Smart socket Xiaomi Mi Smart, ZigBee version - boiler controlled. Smart Wi-Fi socket Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug A small complaint against Xiaomi

Good afternoon

There are a lot of reviews on xiaomi products. Some products have been reviewed multiple times. Today we will add another device from a famous Chinese brand to this list:
Smart Wi-Fi socket with additional USB output. Let's find out what this outlet can do, why it was called smart and find out what disadvantages are inherent in this outlet.

Often visiting a country house, I thought about how great it would be to turn on the heating of the boiler in advance. And in winter, also run a heater in the bedroom... But progress does not stand still and every year the elements smart home are becoming more accessible. So 2 months ago I received it, which I installed on the boiler. I was very pleased with her work. But recently they provided us with permanent Internet, and therefore it was decided to also take a wi-fi socket for testing. I chose this particular outlet only out of interest in Xiaomi products. Moreover, winter is still far away and I will be able to buy something else if necessary.
So, the socket came packaged in a white box stylized with the inscription Mi, exactly the size of the socket itself. The box itself is sealed in film. Almost all the specifications are on the back.

In principle, everything is clear:
Dimensions 62x55x33mm
Operating voltage 180-250V
Output voltage USB 5V, 1A
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz b/g/n

Open the box. The outlet at the outlet turned out to be quite universal. Only the grounding of the European plug will remain unconnected.

Inside we find the socket itself and instructions that are useless for our person. True, it has a QR code for downloading the SmartHome application, but only the official Chinese version.

We immediately notice the Chinese 3C plug. For now, this socket is only available with this type of plug, and to use it in other countries you will need a high-quality adapter. The thickness of the plastic is also striking. It doesn't bend or squeak in any way. According to the manufacturer, this is a special fireproof plastic that can withstand temperatures up to 750 degrees.
From side to protective film There are inscriptions that say that for this device to work, you need to download the “SmartHome” application from the instructions.


At the top there is a USB connector and an on/off button. By default, this button controls the USB connector and the outlet itself simultaneously. However, the actions of this button can be changed through the application. Also, holding it down for 5 seconds will reset all settings to factory settings.

Well, let's try it at work. When you connect for the first time, the yellow status light starts blinking, indicating that the outlet has not yet been configured and is in discovery mode. After completing the registration procedure, the indicator will change its color to blue and will remain continuously lit during operation

To connect and configure, download the SmartHome application. Basically, I connected the outlet using the original Chinese version of the application. However, then I discovered that on 4pda. Therefore, I will show the whole process in the Russian version.

connection to socket

Naturally, like any other Xiaomi device, you also need a mi account. On first launch we will be asked to log in, after which we can proceed to select the device we want to connect



Then we need to select the network and its password. You can also connect to a hidden network.




That's all. Our device can be controlled from anywhere via the Internet.

After successfully registering the device, according to the good xiaomi tradition, the application offered to download an updated version of the firmware for the socket. After a quick update, our device appears in the application list and becomes available for management.

You can control both the outlet itself and the USB output separately. Blue icon - output is on. Gray - disabled. If desired, you can connect a 5V intermediate relay to USB and control some other load.


And now we come to the part because of which the manufacturer called this outlet smart.

For each of the ports, we can connect different time intervals to turn on/off the outlet and tie them to specific days. The number of created rules is not limited. It turns out something like a timer that can work differently on different days. However, it should be noted that the time in the program is used according to the Chinese time zone and they will actually work 5 hours earlier than Moscow. This parameter cannot yet be changed in the program, and you need to take this into account before setting intervals


Also, in addition to this, there is a separate scenario menu in which you can configure the behavior of the socket if movement was detected in the Xiaomi Ants camera, or if our phone connects/disconnects from the home network.

