Last updated: January 19, 2026
The Sonoff POW R3 once reigned supreme as the go-to solution for managing power-hungry smart home devices. Years after its launch, here in 2026, I decided to revisit this piece of hardware to see if it still holds up against newer technology. Is it a reliable workhorse or an outdated relic? In this definitive review, we’ll break down its capabilities, walk through the installation process, and explore its integration with platforms like Home Assistant.
Sonoff POW Series: A Quick Evolution Chart
To really get where the POW R3 fits in, it helps to see it alongside its predecessor and the newer models that have hit the market. The evolution has clearly focused on higher capacity, smaller size, and better connectivity.
| Feature | Sonoff POWR2 (2018) | Sonoff POW R3 (2021) | Sonoff POW Elite (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Load | 16A / 3500W | 25A / 5500W | 32A / 7360W |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz WiFi | 2.4GHz WiFi | 2.4GHz WiFi / Matter over Wi-Fi |
| Local Control (LAN) | Yes | Yes, improved | Yes, native & robust |
| Data History Storage | Limited in-app | 100 days, CSV exportable | Up to 6 months in-app, exportable |
| Stock Firmware | eWeLink | eWeLink | eWeLink |
| Mounting | Surface | Surface (Bulky) | Surface / DIN Rail (More Compact) |
| Protections | Overload | Overload, Over-voltage, Over-current | Advanced (Overload, Over-voltage, Over-current, Temperature) |
Sonoff POW R3 In-Depth: The Pros and Cons
After years of hands-on use and testing, I’ve boiled down my opinions on the Sonoff POW R3 into a straightforward list of pros and cons for anyone considering it in 2026.
Pros
- Massive Load Capacity: Its 25A / 5500W rating is still more than enough for most high-draw appliances like water heaters, air conditioners, or pool pumps.
- Proven Reliability: This device is a tank that has stood the test of time. The hardware is robust and stable, especially when you free it from the cloud with custom firmware.
- Competitive Price Point: As an older model, its price has dropped significantly, making it a bargain for projects that don’t need the absolute latest tech.
- Local Control (LAN Mode): It supports offline control through integrations like Sonoff LAN in Home Assistant, a critical feature for privacy and stability.
- Huge Community Support: There’s a massive amount of documentation and tutorials for flashing Tasmota or ESPHome, opening up a world of possibilities for advanced users.
Cons
- Bulky Size: It’s a big boy. Its large footprint can make it tricky to install in tight junction boxes or crowded electrical panels.
- WiFi Only: It lacks versions with Zigbee or Thread, which are more efficient technologies for mesh smart home networks.
- Cloud-Reliant (Out of the Box): Without modification, it depends on eWeLink’s servers, which can introduce latency or become a point of failure if the service goes down.
- Not a Beginner’s Install: This requires basic electrical knowledge for safe wiring. This isn’t a simple plug-and-play device.
Sonoff POW R3 Installation Guide (Step-by-Step)
Installing this device is straightforward if you follow the steps correctly, but always put safety first. Here’s the process I use.
- SAFETY FIRST! Kill the power by flipping the main circuit breaker in your electrical panel. Use a multimeter or a non-contact voltage tester to confirm there is absolutely no power in the wires you’ll be handling.
- Identify the Terminals: The POW R3 has clearly marked inputs (INPUT) and outputs (OUTPUT). Each side has a connection for Line (L) and Neutral (N).
- Connect the Input: Strip about 1/4 inch (6-7mm) of insulation from your power source wires (Line and Neutral) and connect them to the L-IN and N-IN terminals, respectively. Tighten the screws down firmly to ensure a solid connection.
- Connect the Load: Do the same for the wires leading to your appliance, connecting them to the L-OUT and N-OUT terminals.
- Cover and Secure: Re-attach the protective terminal cover to prevent any accidental contact.
- App Configuration: Restore power at the breaker. The device will enter pairing mode (the LED will blink). Open the eWeLink app on your phone, tap to add a new device, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to your WiFi network.
