In the ever-increasing demand for home automation products, you would certainly wish to update your appliances in order to make them ‘smart’. Are you going to buy new home appliances? If yes, then stop there right now! Just get the best smart WiFi plug for Alexa and Google Home available on the market and transform your existing products into smart ones.
we have listed top-rated WiFi plugs that work with Google Home and Alexa. With an intelligent voice service like the Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, you get varied horizons to make your home smart. For newbies, it would be quite an overwhelming experience. So, to make the most out of your smart speakers, you must integrate them with the best Google Home and Alexa compatible WiFi smart outlet available in the market.
Owning the smart WiFi plugs is a good start for a beginner to initiate utilizing the Voice Assistant devices. Available at affordable prices, these WiFi controlled outlets come with a sleek design. They perfectly fit into your regular wall charger points. To enhance its use, you can even operate them using a remote control. Here is a list of some affordable WiFi enabled smart plug for Google Home and Alexa.
This smart plug from Wemo is something you have been looking for to make your PC, washing machine, and other devices smart. The plug comes with built-in Wi-Fi, so there is no need to use an additional home hub with it. Also, it comes ready to set up, and you can download the handy mobile app for your Android and iOS devices to use the plug remotely.
You can easily set personalized schedules using the mobile app. Schedule the lights to turn on before you arrive, and you will never step into a dark home. Moreover, you can use this plug with a fan or other devices to use schedule and timer.
This best wifi smart plug for Alexa and Google Home can protect your devices from the high surge. It has got an advanced circuit that fortifies the electronics from over-voltage, and over-current. All in all, it is a safe device for your home, and you can purchase it without thinking twice.
Whether you have Google Home, Alexa, or any other voice assistant, including Apple HomeKit, and IFTTT, you can use this smart plug. It is compatible with these ice assistants, which make it a versatile smart plug available in the market.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 15 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.1 or Higher/ iOS 9 or Higher |
Away Mode | YES |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $17.98
Buy it from Amazon
TP-Link is here with a pack of two smart plugs that can make your other devices smart as well. You can use these plugs with most of your devices, including your PC, wall fans, lights, ACs, and much more. The maximum load the smart plug can bear is 10 Amps, which makes it ideal for use with multiple electrical devices.
You can turn on/off the lamps and other appliances on specific intervals when not at home. The control of Away Mode is available in the mobile app so you can access it remotely with an active internet connection.
You can connect multiple Kasa devices with this wifi smart plug for Alexa and Google Home and it will assist you in making your home devices automatic and smart. TP-Link smart plugs are compatible with Kasa Power Strips, Kasa bulbs, and other devices so you can form a complete network that is controllable with a single mobile app.
So you want to turn your lights on before you arrive at your doorstep? No worries; with this TP-Link smart plug, you can set a specific schedule based on your requirements. Also, you can cancel the schedule anytime if there are any changes in your plans.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 10 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 5.0 or Higher/ iOS 10.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | YES |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $24.99
Order it from Amazon
So you need a smart plug that looks compact? Well, this smart plug from Gosund is what you need. The plug comes loaded with built-in Wi-Fi, so there is no need to connect it with a smart hub. Additionally, there are four plugs available in one pack, and you can connect multiple devices, including PC, lights, fans, coffee makers, and much more.
With this smart outlet for Alexa and Google Home, you will get the assurance of extreme safety. The shell of the plug is made using flameless material, and it will resist fire up to a great extent. Moreover, the precision circuit will protect the devices from a high surge, and you can use your devices with a Gosund plug without worrying about anything.
You can use the mobile app to set a countdown based on your requirements. Whether you want to turn on the coffee machine, or you want the lights to remain on throughout the night, the countdown feature will help.
The mobile app is available for both Android and iOS platforms, and you can download the mobile app from the respective stores.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 10 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.4 or Higher/ iOS 8.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | YES |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $29.99
Purchase it from Amazon
You can easily make your speaker, coffee, maker, desktop, and other such devices smart with this wifi outlet for Alexa and Google Home from Teckin. The plug comes with an indicator, and you can easily determine whether it is connected with the wireless network or not. Setting up Teckin smart plug is as easy as a breeze, and you don’t need an external home hub to connect it with the wireless network.
You can monitor how much energy the connected device is consuming using the mobile app. Moreover, you can turn off the device anytime when it is not in use to save some energy and, more precisely, some amount on your next electricity bills.
Set timers and schedules on the go using the handy mobile app. You can set the timer for any type of connected devices like coffee makers, speakers, computers, and much more to turn on/off at any time. Eliminating or adding new schedules is also a straightforward task, and you can do it with the app and an active internet connection.
This Wifi socket for Alexa and Google Home has ETL and FCC certification, which means that it will protect your electronic devices from current-related issues. The advanced circuit can bear up to 10 Amps of load so that you can connect more power-consuming devices like computers, thermostats, water heaters, and speakers with the smart plug.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 10 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.1 or Higher/ iOS 7.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | NO |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | YES |
Price: $29.99
Order it from Amazon
If you want to connect two devices simultaneously with a smart plug, then Avatar has an ideal smart plug for you. The capsule-like looking plug is handy, and you can take it anywhere with you. Make sure to get an Alexa or Google Home separately as the device doesn’t have built-in voice assistant support.
You can use this Avatar Capsule Smart Plug with coffee makers, heaters, computers, lights, fans, thermostats, and the list goes on. The max load supported by the smart plug is 10 Amps, and you can connect any device with it that consumes 10 Amps or less current.
Now you can share the Avatar Controls smart plug with your friends and family. They can download the mobile application to get control over the power outlets remotely. The plug has built-in Wi-Fi, and you can connect it with a secured 2.4 GHz network directly without using a smart home hub.
Set different schedules for multiple devices using the Avatar mobile app, which is available for Android and iOS users. The Avatar Controls Smart Plug also offers a timer feature, and you can use it to automate most of your tasks like making coffee in the morning, or turning on the thermostat to regulate the temperature of your house.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 10 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 6.0.1 or Higher/ iOS 10 or Higher |
Away Mode | NO |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $15.99
Buy the Avatar Controls WiFi Plug
This affordable smart power plug from Amysen can be a great choice for your home devices, including speakers, thermostats, water heaters, computers, and much more. The shell of the plug is made using polycarbonate so you can expect a decent lifespan from it.
Now you can prevent the cases of overcharging your devices using the timer feature available in this smart plug. You can set the dedicated timer using the mobile application available for Android and iOS platforms.
With the mobile app, you can control the smart plug from anywhere with an active internet connection. You can set schedules, timers, and can turn off the plug anytime just with a few clicks. This feature will help you in saving energy as well, as you can turn off the devices when they are not in use.
