Introduction — Ajax Socket Type G Smart Plug with Energy Meter (32631)
Ajax Socket Type G Smart Plug (Black)is a compact, indoor smart socket designed for the UK market that combines remote switching with precise energy monitoring and safety protections. Built to pair with Ajax hubs and range extenders over the Jeweller two‑way radio protocol, this plug is aimed at users who want reliable, secure remote control of appliances alongside granular consumption data.
Key features at a glance:
- Remote control via Ajax app, local button or automation scenarios (requires Ajax hub/range extender).
- Built‑in energy meter measuring voltage, current, instantaneous power and cumulative energy with 1 W resolution.
- Selectable operating modes: bistable (on/off) and pulse (0.5–255 s).
- Adjustable LED frame with 7 colours and 15 brightness levels for visual status and load indication.
- Multiple safety protections: adjustable current limit (1–16 A), over‑voltage, over‑temperature shutdown and auto‑cut features; child safety shutters included.
- Secure two‑way radio communications with AES encryption; pairs only to Ajax hubs and extenders.
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Device type: Remote‑controlled smart socket (Type G, indoor)
- Plug type: Type G (British three‑pin); colour: Black
- Dimensions: 54.5 × 54.5 × 59 mm; Weight: 90 g
- Ingress protection: IP20 (indoor use only)
- Operating range: 0 °C to +40 °C; humidity up to 75% non‑condensing
Benefit: The compact form factor and standard Type G connector make it an unobtrusive option for UK homes and small offices. IP20 rating and operating limits mean it’s best used indoors in typical living or working environments.
- Supply voltage: 230 V AC, 50 Hz
- Maximum power: Up to 3 kW (resistive load)
- Max. load current / protection: Selectable 1–16 A (default 13 A)
- Energy monitoring: Voltage, current, instantaneous power, cumulative energy (1 W resolution)
- Standby consumption: ≤ 1.5 W
- Actuating element: Electromagnetic relay; Relay service life ≥ 200,000 switching cycles
Benefit: The selectable current protection and accurate energy metering help prevent overloads and allow you to track consumption precisely. With a 3 kW resistive rating and durable relay life, this plug suits common appliances such as kettles, heaters (within the current limit), lamps and entertainment devices.
- Operating modes: Bistable (on/off) and pulse (0.5–255 s configurable)
- LED indication: Adjustable LED frame with 7 colours and 15 brightness levels
- Safety features: Child safety shutters; over‑voltage, over‑current and over‑temperature protection with automatic shutdown
Benefit: The pulse mode is useful for garage doors, intercoms or devices that require momentary activation. The LED frame provides quick visual feedback about the socket’s state or load level — useful in dim environments or to show a fault condition at a glance.
- Radio protocol: Jeweller two‑way
- Encryption: AES
- Polling interval: 12–300 s (adjustable)
- Communication range: Up to ~1,000–1,100 m open space (region dependent)
- Compatibility: Pairs with Ajax hubs and range extenders only
Benefit: The dedicated Jeweller protocol is engineered for fast, reliable low‑power communication within the Ajax ecosystem and uses AES encryption for secure links. Because it pairs only with Ajax hubs/extenders, the socket is best suited to users already invested in or planning an Ajax system — this integration enables unified automation, security rules and monitoring across devices.
Use cases and scenarios where the Ajax Socket excels
The Ajax Socket Type G is versatile and performs well in scenarios where safety, energy visibility and integration with a broader security/automation system matter. Typical use cases include:
- Home energy monitoring: Track the electricity use of major appliances (tumble dryers, heaters, entertainment systems) and calculate real consumption costs. The 1 W resolution provides meaningful granularity for everyday monitoring and billing estimates.
- Automated routines: Link the socket into Ajax automation scenarios so devices switch on or off based on presence, schedule, or other sensors (for example, turn off non‑essential loads when the alarm is armed or switch lights on at sunset).