Let's try it at work. USB output is stated as 5V1A. Without load we have almost standard 5V output

Connect a 1A load

The device does not support a 2A load and falls into the protection.
During testing, a very unpleasant point was revealed: the socket does not remember its state after a power outage and after power is restored, both outputs remain in the off state. And no notifications about this are displayed in the application. Until you check it yourself, you won’t know that the outlet is disconnected.
I sent them feedback on this matter. Perhaps this point will be corrected in future firmware, but at the moment I consider this a big minus. On a stupid GSM socket this parameter can even be changed.
And finally, let's look at the intestines. It was not very easy to open, because... There are no gaps at all, and the hard plastic did not want to bend at all. The build quality is, of course, excellent. In principle, I didn’t expect anything else.

Xiaomi sockets are latest devices included in Smart Home. They have proven themselves to be excellent devices for home protection. Smart sockets are capable of determining the power of currently used gadgets even in the absence of apartment owners. Used to create smart devices materials have fire-resistant protection, which makes it possible to eliminate the possibility of an emergency. Regardless of where you are, control is carried out using an application installed on your smartphone.

This is very convenient, because even if you forgot to turn off the iron or not, just turn off the power supply and calmly continue doing your work without rushing home. Also, if you turn on the coffee maker before your arrival, you will be greeted by the aromatic smell of coffee. The minimalistic design of the sockets captivates with its simplicity and discreetness. This device will look great in any home. Buying a Xiaomi socket means protecting your home from fires associated with power surges and forever forgetting about most daily household chores. Affordable prices and convenient addresses for pickup in Moscow will please you.

The concept of a smart home is becoming increasingly popular and every year the market in this area is growing exponentially. Today, there are a considerable number of interesting gadgets and technologies that are designed to help a person solve their everyday household tasks and problems.

Relatively recently, Xiaomi joined this tech race and offered a wide range of products for creating a truly “smart home”. In this review, we will not touch on the general topic of development in this area, but will talk about a very specific and useful device, namely the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug smart Wi-Fi socket.

Main characteristics

Power supply AC 180 ~ 250V
-Maximum power 2200 10V
-Built-in Wi-Fi module and USB output 5V 1A
-Dimensions – 63 x 55 x 35 mm

Packaging and equipment

The smart socket is packaged in a compact box made of thin white cardboard. The packaging design is not burdened with unnecessary elements.

On the lid you can see the brand logo, and on the back there is a brief list of characteristics and official information about the manufacturer in Chinese.

Taking a closer look at the contents of the package, you can find tiny instructions for this product.

Modest, but, perhaps, nothing more is required to supply such an outlet, except perhaps an adapter, the purchase of which should be taken care of in advance.

Xiaomi devices are designed for the domestic market only, so the plug may not match the standard of your socket. But, nevertheless, according to the characteristics of the built-in power supply, the socket is universal and can function in any country.

Appearance

Considering that the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug is intended for stationary use, the dimensions do not play a big role. I can’t help but note the overall compactness of the device compared to other competing gadgets. The dimensions of the socket are 63 x 55 x 35 mm.

At the moment, the Xiaomi smart plug occupies the status of the most compact gadget with this functionality. The socket body is made entirely of high-quality, pleasant-to-touch glossy plastic white, on which it is difficult to see flaws. The back surface is slightly darker and the plastic is rougher.

There are few functional elements on the body of the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug - this is a universal connector for the plug of any powered device, as well as an on/off key at the end.

Just below you can see the USB port. On the front, in addition to the universal socket socket, there is a light indicator that notifies you of the presence of external power supply, Wi-Fi module activity and power supply.

Applications and software

Having connected the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug to the mains, it must be connected to the smartphone using the Mi Home application recommended by the manufacturer. The attached instructions contain a QR-Code for downloading this application. If, when connected, the blue LED on the socket lights up, this means that the connection was successful (there are no problems with the setup).

The main idea of ​​the Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug is the ability to remote control power supply of any device connected to the network. When your smartphone or tablet is connected to the Internet, you can remotely turn the outlet on and off, and it’s easy to see what mode the gadget is in. If your smartphone or tablet is outside the network coverage area, but you know exactly when you need to turn on the outlet, you can set a timer for convenience.

