Shelly Plus 1PM Smart Relay Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This shelly plus 1pm review focuses on a compact relay switch designed for direct Wi-Fi integration. It features a 16A maximum load capacity and built-in power metering. You do not need a separate hub to connect it to your network. The device supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for flexible setup. It works with Alexa and Google Home for voice control. The unit measures just 1.46 by 1.65 by 0.63 inches. This small form factor allows for easy installation in standard electrical boxes. You can monitor energy usage and control appliances remotely via the Shelly app.
What stands out
- 16A maximum load for high-power appliances
- Built-in power metering for energy tracking
- No hub required for Wi-Fi connectivity
- Bluetooth gateway and Wi-Fi repeater functions
Who it fits
Good fit for
This relay suits users who want to automate high-load devices like water heaters or kitchen appliances without adding a hub. The power metering feature is ideal for those monitoring energy consumption. If you already use Alexa or Google Home, you can control these circuits via voice. The Bluetooth support helps if your Wi-Fi signal is weak near the installation point. It is also a good fit for DIYers who prefer a compact device that fits in standard junction boxes.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a dimmer switch. This is a simple on/off relay, so it cannot adjust light brightness. It also lacks a physical display, which means you cannot check status locally without the app. If you require Zigbee or Z-Wave connectivity, this Wi-Fi-only device will not work with your existing ecosystem. Additionally, if you need to control multiple independent circuits, this single-channel unit is not sufficient for your setup.
Verdict: The Shelly Plus 1PM is a practical, hub-free relay for automating high-load circuits with energy monitoring. It fits well into existing Wi-Fi smart home setups that use Alexa or Google Home.
Key specs explained for Shelly Plus 1PM
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
This device connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network without needing a separate hub. The built-in Bluetooth support allows for local setup and control when your Wi-Fi is down. You get reliable remote access from anywhere. This dual connectivity is common in modern smart switches. It ensures you can manage your home appliances even if your internet connection fluctuates.
Maximum Load: 16A
The relay can handle up to 16 amps of current. This capacity allows you to control high-power appliances like kitchen devices or domestic heating systems safely. You must check the amperage of your specific appliance to ensure it stays below this limit. This rating is higher than basic 10A switches. It makes this unit suitable for heavier loads in a standard home setup.
Hub Requirement: No Hub
You do not need to purchase or install a separate central hub to use this device. It connects directly to your existing Wi-Fi router. This simplifies your smart home setup and reduces clutter on your shelf. Many competitors require a dedicated bridge. This feature makes installation faster and more affordable for users who already have a strong Wi-Fi network in their home.
Smart Home Compatibility: Alexa, Google Home
The device works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home ecosystems. You can use voice commands to turn appliances on or off. This broad compatibility ensures you can integrate it into most popular smart home setups. You are not locked into a single brand. This flexibility is essential for users who want to mix devices from different manufacturers in their automation scenes.
Physical design and build details
According to the listing, the Shelly Plus 1PM measures 1.46 inches in width, 1.65 inches in height, and 0.63 inches in length. The device weighs 0.95 ounces. These dimensions describe a compact unit designed to fit inside standard electrical boxes. The small footprint allows you to install it behind wall plates or within junction boxes without taking up much space. This makes it suitable for discreet integration into existing home wiring setups.
The listing identifies the color as red. This specific color choice may be visible if the device is exposed during installation or if the cover is removed. You should consider this when planning the placement within your electrical panel or outlet area. The build is described as a smart relay switch, which means it contains internal mechanical components to handle the electrical load. It supports a maximum load of 16A, allowing it to control high-power appliances.
There are no physical controls or display mentioned in the provided data. Operation is managed entirely through the Shelly Smart Control App via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The lack of on-device buttons or screens simplifies the physical interface but requires you to rely on your smartphone or voice assistant for daily adjustments. The design prioritizes internal functionality and connectivity over external tactile feedback.
Setup and everyday use details
You install the Shelly Plus 1PM directly into your existing electrical wiring. The listing confirms it requires no separate hub for operation. You connect it to your home Wi-Fi network for primary control. The built-in Bluetooth support allows for local setup and immediate control if your Wi-Fi connection is unstable. This dual connectivity ensures you can manage the device reliably from anywhere.
Daily use centers on the Shelly Smart Control App. You use this interface to monitor power consumption and toggle the relay switch on or off. The device supports a maximum load of 16A, making it suitable for high-draw appliances like kitchen equipment or domestic systems. You can track energy usage for each connected circuit individually.
Automation is a core feature. You can create custom scenes based on time, light levels, or other triggers. For example, you might link a door sensor to activate the relay only after a specific hour. The device is compatible with Alexa and Google Home, allowing you to add voice commands to your routine. You can also use the unit as a Wi-Fi repeater or Bluetooth gateway to extend your network coverage. These functions let you integrate the relay seamlessly into a broader home automation ecosystem without additional hardware.
