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10 Best Plug In Timers 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Defender 24 Hour Segment Timer Switch - Energy Saver Plug Standard Size - Programmable Time Controller

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,140
Ease of Use
Size and Design
Type of Timer
Ease of Use
Setting up the timer is straightforward and hassle-free, making it easy to schedule appliances without any complicated programming.
Size and Design
The compact and lightweight design fits well in any home environment and is especially useful when outlets are hard to reach.
Type of Timer
This timer offers a reliable, no-frills way to automate lights and appliances without relying on WiFi or smart home technology.
Programming Options
The 15-minute segment system provides flexible on/off scheduling throughout the day, suitable for multiple daily cycles.

The Defender 24 Hour Segment Timer Switch is a straightforward plug-in timer that lets you set appliances to turn on or off at specific times within a 24-hour cycle. It uses a segment system where each segment equals 15 minutes, allowing flexible scheduling throughout the day. This makes it a good choice if you want to automate lights, fans, heaters, or holiday decorations. It supports loads up to about 3,200 watts, which covers most household appliances but might be less ideal for very high-powered devices. Its compact white plastic design is simple and blends easily into home settings without taking up much space.

Setting it up is easy since you just flip segments on or off to choose times, so you don’t need to mess with complicated digital programming. One downside is that it’s a mechanical timer, so it lacks some of the flexibility and precision that digital timers offer, such as multiple daily programs or different weekday/weekend schedules. Also, it’s a bit limited if you want to program very short on/off cycles under 15 minutes.

This timer is ideal for people who want a reliable, no-frills way to make their home look occupied to deter burglars or automate everyday devices without fuss. If you need advanced programming or digital controls, however, this timer might not meet your needs.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,140
Ease of Use
Size and Design
Type of Timer
Ease of Use
Setting up the timer is straightforward and hassle-free, making it easy to schedule appliances without any complicated programming.
Size and Design
The compact and lightweight design fits well in any home environment and is especially useful when outlets are hard to reach.
Type of Timer
This timer offers a reliable, no-frills way to automate lights and appliances without relying on WiFi or smart home technology.
Programming Options
The 15-minute segment system provides flexible on/off scheduling throughout the day, suitable for multiple daily cycles.
#2

HBN 24 Hour Programmable Mechanical Timer Plug Switch, Energy Saving UK Plug-in Indoor Timer Socket for Lights, Lamp and Home Appliances (13A/3120W, 2 Pack)

Rating
9.6
Ease of Use
Programming Options
Ease of Use
The timer is praised for being simple to use and well-made, maintaining time effectively.
Programming Options
While it offers good value, some users suggest the instructions could be clearer to enhance the setup experience.

The HBN 24 Hour Programmable Mechanical Timer Plug Switch is a practical and versatile plug-in timer suitable for various indoor appliances and lights. One of its standout features is its ease of use, backed by comprehensive instructions. It offers excellent programming options, allowing you to schedule devices to turn on and off up to 48 times a day, with a minimum setting time of 15 minutes and a maximum of 24 hours. This flexibility makes it ideal for managing lights, fans, heaters, and more, helping you save time and money by ensuring appliances don't stay on when not needed.

Additionally, it includes useful features like a load indicator, switch knob, and child protector, enhancing its safety and usability. The load capacity is quite robust, handling up to 3120 watts, accommodating a wide range of household devices. Its size and design are compact and discreet, with dimensions of 7.4D x 8.5W x 13H cm and a weight of 168g, making it unobtrusive in most settings.

However, it is designed for indoor use only and might not be suitable for outdoor applications. The white plastic material is durable, but may not appeal to those looking for a more visually striking design. With a 12-month warranty, it offers reliable performance and peace of mind. This timer is perfect for someone looking to automate their home appliances and improve energy efficiency with a user-friendly and safe device.

Rating
9.6
Ease of Use
Programming Options
Ease of Use
The timer is praised for being simple to use and well-made, maintaining time effectively.
Programming Options
While it offers good value, some users suggest the instructions could be clearer to enhance the setup experience.
#3

2 x NOVKIT Digital Security Timer Plug Socket Programmable Switch Timer with 10 ON-Off Programs and Random Mode for Home and Indoor (230V, 13A, 2900W)

Rating
9.4
Programming Options
Ease of Use
Programming Options
Users appreciate its versatility, with up to 10 programmable settings that cater to a variety of needs, from warming beds to managing air fresheners.
Ease of Use
The NOVKIT timer is praised for its easy setup and clear instructions, making it a standout choice among timers tried over the years.

