application, which is available for operating systems such as Android and iOS. The main functions of the device include: turning on and off the electricity (including by timer), collecting information on electricity consumption, sending notifications, etc.

The average price is 1,350 rubles.

• flawless stable work;
• simple and easy setup;
• displays the consumption graph.
• availability of setting for electricity tariffication.

• application crashes occasionally;
• in the absence of access to the Internet, electricity consumption statistics are suspended.

ALLOYSEED Wireless Switch Socket

Perhaps this is the simplest model in terms of its design and functionality, which consists of 3 cover-sockets and a remote control. Since the device is capable of performing only basic functions (a mobile application and a timer are not provided), it is best suited for performing one task.

Most often, this model is purchased for country or country houses, where manual connection of machinery or equipment is not convenient. The signal reception radius is quite large, it is able to pass through walls.

The average price is 1,000 rubles.

• high-quality assembly;
• simplicity and ease of use;
• reliable and stable performance.

• problematic selection of batteries for the remote control due to its non-standard size.

KONLEN KL-SC1-GSMV

It is one of the smartest devices in the category of GSM sockets and is controlled by a mobile phone. In comparison with other similar gadgets, in this case it is much easier to do it.

The design of the device assumes the presence of a mini SIM card through which commands can be assigned by sending an SMS message or making a phone call. The device is able to independently send messages about the current status to the phone number specified in the settings. The smart plug is independent of Wi-Fi, as it works in a 2G network, which is available almost everywhere.

The average price is 2,000 rubles.

• performs all the declared functions qualitatively;
• high quality of the material from which the device is made;
• simple and straightforward settings.

• there are no additional functions (function of collecting information about energy consumption);
• feedback is intermittent.

Waytronic iTimer II

Another popular smart socket model, which is also controlled by a mobile phone, while the functionality of this model is much richer than that of the previous device.With the help of SMS messages, you can set the execution of such tasks as setting the timer to turn on or off, create a convenient work schedule and a number of other useful functions. A complete list of the gadget's capabilities is available in the instructions attached to it.

When buying an outlet through an online store, the order should indicate that you must attach instructions in Russian. But even if you receive an English-language manual, it will not be difficult to find its Russian-language analogue on the Web. The set to the device includes a temperature sensor, which opens up additional useful possibilities for setting the switching on and off of household appliances. For example, you can set the air conditioner to operate only at a certain temperature. In addition, a USB port is located on the device body for charging portable devices.

The average price is 2,000 rubles.

• high build quality and materials;
• quick response.

• when the power goes out, the device resets the settings.

The best smart switches

We present to your attention the 5 best smart switches for 2020.

Aqara WXKG02LM

This is a beautiful model that will perfectly match any stylish interior. The device is synchronized with the phone via Bluetooth. Through the special SmartHome program of Xiaomi corporation, the user can turn on or off the lighting through the phone.

With this smart switch, the owner can control the lights in the house through a mobile device or tablet, no matter what room they are in. If the user has forgotten to turn off the lighting and is already going to bed, then with this model you will not have to get up - just press the desired key on the phone.

Thanks to the Smart Home program and other "smart" sensors from Xiaomi corporation, the user can create different scenarios for the operation of the switch. For example, when you leave the house, the lighting turns off automatically and, on the contrary, when a person returns home, he will be greeted by a comfortable hall with the light turned on in advance.

You can set the lighting to turn on when Mi TV starts, or by connecting the switch to the motion sensor, set the lighting to turn on when someone is in the room.

The average price is 1,500 rubles.

• stylish design;
• you can program actions for pressing / holding / double pressing or pressing 2 buttons at once;
• works perfectly in tandem with Home Assistant through any gateway;
• high assembly reliability;
• does not need a neutral cable for connection.

• the complexity of the connection.

Rubetek RE-3316

This is a small model with informative multi-colored backlighting. It is possible to connect to it household appliances, the power of which does not exceed 2.5 kW. The gadget makes it possible to connect external security sensors to it. As a result, the switch can be used as a basic safety system.

This device collects statistical data on power consumption. The tariff is set manually in the program. Instant and interval statistics are available. On the outer perimeter, a circular LED-type illumination is provided. The color changes depending on the load.

The average price is 2 800 rubles.

• stylish design;
• responds correctly to touch;
• unobtrusive backlighting is provided.

• high price.

HiTE PRO Kit

This kit is suitable for remote control of one electrical line. The Relay-1 relay closes and opens the supply circuit when receiving a signal from the LE-1 switch conductor with which it is connected.