The built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for using a smart home hub with it. Additionally, you can connect this Wi-Fi Powered Outlet for Alexa and Google Home directly with a secured 2.4 GHz wireless connection using the mobile app. This hub doesn’t support a 5.0 GHz network, so you have to switch it to 2.4 GHz to connect it successfully.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 10 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.1 or Higher/ iOS 9.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | NO |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $10.96
Shop it from Amazon
Meross smart plugs will allow you to use high power devices, including water heaters, AC, speakers because the plug can bear a maximum load of around 16 Amps. There are four plugs available in a pack, and you can group them to use with a standalone mobile app, which is a plus point of using Meross smart plugs.
You can turn your regular appliances into smart with these smart plugs. All you have to do is connect the power cord with the smart plug, and then you are good to go. Now there is no need to buy a smart coffee machine when you can turn your regular machine into smarter with the plug.
A simple verbal command is enough to power on your fan while you are resting on your bed. Similarly, you can power off the lights and other appliances. There are four smart plugs available in one pack so you can use them for different appliances.
Set as many schedules as you want with the smart mobile app. Also, you can set timers to protect your devices from getting overcharged. This is a 16 Amps smart plug and can be used for a myriad of devices, so timer and schedule feature will be a great help.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 16 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.1 or Higher/ iOS 8.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | NO |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $28.99
Purchase it from Amazon
Get this wifi controlled power outlet for Alexa and Google Home from TanTan to control most of your appliances remotely. The smart plug requires no hub at all, and you can connect it with any secured 2.4 GHz wireless network using the mobile app. Additionally, these smart plugs are FCC and ETL listed so you can rest assured that you are buying something genuine and ideal to use at home.
You can use the smart plug without using your hands. It connects with voice assistants like Google Home, Alexa, and you can use your voice commands to take control of the connected appliances.
The smart plug comes with surge protection, and it will protect your devices from getting harmed due to higher surge and over-voltage. The circuit resists higher current from impacting the devices, so you can relax that all of your devices are safe.
You can set a countdown and timer as per your convenience. The mobile app will allow you to set a specific timer based on the type of appliance connected with the smart plug. You can also charge your smartphones and tablets while using timers to prevent overcharging.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 10 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.4 or Higher/ iOS 8.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | NO |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $29.99
Order it from Amazon
BN-Link is here with a heavy-duty outdoor wifi outlet for Alexa and Google Home with a maximum load of 15 Amps. You can connect it with your water heaters, thermostats, and other high power consuming devices with the assurance that it will work flawlessly.
You can use the energy meter function available in the mobile app to save some energy. Check how much energy the device is consuming and make sure to turn it off when not in use. The smart plug also features a timer, and you can protect our devices from getting overcharged.
There is no need to use an additional hub with this smart plug. You can connect it with a secured wireless 2.4 GHz connection to make it work. If your router doesn’t support a 2.4 GHz network setting, then you can use the AP mode to ensure that it connects with the wireless network.
There is a button available on the smart plug, and you can use it to power it on/off on the go. Also, the button features an LED light, so it will be easy for you to determine if the smart plug is connected with the wireless network.
Wi-Fi Connection | 2.4 GHz |
Max Load | 15 Amps |
Hub Required | NO |
Android and iOS Version Needed | Android 4.1 or Higher/ iOS 8.0 or Higher |
Away Mode | NO |
Schedule and Timer | YES |
Surge Protection | YES |
Waterproof | NO |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Price: $27.99
Shop it from Amazon
By Raghuvir Gupta (via https://www.thecrazybuyers.com/best-wi-fi-smart-plugs-for-alexa-google-home/)
]]>There are ample of smart devices available on the market that transforms your house into a smart home. So if you own multiple smart home devices then you will need more than one smart plugs. But if you don’t want to purchase multiple smart plugs then you can go through this list of best smart power strips for alexa which provides surge protection too.
This top-rated surge protected Alexa controlled smart WiFi power strip comprises of many power outlets and USB ports. You can easily provide power supply to all the attached devices through this power strip. In turn, you can control the smart power bar with your voice as it is Alexa-enabled. You can even set schedules so that it automatically powers up your devices whether you are around or not. Isn’t this an interesting product? Well, explore this list of the best smart power strips that work with Alexa.
Now you can power up multiple devices at a time with the assurance that all of them will be protected from current-related issues. With this best smart power strip, you will get comprehensive control from anywhere as it features geo-fencing. Moreover, you can connect it with Alexa to turn on/off the devices using verbal commands.
So you don’t have a smart bulb, but you still want it to turn on at a specific time? Well, you can do it using this smart strip. The strip features scheduling, and you can use the mobile app to set personalized schedules based on your requirements.
Electronics, including fans, mixers, and other devices are expensive, and there is no doubt in it. With this smart strip, you can protect your precious gadgets from the surge. It has 2160 Joules of surge protection, so all the connected devices will remain safe no matter what.
The convenient mobile app is available for both Android and iOS users, and you can get it from the respective app store. The app will allow you to control all the outlets while setting personalized schedules. Also, the app is easy to use, and you can merge multiple APC smart strips as well to use them using one app.
Total Outlets | 6 |
USB Ports | 4 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Power Cord Length | 18 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | Alexa, Echo, and Google Home |
Price: $43.99
Buy it from Amazon
Here is another smart Wi-Fi power strip for Alexa that will let you control it remotely from anywhere. The strip works well with a plethora of voice assistants, so it is not restricted to just Alexa. You can charge your phones while connecting other electronic devices at the same time with VOCOlinc smart strip.
The smart extension lead comes equipped with advanced power protection. It has a dual power load for the USB ports and the power outlets. Your devices will be safe from over-current and over-voltage.
You can download the mobile app to set schedules for the power outlets. Also, with the app, you can check the status of every outlet, which is a plus point. The application shows the real-time status of each outlet.
The three power outlets have ample space between them so you can connect multiple power devices without any congestion. The two USB ports are separately placed so that you can charge your smartphones and tablets on the go.
Max Current | 15 A |
Max Power | 1800W |
Total Outlets | 3 |
USB Ports | 2 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Power Cord Length | 24 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $38.99
Shop it from Amazon
TP-Link is a famous brand that manufactures high-end peripherals devices. With this smart Wi-Fi power strip, you can connect up to 6 devices at a time, along with three USB devices. The strip features energy monitoring, and you can control it from anywhere after connecting it with the Wi-Fi network.
With the Kasa mobile app, you can check how much energy an individual device is consuming. Also, you can turn off the devices that are using more power to save some energy. Kasa app will allow you to turn on/off the connected devices remotely.
The device has ETL certified surge protection* that can fortify all the electronic appliances connected with it. No matter whether the power is fluctuating or there is a sudden surge, all the devices will remain protected with TP-Link smart power strip.
