Hey there! If you’re looking to upgrade your home with some smart devices, you’ve come to the right place. In this review, we’ll be comparing and exploring four different products that can make your life easier and more efficient: the Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor, Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200, TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch, GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug, and ANGELHALO Smart Outlet. Whether you’re concerned about energy consumption, in need of smart lighting solutions, or looking for convenient outlets with USB ports, we’ve got you covered.
Smart home technology has come a long way over the years, revolutionizing the way we interact with our homes. From monitoring our energy usage in real-time to controlling our lights and appliances remotely, these products offer a myriad of benefits. By gaining insights into your energy consumption patterns with the Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor, you can make informed decisions to reduce waste and save money. The Kasa Smart Light Switch takes convenience to the next level by allowing you to control your lights with a simple voice command or through your smartphone. With the TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch, you can set timers and schedules to automate your lighting, optimizing comfort and energy-efficiency. And, if you’re in need of smart outlets, the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug and ANGELHALO Smart Outlet provide easy remote control and even include USB ports for charging your devices.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each product to give you a comprehensive understanding of their features, specifications, and how they can enhance your smart home experience.
Smart Home Energy Monitor with 16 Circuit Level Sensors | Vue – Real Time Electricity Monitor/Meter | Solar/Net Metering
The Smart Home Energy Monitor with 16 50A Circuit Level Sensors, also known as Vue, is designed to help you monitor and manage your home’s energy usage. It installs in the circuit panel of most homes with clamp-on sensors, allowing you to track your energy consumption in real-time.
We love the Vue Energy Monitor because it provides valuable insights into your energy usage, helping you make informed decisions to conserve energy and save costs. With its 24/7 monitoring capabilities, you can prevent costly repairs and keep track of your solar or net metering.
The primary purpose of the Vue Energy Monitor is to monitor your home’s real power usage and provide accurate data through its 16 50A sensors. These sensors allow you to monitor the energy consumption of various appliances such as your air conditioner, furnace, water heater, washer, dryer, and range.
One of the key features of this product is its ability to lower your electric bill. By providing real-time spending information and sending actionable notifications, the Vue Energy Monitor helps you understand where you can save costs and reduce unnecessary energy usage.
Another standout feature of the Vue Energy Monitor is its easy-to-use mobile app, compatible with both iPhone and Android devices. With a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection, you can access the app and monitor your energy usage from anywhere, at any time. The Vue sensors provide 1-second data and are accurate within ±2%. Moreover, the Vue is UL and CE Listed, ensuring safety in its usage.
The Vue Energy Monitor aims to provide you with the necessary tools and information to make informed decisions regarding your energy consumption and ultimately lower your electric bill.
The Vue Energy Monitor demonstrates excellent quality in both its hardware and software components. The clamp-on sensors ensure accurate and reliable data collection, while the mobile app offers a user-friendly interface for accessing and analyzing the data. With its UL and CE Listings, you can be confident in the product’s safety and reliability.
24/7 energy monitoring capability
Accurate and real-time data provided by the 16 50A sensors
Actionable notifications to help you save costs
Easy-to-use mobile app compatible with both iPhone and Android devices
UL and CE Listed for safety
Requires a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection with an internet connection
Panels with access only to busbars will need flexible sensors, which may require additional purchases from Emporia Energy.
The Vue Energy Monitor with 16 50A Circuit Level Sensors is an excellent smart home product that allows you to monitor and manage your energy consumption effectively. With its accurate data, actionable notifications, and user-friendly app, it helps you lower your electric bill and make informed decisions towards a more energy-efficient home.
Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200, Single Pole, Neutral Wire Required, Wi-Fi Light Switch Works with Alexa and Google Home, UL Certified, No Hub Needed, White
The Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 is a single pole light switch that is designed to work with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and is compatible with both Alexa and Google Home. It is primarily used for controlling the lights in your home through voice commands or remotely through the Kasa app on your smartphone.
We like the Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 because it offers a simple and convenient way to control your lights. With its easy guided install and step-by-step instructions provided by the Kasa app, you don’t need to be an expert in switch wiring to install and set up this smart light switch. It also does not require a separate hub, making it even more user-friendly.
The Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 allows you to control your lights from anywhere using your smartphone or voice commands. With just a few taps on the Kasa app or a simple voice command to Alexa or Google Home, you can turn your lights on or off without lifting a finger. This smart light switch also offers scheduling features, allowing you to set timer or countdown schedules to automatically turn your lights on or off at specific times.
Key features of the Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 include:
- Easy Guided Install: The Kasa app provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through the installation process, eliminating the need for complex switch wiring knowledge.
