Smart plugs are one of the most efficient smart devices, widely used to turn your regular appliances into smart ones. They enable you to switch on or off a device and to create commands and custom schedules using voice assistants like Siri and Alexa. While numerous such devices are designed for indoor use, we will focus on outdoor plugs in this article.
These technologically advanced gadgets are a lifesaver for those who have trouble doing the outside chores or are just too lazy to do them. Outdoor smart plugs are a great way to turn on patio lights, operate garage doors, activate sprinklers, bug zappers and much more.
These plugs are indeed an excellent option to handle such tasks. Additionally, they are easy to use and set up. All you need to do is plug in the device to a GFCI outlet, activate it with a compatible app, and get ready to control your outdoor fixture with your smartphone.
However, with so many options available, it can get overwhelming when searching for a suitable product. But don’t worry! To help you out in this arduous task, here is a list of the five best WIFI outdoor plugs, along with a buying guide to help you find the one that fits your requirements and needs.
Table of Contents
BN-LINK Heavy-Duty Smart WiFi Outdoor Outlet – Our Pick
This heavy-duty outdoor outlet by BN-LINK can connect to multiple devices at a time. It allows you to control the electronics through the BN-Link mobile application or by simply giving a voice command to Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. You can smartly schedule your plug to automatically power on and off as needed or set a timer for more flexible control.
Features
- Multiple outlets
- Smart scheduling
- Countdown timer
- Voice commands
- Water resistance
Multiple Outlets
This smart plug can have three outlets and, therefore, can connect to up to three devices simultaneously. These outlets are easy to set up via the app and can be turned on/off simultaneously.
Voice Commands
This plug is compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice control. It allows you to operate your electronics easily from anywhere through the app or by just saying magical words. And unlike conventional plugs, it does not require a hub.
Water Resistance
This smart outdoor outlet has an IP44 weatherproof rating, which is safe to use in moist settings and other extreme weather conditions.
Verdict: BN-LINK Smart WiFi Outdoor Outlet is one of the best plugs out there, which is perfect for those living in areas with harsh weather and needing something sturdy for their outdoor drives. This plug is best used for controlling appliances like speakers and lights. But one downside to this is that even though it has multiple sockets, it does not offer individual control.
Minoston Heavy Duty WiFi Outdoor Smart Plug – Runner up
Minoston Heavy Duty Outdoor Plug is ideal for anyone who wishes to control their devices with a single touch. This plug works well for both indoor and outdoor purposes because of its weatherproof housing. Similar to the former option, it is also voice assistant-friendly and uses the SmartLife app for quick operation of the devices.
Features
- Remote and voice control
- Fast and easy setup
- Control from anywhere
- Outdoor and indoor use
- Schedule and timer
Outdoor and Indoor Use
This plug has an IP65 weatherproof rating, making it a credible choice for use in a Garden, Porch, Backyard Garage, Patio, Kitchen, Balcony, Bathroom, Basement, or any other indoor/outdoor electric device.
Schedule and Timer
This feature allows you to set a schedule for the plug to automatically turn it on or off. This also helps you save energy by switching off the devices that are not needed or left open by any accident.
Control from anywhere
You can control your devices via the app from anywhere, anytime. All you need is a 2.4Ghz WiFi network and the SmartLife app. No need for hubs, special gateways, or bridges.
Verdict: Minoston WiFi Outdoor Smart Plug lets you control your outdoor devices handily through its free SmartLife app or voice command. It includes a schedule and timer feature for automatic turn off/on and has an IP65 rating so that you don’t concern yourself with climate conditions before its use. However, the outlet only has one socket and can’t connect to multiple devices.
HBN Heavy Duty WiFi Outdoor Smart Plug
The HBN Smart WiFi Outdoor Plug includes all desired features in a single-outlet plug. Its compact design renders it suitable for small and tight spaces.
In addition to its timer and scheduling tool and HBN smart/ Tuya Smart support, this plug can be integrated into many smart home devices, including third-party support for Homekit, Alexa, and Google Assistant. It should be positioned at least two feet above the water source for weatherproof situations.
Features
- Remote and voice control
- Weatherproof
- Network security
- Smart schedules
- Heavy duty
Remote and Voice Control
This smart WiFi plug uses the HBN Smart, Tuya Smart App, and Smart Life to control the connected devices via their remote. It also is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa and can monitor through simple voice commands.
Smart Schedules
This feature allows you to power your plugged-in devices automatically by setting pre-schedule commands, such as setting your outdoor lights to turn on/off at sunset or sunrise.
Heavy Duty
Even though it has only one socket, the HBN plug can handle many heavy-duty appliances like lights, lamps, Holiday decorations, speakers, fountains, fans, aquariums, radios, towel warmers, crock pots, and chargers.
Verdict: HBN Heavy Duty WiFi Outdoor Smart Plug makes it easy to control devices. Even though it’s a great product for outdoor use with its weatherproof construction, it does not have a cover and has to be kept in a downward position to prevent the water from going in. Also, it only has one socket and is unsuitable for running multiple devices simultaneously.
Meross Outdoor Wi-Fi Smart Outlet
This plug is ideal for outdoor use as it has a weatherproof IP44 rating and a socket cover to protect it from rain. It features three sockets that work independently and has a longer WiFi connection for improved connectivity. And similar to the previous models, it also supports remote and ad voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and the SmartThings app.