There is no need to invest in a smart home hub when you have a TP-Link power strip. This Alexa power strip has a built-in Wi-Fi device that works well with any secured 2.4GHz wireless network. However, you cannot connect this power strip with a 5.0 GHz network, so you have to set your router on the 2.4 GHz option.
Max Current | 15A |
Total Outlets | 6 |
USB Ports | 3 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | YES |
Power Cord Length | 36 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | Microsoft Cortana, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $79.99
Order it from Amazon
Are you looking for an affordable power strip? Well, this power strip from LINGANZH can be a good option for you. The affordable device has everything to offer an expensive power strip can! Also, there is no additional hub required as the power strip has built-in Wi-Fi.
You can set this power strip easily and on the go. All you have to do is connect it with the AC outlet, and then pair it with the Wi-Fi network. You can download the mobile app to experience some handy features
This smart Wi-Fi power strip from LINGANZH will assist you in saving energy as it comes with the scheduling feature. You can set different schedules for all the outlets so only specific devices will turn on. Moreover, you can set a countdown and timer based on your requirements.
Your friends and family members can share the same Alexa power strip to control the connected device. This feature makes this power strip even accessible for homes with multiple users. The eFamilyCloud app will let you check the status of the device while controlling it remotely.
Total Outlets | 4 |
USB Ports | NONE |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Power Cord Length | 50 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | IFTTT, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $18.98
Purchase it from Amazon
This smart power strip with energy monitoring from JACKYLED is perfect for you if you want to connect a limited number of devices. The built-in Wi-Fi terminates the need for connecting the strip with a home hub. Also, the power on/off button available on the strip has an LED indicator so you can quickly check whether the power strip is on or off at the moment.
You can connect three devices at a time with a JACKYLED smart power strip. You cannot connect any USB device as it has no USB ports available. Moreover, you can pair multiple power strips using the mobile app, and that will make things easier for you if you want to use a multitude of devices.
This smart power strip can resist fire and water, and that makes it a superior option. It comes with IP55 certification so that you can use it for external lamps as well. Overall, the power strip is ideal to use anywhere, including nearby the swimming pool and the kitchen.
The mobile app comes loaded with scheduling and countdown features. You will see the indicator turned on after setting the schedule. There is a separate indicator available for Countdown feature, and that makes this smart power strip even more impressive.
Voltage Rage | 110V-240V |
Total Outlets | 3 |
USB Ports | NONE |
Surge Protection | NO |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | YES |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | YES |
Power Cord Length | 5.9 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | IFTTT, Echo Amazon Alexa, and Google Home |
Price: $26.99
Buy it from Amazon
Avatar is here with the most compact smart power strip of the list. If you don’t need a bulky looking device, then you can get it without thinking twice. The Avatar Controls power strip comes with multiple ports, and you can connect different devices with it on the go.
You can download the Avatar Controls app to set up this power strip. It comes with a built-in Wi-Fi, and you can easily connect it with any secured 2.4 GHz wireless network.
Setting schedules is now even more comfortable when you have this power strip installed in your home or office! You can set various schedules using the mobile app. Also, the power strip features device sharing, so more than one user can share it at a time.
This smart power strip has three power outlets and three USB ports so you can connect six different devices at a time. The max current offered by the outlets is 10A, and the maximum wattage is 1100 watts.
Max Current | 10A |
Total Outlets | 3 |
USB Ports | 3 |
Surge Protection | NO |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Power Cord Length | 5.9 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | IFTTT, Echo Amazon Alexa, and Google Home |
Price: $29.99
Shop it from Avatarcontrols.com
Charge as many devices as you want with this smart power strip from Jadada. It comes with four power outlets, and four USB ports so you can connect eight devices in total such as fan, water dispenser, electric pot, TV, humidifier, light, holiday decorating lights. When we talk about the extension cord, then it is long and insulated for better protection. You can use a voice-controlled power strip with different voice assistants, which makes it a versatile device.
The mobile app will reward you with separate controls of all the power outlets. You can turn on/off any outlet at any time, and it will help you in saving energy. Also, you can set schedules based on the devices connected with the power outlets.
The shell of this power strip is manufactured using fireproof material so that it will resist fire up to some extent. Also, the ABS material makes the power strip durable and long-lasting. Lastly, the wire core is 30% thicker than the regular smart power strips.
The Smart Life app is available for Android and iOS users provided that you have Android 4.4 or above or iOS 8.0 or above. Using the app will help you with remote control, and you can access the power strip from anywhere after connecting it with the secured Wi-Fi network.
Max Current | 10A |
Max Power | 1875W |
Total Outlets | 4 |
USB Ports | 4 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Power Cord Length | 72 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $23.99
Order it from Amazon
Here is another affordable power strip that requires no hub at all! You can connect up to three devices using the power outlets and four other devices with the USB ports. This is a fireproof smart power strip that can protect itself from fire for up to 750-degree Celsius.
The numerous security protection systems will protect the smart strip and other devices from any current-related issues. It will fortify your electronics from over-current, over-voltage, and surging.
You can turn on the light of your living room anytime using the scheduling feature. Also, you can set multiple schedules for each port, which increases the usability of this smart power strip. Just download the mobile app from the respective store, and start setting schedules.
You can connect this power strip with virtual assistants, including Alexa and Google Home. The smart strip has built-in Wi-Fi, so there is no need to use an additional hub to use vice assistants.
Max Current | 13A |
Max Power | 1625W |
Total Outlets | 3 |
USB Ports | 4 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water-Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Power Cord Length | 60 inches |
Hub Required | NO |
Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $17.97
Purchase it from Amazon
This smart power strip from Teckin will let you connect eight devices at a time. Also, there is no need for a separate hub, and you can connect it with the secured 2.4 GHz networks. It even comes with over-voltage and surge protection, so all your electronics will remain protected at all times.
After setting up this smart Wi-Fi power strip, you can connect it with any 2.4 GHz network without any home hub. The process of connecting the smart strip with the Wi-Fi network is straightforward, and you can download the mobile app to access more features.
Using the mobile app, you can set timer and schedules based on your requirements. Also, you can set an individual schedule for every power outlet, and it will help you in saving more energy.
Teckin smart power strip has surge protection, which means that it will fortify the connected devices from any current-related issues. The circuit of the power strip can bear any fluctuations, so you can rest assured that it is the right power strip for your home or office.
Max Current | 10A |
Max Power | 1250W |
Total Outlets | 4 |
USB Ports | 4 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Hub Required | NO |
Power Cord Length | 40 inches |
Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $29.99
Buy it from Amazon
Now you can control the devices in your home using your verbal commands with Gosund smart power strip. The three power outlets and three USB ports will help you in powering up multiple devices simultaneously. Also, it is a compact device, and you can take it with you in your backpack.