Thanks to custom profiles, it is possible to set various modes turning the socket on and off. For example, when you come home, your smartphone connects to your router and at the same time the socket automatically turns on and supplies power to the USB output - this allows you to save extra time without additional costly gestures.

Conclusion

To summarize, we should remember the cost of the proposed product, 2100 rubles. at the time of publication of the article, you can buy by clicking on. An important advantage of the gadget is the unique usefulness of such a device - it will always come in handy both in an apartment and in a country house. Build quality and dimensions, high level development software inspire confidence in the device.

Hello, friends

What's in the package?

Still the same small box made of white cardboard. All sensors are packaged almost identically and the socket is no exception.

In terms of its technical parameters - a current of 10 A, respectively, a power of up to 2.5 kW - this outlet is completely similar to its wi-fi version. Differences in the control protocol - to work with this outlet you will need Xiaomi Mi Multi-functional Gateway.

In appearance, the sockets are easy to confuse. It is made in the form of a white, glossy parallelepiped. On the front part it has a universal socket that allows installation without adapters - European, American and Chinese (Australian) plugs. At the bottom there is a blue LED showing the socket activity status.

She has a triple fork, Chinese. To work in European sockets you will need an adapter. Sockets with universal connectors - for example, such as in Xiaomi extension cords - come without adapters.

The socket has one physical button- with the help of which initial pairing with the gateway is carried out, and then, if necessary, manual activation/deactivation (here I mean supplying power to a device controlled by an outlet).

Temporarily - I use the socket through an adapter, but I ordered and am waiting for this Legrand EN15 socket in order to connect the smart socket directly.

Socket dimensions - slightly less than 4 cm wide

Height - 5.5 cm

If you compare it next to a wi-fi socket, it becomes clear that the ZigBee version is a little narrower, about 4 mm.

Now to the point.
This socket was purchased for a very specific purpose - to control and monitor the energy consumption of the boiler. I have two separate water inlets in my apartment, and a boiler is installed on one of them - which is in the bathroom. Based on observations lasting more than one year, I know that the average monthly consumption of hot water at this inlet is 3 cubic meters. m. Cost - hot water + drainage *3 = $10 per month. The cost of cold water, including drainage, is $1.5. In order to understand whether there are savings from using a boiler, it was necessary to calculate the energy consumption. To do this, I used this design consisting of a mechanical timer - interrupter and one of the most common energy monitors.

This installation has a lot of disadvantages - firstly, even its price, which is a little more than the outlet under review (of course, taking into account the fact that I already have a gateway). Secondly, the timer-interrupter is very inaccurate, and after a couple of months of operation it began to stick and lag - I had to tighten it every day. And data from the monitor must be collected manually and recorded somewhere. About appearance and there is nothing to say. Therefore, this entire structure was replaced with a smart socket -

Connecting the socket - similar to any ZigBee sensor, is carried out through the Xiaomi gateway control plugin. From the list of available sensors, an outlet is selected, then by pressing and holding the button, the outlet is paired with the gateway, then it is proposed to determine the location of the outlet relative to the apartment.

Unlike its Wi-Fi sister, here you can select the type of icon for the socket, depending on the type of connected load. In my case - a water heater. After this, the device appears in the general list and installs the management plugin. In the plugin, you can immediately see the main and key difference between ZigBee and Wi-Fi sockets - this is the measurement of energy consumption. It is this that allows not only management, but also monitoring - which is what I need for my task.

Since we already have some readings, we need to compare them at least with conventional energy monitors.

I have a couple of Chinese energy monitors on my farm, let’s compare the readings. First, a built-in energy monitor with bangud. Measurements of the consumption of the outlet itself - according to this device, in the off state - the outlet consumes practically nothing

In the active state, consumption increases to 0.5 Watt. No load is connected.

