Review on 🏠 Effortless Home Automation: Introducing the SHELLY 1 One Relay Switch with Wireless WiFi Connectivity and iOS/Android Application (1 Pack) by Kenny Outlaw

With its low cost and ability to be flashed with custom firmware, the Sonoff Basic has long been a favorite for home automation, but now it has serious competition. Here's why the Shelly 1 can be worth the extra cost for certain applications: 1. Tiny size. I was able to plug it into an outlet in my 1955 home, when the boxes weren't as big as new builds are today. It even works in a metal box.2. Switch activation uses hot AC power. This is ideal for using your existing wall switch and wiring for manual control.3. Very customizable. While Sonoff now fills in the holes for soldering the header, adding another frustrating step to the flash process, Shelly adds an exposed socket if you want to flash your favorite firmware like Tasmota. To be honest I just loved their preinstalled firmware after I updated it OTA to get MQTT capability. So will she replace her beloved Sonoff? It depends. For a reliable relay that you want to run from your existing wall switch and have more security (16 amps vs. Sonoff's 10 amp limit), Shelly is the clear winner. However, note that GPIO GND is connected to hot AC ground, so don't even think about using it to connect a small button or sensor. Stick with Sonoff for these applications. Both have their place and strengths and now we have a better choice. ALLTERCO - If you are reading these reviews, PLEASE develop a dimmer module in this format. When you do this, let the firmware turn the light on 100% when the momentary switch is pressed, or start dimming when the same switch is held closed. No one else has such a great affordable option, and you'll be selling them as quickly as possible if you get it right. 4 star rating due to lack of UL approval and weak screw terminals.