In our guide to the best Matter-compatible outdoor smart plugs, we provide recommendations for simple power control options for lawn and garden equipment. And while the offerings in the previous guide also work for lighting, a Matter smart outdoor dimmer plug is the best solution for string lights, wall lights, and pathways, with the ability to set just the right amount of light for your space.
So, if you are ready to take your outdoor lighting game to the next level, you've come to the right place. Here's what to look for when shopping for a Matter-compatible outdoor dimmer plug, and our top picks to help make your decision easier.
The best Matter-compatible smart outdoor dimmer plugs: what to look for
With Matter still being the new kid on the smart home block, outdoor dimmer plug options are, unfortunately, somewhat limited. As of the time of this post, only two vendors are offering compatible products—TP-Link/Tapo and DEWENWILS, giving you a total of only three devices to choose from.
The good news is that they all offer Matter's simplified QR code pairing process and seamless integration with ecosystems such as Apple Home, SmartThings, Home Assistant, Alexa, and Google Home. They also share the same wireless connectivity protocols, as all the options below rely on tried-and-true 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, which doesn't require a vendor-specific hub, bridge, or gateway.
With price and compatibility out of the way, we suggest focusing purely on available featuresets and solid construction when shopping for an outdoor dimmer plug. You can narrow the available options down rather quickly by asking yourself the following:
- How many sockets do you need for your outdoor space? Some plugs offer just a single socket, while others offer multiple.
- How much energy does your lighting require? Most options top out at 150 watts for LEDs, but can go up to 400 watts for incandescent or tungsten bulbs.
- Do you want to monitor energy consumption? While insightful, there is only one such solution available currently.
- Are you planning on leaving your plug outdoors year-round? If so, look for IP65 weather-proofing, and review operating temperature ranges and construction materials to ensure that it can meet your needs.
- Do you want to be able to control your outdoor lighting without your phone or voice assistant? Some devices offer pre-paired companion remotes in the box, but you can always use a Matter smart button to emulate physical controls.
Once you have those questions in mind, you can now turn your attention to all of your available options.
The best Matter-compatible smart outdoor dimmer plugs
Tapo Outdoor Smart Plug-in Dimmer P430M
While we raved about its rock-solid reliability and speedy response times in our review of the Tapo P400M Outdoor Smart Plug, there were a few notable omissions—namely, dimming and energy monitoring capabilities. The Tapo Outdoor Smart Plug-in Dimmer P430M picks up where the original left off by including both of these features alongside a bevvy of smart home essentials—all for less than $25.
Tapo's P430M sports one dimmable IP-65 weather-resistant rated socket capable of handling up to 150W LED/CFL loads all year long in the elements with an operating temperature range of -4°F to 122°F. It also connects to standard 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks, so you won't need an additional hub or app to set it up aside from your Matter Controller—just plug it in, scan its QR code, and enjoy your new outdoor lighting.
Tapo Smart Outdoor Plug-In Dimmer
Best Price
DEWENWILS Wi-Fi Matter Smart Dimmer Plug
Although it may not be a household name yet, DEWENWILS has been making waves in the Matter lighting scene with unique products like low-voltage landscape transformers, smart plugs, and dimmers—such as this single-socket Wi-Fi dimmer plug. This IP-44 weather-resistant plug features a heavy-duty external power cord, allowing it to fit neatly into covered electrical outlets, and its rugged construction protects it from long-term use in the great outdoors.
The DEWENWILS Wi-Fi Matter Smart Dimmer Plug supports 150W Dimmable LED loads or up to 300W for tungsten and incandescent bulbs. DEWENWILS also provides an offline wireless remote in the box, letting you control your landscape lighting phone-free up to 100 feet away with physical buttons for power and dimming.
DEWENWILS Wi-Fi Matter Smart Outdoor Dimmer Plug (Single slot)
Best Price
DEWENWILS Wi-Fi Matter Smart Dimmer Plug (2 port)
Also from DEWENWILS, this upgraded outdoor dimmer plug model gives you an additional socket and more, for just $1 extra. Despite not being independently controllable, having two sockets onboard provides more opportunities to bring smart, dimmable lighting to even more outdoor spaces and simplifies automation through scheduling and timers.
The two socket plug also features a slightly higher lighting load capacity, supporting up to 200W Dimmable LED and 400W Tungsten Bulbs. And, of course, it also comes with the incredibly handy wireless remote, perfect for those times when you just want to brighten up your outdoor space on demand without reaching for your phone or shouting to Alexa+ or another voice assistant.
DEWENWILS Wi-Fi Matter Smart Outdoor Dimmer Plug (Dual slot)
Best Price
Brighten up your outdoor space with the best Matter-compatible smart outdoor dimmer plugs
The best Matter-compatible outdoor dimmer plugs not only provide convenient remote controls, but also provide ambiance with their ability to set just the right amount of brightness for your space. Tapo's Outdoor Smart Plug-in Dimmer P430M strikes the perfect balance of features and affordability with built-in energy monitoring, seamless Matter integration, and a price that won't break the bank.
If you are looking for a smart solution with physical controls, then DEWENWILS has got you covered with not one, but two dimmer plug offerings that include a 100-foot wireless remote. The company's single plug model is excellent for smaller installations, while the two-socket version ramps up the power by 50 to 100 watts, depending on your bulb type.