Practical Use Cases for the POW R3
Thanks to its high power rating, the POW R3 is the perfect smart energy monitor for devices that would fry a standard smart plug or relay.
- Smart Water Heater: Schedule your water heater to run during off-peak electricity hours for significant savings. You can also monitor its exact consumption to spot any issues.
- Air Conditioner Control: Automate high-power window or portable AC units. You can create automations based on room temperature for efficient climate control.
- Whole-Circuit Monitoring: By installing it after a circuit breaker in your panel, you can measure the total consumption of an entire circuit, like all the outlets in your kitchen or a bedroom.
- Pool Pump & Irrigation Management: Remotely control and monitor the energy usage of pool pumps, well pumps, or irrigation systems, scheduling them to run when it’s most convenient or cost-effective.
Taking the Sonoff POW R3 to the Next Level with Home Assistant
But the *real* magic happens when you integrate the Sonoff POW R3 with Home Assistant, freeing it from cloud dependency. These are my two favorite methods:
1. The Easy Way with Sonoff LAN (HACS):
This custom integration, available via HACS, allows Home Assistant to discover and control your Sonoff devices over your local network. Once you’ve set it up in the eWeLink app, Home Assistant will detect it automatically. It offers fast, reliable control as long as both devices are on the same network, even if your internet goes down.
2. Full Local Control with Tasmota (For Experts):
For those seeking maximum customization and a complete break from eWeLink, flashing the Tasmota firmware is the ultimate solution. While it’s a more technical process, it allows you to integrate the POW R3 via MQTT for 100% local control and limitless customization. If you choose this path, check out this specific guide for flashing Tasmota on the Sonoff POW R3.
Sonoff POW R3 Alternatives in 2026
While the POW R3 is still a great choice, the market has moved on. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Shelly EM / 3EM: If pinpoint accuracy in energy monitoring is your top priority, Shelly’s devices with current clamps are superior. They’re more expensive but offer more reliable data and the ability to monitor multiple circuits. Here’s a review of the Shelly EM.
- Contactor + Smart Relay: For industrial-level or loads exceeding 25A, the professional solution is to use a small smart relay (like a Shelly 1 or Sonoff MINI) to trigger the coil of a high-power contactor. This setup allows you to safely control virtually unlimited loads.
- Sonoff POW Ring: A newer, non-invasive alternative from Sonoff. It’s a current clamp that installs directly in your electrical panel without cutting any wires, making it ideal for general, whole-home monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Sonoff POW R3
- How accurate is the POW R3’s energy meter?
- For general home use, its accuracy is quite good. It’s perfect for identifying which appliances are energy hogs and helping you optimize their use. However, it’s not a utility-grade billing meter. Its technology is based on TRUE RMS principles, which provide more stable readings than very basic meters.
- Can you mount the Sonoff POW R3 on a DIN rail?
- Not natively. Its case is designed for surface mounting. However, the maker community has created numerous 3D-printable adapters that let you securely clip it onto a DIN rail inside an electrical panel.
- Does it require a neutral wire?
- Yes, absolutely. As a switch that also measures power, it needs a neutral connection on both the input and output to power its own electronics and correctly measure the current flow.
- Does it work without an internet connection?
- Yes, with a catch. Once configured, if you integrate it into Home Assistant using the Sonoff LAN integration, you can control it locally without internet. For total independence, even if your router fails, you need to flash a custom firmware like Tasmota or ESPHome.
Final Verdict: My Take on the Sonoff POW R3
After this deep dive, my opinion on the Sonoff POW R3 in 2026 is clear: it’s still an incredibly useful and relevant device. While it’s been surpassed in features like size or connectivity by newer, Matter-compatible models, its unmatched 25A load capacity at a now-bargain price keeps it a top-tier choice for controlling and monitoring the electrical giants in our homes. If you’re looking for a cheap, reliable solution for your water heater, AC unit, or pool pump—and you’re not afraid of a little hands-on installation—the POW R3 will not let you down.