3 Possible Disadvantages of Using Smart Plugs

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Smart home devices allow us to do some pretty cool things. Smart thermostats allow us to adjust the temperature remotely, while smart lights allow us to set the perfect brightness for reading a horror novel. Smart technology also includes large appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers, but what about small appliances? For devices that can’t connect to the internet, a smart plug makes a lot of sense, at least on the surface.

Many manufacturers make smart plugs and many specialize in smart home gadgets. They’re not that expensive either; a two-pack from a respectable brand like Govee or even AmazonBasics shouldn’t cost more than $30. But before you invest in a smart outlet box for all your non-automated devices, you need to make sure you can do it. Not all plugs are equal and incorrect use can cause irreparable damage to the plug and the device to which it is connected.

We’ve come up with a handful of common scenarios where, at first glance, a smart plug may seem like a viable solution but probably isn’t the best idea. We’ll explain why and offer automation alternatives where they apply.

Using any type of smart home device comes with certain risks. Hackers are getting smarter and smarter with the tools at their disposal, so even the strongest firewalls can be breached. And just because your smart plug doesn’t have a screen doesn’t mean it’s any less vulnerable to cyberattacks. A hacker with access to the smart outlet could remotely disable a security camera connected to the outlet; they could also disable custom programs and motion-triggered alerts.

Most smart home devices require you to create a free account to integrate products, and smart plugs are no different. If you entered personal information during setup, such as bank details, addresses or contact names, hackers could also access this information. That’s why it’s important to invest in the best Internet security you can afford, including a powerful router with built-in security and alarm notifications that make it much harder for digital thieves to break in.

We say it all the time, but it’s also important to make sure your smart plugs are always running the latest software. Developers regularly patch security vulnerabilities as soon as they are discovered; In a way, sticking with an older version because you don’t feel like installing new software is like keeping the door open for hackers. Keep your smart plugs up to date and set up automatic updates if you can.

Smart plugs are some of the cheapest smart home devices on the market. Established brands like Govee, TP-Link, and even AmazonBasics all sell feature-rich multi-packs (two or more smart plugs) for $30 or less. But this type of aggressive pricing can be a calling card for less reputable companies that want to start selling technology. These manufacturers just want to make a quick buck, which is why safety certifications like the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) watermark may be completely absent.

Stay away from any consumer technology that has not been UL certified. A smart plug without this laurel has not been properly tested. At best, this could mean that the device breaks down after a short time or never works at all; in the worst case scenario, you could find yourself facing a fire or life-threatening electrical problems. So while it might be nice to save a few dollars by opting for a no-name smart plug two-pack, it represents a lot of unnecessary risk.

Sticking with proven companies is always your best bet when choosing internet-connected technology, and the same goes for reputable retailers. Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are outlets you can generally trust, but be very careful if an agreement allows third-party vendors to sell products (for example, Best Buy offers shipping through Adorama and other third-party vendors).

Smart plugs come in many different shapes and sizes. Most designs are pretty minimalist, but some plugs are a little more bulbous. In a living room where no chairs or sofas are placed against the walls, a bulkier outlet may not be a big deal. When you want to push furniture against walls, a sturdier smart plug may get in the way. And remember: Once something is plugged in, an inch or two of wire will still protrude from the plug before gravity pulls the rest to the ground.

A bulkier smart plug could also block access to other outlets. This may not be a problem with your current bedroom layout, but who’s to say you won’t want to change everything in a few months? This may mean that a socket you rarely relied on becomes more important to your layout, and if you connect a bulky smart socket it may need a new home. Fortunately, some smart plug manufacturers offer unique alternatives for situations where room layout and decor is your main priority.

Instead of a traditional outlet, you can invest in a smart surge protector. Many of these products allow you to automate each take, much like an individual take. The $30 Kasa KP303 is a solid example, offering three customizable outlets and two USB ports. It also has a 4.6 out of 5 star rating on Amazon, based on over 16,000 user reviews.