Smart switches for energy saving
So a smart switch enables you to deal with energy consumption in the home more smartly. After all, you can switch an appliance on or off more easily. For this reason, purchases of smart switches have risen further and further. That means that more households have started using smart switches.
All about the smart switch
You do not have to buy a separate smart switch for every appliance. In many cases you can connect several appliances to one smart switch. But how do you know which smart switch is the best choice, what are the advantages and disadvantages and which products score well in terms of reviews?
Buying a smart switch: this is what to look out for
Are you going to buy a smart switch? Then it is important to pay attention to a number of things. If, for example, you want to build the smart switch into the wall, it must be suitable for that. And there are more things you need to look out for.
Think, for example, of the switch's support. Usually it is suitable for one or more platforms, such as Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. The advantage of that is that you can easily operate your equipment via your smartphone. With HomeKit, for example, it is possible to say ‘Hey, Siri. Turn on the television’. For that, though, the switch must be compatible with your smart home devices.
Furthermore, in some cases you may need a so-called bridge. This is a device from which all smart devices are controlled. With this bridge you can connect devices to each other and control them. This is ‘the heart’ of your smart home. Usually you are then better off buying a package instead of all the equipment separately.
A smart switch is relatively often mounted on the wall. The disadvantage is that it is therefore clearly visible. That is why it is best to take some time to think about the design of the switches. After all, ideally it matches the rest of the interior. Finally, you need to find out how many appliances you can connect to the switch. After all, it is not practical to buy a separate smart switch for every appliance.
How a smart switch works
Operating a smart switch is not complicated. This is the main reason that more and more people are bringing the smart switch into their homes. Usually the switch is used, for example, to control the lights. That way it is possible to switch lamps on and off separately from each other. A smart switch is not called that for nothing. A smart switch enables you to deal with energy much more smartly.
Such a device often has several settings. Not all switches can only be on or off. For example, you can put together certain scenes for a certain number of clicks. Furthermore, with a smart switch you always connect by means of an application on the smartphone. This can be an app from the manufacturer, but with some devices it is also possible to use Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. You can then arrange everything in one app.
A smart switch comes in two formats: to be installed on the wall or ‘portable’. Most smart switches are portable and you can therefore easily take them anywhere. There are also formats that you fix to the wall. You then install these in the place of the old switch.
You usually do not need any extra wires to operate the switch. Smart switches work by means of the WiFi contact. This makes wireless operation possible. That saves a lot of installation work.
Advantages of a smart switch
There are various reasons to choose a smart switch. The smart switch has many advantages over the old-fashioned on-off button. The switch is easy to mount and can be operated from your armchair.
For example, you can operate devices from anywhere in the house. You can take these wireless WiFi switches anywhere in the house. You no longer have to walk to the button, but can easily do this remotely.
Smart switches also often let you connect multiple devices to them. The classic switch can usually only handle one or at most four devices at the same time. Unfortunately, all the devices can then only be all on or all off. With a smart switch you have more control, because you can choose yourself which devices you switch on or off. It is easy to integrate into so-called ‘scenes’. You can create these scenes if the smart switch supports Google Home, Alexa or Apple HomeKit. So you can choose yourself which devices you want to switch on or off in which scene.
Disadvantages of a smart switch
Choosing a smart switch also has a number of disadvantages that might make you prefer the classic smart switch. Even so, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages.
One disadvantage could be that everything runs over WiFi. So you need a strong network and a good router to connect all the smart devices. If your network is not working, you can no longer operate the devices individually. Manufacturers often already cover this with a physical on-off switch.
You also need some know-how. Most manufacturers supply their products with manuals, but it can take some time before you get the hang of adding devices to, for example, Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. So some patience is needed. Once you understand how creating scenes works, the possibilities are endless.
A final disadvantage is when you choose a platform such as Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. In that case you have to deal with the so-called ‘vendor lock’. You then need different devices that all support Assistant or HomeKit. That way you can operate all the equipment at the same time. If you choose all sorts of devices with their own apps, you end up with a phone full of apps to operate that one lamp in the room. That is less practical.
Different types of smart switches
There are many different switches on the market. But every product has its own pros and cons. How do you know which smart switch suits you exactly? That is why we have listed various smart switches and their features.
AVM Fritz!DECT 200
The Fritz!DECT 200 is a smart plug from the brand AVM. You probably know this brand mainly from routers such as the Fritz!Box. The Fritz!Dect 200 uses so-called Dect technology, invented by AVM itself. You do need the well-known Fritz!Box router for this. The Fritz!DECT 200 is a very compact plug.
The plug is no bigger than 9,3 by 5,9 by 5,9 centimetres. Even so, the plug is too big to fit in the power strip next to the normal CEE7/16 plug. The smart switch does fit in the wall socket. You can operate the smart switch with the special MyFritz!App for iOS and Android. You can buy this smart switch for about 50 euros.
AVM Fritz!DECT 210
The AVM Fritz!DECT 210 is the bigger brother in the series. It even fits under a CEE7/4 wall socket. The 210 is the largest plug in the product line. Its advantage is that you can also use it perfectly well outdoors, because the smart switch is fully splash-proof and has an IP-44 rating. To prevent water from reaching the plug, the connection is covered with a flap. This flap has the familiar red AVM colour.
