Why You Can Trust CNET Belkin's slim, power-tracking WeMo Insight Switch (pictures)
Belkin introduces a new smart power plug with an improved design and energy consumption tracking.
Rich Brown
Rich was the editorial lead for CNET's Home and Wellness sections, based in Louisville, Kentucky. Before moving to Louisville in 2013, Rich ran CNET's desktop computer review section for 10 years in New York City. He has worked as a tech journalist since 1994, covering everything from 3D printing to Z-Wave smart locks.
Original WeMo vs. WeMo Insight Switch
Belkin's pair of smart plugs, side by side.
Bigger and brighter
The status window in the new WeMo Insight Switch is easier to see from a distance. The LED could still be brighter.
Micro-USB port, standing by
Belkin says the new USB input could support add-on devices in the future.
Still too tall
The WeMo Insight Switch has a smaller body, but it can still block an adjacent power outlet.
Could be worse
It's better this way.
Basic WeMo app screen
Here's the standard screen for the Insight switch, with all of the power draw data on display.
WeMo settings
Belkin doesn't expose a ton of settings, but at least you can adjust a few important ones.
Standby threshold
On this screen you can raise or lower the power draw level the WeMo Insight Switch uses to determine whether it's in standby or power mode.
Set your rate
Set your local power rate to get the most accurate usage cost data.
Data exporting
Like numbers? Belkin will send you a ton of them via this exporting tool.
Belkin CSV file
The WeMo app will send you a trove of data, reporting on daily energy usage, cost, and so on.
IFTTT makes everything better
The WeMo Insight Switch IFTTT channel has plenty of free, useful recipes like this one.
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