Hive Active Plug Review (V3 / 13A Smart Plug)
A simple way to smart-control “dumb” appliances, monitor power use, and (handily) help strengthen your Hive network coverage.
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Highlights
- 13A smart plug for UK sockets (Type G).
- Remote on/off control in the Hive app.
- Schedules (set multiple on/off slots per day).
- Energy monitoring so you can spot power-hungry kit.
- Can boost signal to other Hive devices in the home.
- Alexa / Google compatibility (plus Hive ecosystem grouping).
Setup & Hive network boost
Setup is exactly what you want from a smart plug: plug it in, add it in the Hive app, name it (e.g., “Kitchen Chargers”), then assign schedules or quick actions. One of the underrated benefits is that Hive promotes this plug as a way to boost signal to other Hive products — handy if you’ve got thermostats/sensors at the edge of coverage.
Using it with Intelligent Octopus Go
The whole reason I love a smart plug is shifting “background charging” to cheaper hours. With Intelligent Octopus Go you get a guaranteed off-peak window for the whole home overnight (Octopus currently lists it as 11:30pm–5:30am), so I set the Hive Active Plug to power on only during that window. Great for phone docks, battery packs, iPads, and anything you don’t want sipping power all day.
Energy monitoring (why it’s useful)
The energy monitoring is more than a gimmick — it helps you find the “silent offenders” (old chargers, AV kit, dehumidifiers, etc.). Once you know what’s drawing what, it’s easy to build schedules that save money without changing your habits.
Pros & cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Does the basics brilliantly: remote control + schedules | Typically works best with a Hive Hub (depending on setup) |
| Energy monitoring helps reduce waste | Bulkier than a standard plug adaptor (can block adjacent sockets) |
| Can help boost Hive signal to other devices | Not the cheapest smart plug — you’re paying for ecosystem integration |
| Perfect for off-peak charging routines | As with all smart plugs, avoid inappropriate high-load devices |
FAQs
Do I need a Hive Hub?
Many Hive devices and features are designed around the Hive Hub. If you already run Hive heating, adding the plug is straightforward and fits right in.
Can I use it to charge during cheap-rate hours?
Yes — set a schedule so it turns on only during your tariff’s off-peak window (e.g., Intelligent Octopus Go’s overnight cheap period).
Does it monitor energy usage?
Yes — the Hive app can show power consumption so you can spot waste and optimise schedules.
What’s the max rating?
This is a UK 13A smart plug designed for standard 230V mains. Always check the appliance rating and stay within limits.
Verdict
If you’re already invested in Hive, the Hive Active Plug is a no-brainer upgrade: it extends what your system can do, gives you energy insight, and (in my case) helps stabilise devices at the edge of the network. Add in off-peak charging schedules on Intelligent Octopus Go and it quickly pays for itself in convenience.
Top accessories to pair with Hive Active Plug
- Hive Hub (if you’re expanding Hive devices)
- USB-C GaN charger (65W) (perfect for off-peak charging)
- Surge-protected extension lead (tidy charging corner)
- Cable management box (hide the charging mess)
- Smart meter IHD (keep an eye on whole-home usage)
