Amazon Basics Outdoor Smart Plug Review
Tired of manually switching your outdoor lights on and off? Want to add some smarts to your garden? Today, we’re reviewing the Amazon Basics Outdoor Smart Plug, a simple and affordable way to bring your outdoor appliances into the connected home era.
Detailed Review
The Amazon Basics Outdoor Smart Plug with 2 Individually Controlled Outlets, Works with Alexa Only, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, No Hub Required, Black (let’s just call it the “Amazon Basics Outdoor Smart Plug” for brevity) is a straightforward and practical device designed to automate your outdoor lighting and appliances. Its primary selling point is its ease of use and integration with the Alexa ecosystem. Setting it up is incredibly simple – plug it in, open the Alexa app, and follow the prompts. The “zero touch setup” option, where the device is automatically linked to your Amazon account during checkout, streamlines the process even further.
The plug boasts two independently controllable outlets, allowing you to manage two separate devices simultaneously. This is a major advantage over single-outlet smart plugs, providing more flexibility in how you automate your outdoor space. You can control each outlet individually through voice commands via Alexa or remotely using the Alexa app. Grouping devices together within the app is also possible, allowing you to control multiple lights or appliances with a single command.
One of the key benefits of this smart plug is that it doesn’t require a smart home hub. It connects directly to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network, making it a plug-and-play solution for anyone already using Alexa. The Alexa app allows you to create routines and schedules, enabling you to automate your outdoor lights to turn on at sunset and off at sunrise, or to control your holiday decorations with ease.
Given that it’s designed for outdoor use, the weather resistance is crucial. The IP65 rating provides adequate protection against low-pressure water jets, condensation, and water spray, ensuring the plug can withstand typical outdoor conditions. However, it’s essential to note that IP65 does not mean the plug is submersible, so avoid placing it in areas prone to flooding or prolonged immersion in water.
The exclusive reliance on Alexa is both a strength and a weakness. If you’re heavily invested in the Alexa ecosystem, this plug is a seamless addition to your smart home. However, if you prefer Google Assistant or other smart home platforms, this device is not compatible.
In summary, the Amazon Basics Outdoor Smart Plug is a well-designed, easy-to-use, and affordable solution for automating your outdoor space, particularly for those already invested in the Alexa ecosystem. Its independent outlets, simple setup, and weather-resistant design make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to add smart control to their outdoor lighting and appliances.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy setup with Alexa | Works exclusively with Alexa |
| 2 independently controllable outlets | Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| No smart home hub required | IP65 rating, not submersible |
| Weather resistant | Limited features beyond Alexa integration |
| Affordable price |
Excellent Alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider these options:
Kasa Smart Outdoor Plug. A popular choice with both Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility.
TP-Link Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug. Another reliable outdoor smart plug with similar features and broad smart home platform support.
meross Outdoor Smart Plug. A competitively priced option that works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Basics Outdoor Smart Plug is a solid choice for Alexa users seeking a simple, affordable, and weather-resistant way to automate their outdoor lighting and appliances. Its easy setup, independent outlets, and hub-free operation make it a convenient addition to any Alexa-enabled smart home. While its exclusive reliance on Alexa might be a drawback for some, its overall value and performance make it a worthwhile investment.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5
