Top products from r/googlehome

I have a lot of different Smart outlets being used around the home. It really depends on what your use is going to be.

For a cheap outlet where space is not an issues, these from KMC have worked well for me. They are pretty dependable even in areas with weak WiFi signal and the energy monitoring is nice for things like air filters or fans.

KMC also makes a nice multi outlet plug. I personally use this to control the multiple led light strips at my garage workbench.

For anything 15A, I would say TP-Link is the way to go. These have been great for me, but the newer HS105 does have a better form factor. I have used these for my garage fridge, windows AC unit, and tools at my workbench. There is an energy monitoring variant as well, the HS110

You may see that there are a ton of the cheap round shaped smart plugs on Amazon and other sites. I have found all of these to be almost exactly the same, no matter what company they come from. They work well enough for simple devices like lamps, but they have tended to have issues in anywhere, but perfect WiFi signal areas.

Let me know if you have any questions on this or any other devices. After a few years of upgrades, I am at over 110 smart devices, so I can tell you what not to get...

Hey all, Im super happy to launch The Fly’s Eye Mini Mount. Its based off our Echo Dot Built in mount which has been very well received for easy installation. I only launch my stuff on Reddit so here we go. Thanks for all of the great support for the Mini Back Pack and Mini USB cover Plate. I am doing the special for 24 hours on this one rather than just the first 100 since I have more on hand.

Here is the link for the demo: https://youtu.be/b4SOG4Ay_04

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Flys-Eye-Built-Mini-Mount/dp/B078Z214QX/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1518208901&sr=8-11&keywords=google+home+mini+built+in+mount

You can also order on our website which does international: www.mountgenie.com

Please let me know if you have any questions!
Charlie!

If you have the kinect, you could have google say "xbox turn on", but I feel like that's silly.

I'm kidding, sorry, I've got to assume you don't have a kinect. I echo others on here, get a harmony hub. There's a bundle on amazon that often goes for far less than the hub by itself - Logitech Harmony Smart Control with Smartphone App and Simple All In One Remote - Black.

I actually got this as a gift for a friend who lost the remote to her tv. I ended up liking it so much that I got two for myself (although for my living room I found a refurbished Elite that's a wonderful remote).

Smartthings is a great, simple way to do this, but it will require buying the hub. Instead of a light bulb, I'd just buy a light switch like this one from GE.

This will allow an easy setup for "Turn on at Sunset and off at sunrise" and will also integrate with Google Home pretty painlessly. May not be the cheapest way to go about it, but it's certainly easy, and it will allow for adding whatever other smart-switches, security sensors, etc. in the future.

There are no SmartThings branded switches. SmartThings is a central hub that is capable of controlling a vast array of third-party smart home devices. When you link it with Google Home, voice commands to the Home will be sent to the SmartThings hub, which will then trigger the smart home device based on how you set it up in the SmartThings app.

For example, you have a smart light switch installed in your kitchen that is labeled "Kitchen Lights" in the SmartThings app. When you say "Hey Google, turn off Kitchen Lights" the SmartThings hub will trigger the smart light switch to the "off" position. No need for smart bulbs, just swap out your current "dumb" light switch for a smart one and you'll be able to control your light fixture.

I personally have several GE 12722 Z-Wave Switches installed in my apartment, which are controlled by SmartThings and Google Home. The light fixtures have regular, run-of-the-mill LED bulbs in them. I issue voice commands like "Turn on/off Kitchen Lights" or "Turn on/off Bedroom Lights" and the switches activate near-instantly. Delay can be measured in milliseconds. Much better than the laggy IFTTT.

Check out the Works with SmartThings page to see the vast multitude of smart home devices that can be controlled by the hub.

I have a Smartthings hub. That talks two home control protocols, called Zigbee and Z-Wave. Many manufacturers make dimmers that use one or the other protocol. There are wall switch-types, and in-line "puck" type fan controllers.

Google finds many...

I'm using TP-Link switched outlets to turn amplifiers on and off. They also have a smaller version, but I got the big ones for $20 each, so went with those. The outlets can be controlled directly by a GH or Amazon Echo, and don't depend on the Smartthings hub.

Search Amazon for wifi switches/fan controllers that say "works with Alexa" for products that don't require a smart home hub. A hub provides some additional flexibility and control methods, but there seems to be a move away from hub-dependent approaches. There are arguments for and against both types of devices. Hubs can offer programmable logic (eg. Turn pitch light on when I arrive home, if the sun has set. If nobody else is home, turn on all amps & play White Stripes really loud,) though using 3rd party tools like IFTTT or Tasker can usually accomplish the same things.

