The best remote-controlled electrical outlets in the UK 2023

A remote controlled electrical outlet allows you to remotely control the turning on and off of household appliances. With this convenient feature, you won't have to get up at night to unplug an outlet in the kitchen, living room or laundry room. If you're also looking to control your electricity consumption, you'll need this kind of device. Without further ado, check out our guide to the best remote controlled electrical outlets.

Etekcity 783956541079 - Set of 5 1
9/10

Best value for money

Etekcity 783956541079 - Set of 5

The best recommended power outlet

Instead of putting your household appliances on standby, use these 5 Etekcity 783956541079 plugs. This way, you won't have to get up in the evening and the machines will automatically turn off or on.

33,59 £ on Amazon

The use of the 5 Etekcity 783956541079 remote controlled electrical outlets will reduce your energy consumption. Instead of putting the TV, set-top box, etc. on standby, these devices will now be as if you had pulled the plug. Instead of getting up at night, just press the remote control offered. Practical, especially for people with reduced mobility.

Each remote-controlled electrical outlet can be controlled even in the presence of furniture, floors and walls, since the radio signal knows no obstacles. Very well designed, this Etekcity 783956541079 set offers several possibilities in a house. Does your lighting seem too over the top? Just one click and the lights will dim without you having to move.

SCS Sentinel S316-2 2
6/10

Best value for money

SCS Sentinel S316-2

The best entry-level remote control power outlet

With the 2 SCS Sentinel S316-2 remote controlled electrical outlets, turn on and off your appliances from up to 30m away! Convenient for taking control of indoor lighting decorations.

39,99 £ on Amazon

The 2 SCS Sentinel S316-2 plugs offer to power some devices at a distance of up to 30 m. Very practical to turn on or off machines out of reach, including light decorations such as street lamps and garlands, they have an output power of 2300 W for 10 A. The set also comes with a manual, a battery for the remote control. Installation is easy and you can try the plugs and the remote control before use.

The Sentinel S316-2 SCSs can suffer from obstructions, however. This is because they only support sockets in view. You won't be able to unplug the outlet in the living room while you're in the kitchen, nor will you be able to turn on an outlet hidden under the sofa. However, the robustness of these outlets is such that they can be installed outside the house.

Meross MSS210FR - Set of 4 3
8/10

Best premium value for money

Meross MSS210FR - Set of 4

The best high-end remote control power outlet

Control your electricity consumption with the 4 Meross MSS210FR remote-controlled electrical outlets. You can set them up remotely from a smartphone or tablet.

35,99 £ on Amazon

Do you want to know your consumption on frequently used appliances in your home? Meross MSS210FR connected sockets will inform you in real time about your consumption while providing you with a history. As a result, manage the program via Merros App to save efficiently. Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Echo, Echo Dot, Google Assistant, Google Home, Nest Hub, and SmartThings voice assistants, these remote-controlled electrical outlets are a must-have.

Customizable, the Meross MSS210FR are also pre-programmable. Depending on the weather and routine, you'll know what time you need to arrive home from work. Then simply program the lights or air conditioner to be on and off so that when you arrive, the house is already in ideal conditions. Note that there are no distance limits for using these outlets.

Meross HomeKit MSS620-N 4
8/10

Multi-plug

Meross HomeKit MSS620-N

A great remote control power strip

This time, we are not offering a bundle but a plug with 2 connected inputs. The Meross HomeKit MSS620-N is very resistant, so it can be placed in the garden or the attic.

31,99 £ on Amazon

The Meross HomeKit MSS620-N remote-controlled power strip works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant, Google Home, Nest Hub and SmartThings. Recommended for iOS 13 or later, with Apple Home, it requires an Apple tablet or smartphone. Being able to be placed outside the house or in damp and/or dusty areas like the attic, it has an IP rating of 44. However, avoid immersing or rinsing it.

Very practical, Meross HomeKit MSS620-N does require a bit of setup. Once you've unpacked the package, download the free Merros app from Google Store or scan the QR code in the manual. Enjoy your comfort by turning on and off your devices via a mobile device without distance limitations. The timer prevents you from forgetting to turn off the devices.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best remote-controlled electrical outlet

Any specific needs?