In this case too you can operate the Fritz!DECT 210 via the MyFritz! App for iOS and Android. To get this whole system working you also need the Fritz!Box from AVM, which means you switch completely to the AVM ecosystem. This smart switch costs between 50 and 60 euros.
D-Link DSP-W115
Another smart plug is the DSP-W115 from the brand D-Link. This manufacturer is from Taiwan and manages to deliver a fairly compact smart plug. The DSP-W115 is characterised by its oval shape and measures 9,5 by 7,4 by 6,1 centimetres. This makes it possible to combine both plugs in a wall socket with a CEE7/4 plug. The DSP W-115 has a number of functions. The W115 is the most expensive variant in the D-Link line. You will easily pay around 35 euros for this smart plug.
The smart plug uses the 802.11n wifi standard. You can also operate this smart plug with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The smart plug can also be operated using the Mydlink app, available for iOS and Android.
D-Link DSP-W118
The DSP-W118 is the smaller brother of the W116. It measures just 6 by 6 by 6,5 centimetres and is quite a bit more compact. Otherwise the DSP-W118 has the same functions as its bigger brother. The DSP-118 has a lower power consumption of 0,7W, whereas for the W115 this is 2,7W.
You can easily operate the DSP-W118 using the Mydlink app. This app can do much more than just operate smart switches. For example, you can also add sensors and cameras. You can also have both switches turn on or off automatically on certain days. The W118 is slightly cheaper, with a starting price of 28 euros.
Eve Systems Energy Smart Plug
The EVE Systems Energy Smart Plug is a smart switch of German origin. It is also one of the few smart switches that you can only use with iOS. So using Android is not possible. This product also has a maximum power of 2500W. The housing measures just under 5,4 by 5,4 by 6 centimetres, so it always fits in the wall socket.
You can connect this smart switch using Bluetooth. You also need a bridge, such as the HomePod or the AppleTV. An iPad is also possible. You can then get started with Eve for HomeKit. This lets you create multiple schedules and scenarios. This smart switch costs around 40 euros.
Gosund SP1 Smart Plug
The Gosund SP1 is a smart plug from the Chinese manufacturer Gosund. This is a big player in the smart home market, so it is not surprising that both plugs appear in the list. The SP1 and the SP112 are virtually the same plugs. The SP112 has two type A USB ports. You will not find this port on the SP1 version.
The Gosund SP1 also does not fit easily in your wall socket. It blocks other sockets because of its hefty size of 8,0 by 6,7 by 5,5 centimetres. If you want a smaller size, you are better off choosing the SP111. The plug also supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, but not Google HomeKit. You can also combine this smart switch with HiHome products. The Gosund SP1 does have its own app that is suitable for iOS and Android. The switch costs about 18 euros.
Gosund SP111 Smart Plug
The Gosund SP111 is the more compact variant of the SP1. The smart switch measures just 4,4 by 4,4 by 5,1 centimetres. That makes it just as big as the plug part of the plug. So you can safely put other plugs next to the smart switch in the wall socket.
This model also supports Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and IFTTT. It is possible to monitor energy consumption via the app. All Gosund models work using the Tuya template, which you can also use with HiHome. The SP111 therefore also has the same home screen and a similar app for iOS and Android. This smart plug costs about 14 euros.
HiHome WPP-16S1
The WPP-16S1 is HiHome's smart plug. It can be used via the HiHome app for iOS and Android. This smart plug uses an app template from Tuya and therefore has few functions of its own. The WPP16S1 works in much the same way as the Gosund smart plugs. You can even use them interchangeably.
The WPP-16S1 stands out thanks to its small size of 4,6 by 4,6 by 6,0 centimetres. That makes the plug about as small as the plug itself. It has a power of 3680W and uses the 802.211n WiFi protocol. As a result the smart switch also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, but not with HomeKit. This smart switch has a retail price of about 25 euros.
INNR Smart Plug SP 120
Another interesting option is the INNR Smart Plug SP 120. This smart plug uses Zigbee technology. This means you do need a bridge for it. You can order this from the manufacturer. It is also possible to use another bridge, such as the one from Philips Hue. The smart plug has a housing of 4,5 by 4,5 by 5,2 centimetres, making it one of the most compact smart switches. The power is limited to 2300 Watts.
Most users link this smart plug to the Philips Hue bridge for iOS and Android. INNR also has its own app for Google and Apple. With this smart switch you can use, for example, time schedules and scenes. The INNR Smart Plug SP 120 costs around 40 euros.
Ledvance Smart+ Plug
Ledvance does not sound like a brand that immediately brings smart home to mind. But we probably know the Smart+ Plug better from the brand Osram. Ledvance now only releases products under its own name. This smart switch works using Bluetooth. It can also be used via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s HomeKit. This means you can operate the smart switch on all sorts of platforms. Ledvance also offers its own app for Android and iOS.
