I’m not one to get overly excited about gadgets, but the EIGHTREE Smart Plug has genuinely transformed how I manage my home. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of smart home tech or upgrade your existing setup, this little device is a must-have.
It’s affordable, user-friendly, and packed with features that make daily life more convenient. From turning on your coffee maker before you roll out of bed to ensuring your lights are off while you’re on vacation, the EIGHTREE Smart Plug is a small investment with a big payoff.
Trust me, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.
My Experience With The EIGHTREE Smart Plug
Picture this: I’m halfway to work, and that nagging thought hits me—did I leave the iron on?
Before the EIGHTREE Smart Plug, I’d spend the rest of the day worrying.
Now, I just whip out my phone, open the Smart Life app, and turn it off with a tap.
Problem solved, stress eliminated. That’s the kind of peace of mind this device brings.
I started with a single EIGHTREE Smart Plug to test the waters, plugging in my living room lamp.
The setup was a breeze—less than two minutes, as promised. I downloaded the Smart Life app, turned on my phone’s Bluetooth, and the plug practically found itself.
After connecting it to my 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network, I linked it to Alexa, and suddenly, I was commanding my lamp with phrases like, “Alexa, turn on the living room light.” It felt like living in the future.
What surprised me most was how seamlessly it integrated into my routine. I set up a schedule for my coffee maker to start brewing at 7 a.m. every morning, so I wake up to the smell of fresh coffee. I also programmed my bedroom fan to turn on 30 minutes before I get home from work, making my space cool and comfortable.
The ability to control devices remotely is a game-changer, especially when I’m traveling. Last month, I was on a weekend trip and used the app to turn my porch lights on and off, making it look like I was home. Burglars, beware!
The compact design is another win. At just over 4 inches long and weighing less than 9 ounces, it doesn’t hog space or block adjacent outlets. I’ve since expanded to a 4-pack, automating my kitchen appliances, holiday lights, and even a space heater.
The only hiccup?
The initial Wi-Fi connection took a bit of patience—about five minutes instead of two—but once it was set, it’s been rock-solid. If you’re like me and love gadgets that make life easier without breaking the bank, the EIGHTREE Smart Plug is a no-brainer.
Pros of The EIGHTREE Smart Plug
- Seamless Voice Control Integration
One of the standout features of the EIGHTREE Smart Plug is its compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings. I’ve tested it with both Alexa and Google Home, and the voice control is flawless.
Whether I’m asking Alexa to turn off my bedroom lamp or telling Google to start the fan, the response is instant. It’s like having a personal assistant who never gets annoyed at my requests. This hands-free control is perfect when my hands are full or when I’m just feeling lazy on the couch.
- Remote Control from Anywhere
The ability to control my devices from anywhere using the Smart Life app is a lifesaver. I’ve turned off forgotten appliances from the office, set schedules while on vacation, and even tweaked timers from my couch.
The app is intuitive, with a clean interface that lets you manage multiple plugs effortlessly. As long as you’ve got an internet connection, you’re in control, which adds a layer of convenience I didn’t know I needed.
- Scheduling and Timer Functions
The scheduling feature is where the EIGHTREE Smart Plug really shines. You can set timers, countdowns, or recurring schedules to automate your devices. I’ve got my porch lights set to turn on at sunset and off at midnight, saving energy without lifting a finger.
The “Away Mode” is another gem—it randomly turns devices on and off to mimic occupancy, perfect for deterring intruders when you’re out of town. This level of customization makes your home feel smarter and more secure.
- Easy Setup and Stable Connection
Setting up the EIGHTREE Smart Plug is as simple as it gets. Plug it in, open the Smart Life app, and follow the prompts. The upgraded chip ensures a stable Wi-Fi connection, and I haven’t had a single dropout in months.
Even in my old house with spotty Wi-Fi, the plug stays online, which is more than I can say for some other smart devices I’ve tried. The Bluetooth-assisted setup is a nice touch, making the process even smoother.
- Great Value for a 4-Pack
The 4-pack option is a steal, letting you outfit multiple rooms without breaking the bank. I’ve got plugs in my kitchen, living room, and bedroom, and the cost per plug is incredibly reasonable.
Compared to pricier brands, EIGHTREE delivers comparable features at a fraction of the price, making it ideal for anyone looking to scale up their smart home on a budget.
Cons of The EIGHTREE Smart Plug
- Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
The biggest drawback is that the EIGHTREE Smart Plug only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks.
If your router is set to 5GHz or you’re using a newer dual-band router without proper band steering, you might run into connectivity issues.
In my case, I had to tweak my router settings to ensure a stable 2.4GHz connection, which added a few minutes to the setup.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to check before you buy.
- No Energy Monitoring in Some Models
While some EIGHTREE models offer energy monitoring, the standard version I tested doesn’t. I would’ve loved to track how much power my appliances are using, especially for energy-hogging devices like my space heater.
If energy efficiency is a priority for you, make sure to opt for the energy-monitoring version, as the basic model lacks this feature.
- Occasional Setup Hiccups
Although the setup is generally smooth, I did experience a slight delay in connecting one of my plugs to Wi-Fi. It took about five minutes of troubleshooting—restarting the app and resetting the plug—before it worked.
This was a minor annoyance, and once connected, the plug performed perfectly. Still, if you’re not tech-savvy, this could feel frustrating.
Tips For Optimal Use of EIGHTREE Smart Plug
- Keep the App Updated
To ensure your EIGHTREE Smart Plug runs smoothly, always keep the Smart Life app updated to the latest version. I’ve noticed that updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements, which can prevent connectivity issues.
