Hive Active Plug With Signal Booster Feature Review

The Hive Active Plug is a well-built, UK-specific smart socket that connects via a Hive Hub. Unlike standard Wi-Fi plugs, it uses the Zigbee protocol, which reduces the load on your home router and acts as a signal booster to help Hive thermostats or sensors in distant rooms stay connected. It features a physical override button on the front and a clear LED status indicator, housed in a casing that is relatively slim but may still obstruct some tight double-socket configurations.

In testing, the signal boosting capability is the standout feature; it reliably cures 'offline' issues for Hive devices located in lofts or extensions. The scheduling is robust and handled through the intuitive Hive app, which is widely regarded as one of the most stable on the UK market. However, response times can occasionally lag slightly behind Wi-Fi alternatives if the Zigbee mesh is thin, and the physical footprint is larger than some 'mini' smart plugs.

Energy savings are indirect and depend entirely on scheduling high-drain 'vampire' appliances like coffee machines or AV setups. While it can help reduce standby power waste—potentially saving £10-£25 a year depending on the connected load—the £39 entry price means the 'payback period' is roughly two years. It is most effective when used with Hive's 'Actions' to ensure lights or appliances are never left on when the heating is set to 'Away'.

Installation is near-instant via the Hive app. Simply plug in, 'Add Device' in the app, and it pairs with the Hive Hub. Note that a Hive Hub (v2 or v3) is required; it will not work as a standalone Wi-Fi device.

Negligible. Like most Zigbee smart plugs, it consumes less than 1W in standby mode, costing roughly £2-£3 per year to remain powered and acting as a signal repeater.