TL;DR: The Tuya Smart Plug for $8.32 offers solid budget smart home automation with power monitoring and high ratings—buy recommendation for cost-conscious users.
What are the technical specs?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tuya |
| Model | Smart Socket EU16A/20A |
| Connectivity | WiFi 2.4GHz |
| Max Current | 16A / 20A |
| Compatible Platforms | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| App | Smart Life / Tuya Smart |
| Power Monitoring | Yes |
| Original Price | $18.09 |
| Sale Price | $8.32 (54% off) |
| Units Sold | 86,718+ |
| Positive Rating | 98.0% |
Why try a budget smart plug?
I've been wanting to build out my smart home setup for a while, but the prices of name-brand smart plugs in Korea kept putting me off. We're talking $20~30 for a single plug — that adds up fast when you want to automate multiple devices.
So I turned to AliExpress, and after some digging, I found the Tuya Smart Socket EU16A/20A WiFi Smart Plug for just $8.32 (down from $18.09 — a solid 54% discount). With over 86,000 units sold and a 98% positive rating, I figured it was worth a shot.
👉 Check the latest price on AliExpress
What's included in the box?
The package arrived in about two weeks — pretty standard for AliExpress shipping to Korea. Everything was neatly packed with the plug itself and a basic instruction sheet. The build quality surprised me — it feels solid, not cheap or flimsy at all. Smaller than I expected too, which is great for not blocking adjacent outlets.
How does it perform long-term?
Setup Process
Getting it connected was a breeze. I downloaded the Smart Life app, tapped "Add Device," held the button on the plug for a few seconds, and it was paired with my WiFi in under three minutes. No complicated steps, no frustration.
Power Monitoring — The Killer Feature
For $8, having real-time power monitoring is honestly incredible. I can see exactly how much electricity each connected device is drawing, with daily and monthly breakdowns in the app. I've been using it to track my space heater's consumption, and it's been eye-opening to see the actual numbers.
Voice Control
I connected it to my Google Home, and it works flawlessly. "Hey Google, turn off the desk lamp" — done. It also supports Alexa if that's your ecosystem. Scheduling and timers through the app are equally smooth.
Pros and Cons
What I Love
- Unbeatable price-to-performance ratio at $8.32
- Real-time power monitoring with usage history
- Works with both Google Assistant and Alexa
- Clean, intuitive Smart Life app
- Battle-tested with 86,000+ sales and 98% positive reviews
- Supports up to 16A/20A for high-power appliances
What Could Be Better
- EU plug format — you may need an adapter depending on your country
- Only supports 2.4GHz WiFi (no 5GHz)
- No physical on/off switch on the plug itself
- Instructions are basic and only in English/Chinese
How does the price compare?
| Where to Buy | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| AliExpress (this product) | $8.32 |
| TP-Link Kasa (Amazon) | $15~25 |
| Meross Smart Plug (Amazon) | $12~20 |
| Local Korean retailers | $20~30 |
The AliExpress price is genuinely hard to beat — you're getting essentially the same features as plugs that cost 2~3x more.
Who should buy this smart plug?
- Smart home beginners: A low-risk, low-cost way to start automating your home
- Energy-conscious users: Track exactly how much power your devices consume
- Voice assistant users: Perfect if you're already in the Google or Alexa ecosystem
- Budget-minded shoppers: You don't need to spend $25+ for a reliable smart plug
Final Verdict
At $8.32, this Tuya WiFi Smart Plug punches way above its weight. Power monitoring, voice control, app scheduling, and high-amperage support — it checks all the boxes. The two-week shipping time is the only real downside, but if you're not in a rush, this is hands-down the best value smart plug I've found.
I've already ordered three more for other rooms. That should tell you everything.
👉 Get the Tuya WiFi Smart Plug on AliExpress
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are AliExpress home appliances good quality?
Many are surprisingly good for the price. Focus on products with high sales volume (1,000+) and positive reviews (90%+). The key is doing your research before buying.
Q: Do I have to pay customs duty in Korea?
Orders under $150 (about 200,000 KRW) are duty-free. Above that, you may pay 8-13% customs duty depending on the product category.
Q: What if the product arrives damaged or defective?
AliExpress has a Buyer Protection policy. You can open a dispute within 15 days of delivery for a refund or replacement. Always save photos and videos as evidence.
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