The NOVKIT Digital Security Timer Plug Socket is a versatile option for those looking to manage their home electronics efficiently. It offers significant energy-saving benefits by automating the on-off schedule of devices like lights and fans, helping reduce electricity bills. With up to 10 programmable settings and the ability to set schedules on both a 24-hour and weekly basis, it provides flexible control for various needs. Its anti-theft feature, a randomized mode, can be particularly beneficial if you travel frequently, giving the appearance of an occupied home to deter potential burglars.

The timer is user-friendly, featuring a large LCD screen for easy reading and a built-in battery to ensure your settings are retained during power outages. Though silent in operation, it does require a battery, which thankfully comes included. One potential drawback is its protruding plug design, which might not be ideal for tight spaces, but its modern, white plastic build should blend well with most home decors.

It's notable that this product is CE and RoHS approved, adding a layer of reliability and safety, and it comes with a one-year warranty and lifetime customer support. With dimensions of 13.46 x 5.99 x 4.83 cm and a weight of 420 grams, the timer is relatively compact, although it may still take up some space when plugged in. Despite these minor concerns, its ease of use, flexibility, and security features make it a strong contender for both residential and commercial use. Rated highly by users, the NOVKIT timer is an appealing choice for anyone seeking a dependable plug-in timer that meets a broad range of functionality and convenience.

Rating
9.4
Programming Options
Ease of Use
Programming Options
Users appreciate its versatility, with up to 10 programmable settings that cater to a variety of needs, from warming beds to managing air fresheners.
Ease of Use
The NOVKIT timer is praised for its easy setup and clear instructions, making it a standout choice among timers tried over the years.

Buying Guide for the Best Plug In Timers

Plug-in timers are a convenient way to automate the operation of electrical devices, helping you save energy and enhance security. They allow you to set specific times for devices to turn on or off, which can be particularly useful for lamps, heaters, or any appliance you want to control without manual intervention. When choosing a plug-in timer, consider your specific needs, such as the type of device you want to control, the frequency of use, and the complexity of the timer's programming options.
Type of TimerPlug-in timers come in two main types: mechanical and digital. Mechanical timers are simple and often feature a dial that you turn to set the time. They are easy to use and generally less expensive, but they offer limited programming options. Digital timers, on the other hand, provide more flexibility with programmable settings, allowing for multiple on/off cycles and even randomization features for added security. If you need basic functionality, a mechanical timer might suffice, but for more complex scheduling, a digital timer is preferable.
Programming OptionsProgramming options refer to the ability to set specific times for your devices to turn on and off. Basic timers might only allow a single daily cycle, while more advanced models can offer multiple daily cycles, weekly programming, or even randomization features. Consider how often you need your device to operate and whether you need different settings for different days. If you have a consistent schedule, a simple timer with limited programming might be enough, but for varied schedules, look for a timer with more advanced programming capabilities.
Load CapacityLoad capacity indicates the maximum electrical load the timer can handle. This is important to ensure the timer can safely operate the device you intend to use it with. Load capacity is usually measured in amps or watts. Check the power requirements of your device and ensure the timer can support it. For small appliances like lamps, a lower load capacity is sufficient, but for larger devices like heaters, you will need a timer with a higher load capacity.
Ease of UseEase of use is crucial, especially if you're not familiar with programming electronic devices. Mechanical timers are generally straightforward, with a simple dial to set the time. Digital timers can be more complex, with buttons and screens for programming. Look for a timer with clear instructions and intuitive controls. If you're comfortable with technology, a digital timer with more features might be appealing, but if you prefer simplicity, a mechanical timer is likely a better choice.
Size and DesignThe size and design of a plug-in timer can affect where and how you use it. Some timers are bulky and may block adjacent outlets, while others are compact and designed to fit neatly into a power strip or wall socket. Consider where you plan to use the timer and whether space is a concern. If you need to use multiple devices in one area, a compact design is beneficial, but if space is not an issue, you can opt for a larger timer with more features.