The 10 best plug-in timers to buy in the UK
Finding the best plug-in timer can be a real lifesaver, allowing you to better organise the timing of lights, security, and electronics used around the home. However, it helps to know a few things before you buy, as this will allow you to find the right plug-in timer for your requirements. Below you will find a buying guide that covers all the information you need to know about plug-in timers, making it easier to find the right plug-in timer for your needs.
What are plug-in timers?
A plug-in timer is a mains timer switch that allows you to automate the use of electrical appliances. It features a built-in timer, either mechanical or digital, that turns on mains power at the designated time, meaning any electrical device plugged into the timer (such as a lamp or espresso machine) automatically turns on once it activates.
Why should you buy a good plug-in timer?
The best plug-in timer is a welcome addition to any household, allowing you to automate various appliances throughout the home. For example, you can use it to have your lights come on at a specific time each day, saving energy and money at the same time. It works with any electrical appliance too, so you can use on it any device you want to turn on or off at a specific time of the day.
How to choose the right plug-in timer in 2024?
Here are some things to consider when looking for the best plug-in timer.
- Purpose: Consider what you are using the plug-in timer for to help find the right one for your needs. For example, if you are using it to charge a cell phone while you sleep, then a timer with a countdown that shuts off once it is charged is a great option.
- Settings: The more settings that the plug-in timer has the more versatile it is, so it is worth checking the setting options to see what is available. Popular settings include multiple timers every 12 to 24 hours, allowing you to turn things on and off twice per day, while advanced settings like countdown timers and interval timers are useful for things you don’t want to run all day long.
- Childproofing: Anyone with kids around the home may want to consider buying a plug-in timer with a childproof feature. Children can easily adjust the settings of the timer without your knowing, throwing the entire schedule off, which is the last thing you want to happen. To avoid this, look out for timers that have a child lock.
What is the best kind of plug-in timer in the UK?
There are two popular types of plug-in timers available to buy:
- Mechanical Plug-in Timers: Mechanical plug-in timers are affordable and reliable, allowing you to set a timer a few times in 24 hours. They are the simplest to operate, as you just need to set the dial to the desired time and then plug in the device. Most come with limited features, although one key benefit is that they won’t reset if the power cuts out.
- Digital Plug-in Timers: Digital plug-in timers feature a digital interface, usually a small LCD screen and some buttons, allowing for more advanced settings such as multiple timers, countdowns, interval timers etc. They are more versatile but can be tricky to set up, especially if they have multiple settings. If you have multiple devices that you want to automate throughout the home, then this is probably the best plug-in timer to use.
Top 10 list of plug-in timers in the UK (2024)
The bestseller list compares brands and their plug-in timers. Which plug-in timer is the best?
- PRACTICAL FOR ANY SEASON - Suitable to make your home appear occupied when on holiday…
- CAN BE USED ON FOR ARRAY OF APPLIANCES - Ideal for use with kitchen appliances, lamps,…
- DETER BURGLARS & OPPORTUNIST THEIVES - Designed to deter burglars and opportunist…
- Model Number :S24HRSQT3
- White colour
- 24 hour plug in timer
- Satisfaction Guarantee - Our timers have a 24-month warranty. Please be assured purchase,…
- Multi Purpose - This timer switch can be used with lights and appliances up to 3120W.…
- Easy To Pogram - Clockwise rotate the dial it to the current time, push the pins…
- CE and RoHs Certified, conforms to BS1363 British Safety Standards. If you have any…
- With switch knob; With children protector; Min. Setting time: 15 minutes; Max. Setting…
- Plug the appliance into the timer, suitable for UK power sockets
- TWO SWITCHES ON THE SIDE OF THE TIMER PLUG: Lets you choose whether to keep the timer…
- THE BLUE SEGMENTS REPRESENT THE TIME YOU REQUIRE THE TIMER: Simply press in each…
- USE TO CONTROL ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES IN THE HOME: From heaters to lights, seasonal…
- Satisfaction Guarantee - CE Certificated ensure its safety. Our timers have a 12-month…
- Multi Purpose - This timer switch can be used with lights and appliances up to 3120W.…
- Save Time & Money - Plug fans, lamps or holiday lights in and set the timer to…
- Manual override until next programme change.
- Up to 24 ON & OFF programmes per day (additional pins required).
- Easy to use setting pins. 30 minute minimum switching interval which can be increased…
- Wide ApplicationsGreat for appliances up to 13A/2900W. especially light, fans, coffee…
- Random FunctionThe lights can be automatically turned on/off randomly at times between…
- Simply SettingLarge LED display for better visibility and easy setting, the built-in…
- CE and RoHs Certified, conforms to BS1363 British Safety Standards. If you have any…
- With switch knob; With children protector; Min. Setting time: 15 minutes; Max. Setting…
- Plug the appliance into the timer, suitable for UK power sockets
- Satisfaction Guarantee - CE Certificated ensure its safety. Our timers have a 12-month…
- Multi Purpose - This timer switch can be used with lights and appliances up to 3120W.…
- Energy Saving - You can set your own schedule for when to activate or deactivate…
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