Aqara has released the Power Plug H2 in EU and UK versions, nearly a year after unveiling both models at IFA 2025.
The company is late to one of the smart home’s most established categories. Wi-Fi plugs have flooded Amazon for years, while Aqara brought Matter switches, sensors, and bulbs to market before covering the basic smart plug for EU and UK markets. But the market looks far less crowded once Thread and energy monitoring are added. Options remain limited, even after IKEA recently expanded the category.
And here are Aqara’s answers for Matter over Thread plugs.
A compact design
Both the EU and UK versions use a minimal, compact design intended to leave nearby sockets accessible on a power strip or wall outlet.
That is an important detail for a smart plug. Bulkier models like Eve Energy can block one or even two neighboring sockets, particularly on tightly spaced power strips. Some designs can also place the physical power button where it may be pressed accidentally by another plug or cable.
Eve Energy (U.K.)
The Eve Energy (U.K.) is a smart plug that supports Matter for enhanced device compatibility and utilizes Thread technology for improved energy efficiency and connectivity.
Eve Energy (Australia)
The Eve Energy (20ECF6001) is a smart plug that allows for voice or app control of lights and appliances, supports Matter for cross-platform device management, and utilizes energy-efficient Thread technology without requiring cloud services or registration.
The Power Plug H2 keeps the main body close to the socket while retaining a physical control button and configurable status light.
Dual-protocol approach
Zigbee and Thread dual-protocol support has become a growing trend among smart home device makers, with Aqara and IKEA pushing the force.
GRILLPLATS Smart Plug
The Power Plug H2 can operate through either Matter over Thread or Zigbee. Users can select the protocol that better fits their current setup and switch modes later if their needs change.
In Thread mode, the plug can connect directly to compatible Matter ecosystems without an Aqara hub. Users will still need a Matter Controller and Thread Border Router from their selected platform like HomePod 2 for Apple Home.
A search of the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) database shows that the plugs share a family certification under Matter 1.4. The certification covers the essential functions expected from a smart plug. That suggests users may not see every Aqara-specific option like load limit settings when using the H2 directly through Matter, compared with connecting it through Zigbee and the Aqara Home platform.
This remains a common trade-off with dual-protocol products. Matter mode offers wider compatibility across ecosystems, while the manufacturer’s native platform can retain more detailed controls and settings. You can still use Zigbee mode and expose them to Matter via a bridge like the cheap Aqara Hub M100.
Energy monitoring adds more value
The EU version supports a maximum load of 16A and 3,680W and works with Type E and Type F sockets while UK versions rates at 13A/3,250W. It can control common household appliances while monitoring their power consumption.
Energy data makes the plug more useful than a basic remote switch. Users can track consumption, identify appliances drawing unnecessary standby power, and build automations around changes in energy use. For example, an automation could turn off a television, computer, or kitchen appliance after it remains idle. Energy readings could also help users estimate how much individual products cost to operate over time.
Availability of this data through Matter will depend on the features supported by each smart home platform. So far, Apple, Home Assistant, Homey, IKEA, and SmartThings support this feature. For Apple, you need at least iOS27 plus tvOS27 or HomePod Software 27 beta.
Built-in safety controls
The Power Plug H2 includes overload and overheat protection, allowing it to cut power when it detects unsafe operating conditions. The limits are configurable exclusively in Zigbee mode, according to Aqara.
A child lock can prevent accidental presses on the physical button while retaining control through apps and automations. This is useful when the plug is installed within reach of children or in a crowded area where the button may be pressed unintentionally.
Users can also configure the status light to follow the plug state or turn it off. The latter may be useful in bedrooms, home theaters, or other spaces where an indicator light could become distracting.
Aqara Power Plug H2 availability
The Power Plug H2 series is available through Aqara’s website, authorized retailers, and major e-commerce platforms.
The EU version is available through Amazon stores in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain at 32.99 euro ($37.55). Aqara has also opened its Amazon store in Belgium, with a 10% discount available using the code AQARA0BE from July 23 through July 25.
The UK version is available in the local plug format through Aqara’s UK website at 32.99 pounds ($43.93).