The app has only one option and that is switching the smart switch on or off. This can be done by hand or via voice control. Setting schedules is not possible. With a size of 4,5 by 4,5 by 5,2 the smart switch is compact, though. The Smart+ Plug has a retail price of about 40 euros.
LSC Action Smart Power Plug
The Action Smart Power Plug from LSC already hints at where you can buy this smart switch. It is indeed part of Action's smart home range. You can buy it for about 8,50 euros. The smart switch has outer dimensions of 5,4 by 5,4 by 5,8 and is therefore not very easy to use with the CEE 7/4 plug. The Smart Power Plug does support Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT. Apple HomeKit is missing.
You operate this smart switch via the LSC Smart Connect App for both iOS and Android. This Smart Power Plug is also based on the Tuya template. This means you can, for example, switch the plug on and off or create scenes. You can also use the smart switch together with Gosund and HiHome products.
Philips Hue Smart Plug
The Philips Hue Smart Plug is perhaps one of the best-known smart plugs in this list. This product comes from Philips and works using Zigbee. This means you do need a Hue bridge. If you already have several Hue products at home, this smart plug is definitely worth considering. Especially because the plug has a size of 5,0 by 5,9 by 6,4. That makes the smart switch very compact.
You operate the smart switch using the Hue App. This also lets you operate the plug remotely. You can set schedules or timers per room. Creating scenarios is of course also possible. The Hue Smart Plug is just one part of a complete smart home. This smart plug costs around 30 euros.
TP-Link HS110
The TP Link HS110 has an oval shape with a slanted raised edge. With a size of 10,1 by 6,6 by 5,8 centimetres the smart switch is quite a bit less compact. You also pay around 27 euros to buy the HS110. You can, however, combine this smart switch with a CEE 7/4 plug.
You cannot use this smart switch in one app together with, for example, the P100. There is a reason for that. The HS110 has Kasa technology, whereas the P100 uses Tapo. With this app you can use the app without an account. If you want to use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, you do have to create an account. You can use schedules and timers. You can also view energy consumption in real time.
TP-Link Tapo P100 Mini Smart
The TP-Link Tapo P100 Mini Smart is TP-Link's cheaper solution. It has a maximum of 2300W and a size of 7,1 by 5,0 by 5,7 centimetres. You can buy this smart switch for around 20 euros. Unlike the HS110, this product does not run on Kasa but on Tapo technology.
So you also need to use the special Tapo app for it. If you use both products interchangeably, you will therefore need two different apps. Installing is very easy. Installation is done via Bluetooth. You then enter your WiFi details and the smart switch continues to work via wireless internet. Of course you have a timer, scenes and schedules at your disposal. Another option is the away mode. If you activate this mode, the plug is switched on and off at random moments. This makes it look as if someone is at home.
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Frequently asked questions about smart switches
If the world of smart home and smart switches is new to you, you probably still have a few questions. For example, in the event of a fault, how do you switch your lighting off? And how can you operate it via your smartphone? We have looked into the most common questions.
How can you operate a smart switch?
A smart switch can be operated in different ways. In most cases this is done wirelessly via an app. This app can be supplied by the manufacturer of the smart switch, but it is usually also possible to use Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. You can then operate it via your smartphone, but also via your smart speaker or smart display. Worried about a fault? No worries, you can always use the physical on and off button too.
Should I buy a smart switch?
Whether you should buy a smart switch is your own personal choice. It is not compulsory, but it is very handy. Especially if you want to be able to operate many different devices separately from each other. In that case you can put the devices in different scenes, so that the devices can be switched on or off in one go. A smart switch is definitely worth considering if you want to save on energy costs.
How many devices fit on a smart switch?
A smart switch often has multiple inputs. That way you can connect multiple devices to a smart switch. You can always connect at least one device. Other types let you connect up to four devices at the same time. This differs per type and brand. That is why we advise you to always read the product specifications carefully first, before you go ahead with a purchase.
How do you decide which smart switch is the best choice?
There is no single smart switch that ‘is the best choice’. The reason for that is that this is a personal choice. For example, you can look at how many devices the switch can connect at the same time. Or, for example, whether Google Assistant is supported. Or, for example, whether you have to use an app from the manufacturer, or a platform such as Apple HomeKit. You can also look at whether or not the smart switch can be mounted in the wall. So all sorts of personal factors play a role in your final choice.
Why choose a smart switch?
If you want more control over all the equipment in your home, you can choose a smart switch. You then no longer have to operate the equipment with a physical on and off button. So it is no longer necessary to walk to the television or to turn off a lamp with a physical switch. Another advantage is that you can easily put your equipment into scenarios. Think, for example, of the scenario ‘entertainment’ in which you can switch on both the television and your stereo system. Or of ‘all lamps in the living room on’, while the lighting upstairs goes off. That way it is possible to save on energy costs.
Can I also just use a physical button on a smart switch?
It sounds attractive to operate all equipment on a smart switch, but there are often also concerns about whether you can still operate your equipment if you have no internet for a while or if your router breaks. No worries, in such cases there is also a physical button on the smart switch. You can then simply switch your equipment off by hand, just as you did with the classic switch.
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