Comparison with load. It should be noted here that the energy monitor readings change instantly, depending on the current load consumption, and the readings on the smartphone, due to the long journey from the outlet to it, with some delay. A relatively small load, determined by the energy monitor at 101.3 Watts, and by the socket (and the socket itself is connected through the energy monitor) at 105 Watts

At a heavy load (kettle), the discrepancy with this energy monitor is even greater - 1764 Watts, versus 1827 Watts at the outlet.

It would seem that he is lying, but let’s not draw hasty conclusions. Let's compare it with the more common energy monitor, which I previously used to calculate the energy consumption of a boiler. To begin with, measure the consumption of the socket in an inactive state - also 0, below the sensitivity limit of the device.

In the active state - 1 watt, the reading is higher than that of the previous device.

Now the same loads. Here the discrepancy is much smaller, and if we take into account some delay in updating information on the smartphone, then it is practically absent. For example, 103.2 watts on the monitor and 105 watts (as in the test with the first monitor) from the outlet.

The situation is the same with a larger load. 1811 Watts on the energy monitor and 1818 Watts on the outlet. Again, taking into account the fact that the data on the monitor is updated instantly, but on the smartphone - with a delay.

Comparing all 3 at the same time, we see that the readings of the socket and the second monitor almost coincide, and the first device also underestimates the readings. Also, based on my control measurements of boiler consumption, which was carried out using the second energy monitor, I saw that its readings completely fit into the calculated ones, and I trust it more.

Let's return to the socket control plugin. WITH home page The plugin can be turned off, set timers or a countdown timer - just like in the Wi-Fi version of the socket. In the main menu, to the standard options - smart scenes, descriptions, basic settings and the ability to add to the list of main devices - we have added our own unique ones. This is the ability to change the icon, depending on the device being controlled - second screenshot. The ability to set the resumption of the socket state after a power outage, the charge protection option, apparently turns off the socket after the load current drops - not tested, I have a different task for now, and the ability to turn off the LED indicator is important for those who are bothered by its glow.
What’s convenient is that an icon that shows the activity status of the outlet and allows you to turn it on and off appears in the Control Panel line of the gateway management plugin.

The most important thing for me is calculating energy consumption. From the main page of the plugin, from left to right, there is data on consumption per day, monthly and in the form of a time graph in the context of days, weeks or months. For example, now, I have configured the boiler in such a way that the consumption is 3 kWh per day, so I get about 90 kWh per month, which will be approximately $4.5 at a tariff over 100 kW. Combined with $1.5 for cold water, I get $6 versus $10. 40% savings are already noticeable.

In its other capabilities, the socket is similar to the wi-fi version. Setting on and off is possible through the menu - timers. In this case, the outlet is completely independent of either Chinese clouds or the Internet - it works offline. In scenarios, the socket works only as an action and offers three actuation options - on, off and switching states. The advantage of smart scenarios is the possibility of their flexible control - for example, using external sensors and controllers - or using other scenarios. The disadvantage is that it works through the Xiaomi cloud. However, there are alternative options for managing the Xiaomi smart home ecosystem and are rapidly developing; I will definitely touch on this topic in future reviews.
As for the task under consideration, it is most advisable to control the boiler using timers - by setting operating modes for weekdays and weekends. By experimentally determining how much operating time is enough to provide the required amount of hot water.

As a result, the socket perfectly suited my task of controlling and calculating energy costs when the boiler was operating. The plans are to consider options for either a couple more such sockets, or if the price is good, take the Aqara built-in socket. Since at its standard price - twice as expensive as the option under consideration - it is not yet interesting.

Video version of the review -

All my reviews of Xiaomi devices in chronological order - List

Thank you for your attention, that's all.

I really love Xiaomi gadgets for the ideal combination of price and quality and regularly share with you my impressions of new purchases. It's time to tell you how I chose smart sockets and extension cords.

The Xiaomi lineup in this niche is not yet so extensive; the Chinese mainly offer 4 models. I decided to compare them and tell you what I chose.

