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Published: 13 May 2025
Also featured in: 5 Best Smart Plugs to Save Energy
Overview
The Meross Smart Plug is an affordable and flexible option for users seeking seamless control of their appliances via voice, app, or automation. Known for its wide compatibility across platforms — including Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and even Apple HomeKit — Meross offers a rare balance of budget pricing and multi-platform functionality.
Compact in size but full of features, this smart plug is a practical addition to any UK home. In this review, we’ll explore the Meross plug’s real-world performance, standout features, daily use scenarios, and how it stacks up against other top brands like Tapo, Eve, and Amazon Basics.
Key Features
- ✅ Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
- ✅ Control appliances via the Meross app or smart speakers
- ✅ Schedule and timer functions built-in
- ✅ Compatible with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks (no hub required)
- ✅ Energy monitoring available in select versions
- ✅ Compact design with fire-retardant housing and safety certifications
Unlike many plugs in this price range, Meross stands out for including native HomeKit support — allowing iOS users to control it directly from the Apple Home app without needing a proprietary cloud login. This makes it one of the most versatile smart plugs in its category.
Performance in Real-World Use
During testing, the Meross Smart Plug proved stable and responsive. App-based commands via Meross or Apple Home responded within one second, and voice control using Alexa worked with near-instant accuracy. The plug maintained a consistent connection over Wi-Fi, and reconnects automatically after power outages without issues.
The app is easy to use and allows creation of routines, on/off timers, and grouped controls. If you use HomeKit, the plug integrates smoothly into scenes and automations alongside other Apple Home-compatible devices — a rare feature at this price point.
Everyday Use Cases for UK Homes
- 💡 Control lamps: Automate reading lamps to turn on at sunset and off at midnight.
- ☕ Morning coffee routine: Use schedules to power on a coffee maker before you wake up.
- 📱 Remote shutdown: Turn off devices left on by accident via your phone from anywhere.
- 🌍 Energy awareness: Monitor how much power appliances use if using the energy meter variant.
- 🎤 Voice activation: Use Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant to control hard-to-reach outlets hands-free.
Its broad compatibility also makes it ideal for multi-platform households, where different family members use Android, iOS, or smart speakers from various brands.
Meross vs. Other Smart Plugs
- 💡 vs. Tapo P100: Both offer great value, but Tapo lacks HomeKit support. Meross wins for Apple households.
- 🔋 vs. Eve Energy: Eve offers Thread and Matter support, but at 3–4x the price. Meross is better for mainstream users.
- 📦 vs. Amazon Basics Smart Plug: Amazon’s plug only works with Alexa. Meross supports nearly all platforms.
- 💷 vs. Philips Hue Smart Plug: Hue is best with Zigbee systems. Meross is more flexible and affordable.
In short, Meross is the most platform-agnostic smart plug in its price range — a big advantage if you’re not tied to one ecosystem.
Pros
- Works with Alexa, Google, Siri, and HomeKit
- No hub required – 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
- Compact design with fire safety compliance
- App and voice control are both fast and reliable
- Energy monitoring included on select versions
Cons
- No support for Matter or Thread
- Occasional app lag when used with older Android devices
- HomeKit pairing requires QR code (don’t lose the box)
Final Verdict
For UK households looking for a smart plug that’s compatible with virtually every major platform, the Meross Smart Plug is a standout choice. It’s fast, dependable, and loaded with practical features — including HomeKit integration, which is rare at this price.
Whether you’re managing a single device or building a home-wide automation setup, Meross delivers excellent functionality without locking you into a specific ecosystem. It’s ideal for families using mixed tech — and it just works.
★★★★☆ (4.6/5)