You can connect this smart power strip with multiple voice assistants, including Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. It works seamlessly with voice assistants, and you can control it better from anywhere in your home.
This best smart surge protector will protect your electronic devices at any cost. This smart power bar can deal with high surges and over-current. All of your devices will remain safe when you have a Gosund smart power strip.
The handy mobile app will allow you to set a countdown and timer based on your needs. You can set different timer and countdown for every power outlet to control different devices on the go.
Max Current | 10A |
Max Power | 1200W/120V |
Total Outlets | 3 |
USB Ports | 3 |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | NO |
Hub Required | NO |
Power Cord Length | 60 inches |
Compatibility | IFTTT, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $19.99
Order it from Amazon
KMC is here with a compact smart Wi-Fi power strip that works well with lights, thermostats, and other devices. With this power strip, you can connect multiple devices in one go. However, it doesn’t have any USB port, and that is the only downside of owning it.
The smart power strip lets you set customized timers and schedules. You can set a separate schedule for each power outlet, which will help you in saving a lot of energy.
You can easily check the status of the device to find out how much power each device is consuming. Also, you can turn off devices that are consuming more energy to save some bucks on your next electricity bill.
KMC smart power strip lets you share it with your friends and family. Using the mobile app, other allowed users can also access the controls of this power strip.
Max Current | 16A |
Max Power | 1875W |
Total Outlets | 4 |
USB Ports | NONE |
Surge Protection | YES |
Built-in Wi-Fi | YES |
Scheduling | YES |
Water Resistant | NO |
Power Source | AC |
Energy Monitoring | YES |
Hub Required | NO |
Power Cord Length | 60 inches |
Compatibility | IFTTT, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant |
Price: $13.99
Purchase it from Amazon
Things you Need To Check Before Buying Smart Power Strip for Alexa
Buying the best Alexa controlled power strips require you to focus on some factors that can influence its performance. Here is a list of critical factors you should consider to buy an ideal Alexa controlled power strip for your requirements.
Number of Outlets
How many devices do you want to use at a time? The number of outlets will depend on how many devices you want to use with the power strip. Some power strips have six outlets, and some have lesser. Make sure to list all the devices you will be using so that you can buy the best power strip.
Compatibility
Make sure to check whether the power strip is compatible with Alexa. All the power strips listed in this article are compatible with Alexa, and some of them are even compatible with other voice assistants. To avoid the hassles of searching for an Alexa controlled power strip, you can pick it from here.
Built-in Wi-Fi
A power strip with built-in Wi-Fi will directly connect with the voice assistant, and it will eliminate the need for purchasing a smart hub. We have listed the availability of Wi-Fi in the specifications table so that it becomes easier for you to make a choice.
Surge Protection
Electronics can cost you a huge amount of money, and it is essential to make sure that you use something which guarantees protection to your devices. Check whether the power strip has surge protection or not. The best power strips with surge protection will protect your prestigious devices from over-current, over-voltage, and other issues.
Scheduling
Scheduling is an important feature when it comes to smart power strips for Alexa. You can schedule the power outlets to make sure that the particular connected device turns on/off on the required time. Most of the smart power strips with timer have scheduling features so you can use them to form better control on your home devices.
Length of Power Cord
The length of the power cord will impact the choice of the power strip. Check how far you want to place the strip from the wall outlet. You can even get an extension wire if the power cord of the strip is tiny.
Additional Features
Look for some additional features like the number of USB ports, water resistance, and energy monitoring. Generally, these features are available in expensive power strips, so you should prepare to spend some more to experience these features.
Budget
The last factor is your budget. Best power strips for Alexa are available at a myriad of prices, so you should make your budget to avoid overspending.
Q.1 Do smart power strips really help you save money?
Answer: Yes, an energy saving power strip will help you in saving money on your energy bills. You will surely see a downfall in your next energy bill after setting up the best smart power strip for Alexa.
Q.2 How do smart power strips reduce energy consumption / Save Energy?
Answer: You might be wondering how a smart strip can help you in saving power! Well, here is an explanation to prove it.
Smart power strips come with features like scheduling so that you can set specific schedules for the devices connected with it. When you have schedules set for every device, then there will be less energy consumption.
Also, some smart strips have an energy monitoring feature, and you can turn off the devices that are consuming more energy. Using the remote control feature, you can operate the power outlets from anywhere.
So next time, when you have forgotten to turn off the fan or the lights, you can simply check the mobile app to find it, whether it is on or off. Moreover, you can turn on/off the connected devices anytime with the app.
As a result, you will save energy, and more precisely, more bucks on your next energy bills! Using a smart power strip is no rocket science, and you can learn to use it right after setting it up.
Which of the above listed some of the best smart power strip for Alexa would you buy? Do write to us about your choices and opinions in the comments section.
via Raghuvir Gupta (thecrazybuyers.com)
]]>If you own Amazon Echo device, then you may be knowing that you can easily control smart home devices with it. Now if you want to control light bulbs using Amazon Echo devices, then you need to buy Alexa controlled smart light bulbs. Right now in the market, there are so many cheap and cool Alexa compatible smart light bulbs available. So it is difficult to find the best one, and that is why here we have curated a list of the best Alexa light bulbs in 2020.
The top-rated smart light bulb that works with Alexa listed here is reliable in performance and offer higher durability. In this article of smart light bulbs for Alexa, we have mentioned some well-known smart lightning brands like Philips Hue Light bulb, TP-Link, LIFX, Sengled, Geeni and many more. So, what are you waiting for? Explore this list of the best Alexa compatible smart light bulbs for Amazon Echo devices.
The reason why thousands of users buy Philips Hue is its reliability and ease of use. This Alexa compatible bulb can connect to any of your smart home hubs. Also, you can use verbal commands to switch it on/off for added ease.
So you don’t like a bright shower of light in your room? Well, you can dim the light as per your convenience. Philips Hue will allow you to dim the light as much as possible so that you get a soothing atmosphere with the right amount of illumination.
Now you can turn on the lights at the exact time with Philips Hue. You get the option to select a specific turn on/off timer for the lights. So when you arrive at your door, the lights will be turned on automatically based on the timer you have set.
Do you love green? Or do you hate it? With Philips Hue, you get the option to choose from a multitude of different colors. Whether you like warm colors or you want to make your room cool, you can select different colors based on your choice.
You can use the mobile app to select from a variety of different color options.
Wattage | 10 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | 16 Million |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | YES |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 3 x 3.5 x 6.5 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 25,000hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Home Hub |
Motion Detection | YES (Sensor Required) |
Price: $49.99
Buy it from Amazon
Here is another affordable smart bulb that works well with Alexa. There is no need to set up an additional hub, which will save the extra cost of getting one. These Alexa light bulbs have innumerable color options, and you can buy them in a pack of four, two, or one bulb based on your requirements.
