IoT has been a buzzword in the consumer IT field for a while but a lot of folks have no idea what it does. Simply put, it is by definition what its name suggests: Internet-of-Things. Just like the world wide web, IoT devices are interconnected and provides varying degree of usage. At it most basic principle, its a connected device and regardless of how simple its function is, the actual application’s worth will vary between users.
In this review I’d like to talk about smart outlets, smart power strips or smart plugs. No matter how you call them, they’re as basic as they come: you connect it to your app and it allows you to turn the device on and off. Its a neat trick but very basic and practically anyone will say “Why don’t you just pull it out of the plug yourself?” but the reply would be “what if I’m not around?”.
That simple convenience brings a lot of potential and I’ll be talking more about that in this quick review of the Hashi Smart WIFI dual outlet and power strip. Simple, WIFI-connected smart plugs that can be turned on and off remotely and via schedule, all via one app. The device is also Alexa and Google Assistant compatible for voice commands. Find out more in this review. Read on!
Hashi products are available from authorized dealers below as well as online from partner stores:
Specifications
Hashi Smart WiFi 10A Dual Plug
- Material: ABS flame retarding polymer
- Current: 10A
- Power Supply: AC110-240V, 50/60Hz
- Plug Standard: US
- Power consumption: ≤0.3W
- Overload protection
- OS: Compatible with iOS and Android
- AI: Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant Working
- Â Material: Anti-fire ABS material
- Rated power: 3000W
- USB Total Power: 12W 5V 2.1A
- 4 AC Outlets
- 2 USB Super Charging Ports
- 3000W Output Rating
- Power consuming: ≤0.3W
- Compatible with iOS/Android
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT
Closer Look
Hashi Smart WiFi 10A Dual Plug
The Hashi Smart WIFI Dual Plug is a compact dual outlet that provides two AC outlets. It ships in a full-color box with features on the box. The bundle is also minimal with only a manual provided inside together with the actual product.
The Hashi Smart WIFI Dual Plug measures around 2″ tall and >4″ wide. The depth is just below 2″ not including the outlet prong. The Hashi Smart WIFI Dual Plug that ships to PH is compatible with AC 110v-220V and has a fixed US 3-prong plug.
It features two AC US 3-prong outlets with power indicator LEDs below them. A single power button is located in the middle.
To pair, you will need to hold down the power button while the app is on. Pressing once will turn the unit on. Pressing it again while powered one will power it off.
Via the Smart Life app, users can power on or off the Hashi Smart WIFI dual plug’s individual outlets. They can also set schedules for powering on or off the outlets.
Hashi Smart WiFi 16A Surge Protector
The larger Hashi Smart WIFI Power Strip and Surge Protector provides 4 AC outlets with surge protection plus two USB 2A ports for charging USB devices.
The Hashi Smart WIFI Power Strip is built with safety in mind with a 16A maximum rating but it will catch surges past its capacity to protect devices plugged into it.
The power cable is very thick and feels durable and the cable joints are very well made. The US/UK outlets themselves are child-safe with cover on the plug to protect them with the safety shutters.
The Hashi Smart WIFI Power Strip has a single power button for the entire unit but can be controlled individually via the app. Both USB ports are actively powered once on though and you cannot control these ports.
Smart Life App
The manual has a QR code for the app you need to use to connect both devices. You will need an active WIFI connection for this to work. Follow the instruction and make sure you’re connected via 2.4Ghz frequency and you’ll be up in a few taps.
Once successfully paired, the Smart Life app will list your Hashi smart devices in the app listing. You can connect this app to your Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa to connect those services and make their functions more IoT per se.
User Experience and Conclusion
As mentioned in the beginning of this article, the actual value of these devices or any IoT device is based on how you use them. By themselves, the Hashi Smart WIFI power strip and dual outlet are just outlets but using their utmost potential by way of automation is the best usecase you want.
In my case, my studio is in a separate building but since its always hot in the Philippines, I want the studio to be as cool as possible before I go in. The Hashi Smart Dual Outlet let’s me power on the air conditioning but it also guarantees I don’t keep it running once I leave. This also works for the lights in the studio which on a single shoot would be a pair of 200W lights and a couple of 60W ones. The Hashi Smart WIFI Power Strip can be power all of those and allow me to power them on or off directly from the outlet.
The benefit for me here is that its connected to my network don’t need my physical intervention. Your situation will definitely vary and I know some people who have these kinds of plugs for their fans or other more common use. The beauty here is that the device has a built-in scheduler in the app to keep your devices operating within certain periods like keeping the fan running while you sleep but turn it off in the morning, etc.
I’ve rarely reviewed IoT products here in Back2Gaming but I’ve talked about them with industry folks and if there’s something I have to say about IoT products that a lot of people miss, it is that IoT devices make simple things simpler. IoT’s goal is to empower the user and connect everything and it all starts with power. Talking more about Hashi’s products, both Smart WIFI products are of excellent quality.
The plastic is very well-molded and is dense. It doesn’t give off that light feel that some brands are known for. As some of you will note, these are white label products similar to some other present in the market but the people that bring you Hashi are veterans of consumer IT products and customizes their selection on what they feel brings you the best value.
The Hashi Smart WIFI dual outlet and power strip + surge protector are decent product and are easy recommendations. App-wise, they may feel limited but you can try to see which apps work with these devices that adds more functionality.
That said, that Hashi Smart WIFI dual outlet is available now for Php800 and the Smart WIFI power strip + surge protector is available for Php1800. Build quality is excellent and does what it’s supposed to do.
