This review dives into the practicality and ease of use offered by Tapo smart plugs, showcasing how they simplify common smart home challenges. We explore three real-world applications: enhancing the safety of electric blankets through scheduled power control, conveniently managing outdoor device charging from afar, and automating a portable heater for optimal baby room temperature. The review covers setup, app functionality, integration with popular smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa and Home Assistant, and ultimately assesses the overall value and user experience.From initial setup to advanced automations, we detail the entire process, highlighting both the strengths and minor drawbacks of the Tapo smart plugs. We delve into the intuitive app interface, the seamless integration with voice assistants, and the powerful customization options available through Home Assistant. This comprehensive review will help you decide if Tapo smart plugs are the right affordable and user-friendly solution to elevate your smart home experience.
Pros And Cons
- Easy to install
- Simple setup process
- Easy to integrate with Alexa and Home Assistant
- Allows control of dumb devices remotely
- Scheduling features available within the Tapo app
- The plus button to add another device sometimes bugs out in the app, requiring app restart
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Solving Everyday Smart Home Problems
The Tapo smart plugs offer a simple solution to several common smart home frustrations. I used them to address three key issues: controlling electric blankets for safety, managing outdoor device charging, and automating a portable heater for temperature regulation. These everyday problems are easily solved with these smart plugs, transforming ordinary devices into smart ones.
First, electric blankets, while cozy, present a safety risk if left on constantly. The Tapo plugs allow scheduled on/off times, eliminating this concern. Second, I tackled the inconvenience of repeatedly walking to my shed to charge outdoor gardening tools, especially in bad weather. The smart plugs, controlled remotely, resolve this.
Finally, I aimed to automate a baby's portable heater, ensuring optimal warmth throughout the night. Integrating with a temperature sensor will allow automatic adjustment based on room temperature.
Easy Setup and App Integration
Setting up the Tapo smart plugs is surprisingly straightforward. Simply plug the device into the Tapo smart plug, insert into the power outlet, and download the Tapo app. The app guides you through the pairing process, which involves connecting the plug to your home Wi-Fi network.
The app displays a clear interface showing connected devices. You can easily name each plug and assign it to a room. A handy indicator light simplifies the pairing process.
One minor issue encountered was a bug in the plus button within the app after adding multiple devices. Closing and reopening the app resolved this.
Alexa Integration and Voice Control
For seamless voice control, I integrated the Tapo plugs with Amazon Alexa. The process is simple: add the Tapo skill within the Alexa app. Once connected, you can use voice commands to control your devices.
I primarily used voice control for the shed's power outlet, simplifying the process of charging tools. Setting up the other two devices with voice controls is also straightforward but not shown in this video.
Voice commands provide convenient hands-free control, eliminating the need for manual switching especially in inconvenient locations.
Home Assistant Integration and Advanced Automation
For more complex automation, integrating the Tapo plugs with Home Assistant allows customized scheduling and control. Home Assistant automatically discovers the Tapo devices after adding the TP-Link integration.
I created automations to switch the children's electric blankets on at 7:00 PM and off at 7:00 AM. This setup ensures their beds are warm before bedtime and safely turned off in the morning. This integration enhances convenience and precision.
The ability to create custom automations within Home Assistant provides a powerful way to tailor your smart home experience beyond the basic functionality of the Tapo app itself.
Conclusion: Are Tapo Smart Plugs Worth It?
The Tapo smart plugs provide a user-friendly and affordable way to enhance your smart home setup. Setup is simple, app integration is smooth, and integration with Alexa and Home Assistant adds versatility.
The ability to transform ordinary devices into smart ones, coupled with the convenience of remote control and scheduling, makes them a valuable addition to any smart home system. While minor app quirks exist, they don't detract from the overall positive experience.
I highly recommend the Tapo smart plugs for their ease of use, robust features, and affordable price point. They are a great entry point into smart home technology or a solid addition to an existing smart home ecosystem.