Gosund SP111 Smart Plug: A Budget-Friendly Entry to Home Automation

Smart plugs offer an accessible and affordable way to begin automating your home. The Gosund Smart Plug SP111 is currently available for 279 CZK, reduced from its original price of 389 CZK. For AlzaPlus+ members, the price drops further to 237 CZK. This Wi-Fi enabled device allows for remote control, energy monitoring, and scheduling without requiring a significant investment.

Why Consider the Gosund SP111?

The Gosund SP111 is a popular choice in the smart plug market due to its combination of affordability and broad compatibility. It integrates with popular smart home platforms including Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Tuya, Smart Life, and IFTTT, making it simple to incorporate into existing smart home ecosystems.

Simple Setup and Operation

The SP111 connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and doesn’t require a separate hub or gateway. Setup involves simply plugging in the device, downloading the GHome (or Tuya/Smartlife) application, and following the on-screen instructions. Once connected, you can control appliances remotely or through voice commands using Google Assistant or Alexa – for example, “turn on the living room lamp.”

Key Features and Practical Applications

The Gosund SP111 can handle a maximum load of 3680W (16A), accommodating most common household appliances like lamps, fans, heaters, and even electric grills. A notable feature is its real-time energy consumption monitoring, allowing users to track the energy usage and associated costs of connected devices. One user reported discovering their gas boiler consumed 70W, costing approximately 2,500 CZK for the heating season – a cost they wouldn’t have identified without the plug’s monitoring capabilities.

The accompanying app allows users to set timers, create on/off schedules, and utilize a presence simulation feature, which randomly turns the connected appliance on and off to deter potential intruders. The device also includes a child lock and overvoltage protection. Its compact dimensions (7.9 × 4.8 × 4.6 cm) prevent it from blocking adjacent outlets.

The plug remembers its last state even after a power outage – if it was on, it will automatically turn back on when power is restored. This is particularly useful for devices like aquarium pumps or servers that require continuous operation.

AlzaPlus+ Discount

AlzaPlus+ members receive an additional 15% discount on the Gosund SP111, bringing the final price down to 237 CZK. This represents a total savings of 152 CZK compared to the original price of 389 CZK.

AlzaPlus+ is Alza’s loyalty program, costing 299 CZK annually (or 59 CZK monthly). Benefits include free delivery to over 25,000 collection points and exclusive discounts on selected products. The program has a rating of 4.9 out of 5, with 96% of members recommending it, and membership can be canceled at any time.

User Feedback

The Gosund SP111 has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Alza (based on 16 ratings), with 94% of customers recommending it. Over 50 units have been sold. Users frequently praise its compact size, clear Czech-language application, and energy consumption monitoring. They also appreciate the notification feature that alerts them to power outages.

Some users have noted that the plug’s performance relies on a strong Wi-Fi signal. If the plug is out of range, scheduled timers may not function correctly, as they require an internet connection. One user resolved this by adding a Wi-Fi extender. Rarely, users have reported receiving a non-functional unit upon delivery, in which case a complaint is recommended.

Limitations to Consider

This smart plug is not suitable for users who require local control without relying on the cloud, as all automations require an internet connection. For advanced users with Home Assistant, alternative options with local APIs are available, but typically at a higher price point.

The Gosund SP111 only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks. If you only have a 5 GHz network, you will need to enable the 2.4 GHz band. This is a common limitation for smart plugs in this price range.

Final Verdict

The Gosund Smart Plug SP111 is an excellent choice for those looking to easily and affordably enter the world of smart home automation. For 279 CZK (or 237 CZK with AlzaPlus+), it offers energy consumption monitoring, voice control, timers, and compatibility with most major platforms. It’s ideal for controlling lamps, fans, holiday decorations, or monitoring the energy usage of specific appliances. But, if you require local control or have only a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network, you may want to explore alternative options.