Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

"Smart" home automation gadgets are a mixed bag, in general, with varying levels of compatibility, functionality and reliability across many different manufacturers. I was hoping that with their own "made for Alexa" smart plug, Amazon would hit a home run in the home automation space. However, I've been disappointed with the Amazon Smart Plug. While setup is supposed to be "plug-and-play" with the Alexa app handling all the heavy lifting, I found both of the Smart Plugs I purchased had problems connecting and I had to (repeatedly) go through a manual pairing and configuration process. Connectivity has been marginal, as both plugs occasionally lose connectivity and require power-cycling to restore communication. This is despite the fact that I have a mesh network in my home with terrific coverage, as well as 9 Alexa devices. So no matter how the Smart Plug needs to communicate with Alexa, my infrastructure shouldn't be a problem. Reliability in operation is problematic, too, as Alexa frequently and unpredictably informs me that she can't turn on one of the Smart Plugs right now, and to try again later. Frustrating! Finally, there's no compatibility with home automation apps like SmartThings or Stringify, and the Echo app doesn't provide basic capability such as the ability to turn on a plug/light at sunset or off at sunrise. Overall, a disappointing purchase. Hopefully a Gen 2 Smart Plug will offer more compelling capabilities and performance. If you're looking for an Alexa-compatible smart plug today, however, there's definitely NO advantage purchasing this one.