1. Xiaomi Power Strip (3 sockets/3 USB)

The first extension cord of the Chinese company, which became very popular among users due to its versatility. Later, the developers took into account the wishes of users and expanded the lineup network filters.

Characteristics:

• Maximum power: 2500 W
• Maximum voltage: 250 V
• Maximum current: 10 A
• USB ports: 5 V, total current for three ports 3.1 or 2.1 A per port
• Dimensions: 225 x 41 x 26 mm
• Length of cable: 1.8 m

The device has a nice appearance and looks great next to any Apple equipment. There is a small power switch with an LED on the case. The brightness is chosen perfectly, it is noticeable in any light, and in complete darkness it does not dazzle and does not illuminate the entire room. The toggle switch itself is slightly recessed, which avoids false clicks.

There are rubber feet-plugs located at the bottom; they prevent slipping and hide 4 mounting screws. Everything inside is just fine: copper contacts, neat soldering, good insulation.

The body itself is made of non-flammable plastic (it can melt at very high temperatures, but does not burn). At maximum load, Xiaomi Power Strip does not heat up above 42-43 degrees Celsius.

The device has universal sockets into which you can connect the following types of plugs:

• Type C (European, widespread in Russia).
• Type A (American, used in the USA, Canada, Japan).
• Type E (used in Poland, France, Belgium).
• Type F (common in Germany, Austria, Holland).
• Type I (used in Asia and Australia).

Xiaomi Power Strip is equipped with overload protection; the extension cord automatically turns off if the load exceeds 10 A. I was pleased with the presence of a differential circuit breaker that will work when faults are detected in the electrical circuit of connected devices.

The device is not smart and cannot be controlled remotely.

What is it useful for: With such an extension cord you can travel to any country or easily connect Apple equipment purchased in America or Asia. All sockets are childproof and are located at a normal distance from each other.


feel the difference

The only drawback of the device can be considered the three-pin plug of the Australian-Asian type I. But, what we wanted, the device is supplied exclusively for the Chinese market. Everything can be solved with a simple adapter; if desired, you can even replace the plug.

Buy Xiaomi Power Strip (3 sockets/3 USB) for 936 rubles.

2. Xiaomi Power Strip (5 sockets)

A logical continuation of the previous model is this decision. The device does not have USB ports on the body; the remaining space is taken up by two more universal sockets.

Characteristics:

• Maximum power: 2500 W
• Maximum voltage: 250 V
• Maximum current: 10 A
• Dimensions: 245 x 41 x 26 mm
• Length of cable: 2 m

The dimensions of the case and the length of the cable have changed. The remaining parameters are completely the same as its predecessor.

What is it useful for: such a device is suitable for use away from the workplace, where there is no need to use USB ports to connect gadgets.

Buy Xiaomi Power Strip (5 sockets) for 895 rubles.

3. Xiaomi Smart Power Strip

A year after the release of the first extension cable model, Xiaomi introduced a smart version of the gadget.

Characteristics:

• Maximum power: 2500 W
• Maximum voltage: 250 V
• Maximum current: 10 A
• Wireless module: Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, 802.11 b/g/n.
• Dimensions: 197 x 71 x 26 mm
• Length of cable: 1.8 m

There was no room for USB ports on the body of the smart extension cord. On the enlarged upper surface there are 6 holes for connecting plugs. 3 of them are universal, as in previous models, the remaining 3 are suitable only for European and American devices.

There are also two LEDs here, one indicates the presence of power, and the second is intended to indicate Wi-Fi connections. The power button is mechanical, but without locking. Unfortunately, the power switch was much more convenient than this button.

The main difference between a smart gadget is the ability to remotely control it from a smartphone. As always, Xiaomi gadgets use the Mi Home application.

Through the program you can do the following:

• remotely turn on or off the extension cord;
• set a schedule for turning the device on and off;
• activate the sleep timer;
• view the total energy consumption of all connected devices;
• track consumption statistics by hour, day, week.

