Aqara announced the Power Plug H2 UK again Power Plug H2 EUnew smart plug that integratess Matter over Thread again Get rid of them connection to one device. The former is designed for UK and other regions use G type socketsthe plug supports loads of up to 13A (3250W)while adding energy monitoring, RGB notification lightingand support for all major smart home platforms. The EU model supports Type C/E/F plugs and loads up 16A (3680W).
Aqara Power plug H2 UK
Aqara Power Plug H2 EU
The Power Plug H2 UK follows Aqara’s growing line of dual-protocol devices, allowing users to choose between Matter over Thread for direct integration with third-party ecosystems, or Zigbee to access Aqara’s most advanced features. The plug is available in two types – i Power Plug H2 UK (RGB) that includes customization full color LEDonce Power Plug H2 UKwith only a standard LED to indicate the power status of the plug.
DUAL PROTOCOL CONNECTIVITY
Like several recent Aqara products, the Power Plug H2 UK can work in one of two ways. In Matter over Thread mode, the plug can be paired directly with any compatible Matter ecosystem, as long as you have a Matter controller and a Thread border router. This includes Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings and Home Assistant. No Aqara hub is required for this mod.
Alternatively, users can switch the plug to Zigbee mode, where it connects to the Aqara hub. This opens up a range of special Aqara features, while allowing the device to be exposed to Matter platforms via Matter Bridging if needed. Regardless of which protocol is selected, the plug also acts as a A serial router or Zigbee routerwhich helps extend the range and reliability of your smart home mesh network.
POWER MONITORING WITH RGB RESPONSE
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Power Plug H2 UK (RGB) is its integrated RGB LED. Rather than simply acting as a status indicator, the LED can display power consumption in a configurable color, allowing users to identify high or low power consumption at a glance. The LED can also visualize long-term energy goals and provide color alerts as part of the automation.
In addition, the RGB LED can work as a smart light that is compatible with the standard Matter, with dynamic colors, brightness and lighting effects. However, Aqara notes that advanced power monitoring features require Zigbee mode and an Aqara hub. The plug constantly monitors electricity consumption, allowing users to create automations around energy consumption. For example, appliances can automatically turn off when they fall below a specified power draw, helping to eliminate pending power consumption.
IT’S MADE FOR ALL THINGS
Supports up to 13A (3250W) (16A (3680W) for EU version) the plug is suitable for everything from televisions and computers to kettles, washing machines and other high-powered appliances. Aqara says users can reduce standby electricity costs by automatically turning off unused devices, though actual savings will vary depending on usage. Smaller housings are also designed to avoid blocking adjacent sockets, making them easier to use in multi-gang wall housings.
SAFETY FEATURES
Both the Power Plug H2 UK and EU variants include several built-in protection mechanisms.
This includes:
- Automatic overload protection.
- Automatic over temperature shutdown at 80°C.
- Adjustable maximum load limits (Zigbee mode with Aqara hub).
- Lock the child to disable the normal functionality of the physical button.
- Optional reset protection in Zigbee mode to prevent any push button operation beyond the network or factory reset.
Charging protection can also be enabled, turning off the plug automatically after 30 minutes if power consumption remains below 3W, which may be useful when charging certain portable devices.
PLATFORM COMPATIBILITY
Both variants of the Power Plug H2 UK and EU support:
- Apple Home (Matter over Thread)
- Amazon Alexa
- Home of Google
- Samsung SmartThings
- Domestic Helper
- Home of Aqara
As always, Matter communication requires a compatible Matter controller and a Thread border router for the chosen ecosystem. Users looking for advanced Aqara features will also need a compatible Aqara Zigbee hub. The UK market has traditionally had fewer Matter-compatible smart plugs than Europe or North America, so it’s good to see Aqara produce a version of the G that doesn’t just offer basic on/off control.
The addition of dual-protocol support gives users flexibility depending on how their smart home is configured, while RGB power visibility is an interesting addition that goes beyond the standard single-color LED status found in most smart plugs. For Apple Home users, Matter over Thread support may be more appealing, although those already invested in the Aqara ecosystem will benefit from the additional automation and power management features available in Zigbee mode.
You can buy the Aqara Power Plug H2 EU from the Amazon stores below, although at the time of writing, sales of the UK model are delayed on Amazon. It appears to be sold through aqara-shop.co.uk, however.