Check your app store regularly and enable auto-updates if possible. A quick update can save you from potential headaches down the line.
- Avoid Overloading the Plug
The EIGHTREE Smart Plug is rated for 13A (about 2990W), which covers most household appliances like lamps, fans, and coffee makers.
However, avoid plugging in high-wattage devices like air conditioners or large heaters, as they can exceed the plug’s capacity and cause overheating. I always check the wattage of my devices before plugging them in to stay on the safe side.
- Reset When Changing Wi-Fi Networks
If you switch Wi-Fi networks or get a new router, you’ll need to reset your smart plug and reconnect it. Hold the power button until the LED blinks, then follow the setup process again in the Smart Life app.
I learned this the hard way when I upgraded my router and had to reconfigure all my plugs. It’s simple but worth noting to avoid frustration.
- Place Plugs in Well-Ventilated Areas
To prevent overheating, place your smart plugs in well-ventilated areas. I keep mine away from enclosed spaces or heat sources like radiators.
The compact design helps with heat dissipation, but good airflow ensures longevity. I’ve had mine running for months without issues, thanks to this simple precaution.
- Regularly Check for Firmware Updates
EIGHTREE occasionally releases firmware updates to improve performance and security. Check the Smart Life app for any available updates and apply them promptly.
I make it a habit to check every couple of months, and the process is straightforward, taking just a minute or two.
Comparison With Other Smart Plug Brands
- TP-Link Kasa Smart Plugs
TP-Link Kasa is a heavyweight in the smart plug market, and for good reason. Their plugs are reliable, with a robust app and energy-monitoring features across most models. I’ve used a Kasa plug for my TV, and the energy tracking is a nice touch for keeping tabs on power usage.
However, Kasa plugs are pricier than EIGHTREE, and the setup process feels a bit more involved, requiring a separate Kasa app.
While Kasa offers Apple HomeKit support in some models, which EIGHTREE lacks, I found EIGHTREE’s broader compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings more versatile for my mixed-device setup. If you’re prioritizing cost and ease of use, EIGHTREE edges out Kasa.
- Emporia Smart Plugs
Emporia smart plugs stand out for their advanced energy-management features. I tested an Emporia plug with my fridge, and the app’s detailed energy graphs were impressive, showing usage trends over days.
Emporia’s app is also highly customizable, letting you set energy-saving schedules with precision. However, Emporia plugs are bulkier than EIGHTREE’s, and they don’t support Apple HomeKit, similar to EIGHTREE.
The price point is comparable, but Emporia’s focus on energy monitoring makes it a better choice if that’s your priority. For general use and compact design, I prefer EIGHTREE’s simplicity and affordability.
- Leviton Smart Plugs
Leviton’s smart plugs are sleek and feature a unique corner button that doubles as an indicator light, which I found intuitive when I tried one with my desk lamp. The Leviton app is straightforward, but like EIGHTREE, it lacks energy monitoring in its basic models.
Leviton plugs are slimmer, making them ideal for tight spaces, but they’re more expensive and don’t support SmartThings, limiting their versatility compared to EIGHTREE. If aesthetics and slim design are key, Leviton is a strong contender, but EIGHTREE’s broader compatibility and lower cost make it more practical for most users.
- Amazon Smart Plugs
Amazon’s smart plugs are designed for Alexa users, and they integrate seamlessly with Echo devices. I used one with my bedroom fan, and the setup was as simple as EIGHTREE’s, with no extra app required if you’re already in the Alexa ecosystem.
However, Amazon plugs lack Google Home and SmartThings support, making them less flexible than EIGHTREE. They also don’t offer energy monitoring or advanced scheduling like EIGHTREE’s Away Mode. If you’re all-in on Alexa, Amazon’s plug is fine, but EIGHTREE’s wider compatibility and features make it a better all-around choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Reliability depends on your needs, but the EIGHTREE Smart Plug is a top contender. Its stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection, seamless integration with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings, and robust scheduling features make it dependable for daily use. I’ve had zero dropouts in months, even with multiple plugs running simultaneously. Other brands like TP-Link Kasa and Emporia are also reliable, but EIGHTREE’s affordability and versatility give it an edge for most users.
Yes, the EIGHTREE Smart Plug works flawlessly with Alexa. I linked mine to my Echo Dot in minutes, and voice commands like “Alexa, turn off the lamp “
The EIGHTREE Smart Plug primarily uses the Smart Life app, which I found intuitive and easy to navigate. You can also control it through the Alexa or Google Home apps once integrated, or even Home Assistant for advanced users. I stick with Smart Life for its scheduling and group control features, but the flexibility to use multiple apps makes it adaptable to your preferred setup.
Avoid plugging high-wattage appliances like air conditioners, large heaters, or refrigerators into the EIGHTREE Smart Plug, as they may exceed its 13A (2990W) capacity. I also steer clear of medical devices or critical equipment that requires constant power, as Wi-Fi glitches could disrupt operation. Stick to low-power devices like lamps, fans, or coffee makers for safe and reliable use.
Wrapping Up
The EIGHTREE Smart Plug is a fantastic addition to any home, smart or not. Its ease of use, affordability, and compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings make it a standout choice.
Whether you’re automating your morning coffee or securing your home while away, this plug delivers convenience and peace of mind. Don’t wait to simplify your life—grab a pack today and experience the joy of a smarter, more efficient home.