Here is the original and still looks the best imo. All my Minis are in these Mini Backpacks. You just totally do away with the cord.

Amazon Choice and 4.5 stars. $12.99

Charlie should give me a free Sky blue Mini Backpack for all the referrals! ;)

https://www.amazon.com/Dot-Genie-Google-Home-Backpack/dp/B078JNBMDG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=mini+backpack+for+google+home&qid=1571175499&sr=8-1

Mine...

https://imgur.com/ffMKSeX

https://imgur.com/lXt0hpJ

Notice how the other plug is not covered

https://imgur.com/tIv2IKi

https://imgur.com/x71lNLj

And outside

https://imgur.com/3Xs6l11

I have a portable JBL speaker that I bring outside which is nice, but if you don’t want to buy something new, then my suggestions are:

1. Use an extension cord.
   
   
2. Get a portable battery for it; https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-KIWI-design-Accessories-Dark/dp/B07DMDMD15/ref=asc_df_B07DMDMD15/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312129973570&hvpos=1o7&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18151238647700118022&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=t&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9019741&hvtargid=pla-570827320058&psc=1
   
   
3. Get a wall mount like the other guy said; https://www.amazon.com/Outlet-Holder-Space-Saving-Accessories-Assistant/dp/B07B8B1ZSF/ref=asc_df_B07B8B1ZSF/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309750549985&hvpos=1o10&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13200066057260710994&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=t&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9019741&hvtargid=pla-523365044107&psc=1
   
   There is an in the wall/ceiling mount, but I don’t think it would be the best for having to move it inside during the winter. (https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Built-Google-Home-Mount/dp/B078Z214QX/ref=asc_df_B078Z214QX/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=242074892521&hvpos=1o4&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13200066057260710994&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=t&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9019741&hvtargid=pla-420564720238&psc=1)

I bought the hub+remote combo used on Amazon for $69.99 . I wasnt sure what to expect because I've never bought anything used on Amazon before, but it was fulfilled by them so I thought I'd give it a try. The box was beat up but I was so happy to open it and see a brand new remote + hub still in the plastic wrapping. Best day ever. I'd suggest going to the link below if your looking for a remote too.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00BQ5RYI4/ref=dp_olp_all_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=all

So Just in case, Smartthings Hub is on sale, Usually sells at $100, but goes on sale from time to time for $70, Holiday Season its running $50. Again, Pretty useless until you pair it with Lights, smart locks, etc.,. https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SmartThings-Smart-Home-Hub/dp/B010NZV0GE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1511977843&sr=8-2&keywords=smartthings


IF he gots a Raspberry Pi or Arduino (Sounds like he dabbles in Robotics), you can also get some zwave or Zigbee Shields. Those are cheap.

I paired this speaker with a Chromecast Audio and it has surprisingly great audio, definately much better than GH: https://www.amazon.com/Cambridge-SoundWorks-OontZ-Angle-Generation/dp/B010OYASRG/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496190207&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=omtz+speaker

This setup worked out very well, now I can cast my hacks to GH without interrupting music playback, e.g. Announce Incoming Calls, Text Messages, and Notifications.

This one: https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Control-Smartphone-Simple/dp/B00BQ5RYI4

Looks like it's on sale so I'd jump on it. I could almost convince myself to buy a second for another TV in our house at that price.

It's all you need, I never even use our remote anymore. It was lost for a good week or more and I never missed it.

My wife is probably the bigger user, she's usually got the baby in hand and it's very helpful to just be able to say "turn on ABC" or "turn the TV up."

In the states we're allowed to have plug receptacles at or near the sink/vanity, but they have to be GFCI (ground fault circuit interruptor) protected. Basically it cuts power if there's a short.

I'm using the dot genie backpack: Dot Genie Google Home Mini Backpack: The Simplest and Cleanest Outlet Wall Mount Hanger Stand for Home Mini Voice Assistants by Google - No Cord Wrapping Required - Designed in USA (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078JNBMDG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2YSuDbHCRWQSY

It's pretty great. Gets rid of the cable mess, and actually makes the mini portable, this one goes between the kitchen and bathroom based on need. And it actually surprisingly sounds better in that mount than sitting on a flat surface.

