Best Smart Plugs & Switches — Hive (2026)
2 smart plugs & switches matching brand “Hive”, hand-picked from UK Amazon listings.
Not sure which one to pick? Read our Best Smart Plugs & Switches UK (2026) guide.
#1 Pick
Hive Active Smart Plug, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant, No Hub Required- Wi-Fi (No hub required)
Currently unavailable
Pros
- Well-established UK smart home brand with wide retail support
- Set up to 6 daily schedule slots for lamps and appliances
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
Cons
- Full Hive ecosystem features work best alongside a Hive Hub
#2 Pick
Hive Active Plug With Signal Booster Feature, Works With Hive Hub, White, UK- Wi-Fi (Hive Hub required)
£39.00
Pros
- Built-in signal booster extends Hive Zigbee range to other Hive devices
- Works with the Hive app for scheduling and Alexa/Google voice control
- Simple plug-and-pair setup alongside an existing Hive Hub
Cons
- Best features rely on pairing with a Hive Hub rather than standalone Wi-Fi
The Hive Smart Plugs & Switches offer a straightforward way to control your lights and appliances from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. These Zigbee-enabled devices seamlessly integrate with the Hive ecosystem, allowing you to create routines and schedules for automated operation. They’re designed for easy installation – simply plug them in and connect via the Hive app.
Each Hive Smart Plug & Switch can handle loads up to 13A (at standard UK voltage) and 36V DC (for compatible appliances). You'll receive notifications if a connected device is turned on or off, giving you peace of mind. The switches are ideal for controlling lamps, fairy lights, and other low-power devices, while the plugs offer flexibility for a wider range of appliances.
The Hive system relies on your home Wi-Fi network to function effectively. Ensure you have a strong signal in the location where you’re installing the Smart Plugs & Switches for optimal performance. You can purchase individual plugs or sets of two or four, depending on your needs.
FAQ
What type of bulbs are compatible with Hive Smart Plugs?
Generally, LED and halogen bulbs work best with Hive Smart Plugs due to their lower energy consumption. Incandescent bulbs can overload the plug, so it’s recommended to avoid using them.
Do I need a hub to use the Hive Smart Plugs?
No, you don't need a separate hub. The Hive Smart Plugs connect directly to your home Wi-Fi network and are controlled through the Hive app.
Can I control multiple plugs with one account?
Yes, you can control multiple Hive Smart Plugs with a single account. Simply add each plug to your account within the Hive app; there’s no limit to the number of devices you can manage.
What if my Wi-Fi goes down?
If your Wi-Fi connection is interrupted, you won't be able to control the Smart Plugs remotely. However, they will continue to operate according to any pre-set schedules or routines until connectivity is restored.
How do I set up a schedule for my lights?
Within the Hive app, navigate to the specific Smart Plug you want to schedule. You can then create custom schedules based on time of day and days of the week; it’s very intuitive.
Are these plugs safe for use with appliances?
The Hive Smart Plugs are designed for low-power devices, up to 13A. Always check the appliance's wattage rating before plugging it into a smart plug to ensure compatibility and prevent overloading.
Can I control the plugs using voice assistants?
Yes, the Hive Smart Plugs integrate with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control them through voice commands once you’ve linked your accounts in the respective assistant app.
What is the range of the Zigbee signal?
The Zigbee range typically extends up to 30 metres within a home environment, but this can vary depending on factors such as walls and interference. Ensure the plugs are placed within reasonable proximity to your router.
How many devices can I connect to one Hive Smart Plug?
Each Hive Smart Plug is designed for single-device use. Attempting to plug multiple devices into a single smart plug may cause issues with performance and safety.
What happens if the power goes out?
The Hive Smart Plugs will retain their settings and continue to operate according to pre-set schedules until the power is restored. They don't require battery backup.