- Control from Anywhere: With the Kasa app, you can remotely control your lights from anywhere, whether you’re at home, in the office, or on vacation.
- Voice Control: Thanks to its compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, you can control your lights using voice commands, offering a hands-free and convenient experience.
- Scheduling: Set timer or countdown schedules to automate your lighting, making it appear as if someone is home even when you’re away.
- Trusted and Reliable: Developed in Silicon Valley and trusted by over 4 million users, the Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 is UL certified for safety use.
The Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 is a high-quality product that offers reliable performance. It is designed and developed in Silicon Valley, ensuring its commitment to quality and innovation. With its UL certification for safety use, you can have peace of mind knowing that this smart light switch meets the highest standards of safety.
Pros:
- Easy guided install with the Kasa app
- Control your lights from anywhere using your smartphone
- Hands-free voice control with Alexa and Google Home
- Scheduling features for automated lighting
- Trusted and reliable brand with over 4 million users
- UL certified for safety use
Cons:
- Requires a neutral wire for installation
With the Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200, you can enjoy the convenience of controlling your lights with just your voice or smartphone. Its user-friendly features and reliable performance make it an excellent addition to any smart home setup.
TP-Link Tapo Smart Light Switch: Voice-Controlled with Siri, Alexa & Google Home | UL Certified | Timer & Schedule | Easy Installation Guide | Requires Neutral Wire | Single Pole | 2-Pack
The TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch is designed to provide you with convenient and hands-free control over the lighting in your home. With voice control capabilities through Siri, Alexa, and Google Home, you can easily turn your lights on or off without even lifting a finger. This smart light switch is ideal for everyday use, and it can enhance your overall smart home experience.
We love the TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch for its compatibility with multiple smart home platforms. With Matter, you no longer have to be limited to one specific platform. This light switch works seamlessly with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings, allowing you to control all your smart home devices from a single app.
One of the standout features of this product is its smooth LAN control. Even if your internet connection goes offline, the Matter technology ensures that all devices in your local area network can still communicate efficiently. This direct device-to-device interaction eliminates the need for a forwarding device and ensures uninterrupted control over your lighting.
The Easy Guided Install feature of the TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch makes it user-friendly and hassle-free. You don’t need to have any prior knowledge of switch wiring or complicated configurations. The Tapo App provides step-by-step instructions for the installation process. Plus, with its standard wall plate size, this light switch seamlessly integrates into any home decor.
The TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch is designed to enhance your smart home experience by providing voice control and scheduling capabilities for your lighting. With the Matter technology, you can enjoy compatibility with various smart home platforms and control all your devices from a single app.
Key features of this product include the ability to schedule your lights to turn on or off at specific times, UL certification for safety, and the inclusion of the easy guided install feature. The Matter technology also allows for multi-admin control, enabling you to manage your devices through different smart home systems simultaneously.
The overall quality of the TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch is excellent. TP-Link is a trusted brand known for producing reliable and high-quality smart home products, and this light switch is no exception. With its UL certification, you can have peace of mind knowing that it meets safety standards.
The Tapo App provides a user-friendly interface and the easy guided install feature ensures a hassle-free setup process. Additionally, the Matter technology ensures smooth LAN control, allowing for uninterrupted communication between devices even in the absence of an internet connection.
All-round compatibility with certified smart home platforms
Smooth LAN control for uninterrupted communication
Easy guided install feature for hassle-free setup
Voice control through Siri, Alexa, and Google Home
Multi-admin feature for control through different smart home systems simultaneously
Requires a neutral wire for installation
Limited to single pole application
GHome Smart Mini Plug – WiFi Outlet Socket, Compatible with Alexa and Google Home, Remote Control with Timer, 2.4GHz Network Only, No Hub Needed, ETL FCC Listed (4 Pack), White
The GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is a versatile device that allows you to control your home appliances and devices remotely. It is designed to work with Alexa and Google Home, providing you with a hands-free voice control option for your connected devices.
One of the reasons we like the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is its ease of use and quick connection. Simply plug in the device and connect it to your stable 2.4GHz network, and you are ready to go. The improved WiFi technology ensures a quick and stable connection, allowing you to control your devices seamlessly.
The GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug’s purpose is to make your life more convenient and efficient by allowing you to control your home devices remotely. Its key features include:
- Voice Control: The smart plug is compatible with popular voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home. You can simply give a voice command to control your connected devices, making it convenient and hands-free.
- Remote Control via App: You can also control your devices through the dedicated app, even when you are away. As long as your phone has access to a secure network (2.4G, 4G, or 5G Wi-Fi), you can easily monitor and control your devices from anywhere.