I have four of these hooked up to lamps:
Wemo Mini Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Enabled, Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBI0A6R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_s9XPAbEJDHSPW

I'm going to try these on my outside porch lights:
Kasa Smart Wi-Fi LED Light Bulb by TP-Link - Soft White, Dimmable, A19, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant (LB100) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HXM8XF6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_x-XPAbR49DCQY

It's pretty cool because I can just say "Hey Google, turn on all the lights! Or turn off all the lights! Or you can call out the name of the room each one is in individually to control it.

I use this for the control:
Google AIY Voice Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075SFLWKX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fdYPAbWP1NM43

So, basically you're looking for something like this, but one that works with Google home? So far I haven't found an ir blaster compatible with GH besides the harmony hub, so let me know if you find one :)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FK2SDOC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_YMYgAbFH4HWH5

I use Smartthings and really like it. You can find the hubs for less than $80 if patient and looking around. Ya that may seam like a lot but using the switch you picked out at $80 x 3 for a cost of $240 while Smarthings plus either these Leviton or these [GE] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MUCZA1C/ref=psdc_507840_t4_B01N4F487U) will end up being cheaper if you buy 3 or more. Z-wave is designed for exactly this, home automation stuff so I really prefer to use that over WiFi devices.

I don't have any switches at the moment, only Hue but I will be getting some eventually. For a Hub you have two real options if you are really new and not super techy, Wink and SmartThings. Both have different strengths. I've never used Wink but that seams to be a bit more user friendly, however Smartthings is by no means difficult and it has a very helpful community and is more customization. Someone will probably take issue with this but I liken Wink to IOS (cleaner UI, a bit smoother, just works) and Smartthings to Android (much more custimizable)

Is there any reason you're not considering a smart dimmer? You can get them as a switch or a plug. (There are also WiFi versions, if Z-Wave isn't your thing.) Then you can use whichever light you like, as long as they are marked as "dimmable" on the packaging.

I'm not a proponent of smart bulbs in general because, while they last long, they do still burn out. But I understand they are a good solution for some people, though. I hope you find what works for you.

great thanks, is this the one? https://www.amazon.ca/TP-Link-Required-Anywhere-Assistant-HS105/dp/B01K1JVZOE/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1542196857&sr=8-5&keywords=Tp+link

Forgot to mention, these wall mounts are absolutely great for the minis depending on where you want them. I have one in my kitchen to keep it up off the counter and one in my office as well since it's plugged into a wall with nothing in front of it.

You want a bridge, not a repeater - a repeater wouldn't help. You need something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Wireless-Travel-Extender-TL-WR802N/dp/B00TQEX8BO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1480305232&sr=8-4&keywords=wifi+bridge

You create a wifi network with this, and join your Google Home and phone to that. Then have he bridge join your dorm's wifi network. This creates a wifi network that only you and your Home see.

I wanted something like that and settled on a GHome Mini Outlet Mount:

https://www.amazon.com/Dot-Genie-Google-Home-Backpack/dp/B078JNBMDG/

Works great.

TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router - WiFi Bridge/Range Extender/Access Point/Client Modes, Mobile in Pocket(TL-WR802N) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TQEX8BO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_f1Y3BbX91J5NC

This is what you will want. You can tell it to connect to your apartment's Wi-Fi with it and then set your own hot spot up with your own password. Put the chromecast, home and any other device you want private on there. I have one for a similar situation and it works great! 👍

Etekcity is extremely responsive. Only problem is you can only fit one per two-outlet socket, and it has to go on the bottom socket if you want anything to fit in the top one.

Better off with something like this https://www.amazon.com/Mount-Genie-Google-Home-Pedestal/dp/B07H9H1BQB/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1541114786&sr=8-8&keywords=Google+mini

I recommend the OontZ Angle. They provide pretty decent amount for the price. Also you wouldn't need a Bluetooth aux adapter - simply pair your new speaker with your mini.

https://www.amazon.com/Enhanced-Splashproof-Portable-Bluetooth-Radiator/dp/B010OYASRG/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=oontz+angle&qid=1565273389&s=gateway&sr=8-3

AFAIK, the only way that you can "turn on" the PS4 via harmony is by using HDMI-CEC to wake it from a sleep state when its input is selected. That's not the same thing as powering it on from an off state, and while you can also cause the PS4 to sleep if another input is selected, that's not the same thing as powering it off.

There was eventually a $30 hardware accessory that allowed the PS4 to receive IR signals, including power on and off.