As you can see, everything is quite typical, there are no unique features here. Unfortunately, you cannot turn off or turn on each outlet individually. It would be possible to provide for disconnecting sockets in twos or threes. The situation is similar with consumption monitoring, only the total figure for all connected devices.

What is it useful for: for connecting a large number of electronics and possible management gadgets remotely. Can be used to check the declared power consumption of gadgets.

Buy Xiaomi Smart Power Strip for 1,267 rubles.

4. Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug

A smart plug allows you to turn any device into a controlled gadget. Smart Plug is quite compact, through it you can connect a lamp or fixture, organize outdoor lighting in the yard, or power devices for remote shutdown.

Characteristics:

• Maximum power: 2200 W
• Maximum voltage: 250 V
• Maximum current: 10 A
• Wireless module: Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, 802.11 b/g/n.
• Dimensions: 63 x 55 x 35 mm

The socket has a pleasant appearance and a slightly recessed button on one of the faces. The device inherited the advantages and disadvantages of older extension cords.

The advantages include high-quality non-flammable plastic, excellent filling, a universal socket for connecting any plugs with a protective shutter.

There is only one drawback - the Chinese plug is right next to the socket, unlike the extension cord, you won’t be able to change it here. You will have to use an adapter. If you provide a permanent place for the gadget and replace the outlet with an Asian one.

The application has almost all the features from Xiaomi Smart Power Strip. Remote control, timer and schedule. There is only no indication of electricity consumption.


On sale you can find a version of this gadget with USB port. It is much less common, and the characteristics are not the most outstanding. The port is capable of outputting only 1A, which will not be enough for many phablets and tablets.

What is it useful for: for connecting lamps, lamps, air conditioners or heaters. Any equipment with such a device can operate on a timer or be turned on remotely.

Buy Xiaomi Mi Smart Power Plug for 850 rubles.

What did I choose and why

My choice fell on two devices. I took Xiaomi Power Strip as a desktop extension cord with charging for gadgets. It will power your iPhone, iPad and other equipment without any problems, and an extra couple of sockets on the table will never hurt. The device looks great next to Apple equipment; you don’t want to hide the extension cord under the table or put it on the floor.

An extension cord without USB ports seemed too boring, and a smart tee version seemed too redundant. It doesn’t have USB ports, which can really be compensated for by three extra inputs, but I don’t need remote control or power consumption control.


Great set for travel

The device will come in handy on long trips and travels. It doesn’t take up much space, but it will be a great help in hostels or hotels with a small number of outlets. You don't even have to take it with you charging device for smartphones and tablets.


I also took a couple of Smart Power Plug sockets; I have several use cases prepared for them.

I connected a powerful lamp to one such socket, which illuminates the entrance to the entrance from the balcony. If I return home at night, I can light the entrance in advance. A couple more smart gadgets control the air conditioning and heater. You can not only turn the device on or off, but also set a schedule for the night.

In the summer, I set the air conditioner to turn on, and in the winter, the heater turns on every hour for 10-15 minutes, which allows me to maintain a comfortable temperature in the room. I cannot achieve the ideal temperature using the settings of the devices themselves.

And the wife also connects the iron through the outlet; if on the way to work she doubts that she turned it off, she can always check through the application.

A small complaint against Xiaomi

“Chinese Apple” is only at the beginning of its great journey. I believe that the company can and will make even more interesting and useful gadgets. For now you can only complain about bad connection between different departments of the company.

The following photo will tell you more:


I connected the Xiaomi Mi Nano router and the Xiaomi Yeelight night light to the Xiaomi Power Strip. Two plugs took up most of the space and besides them you can only connect 1 gadget via USB, the rest of the connectors will be blocked. All you had to do was use power supplies with plugs shifted 90 degrees for your gadgets.

By and large, all these are little things; Xiaomi has once again produced excellent devices that are easy and pleasant to use.