You can set custom schedules to turn on/off the lights to make sure that your home remains protected from the intruders. Also, the bulb allows you to turn it on/off from anywhere provided that you have connected a smart home hub with it.
So you have multiple Wyze bulbs installed in your home? Well, you can connect them with a single source to get the ultimate ease of using them. With a single command from your smartphone or the voice assistant, you can turn on/off all the Alexa compatible bulbs in one go.
Also, you can operate the bulbs separately if needed.
You can make your home intruder-free by using the motion detection feature of this smart bulb. Yes, you need a separate motion sensor (Wyze Sense) to use the feature, but that’s worth it. The lights will automatically turn on after detecting some motion or closing/opening of a door.
Wattage | 9.5 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | YES |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 4.7 x 5.1 x 4.7 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 20,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Home Hub |
Motion Detection | YES (Sensor Required) |
Price: $37.98
Shop it from Amazon
This smart bulb from Lumiman can reward you with a seamless experience. The bulb works with smart voice assistants like Alexa and Google home so you can control it using your verbal commands. Also, Lumiman offers a remote with the bulb so that you can control the bulb at your fingertips.
You can set up multiple Lumiman smart bulbs into your home and can control them by using one interface. Using the mobile app, you can turn on/off any bulb on the go. Also, you can select different colors for every bulb to get an ambient atmosphere into your house.
So you are not a fan of the generic colors? Well, you can customize colors using the PlusMinus mobile app. Also, you can save the personalized colors to use them quickly whenever required.
If you think that the light is just too bright or too dull, then you can increase or decrease the brightness. You can use the remote controller or mobile app to adjust the brightness of the bulb. Moreover, the bulb has scheduling features available so you can set customized schedules for it.
Wattage | 7.5 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 5 x 4.9 x 2.5 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 27,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Home Hub |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $22.99
Purchase it from Amazon
If you love soft colors, then this smart bulb from Sengled should be your choice! The bulb has a soft white color, and you will love the amount of light it can scatter in your room. Also, the bulb works with most of the voice assistants, including Alexa and Google Assistant.
Using the handy mobile app, you can team up multiple Sengled smart bulbs together. Moreover, you can set different tones for every bulb to make sure that there’s enough light based on the type of occasion.
Set smart schedules so that the light turns on/off at exactly the right time when you need it. You can also set schedules using smart schedules using home hubs if you are away from your home.
There is nothing better than waking up with a little bit of soothing light, and you can attain this with Sengled Alexa compatible bulb. The bulb even features a sleep mode, so it automatically dims the light in the nighttime.
Wattage | 9 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | NO |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 2.3 x 2.3 x 4.5 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 27,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Home Hub |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $9.71
Shop it from Amazon
Here is the dimmable smart bulb that works well with Amazon Alexa. The bulb comes with a Wi-Fi remote, and you can use it to select the colors while selecting the ideal schedule. The price of this bulb is reasonable, so you can purchase it to switch with the regular bulbs.
Now you can customize scenes using this smart bulb. You can select the type of color based on your mood and occasion. There are 16 million color options available, and you can choose any of these from the list.
The bulb is easy to install and has an E26 base. You can attach it with lamps, wall sconces, and other light fixtures that support E26 base bulbs.
These smart bulb with Alexa require no hub at all. You can connect it with any 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi secured network to use the bulb remotely. Also, it has dimmable light so you can increase or decrease the brightness based on your needs.
Wattage | 10 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 6 x 5.7 x 3.2 inches |
Voltage | 110 volts |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | YES |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $13.99
Buy it from Amazon or on the Avatar Website
T Teckin is here with an energy-saving smart bulb that allows you to choose from millions of colors depending on your mood. You can download the mobile app, which is available for both Android and iOS users to control the bulb remotely with excellent convenience.
Adding this bulb to your room will not impact your energy bills in any way. The smart bulb can save around 60% energy as compared to regular bulbs, so it will be an excellent decision to switch the existing bulb with it.
The lifespan of this bulb will surely impress you. The smart bulbs can last for around 30,000 hours, which makes it a superior option for your home. Also, you can access millions of different colors based on your taste and requirements.
You can set customized schedules using the smart app. If you want the bulb to turn on/off at a specific time, then you can make dedicated schedules for it. The mobile app will help you in creating multiple schedules for different T Teckin smart bulbs.
Wattage | 7.5 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 5.6 x 5 x 3 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 30,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Home Hub |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $22.99
Purchase it from Amazon
These smart Amazon Alexa compatible bulbs from Vgogfly can work with any regular base. Also, these bulbs have a warm white color so you can use them anywhere, including the bathroom and kitchen. You can buy Vgogfly smart bulbs in a pack of two or three based on your requirements.
Vgogfly smart bulbs can automatically turn on at the time of dawn, so there are no hassles of reaching out to your mobile phone. Also, the bulb can turn off during dusk, which will save you a lot of time and money. You can adjust this feature using the mobile app.
The bulbs come equipped with a motion detection sensor that can sense the tiniest of activities. Now there is no need to worry about the unwanted intruders as the bulb will automatically turn on to make them believe that someone is home.
With these smart bulbs, you can save considerable energy. Moreover, these bulbs require less energy and wattage, and you can even use them with power inverters.
Wattage | 7 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | NO |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | YES |
Dimmable Feature | NO |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 4.9 x 4.7 x 2.5 inches |
Voltage | 110 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 30,000 hours |
Base Type | E26/27 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Home Hub |
Motion Detection | YES |
Price: $15.39
Order it from Amazon
The warm white color of this smart bulb from Etekcity makes it a great option for your home. You can replace the regular bulbs with this smart bulb to enjoy ultimate freedom and ease of use. The bulb requires no hub at all, and you can connect it with your Wi-Fi network to use it remotely from anywhere.
You can download the mobile app to set customized timers and schedules. Also, you can set the schedules from anywhere provided that the bulb is paired with an active internet connection.
There is no need to invest in a separate hub for using the bulb remotely. You can connect Etekcity smart bulb with any 2.4 GHz WI-Fi network connection to turn on/off the right form anywhere.
With the mobile application, you can select the ideal brightness as per your needs. Whether you like the bulb to be too bright or dull, you can attain it with the handy mobile app available for Android and iOS users.
Wattage | 9 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | NO |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 5.3 x 3.1 x 3 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 15,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | YES |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $13.99
Shop it from Amazon
LIFX is here with a range of best smart light bulbs for Alexa that has 16 million colors available, and you can choose a color every day to make your mood. Also, the bulb is energy efficient and can save you some money on your energy bills if you replace it with a regular bulb.
You can select the auto on/off the option to make sure that the light turns on automatically during dawn and turns off during dusk. Moreover, the bulb features a scheduling feature so that you can set customized schedules as per your needs.