If something has changed I'd be very interested to know.

I hear you about the budget. I went with some zap remotes I had around the house and the sonoff RF bridge (standalone is just $10).

You should, in theory, be able to uninstall it. I noticed the google home only takes a snap of the ewelink account. Meaning you can't make updates in the app and have google see them live. You need to unlink the account then relink it for changes to take effect. This btw resets all your google room assignments etc. so each new device added means reassigning and readding all the devices.

If you uninstall you won't be able to use the timers or other feature which are run by the app itself and not google. I said "in theory" because I haven't tried it myself. I use the timers to shut things on and off. I hoping google with update to have a workaround like a device scheduler.

Not who you were responding to, but this is the one I use. I always forget how to set it up but once I get it going it's great.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TQEX8BO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_iLXZBb4PYJ8TC

I use this for my ceiling fan: https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Required-Fixtures-Anywhere-HS200/dp/B01EZV35QU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1500032800&sr=8-3&keywords=smart+switch but you're also going to need a smart things hub (or any other compatible hub) unfortunately google home can't act as the hub for all the smarthome stuff.
Smart things : https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SmartThings-Hub-2nd-Generation/dp/B010NZV0GE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500032886&sr=8-1&keywords=smart+things

With those two I can just say "Hey google turn on the fan"

EDIT: it appears that switch just uses wifi now and not zwave, eliminating the need for the hub

I have two of these and they work perfectly. You can still use the other outlet with them.

The Mini Back Pack: The First Simplest and Cleanest High-End Outlet Wall Mount Hanger Stand for Home Mini Voice Assistants by Google - Designed in USA (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078JNBMDG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FsF7AbB9XRG51

I’m pretty sure you can just buy a light bulb mount for your home mini, it screws in to an empty socket to provide power. Probably something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C687FP9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0WVWDb8K6AZ9F

Thanks. A y idea what the difference is between this one:

TP-Link Smart Plug Mini (1-Pack) -- No Hub Required, Wi-Fi, Control your Devices from Anywhere, Occupies Only One Socket, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant (HS105) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01K1JVZOE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ArH8BbBSSHS63

And this one:


TP-Link Smart Plug (1-Pack) -- No Hub Required, Wi-Fi, Control your Devices from Anywhere, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant (HS100) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0178IC734/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_4rH8BbM5AM3S2

There are third party wall mount kits that go right into the drywall. They look pretty nice but you’d have to run the power through the wall to an outlet.

I've ordered this PDP IR receiver that's supposed to allow you to turn the PS4 on and use media controls, once it comes in I'm hoping it'll work.

Not true if you get this. Works flawlessly. I love it,

https://www.amazon.com/PlayStation-Receiver-Logitech-Harmony-Control-4/dp/B01K3VMBM0

I use this thing to do that.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FK2SDOC?aaxitk=DXYaNxrtGmCVdvWwqzcjqQ&pd_rd_i=B01FK2SDOC&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3ff6092e-8451-438b-8278-7e94064b4d42&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-top-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=ir+controller&hsa_cr_id=5850900170001&sb-ci-n=productDescription&sb-ci-v=BroadLink%20IR%20Control%20Hub%20Works%20with%20Amazon%20Alexa%2C%20RM%20Mini3%20Smart%20Home%20Wi-Fi%20Enabled%20Infrared%20Universal%20Remote%20Control%2C%20One%20for%20All%20Control%20(%20Black%20Bean%20RMMINI3-EN%20)

​

The app isn't great but once you get it dialed in its good. You program each remote function and then create a scene where it hits the xbox button, up then ok. I even have the google assistant say "starting xbox self destruct sequence" when I start it.

I have two GE zwave fan switches using my wink hub and Amazon Echos. Works fine but obviously I'm waiting for wink integration for the home. I imagine it will work fine with a SmartThings hub.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00PYMGVVQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478270095&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=ge+zwave+fan+control&dpPl=1&dpID=41OkQxFOfJL&ref=plSrch

It's a standard Hampton Bay fan, but it's controlled with a GE ZWave fan wall switch.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PYMGVVQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_O5FnzbVCPG00Y

If you're patient, Lowe's periodically marks them down to $35.

