Why this made the list
Most smart plugs route every command through a cloud server somewhere, even the on/off toggle for your lamp. Eve built its reputation on going the other way: local control, minimal cloud dependency, and a genuine focus on privacy. With this plug now built on Matter and Thread instead of Eve's older proprietary Bluetooth setup, it's become one of the more credible options for an Apple Home household that wants things to keep working when the internet doesn't.
What it actually does
This is a Matter-over-Thread smart plug with built-in energy monitoring, not just an on/off switch. It works with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings since Matter is meant to be cross-platform. Because it runs on Thread rather than Wi-Fi, it also acts as a Thread extender for other Thread devices on your network. That said, Thread needs a Thread border router to function as a mesh, on most homes that's an Apple TV, HomePod mini, or a similar always-on hub, so check what you already own before assuming this needs zero infrastructure. It's not a "hub required" product in the traditional sense, but it isn't fully standalone either.
Who this is actually for
An Apple Home household, or anyone building out a Matter/Thread smart home, who already owns a Thread border router and wants a plug that reports actual energy use rather than just toggling on and off.
What to weigh before buying
- You'll want a Thread border router in the house (an Apple TV or HomePod mini typically fills that role) for Thread to actually mesh the way it's designed to. Without one, you lose some of the advantage over a plain Wi-Fi plug.
- It costs meaningfully more than a basic Wi-Fi smart plug. You're paying for the local-control, energy-monitoring, and Matter-native positioning, not just an outlet you can turn off remotely.
- If your whole household is on Alexa or Google Home only, with no interest in Apple Home or Thread, a cheaper Wi-Fi plug does the same basic job for less.
The verdict
A well-built, privacy-minded plug that makes the most sense in an Apple Home or Matter-focused setup with a Thread border router already in place. Overkill, and overpriced, if all you want is a lamp on a timer.