Using the mobile app or verbal commands, you can dim the light anytime. All you have to do is command Alexa to dim the light or to increase the brightness. The mobile app will also allow you to do the same in case you don’t want to use Alexa.
Installing these Echo Dot light bulbs requires no rocket science, and you can attach them with the E26 base easily. Also, you can use the bulb with any lamp or sconce that has the same base.
Wattage | 11 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 2.5 x 2.5 x 4.5 inches |
Voltage | 110 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 20,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | Requires Additional Hub |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $49.98
Purchase it from Amazon
TP-Link has introduced its range of best Alexa light bulbs that includes Kasa. This smart bulb has got everything you need, from scheduling to remote access. The bulb is easy to install and works with anything that has an E26 base.
You can pair multiple bulbs together to use them using a single mobile app. Also, you can set different colors for all these dimmable smart bulbs, along with different schedules and timers.
Kasa smart bulbs allow you to choose from a myriad of color options based on your requirements. You can download the mobile application to choose the type of color you need based on your mood.
You can easily connect the smart bulb with any TP-Link device in your home. Whether you have a Tp-Link bridge or router, you can pair Kasa bulb with it to enjoy ultimate peace of mind.
Wattage | 11 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 4.1 x 3.1 x 6.7 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Estimated Lifespan | 25,000 hours |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | YES |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $34.00
Shop it from Amazon
Get this pack of 4 best Alexa light bulbs from Geeni to experience unmatched quality and ease of use. The bulb works without any home hub, and you can connect to it using the mobile application. The color of the bulbs may look white, but these are multi-color bulbs, and you have the option to choose any color at any time.
After connecting the bulbs with a secured 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network, you will get the option to control them remotely from anywhere. You can set schedules and timer with the mobile app, and that adds more reliability to this smart bulb.
These Alexa controlled light bulbs from Geeni are more energy-efficient than the regular bulbs. With the bulb, you will get brightness equivalent to a 75W bulb. As a result, you can save money on your next energy bills.
The Geeni mobile app is available for both Android and iOS users so that you can download it from the respective app store. Moreover, the app is handy, and you can use it to access multiple controls, including scheduling, selecting colors, and much more.
Wattage | 75 watts |
Choice of Colors Available | YES |
Requires Hub for Voice Feature | NO |
Dimmable Feature | YES |
Scheduling | Available |
Size | 5 x 5 x 5 inches |
Voltage | 120 volts |
Base Type | E26 |
Geofencing/Location Services | YES |
Motion Detection | NO |
Price: $49.99
Order it from Amazon
Here is a list of critical factors that will influence the choice of Alexa compatible light bulbs.
The first thing you should check is the compatibility with voice assistants. All the Alexa enabled light bulbs enlisted here are compatible with Alexa. So you should check it before buying anything.
Basic white can be boring, so the bulb should allow you to switch between different colors. Check whether a specific smart bulb allows you to change colors. Some smart bulbs like Philips Hue have 16 million color options so that you can choose from a selection of multiple color options.
If you want to experience some features like geofencing and remote connectivity with the bulb, then you need to connect a smart home hub with it. Most of the light bulbs that work with Alexa support smart hubs, but it would be best if you check it before making your buying decision.
We have listed the smart home hub connectivity of every bulb in the specifications table so that you can have a quick glimpse of it.
Check the base of the bulb to make sure that it will fit in the existing bulb holder of your home. All bulbs have a different base, so it can create troubles for you if you buy the bulb with a wrong base.
Saving energy is good, and you can save some bucks on your electricity bills by considering the wattage of the bulb. Check the wattage of every smart bulb in the specification table listed above.
Scheduling is an important feature as you can turn on/off the lights anytime, based on your requirements. If you want your home to look lively even if you are not home, then the scheduling feature can be a great help.
The estimated lifespan of the smart bulb will help you in determining the approximate time it would last. Usually, these bulbs can last for around 10,000 to 20,000 hours based on the brand and type of bulb you are buying.
The last thing should be the budget! Best Amazon Alexa Compatible bulbs are available at a myriad of prices. You should make your budget to make sure that you don’t overspend.
Generally, smart bulbs are affordable and have a long life.
How do Smart Light Bulbs Work with Alexa?
Answer: Most of the smart bulbs available in the market have Wi-Fi connectivity, and you can connect them with your secured network. Also, it makes the bulb compatible with Amazon Alexa and other voice assistants. You can use Alexa to turn on/off the lights at any time.
Moreover, you can access some features like light dimming and scheduling using your voice commands. Connecting a bulb with Alexa is very easy, and you can follow the instruction manual for the same.
Make sure that you need a separate Amazon Echo or Dot device to use Alex as these bulbs have no built-in Alexa functionality.
How to Setup Alexa Light Bulbs?
Answer: Here are the steps to follow to set up Alexa compatible bulbs.
1. Take your smartphone and open the Amazon Alexa mobile application.
2. Click on the Menu button, which looks similar to three horizontal lines and is available in the left upper corner.
3. Tap on the Smart Home from the list.
4. Now click on Add Device to add the bulb to the supported devices. Alexa will automatically search for compatible devices.
5. Find your bulb in the list and click on it for further processing.
6. Name the Bulb so that you can use multiple bulbs using the Alexa app.
By: Raghuvir Gupta via thecrazybuyers.com
]]>If you still haven’t committed to the idea of automating your home, maybe that’s in part because of some myths flying around about the industry.
Well, today, we’ll get directly down to business in an attempt to strip away these misconceptions about smart home products so you can make the best decision.
Perhaps the leading disincentive for people resistant to home automation is the thought it will be cripplingly expensive.
Being cripplingly expensive is absolutely not the case.
The first thing to get straight is that you’ve got no need whatsoever to buy everything at once. Most people don’t.
To get started smartening up your home, you can spend well under $100 for a home hub. This will act as the foundation of your ecosystem and help compatible devices to work in harmony.
Throw in a smart speaker like an Echo device or Google Home speaker, and you’ve got the makings of hands-free control at a very reasonable price.
From here, simply build in additional devices as and when that fits your budget.
If you only have modest ambitions for a connected home, you really won’t be spending much at all.
Another common myth that acts as a barrier to some people adopting smart technology is the idea it will all be too complicated.
The vast majority of devices are wireless and exemplify plug-and-play simplicity.
All you’ll need to do is download an app for your smartphone. If you prefer the idea of using voice commands, add a smart speaker into the mix.
Once you’ve got your device connected to your home WiFi network – just follow simple onscreen instructions in-app – you’ll be free to control your devices any way you like.
And that, in essence, is the extent of the tech skills required.
Sure, some wired thermostats that need hooking up to an HVAC system call for a little more expertise. Be honest, though, wouldn’t you just call in an electrician?
