If you’re a big Security Baron fan, then you might remember eufy from the eufyCam E, the eufy Smart Scale or the eufy Security Video Doorbell. Clearly, they’re hitting all the right notes when it comes to your smart home, so I wasn’t too surprised when I heard they came out with a smart plug as well.
Of course, I’m a huge fan of turning off my appliances remotely, as I’m somewhat of a worrier and always worrying that I left something on. I also like that you can set appliances to go on schedules, as this is a great way to seem like you’re home when you’re not. Smart home combined with security? Sign me up. Read my eufy smart plug review to learn more about the Mini!
This indoor plug allows you to control appliances remotely and even set them on schedules. Better yet, why not command them using Alexa or Google Assistant?
eufy Smart Plug Mini Design
This plug won’t block other outlets, which is a huge relief as I’m never short on electronics. It’ll connect to the EufyHome app over Wi-Fi, allowing you to create schedules, set up smart platform integrations and control your appliances remotely. One huge advantage of the eufy Smart Plug Mini is that it doesn’t require a hub, which isn’t always the case when it comes to connected devices. Also, you can use the eufy Smart Plug Mini on appliances of up to 1,800 watts, which is the industry standard for smart plugs. So far, so good!
While the eufy Smart Plug Mini is technically intended for indoor use, you can use it outside if it’s covered from rain or snow. Just make sure your climate is in the temperature range of 14 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and that your plug is within range of your Wi-Fi, if you do want to use the eufy Smart Plug Mini outdoors.
eufy Smart Plug Mini Features
Aside from controlling appliances remotely, you’ll also be able to create schedules for your appliances so they turn off and on automatically throughout the day. For example, in the winter months I like my space heater to turn on about 15 minutes before I typically come home so everything will be warm and toasty when I get there. You can also use this for light bulbs, tricking would-be intruders into thinking you’re home, or any appliance, really (so long as it’s under 1,800 watts).
Aside from controlling the eufy Smart Plug Mini through the eufyHome app, you can also control it using Alexa or Google Assistant, if you’re in either of those smart home ecosystems. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to do much with these voice commands other than turn appliances on and off (for example, with light bulbs, you can’t dim them through voice commands). But this is pretty typical for smart plug integrations, and overall, I’m happy that the eufy Smart Plug Mini works with the two most popular voice assistants.
Now, unfortunately the eufy Smart Plug Mini does not include scenes, which is a pretty standard feature for smart plugs. Scenes let you group smart plugs together so that you can control them all at the same time rather than having to manually program each individual plug. However, the eufy Smart Plug Mini does support an away mode in which you can setup your plugs for when you’re out of the house. However, a home mode doesn’t exist, which seems a bit odd.
On a more positive note, you’ll also be able to see exactly how much energy your appliances are using in the EufyHome app. So while I’m disappointed that the eufy Smart Plug Mini doesn’t allow for scenes or a home mode, I am happy with the away mode and energy monitoring features.
The EufyHome App
The EufyHome app is where you’ll turn appliances on and off, create schedules, or connect your plug to Google Assistant or Alexa. The app has a 4.7 rating on both the Apple and Google Play stores, which tells me that people are liking it whether they have iPhones or Androids. One Android user named Joe M. wrote in a recent five-star review,
“Great app! Use this for my RoboVac and Smart Plug. Had no issues controlling devices from Android phone. Been a great experience.”
This indoor plug allows you to control appliances remotely and even set them on schedules. Better yet, why not command them using Alexa or Google Assistant?
Recap of the eufy Smart Plug Mini
At only $39.99 for a two-pack, the eufy Smart Plug Mini is definitely below the industry average in terms of price, which is typically at around $25 for a single plug. And it has the basic features that I want in terms of remote control and scheduling. But there are definitely some features missing from the eufy Smart Plug Mini that prevent me from recommending it universally.
Buy the eufy Smart Plug Mini if you want…
- Alexa and Google Assistant integrations: Control your appliances using your voice alone through the two most commonly used voice assistants.
- No hub required: The eufy Smart Plug Mini doesn’t require a hub, making the price even more impressive.
- Low price: At just $20 a plug, you won’t have to break the bank to buy the two-pack.
But avoid it if you were looking for…
- Scenes: Aside from away mode, you won’t be able to group your eufy Smart Plug Minis together in groups.
- Waterproof: Although this plug can technically be used outdoors, it won’t work if it gets wet.
- Home mode: Unfortunately, the eufy Smart Plug Mini doesn’t include a home mode, so you’ll have to set each plug individually.
That’s it from me! To explore some more fantastic options, check out my picks for the best smart plugs in 2020.
FAQs
How much does the eufy Smart Plug Mini cost?
The eufy Smart Plug Mini costs $39.99 for a two-pack, or about $20 each.
Can I use the eufy Smart Plug Mini outside?
You can use the eufy Smart Plug Mini only if it’s covered from any precipitation and if you live in a climate of 14 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It also must be within range of your Wi-Fi.
Does the eufy Smart Plug Mini work with Alexa?
Yes, the eufy Smart Plug Mini works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
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