The Relay-1 radio relay is placed in the gap between the phase and neutral lighting cables. No more than 200 HiTE PRO transmitters can be bound to the module memory. The relay is configured for 4 modes:

1. Enabling and disabling.
2. Exclusively inclusion.
3. Shutdown only.
4. Off timer in automatic mode.

The wireless switch can be placed on any surface (wood, glass, concrete) without performing installation and construction work. The light can be controlled from a distance not exceeding 250 meters. Through the proprietary Gateway server, you can easily connect all gadgets into a single smart home system and control them using the HiTE PRO programs, Apple Home Kit or Yandex Smart Home.

The Gateway server is not included in this kit.

The average price is 4,550 rubles.

• compactness;
• clear and detailed user manual;
• long cable;
• nice design;
• high stability of functioning.

• expensive.

Xiaomi Mi Wireless Switch

This switch is a programmable button of the Smart Home system of the Chinese corporation Xiaomi. The model is synchronized with the main control center of the smart home system, connected to the central module Mi Smart Home Geteway 2 and configured using the MiHome application in the smartphone.

The gadget allows you to customize various work scenarios: turning on / off smart home systems and launching specific devices of the Smart Home smart home system from Xiaomi.

The switch identifies a single or double press. The model has an integrated power supply, which is sufficient for about 2 years. After exhausting the integrated power supply, you can change it yourself.

The average price is 700 rubles.

• lightness;
• compactness;
• does not take up much space;
• the model uses a chip for Zigbee wireless connection, which makes it possible to connect the device to a single "smart" network or connect it to certain "smart" gadgets like a remote control;
• the switch can withstand about 50 thousand clicks.

• not detected.

Eve 10EAU9901

Through this switch, the user can control all devices that are connected to the Apple Home Kit smart home system. The model is able to control lighting, temperature, home appliances, music playback, and also allows you to create your own work scenarios. For example, "I'm at home", "Evening" - the curtains close and the lights turn on. In the "Relaxation" scenario, the light adapts to the rhythm of the music being played, etc.

The switch is connected to the control center via Bluetooth and has support for 3 different actions or work scenarios. The power source is a replaceable CR2032 battery, which is enough for a couple of months of operation.

Before you start setting up the device, you should synchronize it in advance in the HomeKit program, which is available in the AppStore by a QR code glued to the back of the switch.

In the program, you can set 3 scenarios of work or actions that will be launched by a single, double press or hold.

Actions in the Home Kit program are made in the form of stickers, and working scripts must be created manually. The user can set various scenarios, as described above "I'm at home" and "Evening", and others.

The average price is 5 450 rubles.

Advantages:

• direct control;
• three actions: single, double press and hold;
• compactness and portability;
• ease of use;
• excellent security;
• the power source is a durable, replaceable battery;
• ease of customization.

Disadvantages:

• expensive.

Criterias of choice

When choosing and buying this useful device, you should focus on the characteristics and basic parameters of the device:

• Device type. Surface outlet or flush-mounted device? In the first case, this is an adapter plugged into a regular outlet, in the second - an independent device mounted on the wall. The choice of one type or another depends on its purpose. The most popular are overhead sockets.
• Control method. This parameter also depends on the purpose of the outlet and individual preferences.What type of control is most convenient for the user - by remote control, via a mobile phone and sending SMS messages, or via the Internet (for example, with Wi-Fi control) and a special mobile application.
• List of functions. Here you should determine for yourself what basic and additional capabilities of the device are most needed - sending back SMS messages about network status or malfunctions, the ability to monitor energy consumption, the presence of a USB port, etc.
• Working conditions. Before buying, you should determine in what conditions the outlet will work. If the device is intended for use in a shower or bathroom, preference should be given to models that have protection against moisture. The device located in the open air (for example, outdoors) must be protected not only from moisture, but also from dust. Most of the sockets are designed to function in a heated room with low humidity and minimum dust content in the air.
• Build quality and materials. Expensive smart sockets have not only stylish design, but also high quality and safety index. Inexpensive models, unfortunately, cannot boast of the same. This should be considered when purchasing.

Equally important are parameters such as:

• fame and popularity of the manufacturer;
• popularity of the device among buyers;
• user reviews;
• lifetime;
• the quality of the materials from which the device is made;
• price-quality ratio.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is worth re-emphasizing the benefits of a smart plug. The presence of such a device in a house or apartment allows you to control household appliances from a distance using the remote control, via SMS messages or the Internet. Features such as timer setting and scheduling give you control over your smart device and help you save electricity. At the same time, complete safety of using the equipment connected to the outlet is guaranteed, and the user will always be notified of the presence of network problems, failures that have occurred, in order to timely eliminate possible problems.