TP-Link Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug Review: Energy Savings & Smart Home Control

This review dives into the TP-Link Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug, a compact and feature-rich device designed to seamlessly integrate into your smart home ecosystem. We'll explore its design, setup process, and performance, examining its key features like energy monitoring, scheduling capabilities, and voice control compatibility with popular assistants like Alexa and Google Home. We'll also assess its ease of use and overall reliability, comparing its functionality and price point against traditional non-smart plugs.This in-depth analysis will cover the pros and cons of the Tapo P110, considering its compatibility with various regional plug types and power standards. We'll discuss its strengths, such as its small footprint and responsive performance, as well as its limitations, including compatibility restrictions and the reliance on a stable Wi-Fi connection. Ultimately, we aim to provide a comprehensive assessment to help you determine if the Tapo P110 is the right smart plug for your smart home needs.

Pros And Cons

TP-Link Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug
  • Fast, responsive local control via app.
  • Works with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home.
  • Compact design, doesn't block adjacent sockets.
  • Energy monitoring: tracks real-time power consumption and estimates energy bills.
  • Limited plug compatibility (Type-C, Type-D, Type-M only).
  • Wi-Fi dependency.
  • Not compatible with 120V power standards (only 220V-230V).
  • Slightly more expensive than traditional plugs.

Read more: AMI Meter Reading Guide: Understanding Your Smart Electricity Meter

Unboxing and Physical Overview

The Tapo P110 arrived in a compact box, containing the plug itself and a quick-start guide. The plug's design is impressively small, ensuring it won't obstruct adjacent sockets. Its sturdy construction includes a standard three-prong socket and feels durable enough for long-term use.

Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug unboxing
Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug unboxing

Measuring just 55.6 x 35.4 x 86.5 mm, it's ideal for tight spaces. Safety features include overload protection, child safety shutters, and an anti-rust body, built to last and protect your connected devices. The flame-retardant UL94 V0 rated material adds an extra layer of security.

Close-up of the Tapo P110 showing its compact size and design.
Close-up of the Tapo P110 showing its compact size and design.

Compatibility and Setup

The Tapo P110 boasts compatibility with various plug types, depending on the region. In the US and Canada, it uses Type A or B plugs; in Europe and the UK, Type C, E, or G; and in India, Type C, D, and M. It operates on AC 220-230V, 50-60Hz, making it versatile for many locations but not all.

Diagram showcasing Tapo plug compatibility with different outlet types.
Diagram showcasing Tapo plug compatibility with different outlet types.

Setting up the plug via the Tapo app is straightforward. The app guides you through the process, from creating a TP-Link ID to pairing the device. The LED indicator on the plug blinks orange and green, indicating readiness for setup.

Tapo app interface showing the setup process.
Tapo app interface showing the setup process.

Key Features and Functionality

The Tapo P110 offers real-time energy monitoring, letting you track power consumption and estimate energy costs. Scheduling options allow you to automate device on/off times, while the timer creates countdowns for specific durations. Away mode randomly switches lights on and off for added security.

Tapo app showing advanced settings options.
Tapo app showing advanced settings options.

Seamless integration with Alexa and Google Assistant provides voice control. Advanced settings in the app allow for customization of device names, icons, locations, and LED status. Options include default state settings, auto-off timers, power protection, and even a ‘charge guard’ for optimal device charging.

Practical Application and Performance

I tested the Tapo P110 with a table lamp, easily turning it on and off via the app and voice commands. The timer function worked perfectly, automatically turning off the lamp after the set time. Voice control integration with Alexa was seamless and reliable.

Demo of Tapo P110 controlling a table lamp.
Demo of Tapo P110 controlling a table lamp.

The manual on/off switch on the plug offers a convenient backup control method. Overall, the plug was responsive and functioned flawlessly throughout my testing period. It efficiently converted a regular appliance into a smart device.

Voice control demo using Alexa.
Voice control demo using Alexa.

Pros, Cons, and Overall Rating

Pros: Fast response, local control, compatibility with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home, compact design, energy monitoring.

Summary slide highlighting the Pros and Cons
Summary slide highlighting the Pros and Cons

Cons: Limited plug compatibility, Wi-Fi dependency, not compatible with 120V power standards, slightly more expensive than non-smart plugs.

Conclusion

The TP-Link Tapo P110 Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug is a solid option for those seeking convenient and reliable smart home control. Its compact size, numerous features (energy monitoring, scheduling, voice control), and ease of use make it attractive. While the price point is a bit higher than non-smart plugs, the added functionality and convenience justify the cost for many users. However, limited plug compatibility and its lack of support for 120V systems are key limitations to consider.

Final thoughts and rating.
Final thoughts and rating.

Overall, I'd rate the Tapo P110 a 4.5 out of 5 stars. It's an excellent choice for expanding your smart home capabilities, provided it's compatible with your region's power standards and plug types.