The best recommended power outlet

The best entry-level remote control power outlet

The best high-end remote control power outlet

A great remote control power strip

Your guide : Samuel

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4.9/55 votes

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Comparison table of the best remote-controlled electrical outlets

TOP OF THE LINE CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Etekcity 783956541079 - Set of 5 5
9/10
SCS Sentinel S316-2 6
6/10
Meross MSS210FR - Set of 4 7
8/10
Meross HomeKit MSS620-N 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Etekcity 783956541079 - Set of 5
SCS Sentinel S316-2
Meross MSS210FR - Set of 4
Meross HomeKit MSS620-N
Instead of putting your household appliances on standby, use these 5 Etekcity 783956541079 plugs. This way, you won't have to get up in the evening and the machines will automatically turn off or on.
With the 2 SCS Sentinel S316-2 remote controlled electrical outlets, turn on and off your appliances from up to 30m away! Convenient for taking control of indoor lighting decorations.
Control your electricity consumption with the 4 Meross MSS210FR remote-controlled electrical outlets. You can set them up remotely from a smartphone or tablet.
This time, we are not offering a bundle but a plug with 2 connected inputs. The Meross HomeKit MSS620-N is very resistant, so it can be placed in the garden or the attic.
Output power
2300 W
2300 W10
A
16 A
10 A
Range
30 m in an open areaUseable
even with obstacles
Up to 30 m unobstructed
Without distance limit
Illuminated
Number of outlets available with remote control
5
2
4
1 outlet with 2 inlets
Safety
Plastic insulated plates
Tested, inspected and compliant with applicable directives, standards and regulations.
The housing made of ABS fireproof material.
Electrical overload protection and a sliding safety cover
IP44 waterproof certified
Location
Indoor
Indoor and outdoor
Interior
Indoor and outdoor

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - remote-controlled electrical outlet

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How to choose your remote-controlled electrical outlet

If you're wondering what features you should look for in a remote-controlled electrical outlet, this section will advise you.

#1 - Power output

When buying a remote control electrical outlet, it is important to check that the power output is suitable for the devices you want to connect to it. Contrary to the classic mains socket, the power output differs according to the model. Some of them deliver a power of 300 W, while others reach up to 2300 W.

Sockets with the most powerful models are still very interesting, especially if you plan to connect devices with different intensities to operate. The versatility of these outlets makes your life easier. With a high power rating, you can connect a lamp and/or a washing machine to the outlet.

So remember that a 300W outlet can only deliver enough power for very limited equipment choices. It can handle different kinds of lights, TV screens or players. Whereas with a 2300 W outlet, you can power almost any kind of appliance. According to some consumers, on average, 1000 to 1500 W is enough to power everyday appliances.

#2 - The scope

The range is the criterion not to be neglected. For a conventional or programmable outlet, it is not a question of distance. Here, you want to reach an outlet at a range far enough from your bed at home. Be aware that, distance tests are done in an unobstructed space, those that make it difficult to buy thinking about using it in a house with walls and floors.

The distance on the market can range from 30 to 70 m. Logically, the models with a signal that goes further are the most advantageous. Thus the possibilities of reaching the outlet are greater.

#3 - The number of outlets offered

The number of outlets remains very varied on the market, some manufacturers offer products with one outlet, and others with 2, 3 and even 4 outlets. In general, given the number of devices in the house, it is more convenient to have a product with a pack of many outlets.

The possibility of connecting several machines at the same time will no longer be missed. Everyone can take advantage of it, the TV, phone charger and iron can work at the same time. In case you only need one remote control socket for one equipment, the single socket is at your disposal. Less expensive, you will save money and electricity with the added comfort.

#4 - Security

It is essential to have a socket with 2 poles and ground. In the current regulation and standard, the remote control electrical outlet must have a NF and/or CE marking with a current rating of 16A. As mentioned above, make sure that the maximum power matches the power of the devices you want to control.

In case of an outdoor use, check that the IP value is higher than 44 with a water and dust tightness degree. Above all, be careful with your children, don't leave the plug lying around and within the reach of children.

#5 - Location

Before making your decision for the choice of your remote control electric plug, think about where you want to place it. In the house or outside? If you want to put it in the house, the outlet should be placed out of reach of children.

If you choose to place it outside the house, check the IP. Also, if you want to install it in the garage or in the cellar, places where dust and water splashes are more likely to infiltrate, the IP must be at least 44. There is no exception for use in the kitchen.

How to use a remote control socket?

The automatic home is no longer a myth these days thanks to the advancement of technology. Sockets can even be controlled remotely.

Why a remote control socket? For comfort, the water heater was invented to have hot water without twiddling your thumb and the remote control outlet was invented to be able to unplug a forgotten outlet in the kitchen while you are warm in your bed.

After unpacking the remote control outlet from its delivery box, it is essential to pair it with the remote control or connect it to the mobile application. To do this, take a small screwdriver, then unscrew and open the compartment at the back. Then, take the trouble to open the small tab, a code is hidden there. It will allow you to connect the device to the remote control. Do not forget to write down the code in numbers and letters somewhere, then do the same process on the bottom part of the remote control.

On the remote control, there are buttons that control the socket. In this way, it is possible to control several outlets at the same time from a single remote control and with a single button. After installing the outlets and the remote control, you can change the code.