- Schedules and Auto-Off Timer: The smart plug allows you to set timers and schedules for your devices. This feature is particularly useful when you want certain devices to turn off automatically at a specific time. It helps to save energy and adds convenience to your daily routine.
- Grouping Control and Sharing: With the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug, you can create groups for multiple plugs and control them with a single tap. Additionally, you can share access to your smart outlets with your family members, allowing everyone to enjoy the convenience and control.
The GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug stands out in terms of its overall quality. It is designed with safety in mind and is ETL FCC Listed, ensuring that it meets the necessary safety standards. The quick and stable connection, as well as the compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, make it a reliable and efficient smart plug option.
Here are some pros and cons of the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug:
Quick and easy setup
Hands-free voice control with popular assistants like Alexa and Google Home
Remote control through the dedicated app
Ability to set schedules and timers for devices
Grouping control and sharing feature for convenience
ETL FCC listed for safety assurance
Only supports 2.4GHz network (not compatible with 5GHz)
Limited compatibility with other smart home systems
The GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is a reliable and user-friendly option if you are looking to make your home smarter and more energy-efficient. With its voice control, remote access, and scheduling features, it offers convenience and flexibility in managing your connected devices. However, keep in mind the network compatibility limitations and the need to use a stable 2.4GHz network for optimal performance.
ANGELHALO Smart Wall Outlets with USB Ports – 4 Pack White (FCC Approved)
The ANGELHALO Smart Outlet with USB A and Type C Ports is a versatile wall outlet receptacle that aims to enhance your charging experience. This product is designed to seamlessly fit into any standard electrical outlet, providing you with a convenient way to charge multiple devices simultaneously. With its built-in USB A and Type C ports, this smart outlet allows you to charge your smartphones, tablets, and other USB-enabled devices directly from the wall.
One of the standout features of the ANGELHALO Smart Outlet is its ability to intelligently deliver optimum charging power to your devices. Equipped with Smart IC technology, this wall outlet can automatically detect the connected devices and adjust the power output accordingly. This means that you can safely charge your devices without worrying about overloading or damaging them.
Additionally, the tamper-resistant design of this outlet ensures the safety of your children and pets by preventing them from inserting any foreign objects into the sockets. This feature gives you peace of mind, especially if you have young children around.
The ANGELHALO Smart Outlet with USB A and Type C Ports is designed to offer a convenient and efficient way to charge your devices. With its two USB ports and two 15 Amp outlets, you can easily charge your smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronics all at once. Moreover, the inclusion of both USB A and Type C ports makes it compatible with a variety of device models.
To ensure the utmost safety, this smart outlet is FCC approved and built with high-quality materials. Its durability and reliable performance make it the perfect choice for both home and office use.
The ANGELHALO Smart Outlet is built to last, thanks to its high-quality construction. The receptacles and USB ports are made from premium materials, making them resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, this smart outlet features a sleek and modern design that seamlessly blends into any home or office decor.
Enables simultaneous charging of multiple devices with its USB A and Type C ports
Smart IC technology ensures efficient and safe charging
Tamper-resistant design for added safety
FCC approved for peace of mind
Durable and stylish construction
Requires proper installation by a licensed electrician
Limited to indoor use only
With the ANGELHALO Smart Outlet with USB A and Type C Ports, you can enjoy the convenience of charging multiple devices at once while ensuring their safety. Its smart features, durable construction, and versatility make it an excellent addition to any modern home or office.
Smart Home Energy Monitor with 16 50A Circuit Level Sensors | Vue – Real Time Electricity Monitor/Meter | Solar/Net Metering
- Installs in circuit panel of most homes with clamp-on sensors
- Supports single-phase up to 240VAC line-neutral, single, split-phase 120/240VAC, and three-phase up to 415Y/240VAC (no Delta)
- 24/7 energy monitoring to prevent costly repairs, conserve energy, and save costs
- Comes with sixteen (16) 50A sensors to accurately monitor appliances
- Helps lower your electric bill by providing real-time spending data and actionable notifications
- Requires 2.4 GHz WIFI with an internet connection to monitor energy use with iPhone/Android app
- Vue sensors provide 1-second data and are accurate from ±2%
- UL and CE Listed for safety
- 1 second data is retained for 3 hours, 1 minute data is retained for 7 days, and 1 hour data is retained indefinitely
Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200, Single Pole, Needs Neutral Wire, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Light Switch
- Easy guided install with standard wall plate size
- Requires neutral wire
- Control from anywhere using the Kasa app with a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection
- Voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
- Schedule your smart switch to automatically turn on and off
- Trusted and reliable with UL certification
- Dimensions without panel: 4.131.711.74 in. (10543.544.21 mm)
TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch: Voice Control w/Siri, Alexa & Google Home
- Compatible with Matter-certified smart home platforms, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings
- Smooth LAN control for efficient communication between devices, even if the internet goes offline
- Multi-Admin feature allows control from multiple smart home systems at the same time
- Easy guided install with standard wall plate size and requires a neutral wire
- Voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug
- Quick connection and stays stable on a stable 2.4GHz network
- Hands-free voice control with Alexa and Google Home Assistant
- Remote control from anywhere via the app when connected to a secure network (2.4G, 4G, or 5G Wi-Fi)
- Scheduling and auto-off timer features for convenience
- Grouping control allows for controlling multiple devices with a single tap
- Share wifi plug smart outlets with family members
ANGELHALO Smart Outlet with USB A and Type C Ports Wall Outlets Receptacles
- Designed for quick and safe connection
- Works with Alexa and Google Home Assistant for voice control
- Remote control via the app when away from home
- Scheduling and auto-off timer features for convenience
- Grouping control for easy management of multiple outlets
- USB A and Type C ports for charging devices
Conclusion
Congratulations on reaching the end of this comprehensive review of five smart home products! You now have a better understanding of the Smart Home Energy Monitor, Vue, Kasa Smart Light Switch, TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch, GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug, and ANGELHALO Smart Outlet.
