We analyze the Meross smart power strip for HomeKit

We tested an accessory for HomeKit that will allow you to control multiple devices independently with automations, Home app scenes, or via Siriwhile protecting your devices from power surges.

If smart sockets are useful for automating a device and controlling it via your home automation system, a power strip combines these same functions but for several devices. Today we tested the Meross HomeKit-enabled smart power strip, which includes three independently controllable outlets and four USB ports also controllable but together. It also has surge protection, which will prevent more than one bad moment due to power surges.

Characteristics

• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
• three European sockets
• Four USB ports (2.4 A per port, 4 A total)
• 4 power LEDs (one for each outlet, one for all four USB ports)
• 1 general on/off switch
• 1.8 meter long cable with European plug
• Over voltage protection
• Compatible with HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

Setting

The configuration of the smart strip can be done via the Meross application (link) or directly from the Casa application by scanning the QR code present on the base. It is recommended to do it from the Meross application to be able to access any firmware updates that there may be, as these cannot be done directly from the Casa app at this time. This is a very easy straightforward process where you need to follow the given steps from the app.

Once configured, it will appear directly in the Casa application as a single device but with the possibility of dissociating them and the three sockets and USB ports appear as four different elements. We can also change device names and type (socket, light or fan) from the device settings in Home, so that Siri knows what type of device it is and if we have a lamp connected to one of the sockets, when you say ” turn off all the lights”, include this lamp in addition to the rest of the lights we have added. The video explains the whole process, which is quite straightforward and only takes a few seconds.

Functioning

If to configure the device I recommend using the Meross app, to control it I recommend you always use the Casa app. It is much more comfortable to have the sockets unbundled to be able to control each independently, saving us steps. Device response is fast, and from the moment you give the command on your iPhone (or any Apple device with the Home app) until it is executed, only tenths of a second pass. Connecting via Wi-Fi also allows the range of the device to be greater than if it were using the Bluetooth connection.

home compatibility opens doors to automations and environments, which allows you to control devices based on time of day, home entrances, exits, etc., or control multiple devices included in the same environment at the same time, to achieve the perfect lighting while you watch a movie, play games or read. You also have the ability to control everything via Siri on your iPhone, Apple Watch and HomePod, with the convenience of voice commands. The power strip connection is very stable, in all these days I’ve been using it I haven’t had any issues with misconfigurations or disconnections.

Editor’s review

The Meross smart power strip is a practical system for dogmatizing several devices with a single accessory. In addition to surge protection, it has the advantage that the four USB ports it incorporates are also controlled by HomeKit, which few models offer. Priced at $38.99 on Amazon (link) For a little more than the cost of a single outlet, you have everything this power strip has to offer.

The inconvenients

• All four USBs are controlled together
• The switch turns the entire power strip on and off.