ConnectSense Smart Outlet vs iDevices Switch

ConnectSense Smart Outlet has two outlets that can each be controlled and monitored independently.

The USB charging port may have additional use in the future, however right now it can be used to charge phones or other devices such as smart watches, console controllers and more.

HomeKit is Apple's Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, with deep integration with Siri. As part of HomeKit, once properly setup you can have many devices in your house act to a single action. For example, saying "Hey Siri, go to bed" can trigger all your lights to turn off, your thermostat to turn down, and your doors to lock.

Outlets are only useful if you can use them, this one is solid.

On the top left is a power indicator LED which indicates whether or not the plug is plugged into the wall and connected (if plugged in the light will be solid, if not connected the light will flash).

There are also 2 LEDs in the clear strip on the right of the sockets. These indicate whether or not the sockets are active. This is handy, because if HomeKit turns the socket off you can easily tell without wondering if anything is broken.

These lights can be turned off through the app, but can also serve as a dim nightlight if you leave them on.

Interoperability among products within the smart home.

Scenes allow you to not only control one device, but multiple at the same time, this outlet plays great with HomeKit so you get control not just one thing, but multiple at the same time.

Most other smart switches block other outlets, however because this one is designed to sit horizontally instead of vertically, it won't block any other outlets giving you full access.

The bar on the front of the switch is actually a RGB light, which can be configured to any color, at varying brightness as well. It isn't the brightest, but because most plugs are near the floor it provides sufficient lighting for night-time use or can add to accent lighting for a more whole-room effect.

HomeKit is deeply integrated within the iOS ecosystem, including Siri. You can place multiple different devices into a single 'scene' and have them all activate with a singe voice action.

The app is laid out simply, which makes using it a pleasure. It's layout is clearly designed to put the controls - the most important part of the app - front and center.

While the energy reports aren't as detailed as other switches, they are still detailed enough to show where you can save some power costs. This is a useful feature, as it can save you money in the long-run and even pay itself off.