While the majority of 5GHz routers are dual-band and also broadcast on 2.4GHz, there are those which are limited to the single higher frequency.
Unfortunately, most smart home devices run on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi which leaves people in a bit of a bind. We give a run down on the compatible 5GHz smart plugs available for those with these router restrictions
Update: Only the 1st Gen versions of Leviton linked below support 5GHz. The newer 2nd Gen versions only work on the 2.4GHz band.
Range & Penetration
The 2.4GHz wi-fi radio frequency provides a longer distance/range than 5GHz however it does so at a cost. What sets the two apart is that 5GHz operates on a higher frequency which equates to a higher speed.
That is why 5GHz is ideal for video streaming while the simple On/Off style commands of smart home devices can easily be catered for over 2.4GHz.
In addition, 2.4GHz broadcasts can easily penetrate obstacles and cover farther distances, compared to 5GHz.
5GHz Routers
Most 5 GHz routers available are dual-band and have two radios; one 2.4 GHz and one 5GHz. Either both frequencies are broadcast with the same Wi-Fi network name or they could be available under slightly different network names.
If your router is restricted to just a 5GHz broadcast, then read on to see which smart plugs are compatible.
Using the Leviton DW15-P smart wall plug, you don’t have to worry about a hub – its app is all you need to run it.
- Voice control
- Lighting schedules
- Vacation (randomization) mode
The Leviton DW15-P 5GHz smart plug allows you to use it without the need for a hub. Using the Leviton app, you can control it from anywhere. Simply plug it into the wall and begin to enjoy the perks it offers. Packed with numerous features and settings, the plug features a lighting scheduling function that allows you to configure the settings you want.
You can customize sunset/sunrise times, create lighting scenes, use the auto-shutoff feature, and even set up a vacation (randomization) function when you are away. To make your settings and commands easier, the outlet plug is compatible with numerous tools.
These include voice command tools such as Alexa and Google Assistant as well as smart tools such as IFTTT and SmartThings. Built with a capacity of up to ¾ HP, 15A general use, 5A LED/CFL, and 1500W incandescent bulbs, the smart plug is perfect for electronics, appliances, and lamps in your home.
- No hub required for operation – simple plug and play
- Compatible with multiple tools – Google assistant, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, etc.
- A selection of customizable schedules and settings
- No way to track power consumption
The Leviton DW3HL-1BW smart plug is built to cater to both dimmable and non-dimmable LED and incandescent bulbs.
- Up to 100W LED bulbs
- Up to 300W incandescent bulbs
- 2-way status updates
Using the Leviton DW3HL-1BW 5GHz smart plug, you will be able to control your home lighting from anywhere through its smartphone app. So, you don’t have to invest in confusing and complex hub setups! The smart plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant devices – to allow for voice commands and smart home integrations.
Furthermore, the smart plug also integrates with IFTTT whilst allowing for auto-shut-off modes for areas such as your closets, hallways, and bathrooms. When you are away, you can set up the vacation randomization mode for automatic lighting control.
Integrating a protected memory function, the smart plug maintains an On/Off status during minor power fluctuations. Plus, it features an impressive load capacity – supporting up to 99 devices, 50 rooms, 50 activities, and 50 schedules per residence. The plug is ideally designed for table-, floor-, and hanging lights – allowing for dimming functions as well.
- Fitted with a green LED locator
- Built with multiple settings options – even a vacation mode
- Features a transient surge protection design
- Some users found it a little difficult to set up
Other Smart Plugs
If you do have a dual-band router, then below is our pick for a smart plug that can run off 2.4GHz. Note, this will not work on a 5GHz-only router.
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug 2.4GHz smart plug allows you to control most small appliances and light-duty electronics in your home – be it the lamps, fans, Christmas tree lights, or aquarium lights. Using the smart plug’s Kasa app, you can control your plug from anywhere – allowing you to turn on and off your devices as well as set up and cancel settings
- Compact design
- Scheduling
- Away mode
You can also add as many smart plugs to the app to allow you to track multiple devices all in one place and at once. Its away mode helps to maintain your habits – switching devices on and off at different times to give an impression that someone is home when you are away. Its compact design allows it to blend into the outlet for a neat look.
Smart Plug Features to Consider
Scheduling & Remote Control
Using the smartphone app, it's simple to create schedules for your smart plug (and therefore the connected device) to automatically turn on and off throughout the day. You can also remotely control your smart plug through the app in case you are not home.
Voice Control
5GHz smart plugs are compatible with devices such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant devices. Those with Homekit compatibility can be controlled via Siri. You will also find some that integrate with IFTTT and various smart hubs.
Vacation Mode
Many of the best 5GHz smart plugs are built with a vacation mode. The vacation mode allows you to set up lights to go on and off at different times to create the impression that one is at home when you are away for a prolonged period.
Common Questions Relating to Smart Plugs
The only real reason you would need a 5GHz smart plug is if your current router does not have a 2.4GHz band. And you don’t want to replace your existing router with a dual-band device.
The main difference between 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is range and bandwidth. 2GHz Wi-Fi frequency offers a longer range than 5GHZ Wi-Fi – for example, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is better at penetrating obstacles such as walls and floors. However, 2.4GHz has a slower speed than 5GHz. 5GHz offers speeds of up to 1,300 Mbps whilst 2.4GHz only offers between 450 and 600 Mbps.
If you are struggling to connect to your smart plug, it may be a Wi-Fi signal connection issue. So, you want to opt for a dual-band router and utilize a 2.4GHz smart plug which offers a longer range. If that doesn’t work you can set up a wireless repeater or upgrade to a mesh Wi-Fi system to boost the signal.
Using the Leviton DW15-P smart wall plug, you don’t have to worry about a hub – its app is all you need to run it.
- Voice control
- Lighting schedules
- Vacation (randomization) mode
2 Comments
David
Spectrum offers routers that only allow the 5Ghz part of the router. It is a ridiculous setup. Trying to use wireless smart devices like plugs is a pain to find. I wish companies would just switch over the connecting to 5ghz already and quit staying in the past.
Bob St. Cyr
The big pain with the 2.4 device is that you need to swap you phone connection from the 5G connection you are most likely on to the 2.4 connection in order to control the device.