Features
- Weatherproof rating
- Multiple outlets
- Remote and voice control
- Schedule and Timer
- Guaranteed Safety
- Weatherproof rating
This plug is ideal for an outdoor setting with an IP44 weatherproof rating to safeguard it against extreme conditions. It also comes with socket covers to prevent rainwater from getting in, and hence can be used for backyards, gardens, landscape lightings, kitchens, bathrooms, balconies, porches, garages, patios, basements and plenty of other electric appliances.
Remote and Voice Control
You can control this plug via a remote or voice controls via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. It also allows you to store and transmit data through its Amazon AWS servers securely.
Schedule and Timer
This feature enables users to turn on/off devices automatically by setting schedules. It also helps in minimizing electrical waste and save energy.
Verdict: Meross Outdoor WiFi Smart Outlet is another remarkable option for use in outdoor areas without the fear of any damage. This is credited to its overload protection circuit and fire-retardant housing. However, it is advised to avoid its use for pumps.
Amazon Smart Plug
This Amazon Smart Plug with a single outlet enables you to control the devices it is plugged into with optimum efficiency through Alexa voice control and the mobile app. It is easy to install and pairs well with most Alexa smart home devices.
On the flip side, this plug can’t support other voice control platforms like Apple Homekit and Google Assistant and offers relatively few features compared to the previous options. Regardless, it is a great choice for operating single outdoor devices.
Features
- Easy to install and use
- Alexa voice control
- Schedule control
Alexa voice control
With this Amazon Smart Plug, you can control plugged-in devices through voice commands without hassle.
Schedule control
You can set schedules with the Amazon Smart Plug to automatically turn on/off lights, lamps, fans, and appliances and can even access them through remote access.
Easy to install and use
The setup for the Amazon plug is very simple. Just plug in the device, activate it using the Alexa device, and control it through voice commands.
Verdict: Amazon Smart Plug is an outdoor outlet with a simple and compact design that you can buy at super affordable prices. It enables you to control devices using Alexa and set schedules, routines, timers, and other advanced automation in a matter of minutes.
The biggest setback of this plug is that it is only compatible with Alexa-enabled appliances and does not work with other voice commands like Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant.
Buying guide
There are many factors to consider when buying the best WiFi plug for your outdoor spaces. How many outlets do you need? Which voice assistant do you prefer? Is it durable?
These are just a few queries you might ask yourself when purchasing these smart devices. Here is a list of factors you should consider to help reach an informed decision:
Independent Control
If you want maximum control of your devices, it is best to buy outdoor plugs that offer independent control. Therefore, purchasing plugs with independent control and more than two sockets is the best option.
Independent control will allow you to use your device without any relation to other devices and control it effectively without compromising or affecting its function. For example, if your plug socket has independent control, you can have lights connected at one and your phone in another. Such that turning the lights off would not interfere with the charging.
Waterproof and Fireproof Rating
Since these plugs have to be used outdoors, it is important to ensure they have a waterproof and fireproof rating, so they don’t succumb to outside temperature and environment. Therefore, it is better to go for plugs with at least an IP44 waterproof rating to ensure their all-weather compatibility.
Another thing you should check for is the construction. Plugs made of ABS filaments are fireproof and provide an additional layer of precaution and safety. Plugs with analogue on/off buttons are also a good choice for safety purposes.
Features, Apps, and Voice Commands
The smart features of outdoor plugs are the main reason behind their extensive use and something you should definitely consider before buying.
Using plugs with app control like Smart Life and voice control like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple’s Siri is always better. These two features can considerably make handling and your life much easier.
Some products don’t offer voice commands or aren’t compatible with smart hubs and devices. Therefore, checking the product for compatibility with your smart home controls is important.
Additionally, some outdoor plugs also offer automation features, such as timers and scheduling, to provide more control over your devices without checking your mobile every other second.
Privacy and Security Settings
Always go for outdoor plugs that offer two-factor authentication. This enables you to keep your data and files safe from hacking and other harm.
Having a two-factor authentication or verification code and password for all your devices is the best approach for safe and careful use.
FAQs
What is a smart plug?
Indoor or outdoor smart plugs give you control over the power supply of gadgets attached to them. They disconnect and reconnect the appliance to power once they receive the signal through a companion app or voice command.
Can regular smart plugs be used outdoors?
You can use regular smart plugs for outdoor premises, but we suggest otherwise. Outdoor plugs are specifically designed while keeping the weather conditions in more. They can bear extreme temperatures, rainwater, and dust elements. Therefore, it is always beneficial to go for such outdoor-specific plugs.
Why are WiFi outdoor plugs necessary?
Outdoor plugs with WiFi connection offer more features and functionality. Plugs without WiFi connection have limited capacity functioning because of their conventional Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Zigbee connections which are restricted to certain areas.
Conclusion
WiFi Outdoor smart plugs are indeed the best way to control electronic appliances. And the BN-LINK Heavy-Duty Smart WiFi Outdoor Outlet certainly takes the lead in our list of best outdoor plugs. This is because of its multiple sockets, heavy-duty connectivity, weather-resistant body, and other advanced controls, making it an all-rounder plug for all purposes.
I have over 15 years of knowledge in the technology field. Studied IT systems administration and now installing security cameras and smart home devices into user’s homes and offices.