Some ecosystems are easier to get on with than others. If you’re looking for a user-friendly entry point to home automation, why not look into creating an Insteon ecosystem? Do so, and you’ll get a great connected home that’s a dream to navigate and incredibly reliable into the bargain. Apple HomeKit, by contrast, can be a little trickier to implement and master.
Some people feel pressured into automating their home even if it doesn’t make sense. Don’t fall for this idea that you absolutely need a smart home at all costs.
While home automation can undeniably make your life easier, safer, and more convenient, that doesn’t mean connected devices form the best fit for everyone.
If you’re renting an apartment, for example, it only doesn’t make sense to start installing hardwired devices. Your landlord might not even be amenable to you making such changes.
We always advise anyone considering a foray into home automation to take plenty of time at the planning stage before launching into buying mode. Ask yourself what you’re hoping to achieve from investing in a smart home. Be confident enough to resist if it doesn’t make the best solution for you.
You could be forgiven for taking a very dim view of security and privacy within a connected home. Over the past couple of years, several significant security breaches involving compromised data have made it clear you need to take precautions.
It’s simply not true, though, that you can’t enjoy any privacy in a connected home.
If you’re particularly conscious about this, avoid any devices with a camera or microphone. If you remove audio and video from the equation, you’re highly unlikely to find yourself, victim, to any kind of cyber attack.
As with all aspects of home automation, if you plan carefully, then there’s no reason not to feel completely safe and sound within your smart home.
Well, this point of view is often forwarded by those resistant to spending out on home automation. This depends, really, on how you consider an investment…
For us, the investment in any smart device has an immediate ROI. Whether it makes your life quicker, safer, or more accessible, there’s usually an instant payload.
Beyond this, a particular smart home tech can increase both the desirability and overall price if you’re looking to sell your home.
If you do not intend to sell your house, then you clearly benefit from continuing to use those smart devices yourself.
So, we’d have to argue that this point of view about smart home gear making a bad bet isn’t entirely accurate.
While the stance that smart tech is nothing but gimmickry is beginning to fade, there are still plenty of skeptics who question the value of connected devices.
Here at Smarthome, we’ll always steer you clear of gadgets that fail to deliver. In the bulk of cases, though, a connected kit fulfills many useful functions.
Often, people pushing this point of view have a limited understanding of domotics. Perhaps they’re confusing it with robotics. If you set aside the more fanciful bleeding edge of home automation, the average device you’ll find is highly useful.
Next time you’re approaching your door with your hands full of shopping, and it opens for you automatically, ask yourself if that smart lock is a gimmick.
Same thing if a carbon monoxide sensor or leak sensor saves you from an accident and an insurance claim.
When it comes to the aggressively competitive smart speaker vertical, Amazon and Google dominate.
Echo devices in their many shapes and forms, along with Google Home speakers, serve up the most famous pair of digital assistants in the form of Alexa and Google Assistant.
How about beyond hands-free control, then?
Well, Amazon continues to forge ahead with a glut of products announced at the recent hardware event complementing some acquisitions and an ever-growing stable of smart home products.
Google has also rebranded Nest, so you’ve now got the all-new Google Nest serving up all your needs for your connected home.
There are, though, far more significant players in the smart home industry, so you’ll be free to choose your video doorbell, security system or garage door opener from a full roster of reputable brands beyond the big two above.
Many novices to home automation have been instantly hamstrung by buying a clutch of different devices at random expecting them all to work smoothly together.
For all the manifold benefits of smart devices, they lack any real unified standard.
Once you start investigating devices, you’ll be confronted with different communication protocols like Zigbee and Z-Wave. You’ll also find protocols like Insteon, WiFi, and Bluetooth, so interoperability is far from assured.
You’ll also typically find you need a home hub to get these devices singing from the same sheet.
So, if you’re a novice and you’re expecting that everything works together from the get-go, you might end up slightly disappointed.
This myth is mainly propagated by manufacturers of smart thermostats who trumpet savings of 25% or more.
Frankly, this is an unrealistic estimate that leads to disappointment. We’d say you’re far more likely to expect a reduction in your electricity usage by around 10%. This is an excellent little reduction, but we’re not talking about enormous sums of money here.
Smart lighting is one of the most popular entry-points for home automation, but it can also be costly and complicated.
If you’re going to roll out switches across the whole house, costs and installation expenses can spiral.
It’s also quite likely you’ll need to call in an electrician.
Start slowly if you want to experiment with smart lighting. Get a few bulbs first and see how you fare.
By: Ryan Jackson via (Smart Home Blog)
From high-tech food to folding computers to upgrading your health to a prototype city of the future, these trends mattered.
With thousands of new products shouting for your attention, you can easily miss the bigger takeaways at CES. Recognizing the trends that develop and will impact the future is one of the most valuable things about the show. And since technology now touches more aspects of our lives than ever before, there were several key trends on display at CES 2020.
Here are the ones that will have the biggest impact on the rest of 2020 and beyond.
1. Impossible Pork redefines pigging out
Impossible Pork in a Banh Mi sandwich at CES 2020.
Angela Lang/CNETPork is the most consumed meat in the world, and Impossible Foods is on a mission to help the environment and human health by replacing it with plant-based Impossible Pork, which was announced at CES 2020. After being the surprise hit of last year's CES with the launch of the plant-based Impossible Burger 2.0, Impossible Foods again grabbed the spotlight at this year's show. A one-year hit could be shrugged off as a novelty, but Impossible Foods' sequel in 2020 shows that tech has accepted food innovation as a valuable part of the industry.
CNET's journalists gave the taste and texture of Impossible Pork good marks, and there was a lot of interest in the plant-based bacon and sausage that Impossible Foods has promised is coming as part of this move. Since 14.5% of greenhouse gas emissions come from livestock, making meat substitutes out of plants could have a massive impact on the environment, as well as help us feed more people more sustainably as the global population grows toward 9 billion by 2050, since growing plants takes a lot less land than grazing animals. Pork is especially widely consumed across Asia, where 4.4 billion of the world's 7.8 billion people live. With its plant-based pork, Impossible Foods is strategically targeting a global audience.
The Woven City will be located near Mount Fuji in Japan.
ToyotaBy far, the most ambitious thing unveiled at CES 2020 was Toyota's Woven City, a prototype community of the future that will be built near Mount Fuji in Japan. The 175-acre plot of land where Toyota will build this planned community is the site of a now-defunct manufacturing plant. On this land, Toyota will create an experimental laboratory of future technologies including self-driving vehicles run on hydrogen fuel cells, robots, smart homes and new forms of personal mobility. (We assume that means things like the Wello, also unveiled at CES.)