- Security integrations: Use the socket to cut power to devices in alarm situations or to trigger lights and audible devices when sensors detect activity. The rapid, encrypted communication helps ensure timely responses.
- Appliance protection: Set the selectable current limit and take advantage of over‑voltage and over‑temperature shutdowns to reduce the risk of damage to sensitive equipment or to prevent circuit overloads.
- Short‑duration activations: Employ pulse mode for garage doors, electric strikes, or other devices requiring momentary power without user presence.
- Light commercial or rental properties: Manage communal appliances or provide owners with usage insights in small B&Bs, offices or leasing units where centralised control and safety features are beneficial.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
Smart plugs and sockets come in many flavours — Wi‑Fi, Zigbee, Z‑Wave, Thread, and proprietary radio systems. Here’s how the Ajax Socket Type G stands up against common alternatives.
Many Wi‑Fi plugs connect directly to a home router and are easy to set up without an additional hub. They are widely compatible with voice assistants and third‑party ecosystems. However, Wi‑Fi devices can be more vulnerable to network congestion and may draw more standby power. The Ajax Socket, by contrast, uses a low‑power two‑way radio (Jeweller) with wide open‑space range and AES encryption — offering greater battery/radio efficiency and security when used with an Ajax hub. The trade‑off is the requirement for an Ajax hub or range extender.
Zigbee and Z‑Wave smart plugs offer mesh networking and broad third‑party ecosystem compatibility. The Ajax Socket is similar in providing a robust radio link and low‑power operation, but it is intentionally designed to function only within the Ajax ecosystem. Where Zigbee/Z‑Wave may prioritise interoperability, Ajax prioritises integrated security/automation features and a tailored user experience for Ajax customers.
Several specialist plugs include energy metering comparable to Ajax’s 1 W resolution. The Ajax Socket matches or exceeds many of these in safety options (adjustable current, over‑temp cut‑off) and adds the benefit of secure encrypted radio and ecosystem integration. Some competitors may offer cloudless local control or broader integrations; the choice depends on whether you prioritise deep Ajax integration and systemwide automation or a more open platform approach.
With a suggested price around £39.99 (or the local equivalent), the Ajax Socket is competitively priced for a Type G smart plug that combines energy metering, robust safety protections and secure radio communications. It represents a solid mid‑range option for users committed to the Ajax platform and needing reliable monitoring and load protection.
Customer testimonials and user feedback
Below are representative user comments reflecting the strengths and typical experiences shared by owners. These are illustrative examples of the kinds of feedback customers have reported:
- "Great addition to my Ajax system — the energy readings helped me spot a high‑use heater and save on my bills." — Homeowner
- "Reliable switching and the LED frame is a handy status indicator in the hallway. Setup with the Ajax hub was straightforward." — Small business owner
- "I value the selectable current protection. It gives peace of mind when powering older appliances." — Landlord managing rental property
- "Only downside is it needs an Ajax hub, but that’s also a benefit if you want an integrated security and automation solution." — Tech‑savvy user
These examples summarise recurring themes: accurate energy data, dependable switching, useful safety features, and the expectation that buyers either already have or are prepared to install an Ajax hub for full functionality.
Conclusion — Why the Ajax Socket Type G is a great choice
The Ajax Socket Type G Smart Plug (32631) is a well‑rounded device for UK users who want more than basic remote switching. It merges precise energy monitoring (1 W resolution) with flexible modes, a thoughtful set of safety protections, and secure two‑way radio communications that integrate tightly into the Ajax security and automation ecosystem.
If your priorities include secure communications, reliable local control, load protection and the ability to track and act on energy consumption across your home or small commercial site, this Ajax socket is a compelling option. The requirement for an Ajax hub is an important consideration — it’s ideal for buyers who want a cohesive system with centralised management rather than a standalone Wi‑Fi plug. For those invested in the Ajax platform, the Socket Type G delivers a combination of accuracy, safety and automation potential that makes it a smart addition to modern connected spaces.
