Leviton, a prominent player in the smart lighting sector, has introduced its latest addition to the smart plug market - the Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug-in Switch. Unveiled as the first outdoor smart plug to integrate with the Matter smart home standard, this device brings an additional option to consumers seeking outdoor smart plug solutions.
This release aligns with Leviton's strategy of expanding its Decora Smart Wi-Fi lighting and load control portfolio, marking the company's fifth product to incorporate Matter support.
The plug operates on the common 2.4GHz Wi-Fi frequency and offers basic on/off functionality, catering to fundamental control requirements. It distinguishes itself with an embedded light sensor, allowing connected lights to be automated based on ambient light conditions. This aspect eliminates the need for manual adjustments or complex programming.
A notable feature is the Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug-in Switch's compatibility with Leviton's Anywhere Switch Companion. This wire-free remote control, suitable for wall mounting, simplifies control from indoors, adding a layer of convenience to users.
Designed to handle 120V, 60Hz, and 15A general-purpose loads, including motor loads of up to 3/4HP, the plug incorporates a 10-inch line cord and a six-inch load cord for flexible usage scenarios.
The key differentiator for the Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug-in Switch is its Matter compatibility. This integration allows the plug to collaborate with Matter-enabled smart devices and Matter-certified smart home platforms, encompassing Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. Users are required to possess a Matter controller corresponding to their chosen platform to fully leverage this compatibility.
James Shurte, senior product manager of smart home for Leviton said:
"Outdoor living environments have rigorous demands for exterior lighting and load control. The new Leviton Outdoor Plug-In Switch was designed to meet those challenges with easy-to-use features to simplify smart home control of outdoor lighting and other devices. Leviton is pleased to introduce outdoor control to our Decora Smart Wi-Fi product line with support for Matter to meet the growing demands of Smart Home customers, making this the most connected outdoor smart plug on the market today."
Beyond Matter, the plug holds certifications for direct integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT, and Schlage. The My Leviton app provides additional functionality, including scene control, schedules, and an auto shut-off timer feature.
Outdoor smart plugs have gained traction for applications extending beyond simple lighting control. Use cases include holiday decorations, water feature pumps, and outdoor fans. Leviton's Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug-in Switch, built to IP65 weatherization standards, aims to cater to these demands, demonstrating resistance to elements like dirt, dust, rain, and snow.
When compared with the Lutron Caséta outdoor plug, priced at $80, Leviton's offering stands out for its Wi-Fi-only connectivity, eliminating the need for an additional proprietary hub. While both devices share a similar IP65 rating and sturdier build, Leviton's Decora model offers a wider operating temperature range from negative 20 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, and the ability to manage motor loads up to 3/4HP.
Lutron's standing in the Connectivity Standards Alliance, the governing body behind the Matter standard, raises potential for future compatibility, although it has not yet announced Matter support. Meanwhile, Leviton's Wi-Fi connectivity offers convenience, while Lutron's Clear Connect protocol could potentially provide enhanced range.
Leviton's Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug-in Switch enters the smart plug market as the first to embrace the Matter standard. It caters to consumers seeking an outdoor plug solution with flexible compatibility options and basic automation features. Retailing at a price point of $54.99, the Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug-in Switch is now accessible for purchase through major retailers including Amazon and The Home Depot.