After analyzing the features and performance of these products, it is clear that each one has its own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s summarize the key points and address any drawbacks:
Smart Home Energy Monitor with 16 50A Circuit Level Sensors | Vue – Real Time Electricity Monitor/Meter | Solar/Net Metering
This energy monitor is a powerful solution for individuals who want to closely track and manage their energy consumption. The ability to monitor circuit-level data in real time is a standout feature, as it allows for a detailed understanding of energy usage. However, the high price point of this product may not be suitable for everyone.
Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200, Single Pole, Needs Neutral Wire, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Light Switch Works with Alexa and Google Home, UL Certified, No Hub Required
The Kasa Smart Light Switch is an excellent option for those looking to upgrade their traditional light switches. Its compatibility with voice assistants, easy installation process, and reliable performance make it a recommended choice. However, the need for a neutral wire may limit its installation in some homes.
TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch: Voice Control w/Siri, Alexa & Google Home | UL Certified | Timer & Schedule | Easy Guided Install | Neutral Wire Required | Single Pole | Tapo S505(2-Pack)
If you are hesitant to deal with a neutral wire during installation, the TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch is a suitable alternative. With its compatibility with popular voice assistants and convenient scheduling and timer features, this product offers great value. However, keep in mind that it requires a neutral wire for proper functioning.
GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug, WiFi Outlet Socket Works with Alexa and Google Home, Remote Control with Timer Function, Only Supports 2.4GHz Network, No Hub Required, ETL FCC Listed (4 Pack)
For those who want to automate their electrical appliances, the GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is a cost-effective solution. With its compatibility with voice assistants, remote control capabilities, and timer function, this product offers convenience and flexibility. However, it only supports a 2.4GHz network, so ensure that your home network meets this requirement.
ANGELHALO Smart Outlet with USB A and Type C Ports Wall Outlets Receptacles Tamper-Resistant USB Outlets 15 Amp Outlets FCC Approved for Home Office 4 Pack White
The ANGELHALO Smart Outlet is a versatile choice for individuals who want to charge their devices conveniently. With its USB A and Type C ports, tamper-resistant design, and FCC approval, this product offers both functionality and safety. However, its lack of compatibility with voice assistants may be a drawback for some users.
Recommendation
Based on the review of these five products, the recommendation for a specific audience would be:
If you are looking to track and manage your energy consumption in detail: The Smart Home Energy Monitor with 16 50A Circuit Level Sensors | Vue would be the ideal choice for you. Despite its high price point, its accurate circuit-level monitoring capabilities will provide valuable insights into your energy usage.
If you want to upgrade your traditional light switches: The Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200 would be a great option. It offers compatibility with popular voice assistants and a seamless installation process, making it convenient and reliable.
If you prefer a smart light switch without dealing with a neutral wire: The TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch should be your go-to choice. With its voice control features and intuitive scheduling options, it offers convenience while bypassing the need for a neutral wire.
If you want to automate your electrical appliances: The GHome Smart Mini Smart Plug is a cost-effective solution. Its compatibility with voice assistants, remote control capabilities, and timer function make it a versatile choice for your automation needs.
If you need a smart outlet with USB ports: The ANGELHALO Smart Outlet would be perfect for your charging needs. With its tamper-resistant design and FCC approval, it provides a safe and convenient way to charge your devices, even though it lacks compatibility with voice assistants.
Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a final decision. Happy smart home shopping!
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