The different types of remote-controlled electrical outlets

Making way for technology, comfort and modernity, connected outlets are making their appearance.

The mechanical programmable socket

This convenient outlet can be programmed with a thumbwheel. It is possible to determine convenient time slots for the use of the outlet. For example, if you connect an electric heater or a light fixture, you can set the outlet to turn on from 5 to 7 a.m. and from 7 to 10 p.m.

Every day, this specific time interval will be respected. This programmable outlet is not very expensive and durable, yet it offers the convenience of not having to plug and unplug the outlet yourself. With this device, you can say that your home follows the technology with less investment than other programmable outlet.

The digital programmable socket

The digital programmable outlet seems to be more expensive than the mechanical one on the market. For programming, this outlet is equipped with an LCD screen. Obviously, it allows you to program the exact time of plugging and unplugging. What makes it different from the mechanical programmable socket is its ability to offer other functions.

Among other things, it can set different programs according to a specific day of the week or a certain time of the year. When traveling, it can also allow you to simulate a presence in the house by recording a random lighting.

The remote control socket

A remote control outlet is very different from the other 2 proposed above. When you buy it, it can come with a remote control or it can come with technologies that are controlled using a smartphone or tablet app. This is about remote control and not about pre-ordering.

Scheduling allows you to plug and unplug in advance at a certain time. Some machines used at inaccurate times can therefore not benefit. These devices will be remotely controlled in case they forget to unplug.

Remote controlled electrical outlet or programmable outlet?

Remote-controlled electrical outlets

A remote-controlled electrical outlet is part of the home automation equipment in the house. It offers an almost infinite possibility of adjustment in your home, indeed, it allows you to give you the control whether you are at home or not. It is possible to power devices only via your phone while you are in the office. Or turn off a machine in the kitchen while you are already in bed.

In the case of a remote control connection, there may not be enough distance to turn off the machine. In other circumstances, you may have to get up to reach the remote control or your tablet or smartphone.

Programmable sockets

We are talking about an outlet that can program the power supply and power off in advance. Even when you're away, the cycle doesn't stop. No need to get up to turn off a machine in the kitchen or a lamp in the living room when you are already warm in bed.

Time is time, if you arrive a little late in the night, you will have to manually plug in the power supply of the lamp which is planned to be turned off at 10 pm and of course unplug it before going to bed. This plug cannot power devices that are used at unspecified or infrequent times.

Verdict

To power certain appliances such as a floor lamp, you can use the programmable socket. This way, it will turn itself on and off at fixed times. For other appliances, the remote-controlled socket is more suitable. This way, if you forget, you can unplug the appliances remotely. Or you can connect it even if you are not present at the place.

Tips

Remember to set up the plug before using it.

It's more convenient to configure the outlet before installing to see the codes.

Make sure that the remote control is able to receive even if there are obstacles.

Think about

looking at the reviews given by consumers to see if the outlet can be controlled from such and such a distance with or without obstruction

.

Keep out of reach of children.

If you

have children at home, take care to hide the outlet and also the remote control well.

Observe the safety standards.

If

you want to put the outlet in dusty or wet places, check the IP of the outlet carefully

.

Check that the remote control is working.

To

avoid being surprised, before installing the devices, first plug in an outlet (phone charger, lamp) and try to power it with the remote control or tablet and then stop the power still remotely

.

FAQ

What is the best remote control electrical outlet?

The best remote control power outlet depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.

Is the remote-controlled electrical outlet economical?

By switching off the TV or other machines without unplugging it, the standby mode consumes about 47 watts, in the region of 18 euros/year. With the remote control socket, the appliances are unplugged and do not consume at all, i.e. 0 W on standby and a clear reduction in the annual bill.

How does a remote control socket work?

The electronic circuit of a remote control socket contains a radio module, a relay and a transformerless capacitive power supply. This circuit makes it very economical.

Where should a remote-controlled electrical outlet be placed?

A remote controlled electrical outlet can be installed outside and inside the house, depending on its IP.

Can I power a multiple outlet with the remote control socket?

It is possible to connect a power strip to a remote control socket, however, take care not to exceed the 3680 W allowed. Be careful because all the appliances powered by the power strip will be controlled simultaneously. It is important to know that once the 16 A is exceeded, according to the safety system, the power will be cut off automatically.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
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  13. , amazon.co.uk
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  20. , diagral.fr
  21. , rueducommerce.fr
  22. , chacon.com
  23. , cdiscount.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Etekcity 783956541079 - Set of 5 9
Etekcity 783956541079 - Set of 5
SCS Sentinel S316-2 10
SCS Sentinel S316-2
Meross MSS210FR - Set of 4 11
Meross MSS210FR - Set of 4
Meross HomeKit MSS620-N 12
Meross HomeKit MSS620-N

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