This review dives deep into the Tapo P115 smart plug, a budget-friendly option that surprisingly delivers robust performance and features. Initially purchased to solve a simple, yet inconvenient, Christmas tree lighting problem, these smart plugs quickly proved their value beyond a single seasonal use. The review explores the practicality and convenience of the Tapo P115, detailing its application in various household scenarios, from controlling a bedroom fan to managing power consumption of different appliances. More than just a simple on/off switch, this affordable plug offers unexpected functionality.Beyond the user experience, this review delves into the technical aspects of the Tapo P115. A detailed teardown reveals the surprisingly robust internal components and design, showcasing a sophisticated build for its low price point. Performance testing with a kilowatt meter validates the accuracy of its energy monitoring capabilities, even when dealing with appliances possessing less-than-ideal power factors. The review concludes by assessing the overall value and highlighting both the strengths and limitations of this compelling smart home device.
Pros And Cons
- Relatively inexpensive ($5.75 each)
- Includes energy monitoring
- Works well for scheduled on/off functionality
- Uses a 16-amp rated relay
- Beefier contacts than expected
- May be damaged by power adapters between 60-75 watts due to high inrush current
- Motor power limited to 1/16th horsepower or 4.4 amps
- Incandescent light bulb usage limited to 8 amps continuous load
- EV chargers should not be plugged in due to excessive power draw
- Slightly less user-friendly than other TP-Link smart plugs
- Power factor is not very good (approximately 0.4)
Read more: AMI Meter Reading Guide: Understanding Your Smart Electricity Meter
The Problem and the Solution
I encountered a common 'first-world problem' – my Christmas tree was awkwardly positioned, making it difficult to reach the power switch. This prompted my search for a convenient solution.
Initially, a simple timer seemed like the answer. However, upon closer inspection, smart plugs offered comparable pricing with added functionality.
This led me to purchase a four-pack of Tapo P115 smart plugs for around $23, making them a cost-effective option compared to individual timers.
Initial Impressions and Features
The Tapo P115 smart plugs proved quite useful, especially during the Christmas season. One remains connected to my bedroom fan, conveniently controlling its on/off schedule.
Beyond the basic on/off functionality, these plugs feature energy monitoring, providing insights into power consumption.
The slight confusion comes from TP-Link's offering of two similar smart plug product lines: one seemingly cheaper and more technically oriented, and another positioned as more user-friendly, albeit pricier.
Teardown and Internal Components
Driven by curiosity, I decided to take apart a Tapo P115 to examine its internal components, considering its relatively low cost.
The device's internal construction is surprisingly simple and robust, with beefier contacts than anticipated.
Key components include a 5V coil relay rated at 16 amps at 250 volts AC, a switching power supply circuit, and an ESP8266 microcontroller. The presence of a fusable resistor suggests built-in protection mechanisms.
Testing and Performance
After reassembly, I tested the smart plug's functionality and power measurements using a P3 kilowatt meter.
The plug consistently measures power consumption accurately, whether connected to a resistive load (desk lamp) or a device with a less-than-perfect power factor (fume extractor).
The kilowatt meter provides more comprehensive data (volts, amps, watts, VA, power factor, etc.), while the smart plug displays only watts, along with 24-hour and monthly consumption graphs.
Conclusion: Are Tapo P115 Smart Plugs Worth It?
For their price, the Tapo P115 smart plugs offer remarkable value. The teardown revealed simple yet effective internal design.
Performance during testing was highly accurate, even with devices having varying power factors.
While the built-in energy monitoring is a plus, users should carefully follow the plug's power limitations to avoid potential damage.