There will be no human-driven vehicles in the Woven City, because the heart of Toyota's concept is that today's cities are built around cars and it wants to imagine a city that's built for more sustainable forms of transportation. Perhaps the coolest part of this experiment is that regular people will be able to take up residence in the Woven City. This sounds a lot like Walt Disney's original idea for Disney World's Epcot, which stands for Experimental Prototype City of Tomorrow. If the Woven City takes off, look for other companies and communities to replicate the idea.
The Withings ScanWatch and its app, which looks for signs of sleep apnea.
WithingsMore health sensors are coming to consumer products, along with apps and software to help you read them, so that you can better understand your body and the state of your health. The level of understanding we can get from today's consumer health products would have cost thousands of dollars and an appointment as a hospital just five years ago. And it was clear at CES 2020 that health companies continue to push this forward at a rapid pace.
There was the Withings ScanWatch, which now includes an electrocardiagram, photoplethysmography for optical heart rate, SpO2 for blood oxygen and deeper sleep analysis that can detect sleep apnea. There was the GoBe3, which can automatically track calorie intake (i.e. the number of calories your body actually absorbs) and can detect your stress level based on skin readings using similar technology to what's used in lie-detector tests. There was also Valencell's blood pressure-sensing earbuds, which could be used to help fight hypertension, the world's most widespread undiagnosed condition. There were products to measure blood sugar and smart glasses to help people with dyslexia -- while those products still have work to do, it's great to see companies dedicating energy and resources to tackle these issues and we have to expect that they're laying the groundwork for future products.
A decade or two from now we're likely to look back and be baffled by the ways that we used to make so many decisions about our health without having data to understand what was actually happening. This has the potential to become a democratizing force in health care.
Intel's "Horseshoe Bend" reference design is exploring a new future for PCs.
IntelFoldable phones were one of the hottest topics in the tech world in 2019, and in 2020 foldable laptops could swoop in and take some of that mojo. The driving force behind a larger trend in foldable laptops is coming from Intel's "Horseshoe Bend" reference design that was unveiled at CES. CNET had an exclusive deep dive with Intel on this new take on what a highly versatile and powerful computer of the future could look like.
Horseshoe Bend is essentially a 17-inch tablet or an all-in-one computer (if you use a kickstand and attach a keyboard and mouse) and it folds in half to become a 12.5-inch laptop with a touchscreen on one half and a touch keyboard and touchpad on the other. There's also a hardware keyboard that can slide on the bottom touchscreen for those who don't love virtual keyboards. It's a compelling design that wants to push PCs forward in some new directions. Lenovo unveiled something similar last May, and Microsoft showed its dual-screen concepts in October. At CES, Lenovo showed off its Thinkpad X1 Fold and Dell showed off two foldables, the Concept Ori and the Concept Duet. This party is just getting started.
Mui Lab's smart display is about tech blending in rather than sticking out.
Mui LabToday's technology is flashy, it's in your face and it's everywhere. It's difficult not to feel like technology is taking over our lives as it embeds itself in more and more places and things. But one of the trends of CES 2020 was technology becoming less obtrusive, more subtle and blending into the environment in more natural ways. We saw three companies that can tell that story: UltraSense, Sentons and Mui Lab.
UltraSense and Sentons are doing something similar. Both use sound waves to create touch interfaces out of plain surfaces made of plastic, metal, wood or other materials. This means the buttonless phone is a lot closer than we think, because this sound-wave technology can simply make the side of the phone a virtual button. Pressing and holding one spot could activate a power button. Sliding your finger up and down one side can change the volume. Squeezing the phone can take a selfie. Running your index finger down the back of the phone could act like a scroll wheel. You get the idea.
These sound-wave buttons don't wear out as fast and the interface is more integrated into the device's build. Manufacturers can also use haptic feedback to help you locate and interact with these virtual buttons. But beyond phones, both companies are also working to bring this technology to other surfaces, including steering wheels on cars, window panes, appliances and much more. This is going to be appearing in phones during 2020, but it's when it starts making its way to other surfaces that its full potential could start to shine through.
Mui Lab takes a different approach to the same issue. The company has designed a smart display out of a natural wood surface. It looks like a normal strip of wood most of the time, but when it goes into display mode then it lights up with buttons or messages that show directly on top of the wood surface. Mui is a Japanese term that's meant to convey a relaxed state of mind, and the idea behind this product is for it to blend seamlessly into your living space rather than just being another slab of technology taking up space.
Via Jason Hiner/CNET (CNET)
]]>If wanting to gain a place in the international market, and squeezed into the ranks of the world's large enterprises, Chinese enterprise must formulate their own trademark strategy to attach importance to the international registration of trademark.
International trademark can be said to be tickets to enter overseas e-commerce to buy overseas Amazon, AliExpress, ebay and Wish, the necessary way for Chinese enterprises to expand overseas markets. With trademark, you can protect your own brand, or cybersquatting, effective protection of legitimate rights and interests, the sooner the greater the benefits of registration.
On February 15, 2018, Avatar Controls successfully registered US trademark, which through more than a year of preparation and waiting, as well as a series of legal procedures, from the admissibility, the first instance, to the public trial, to determine.
The successful registration of the trademark is a significant step for Avatar Controls’ brand strategy. It is a powerful measure for shaping the company's brand image, brand premium, image and competitiveness.
As a member of Avatar Controls team, we will continue try our best to maintain and operate our brand reputation, continuously improve the recognition of Avatar Controls. We will provide customers with sincere, quality and reliable products in order to achieve the vision of Avatar Controls “Intelligent makes life more simple!”!
]]>AvatarControls with its products won the attention in the fair. In the fair, AvatarControls attracted many visitors to stop with its unique exhibition booth design style: experience-based simulation. Its classic hot products, such as US Capsule/EU XiOU smart plugs, smart bulbs, smart switches, innovation Freecube aroused great interest among visitors. Meanwhile, some new smart products made their debut, such as BR30 Bluetooth Sig Mesh Bulbs and Tri-Angle smart power strip (outlets can be controlled individually via app). According to the person in charge of the fair, visitors showed strong interest in AvatarControls products. A queue of foreign companies in the same industry further communicated with AvatarControls staff for cooperation after experience of AvatarControls products.
AvatarControls provides a series of smart home products in IOT industry (such as smart plugs ,smart lightings and smart switches) and smart home system solution for users. After just 4 years development, AvatarControls products have passed a lot of certification: CE, FCC, RoHS, WEEE, ETL, UL, CCC and ISO9001. At the same time, with the advantage of Energy Saving, Safety, Convenience, Intelligence, AvatarControls products sell well in over 30 countries and areas all over the world. Annual output and sales are above hundred million. In market share, AvatarControls is far ahead of other brands in North American, European, Asian and Middle East markets. So far, AvatarControls has served over ten million home-oriented users.
Smart Life Smart Living, thanks all visitors and see you next year.
]]>