TP-Link’s Tapo brand has entered the in-wall smart outlet market with the Tapo P210M, a new smart outlet that not only offers the convenience of remote control but also helps users save on their energy bills. The Tapo P210M joins a small group of Matter-enabled in-wall outlets, including the Eve Energy Outlet (which uses Matter-over-Thread) and the Aqara Wall Outlet H2, which relies on Zigbee and is currently only available in the EU.
What sets the Tapo P210M apart from regular smart plugs is that it replaces an existing wall outlet, offering a more integrated and less bulky solution for controlling non-smart appliances like lights or kitchen devices. However, installation of an in-wall outlet requires either some technical expertise or the help of a licensed electrician. The installation location must also have a neutral wire for the outlet to function as intended.
With a maximum power capacity of 15A, the P210M comes equipped with LED-lit buttons for each outlet, allowing users to control each outlet manually. It also includes overcharge protection, automatically cutting power to devices once they are fully charged, helping to prevent energy waste. The Tapo app brings even more functionality, offering scheduling, an “away” mode that randomly toggles power to deter intruders, and a safety feature that cuts off power if the outlet exceeds a specified power draw (up to 1800W).
The Tapo P210M also tracks energy usage over time, presenting users with detailed charts for daily, monthly, and annual consumption, as well as providing an estimate of the energy cost. Matter support ensures compatibility with a wide range of smart home platforms, including Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. Thanks to Matter’s energy monitoring features, users can keep tabs on their power usage across these platforms and within the Tapo app.
The Tapo P210M is currently listed at $29.99, but it’s available for just $19.99 on Amazon, making it a cost-effective solution for those looking to modernize their home while managing their energy consumption more efficiently.