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Published: 13 May 2025
Also featured in: 5 Best Smart Plugs to Save Energy
Overview
The Amazon Basics Wi-Fi Smart Plug delivers on what the brand promises — a straightforward, no-nonsense smart home device with the reliability of Amazon’s ecosystem behind it. Aimed squarely at Alexa users, this plug offers seamless voice control, scheduling, and remote access without the need for a hub or additional apps.
While it’s designed with simplicity in mind, this smart plug may not be the best fit for everyone. In this in-depth review, we’ll take a closer look at its capabilities, performance, use cases in UK households, and how it compares to alternatives like the Tapo P100, Eve Energy, and Philips Hue plugs.
Key Features
- ✅ 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity — no hub required
- ✅ Works exclusively with Amazon Alexa
- ✅ Voice control for on/off functions and routines
- ✅ App-based scheduling and remote access
- ✅ Compact vertical design fits single socket outlets
- ✅ Reliable Amazon account-linked setup process
Setup is incredibly fast for Alexa users. Simply plug in the device, open the Alexa app, and the plug will be discovered almost instantly thanks to Amazon’s auto-detection. From there, you can name the device, assign it to rooms, and begin controlling it with voice or routines.
Performance in Real-World Use
The Amazon Basics Smart Plug performs well within the Alexa ecosystem. Voice commands like “Alexa, turn off the kettle” or “turn on the lamp” are executed with minimal delay. The device maintains a stable Wi-Fi connection and rarely needs to be reconnected or reset, making it one of the most consistent options for Alexa-based homes.
However, it’s important to note that this plug does not support Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, or third-party smart home platforms. It also lacks energy monitoring, away mode, or advanced automations beyond those supported by Alexa routines. As such, its utility is best maximized in homes where Alexa is already in daily use.
Everyday Use Cases for UK Homes
- 💡 Lighting automation: Use Alexa routines to turn floor lamps on at sunset and off at bedtime.
- 🕔 Appliance timers: Schedule a coffee maker or heater to turn off after 30 minutes.
- 📦 Package mode: Remotely switch on hallway lamps when expecting a late-night delivery.
- 🗣️ Voice access: Control hard-to-reach sockets with hands-free Alexa commands.
- 🛋️ Relax scenes: Set up a voice-triggered routine for lamps, sound machines, or diffusers in your lounge.
How It Compares to Other Smart Plugs
- 💡 vs. Tapo P100: The Tapo works with both Alexa and Google, costs less, and includes scheduling modes like Away Mode. However, the Amazon plug integrates more deeply into Alexa.
- 🔋 vs. Eve Energy: Eve offers Matter, Thread, and energy monitoring — but costs significantly more and is aimed at Apple Home users.
- 🧠 vs. Philips Hue Plug: The Hue plug works best in Zigbee-based ecosystems. Amazon Basics is simpler, cheaper, and needs no hub.
Ultimately, the Amazon Basics plug is best suited for users who are fully invested in the Alexa ecosystem and want a smooth, plug-and-play experience without frills.
Pros
- Perfect integration with Alexa routines and voice commands
- No hub or third-party app required
- Reliable and stable Wi-Fi connection
- Compact and vertical plug design
- Simple setup — auto-detected in Alexa app
Cons
- Works only with Alexa — no Google or Apple support
- No energy usage monitoring
- No Away Mode or independent app control
- Not compatible with Matter or Thread
Final Verdict
The Amazon Basics Wi-Fi Smart Plug is a great choice if you’re an Alexa user who wants something that “just works.” Its tight integration with Amazon’s smart ecosystem makes it one of the easiest smart plugs to set up and use. It’s not designed to be platform-agnostic or packed with advanced features, but for basic smart control and voice automation, it delivers exactly what it promises.
It’s not for power users or those looking to monitor energy consumption, but if you live in a home with Echo speakers and Alexa routines already in place, the Amazon Basics Smart Plug offers simplicity, stability, and dependable functionality at a modest price.
★★★★☆ (4.2/5)