Before you invest in a new smart power strip for your connected home, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of. In this guide, I‘ll overview 4 key reasons you may want to hold off, along with some great alternative "dumb" power strip options that may work just as well.
Overview
The 4 Main Drawbacks of Smart Power Strips:
- Higher cost – Generally 2-3X more expensive than basic surge protector strips
- Security & privacy concerns – Internet connectivity opens up potential hacking risks
- Reliability issues – Dependence on WiFi connectivity means functionality is lost during internet outages
- Compatibility problems – Many reported syncing issues with certain smart home hubs and voice assistants
While the ability to control outlets remotely and set schedules is useful, it may not be worth it given the drawbacks above. There are plenty of affordable "dumb" power strip options with surge protection and extra outlets to suit most needs.
Below I‘ll explore each of these smart power strip drawbacks in more detail, along with some great alternative products to consider instead.
The Cost Factor
Smart power strips don‘t come cheap, especially if you want advanced functionality like voice control support and mobile app access. They are generally 2-3 times more expensive than a basic surge protector strip with the same number of outlets.
For example, this popular Belkin 12-outlet smart power strip retails for $120:
Whereas you can get a 12-outlet surge protector strip from Tripp Lite for around $40:
Here‘s a comparison of some top-rated smart vs. basic power strip models:
| Product | Outlets | Surge Protection | Smart Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belkin Smart Power Strip | 12 | Yes | App control, scheduling | $120 |
| Tripp Lite Surge Protector | 12 | Yes | None | $40 |
| TP-Link Kasa Smart Strip | 6 | Yes | Voice control, scheduling | $70 |
| Amazon Basics Power Strip | 6 | Yes | None | $12 |
As you can see, you‘re paying a steep premium for those smart features!
For most people, scheduling and app control of power outlets simply isn‘t necessary. Basic surge protected strips work great if all you need is extra plug capacity.
Security Vulnerabilities
With anything connected to the internet comes security risks. Unfortunately, hackers have started targeting smart home devices more frequently over the past couple years.
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Research firm ESET found a 125% annual increase in cyberattacks targeting connected home devices in 2022.
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An estimated 20% of US households using smart home tech have experienced a cyber attack according to Statista surveys.
We‘ve seen everything from baby monitors to lightbulbs being hacked. Smart power strips could allow a hacker to literally turn off appliances, electronics, or security systems remotely!
While manufacturers claim security measures are in place, any connected device is vulnerable. Do you really want to invite that risk given the limited functionality benefit?
Dumb power strips isolate your devices and eliminate this network security issue altogether. No wifi = no hacking!
Reliability Concerns
By relying on internet connectivity and an app to function properly, smart power strips inherently come with certain reliabilitypitfalls:
Internet outage = no smart features. If your home WiFi goes down, all scheduling and control through the mobile app will cease to work. You‘re left with a plain old power strip until connectivity returns.
Spotty connections = intermittent functionality. Smart power strips rely on consistent internet access. Any drops or blips in the connection can result in delays and errors controlling outlets remotely.
This frustrates many users that shell out top dollar for the high-tech convenience of scheduling and remote access. Reviews of smart power strip models cite connectivity issues as a common complaint.
With a traditional "dumb" power strip, it simply works when you plug devices into it. No dependence on your home network required. Just reliable surge protected outlets, which is what most of us need.
Compatibility Headaches
If you already have an Echo, Google Nest, or other smart home hub set up, you‘d reasonably expect full integration and compatibility with a new smart power strip. Unfortunately, that‘s not always the case.
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Limited voice assistant support – Some models only work with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, rarely both. Support for Apple HomeKit or Samsung SmartThings is even less common. You may have to replace existing home automation components if support for your platform is spotty.
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Syncing problems – Reviews cite various connectivity issues getting certain smart power strip models to interface properly with popular hubs like Echo Dot or Google Home. They simply fail to sync or have intermittent responsiveness.
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Outlet control conflicts – Some users run into problems controlling outlets through both the native power strip app and their smart home platform. Mismatched statuses lead to confusion controlling devices.
Bottom line – integration headaches are commonplace with smart power strips today. Manufacturers have yet to work out seamless compatibility across all major smart home ecosystems.
With basic dumb power strips, compatibility isn‘t even a thought! They have nothing to sync with, so you avoid the risk completely.
Great "Dumb" Power Strip Alternatives
Hopefully the drawbacks above give you pause before spending upwards of $100+ on a questionable smart power strip upgrade.
You can avoid all of those pitfalls by going with a tried and true basic surge protector strip instead.
Here are some well-rated and affordable options to consider:
Belkin 12-Outlet Pivot-Plug Surge Protector – $27.99
- Generous 12 outlets with 8ft cord
- Built-in surge protection up to 3930 joules
- Pivot plug design to fit bulky adapters
- Flat profile that lays flush against wall
- $100 cheaper than Belkin‘s smart strip!
Ideal for home theater setups, office workstations, and dorm rooms. Tons of outlet capacity to power all your devices.
GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector – $11.97
- Compact design with 6 standard outlets
- 1,140 joule surge protection rating
- On/Off power switch for convenience
- 6 foot 14 gauge heavy-duty power cord
- Budget friendly price!
Ideal for bedrooms, family rooms, kitchens or anywhere that just needs a few extra accessible outlets.
I hope this overview gives you something to think about before investing in a smart power strip. In many cases, you can avoid the reliability headaches and save money by going "dumb"!
Let me know if you have any other questions.
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