Before you buy this relay
You need to verify your electrical load does not exceed 16A. This device handles kitchen appliances and domestic systems well. You should check if your smart home ecosystem includes Alexa or Google Home. The listing confirms compatibility with both platforms. You will use the Shelly Smart Control App for remote management and notifications. This app helps you create scenes based on time or other triggers. You might combine it with Shelly Door or Window sensors for automation. For example, you can turn on heaters after a specific hour. You do not need a separate hub for Wi-Fi connection. Bluetooth supports local setup if your network is down. This relay fits alongside other smart controls by adding power monitoring. You get precise consumption data for each appliance. It is ideal for monitoring office equipment or home circuits. You should ensure your wiring supports direct Wi-Fi integration without additional hubs.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your appliance load stays under 16A maximum capacity.
- Verify your smart home uses Alexa or Google Home.
- Check if you need power metering for specific circuits.
- Ensure your electrical box fits the compact 1.46 inch width.
- Decide if you want local Bluetooth control for outages.
The product at a glance
Shelly Plus 1PM Smart Relay 2-Pack
Best for: monitoring and controlling single high-load circuits
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Hub Requirement
- No Hub
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Switch Function
- Relay Switch
- Maximum Load
- 16A
- Application
- Lights
View on Amazon: Shelly Plus 1PM Smart Relay 2-Pack Affiliate link
The Shelly Plus 1PM is a single-channel smart relay switch with integrated power metering. It connects via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without requiring a hub. The device handles loads up to 16A, making it suitable for high-draw appliances. You can monitor energy consumption and control circuits remotely through the Shelly app. It integrates with Alexa and Google Home for voice commands. This unit offers precise control for home automation scenes.
Pros
- Integrated power metering for real-time consumption tracking
- No hub required for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- 16A maximum load capacity for high-power appliances
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
Cons
- Single-channel design limits control to one circuit
- Requires professional electrical installation for hardwiring
- No physical manual override switch included
Good fit if
- You need to monitor energy usage for specific appliances
- You want to automate high-draw devices like heaters
- You prefer a hub-free Wi-Fi setup
Skip if
- You require control over multiple independent circuits
- You need a device with a built-in display
- You are uncomfortable with electrical wiring
Verdict: Shelly Plus 1PM 16A Wi-Fi Relay fits users who need precise energy monitoring for single high-load circuits. It is ideal for automating specific appliances without adding a central hub to your network.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Shelly Plus 1PM Smart Relay 2-Pack |
|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Home |
| Hub Requirement | No Hub |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Switch Function | Relay Switch |
| Maximum Load | 16A |
| Application | Lights |
| Dimensions | 1.61 × 1.42 × 0.59 inches |
| Weight | 0.95 ounces |
| Size | 2 Pack |
| Color | Red |
| Model | 3800235265017 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I control the Shelly Plus 1PM without a hub?
Yes, you do not need a separate hub. The device connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network for primary control. It also includes built-in Bluetooth support. This allows for local setup and manual operation even if your Wi-Fi connection is interrupted. You get reliable remote access through the standard network.
What is the maximum electrical load this relay handles?
The Shelly Plus 1PM supports a maximum load capacity of 16A. This rating makes it suitable for automating specific appliances and domestic systems. You must verify that your connected circuit does not exceed this limit. It fits well for lights and other moderate power devices within your home.
Does this relay monitor energy consumption?
Yes, it features built-in power metering. This allows you to monitor precise energy usage for single high-load circuits. You can track how much power specific appliances consume over time. This data helps you understand your home energy habits without needing external measurement tools.
Is it compatible with Alexa or Google Home?
Yes, the listing confirms compatibility with both Alexa and Google Home. You can integrate it into your existing smart home ecosystem easily. This allows you to use voice commands for control. It fits users who want to automate specific appliances using popular voice assistants.
How small is the Shelly Plus 1PM device?
The unit measures 1.46 inches in width, 1.65 inches in height, and 0.63 inches in length. It weighs only 0.95 ounces. These dimensions describe a compact unit designed to fit inside standard electrical boxes. The small form factor helps it blend into your wiring setup.
Can I use this for controlling lights?
Yes, the application category lists lights as a primary use case. You can install it directly into your existing electrical wiring to automate lighting circuits. The 16A capacity is sufficient for most standard lighting loads. It provides a simple way to add smart control to your existing fixtures.
What happens if my Wi-Fi goes down?
The built-in Bluetooth support allows for local setup and control when your Wi-Fi is down. You can still interact with the device locally. This ensures you are not completely locked out of controlling your connected appliances. Remote access relies on the network, but local functions remain available.