Check out the "dot genie mini backpack" outlet mount. It's fantastic.

https://www.amazon.com/Dot-Genie-Google-Home-Backpack/dp/B078JZFBBK/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1543515922&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=google%2Bmini%2Bbackpack&dpPl=1&dpID=41moq-ZWFZL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

Check these out from Amazon.
Mount Genie Google Home Mini Pedestal: Improves Sound Visibility and Appearance - Cleanest Mount Holder Stand for Google Mini - Designed in USA (Charcoal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H9H1BQB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_31FBCb4HPVZ5P

The most popular way to control fans is to get one of [these] (https://www.amazon.com/GE-12730-Z-Wave-Smart-Control/dp/B00PYMGVVQ) and link it through smartthings

Totally agree. If I had known the cord was white, I’d wouldn’t have bought it. I ended up buying this...https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078JZFBBK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yes, and it's half off today at Amazon and other places.

Yes. You can name the switches and control them by individual switch or control the entire room.

I use these: https://www.amazon.com/GE-Repeater-Extender-SmartThings-14291/dp/B01MUCZA1C/

Smart bulbs and a light socket mount.

https://www.amazon.com/Dock-Socket-Light-Mount-Google/dp/B07C687FP9

Lots of public networks don't allow intra-network comms between devices -- so you can't have your phone talk to your Home, your Home talk to a Cast, etc. Makes setup for IoT stuff really hard. One solution is to get yourself a wifi to wifi router like this:

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Wireless-Travel-Extender-TL-WR802N/dp/B00TQEX8BO

which you can have log in once to the network (set it to use your laptop's mac, then log in from the laptop), and then all your devices are NAT'd behind it.

I carry one of these as standard kit in my work bag because it also lets me get around 'only one device for $15/day' crappy wifi in hotels. :)

I've been thinking I may just buy a switch like this GE Z-Wave Wireless Switch and call it a day

Broadlink RM Mini can controller anything that uses infared like the TV or A/C.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FK2SDOC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IOLWDbWRTCWBG

I like this design better.

https://www.amazon.com/Mini-Back-Pack-Simplest-Assistants/dp/B078JNBMDG

I like this guy for my kitchen with white subway tile backsplash.

There are a bunch of mounts/shelves built for google home minis.

Something like this for example.

I’m not aware of any purpose built units or anything thats not kind of hacky though.

With Smile links:
Pedestal
Package Spy

I have three of these and they work great: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K1JVZOE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I received these last night but haven't had a chance to try them out yet: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B078M9MJ4W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here are some ways to mount a Google home on the wall or celing. There are many more just look on Amazon:

Dock Socket: Light Socket Mount for Google Home Mini https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C687FP9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_yxm7CbE7H6G9T

The Simple Built-in Google Home Mini Mount: Custom Built-in Wall or Ceiling Mount Holder for Home Mini Voice Assistants by Google - Designed in The USA by Mount Genie (1-Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078Z214QX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Tvm7CbJYZB4PG

360 Electrical 360579 PowerClip Outlet Mount for Google Home Mini - Google Plug-in Bracket Stand Holder Case, for Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedroom, Living Room, Office, Charcoal https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H5VR672/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fwm7CbBVJTSZA

On sale again, but $70 this time.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQ5RYI4/

Why not use these? Way cheaper and do the same exact thing? I control all my lights thru Google Home with these.

These? https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Wireless-Electrical-Household-Appliances/dp/B00DQELHBS#

I'd not, which ones?

So these things:

hub

[Outlet] (https://www.amazon.com/Enerwave-ZW15R-Receptacles-Interchangeable-Faceplates/dp/B01L30TJ98/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1486664152&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=zwave+outlet&psc=1)

Anything cheaper? This is over $100

Nope you can't. There are plenty of small speakers out there that do have an aux-in and would be comparable in sound quality.

The first search I made gave me this generic speaker on Amazon for US$26. That's not a recommendation, just an example (and that's not an affiliate link which would make me money from the two of you that might click it).

I went with these GE dimmers

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MUCZA1C/

Power Plug things (many models eg https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBI0A6R/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)

This is what I'm using

Non-facebook link: https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Voltson-Outlet-Monitoring-Required/dp/B06XSTJST6/

Not at that price but... https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B078JNBMDG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The Mini Back Pack: The First Simplest and Cleanest High-End Outlet Wall Mount Hanger Stand for Home Mini Voice Assistants by Google - Designed in USA by Dot Genie (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078JNBMDG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_D8zVAb90YH6M7

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078JNBMDG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

For those without a 3D printer: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B8B1ZSF/

Here's the one I got: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B8B1ZSF/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_HmkSDbWTSFNSK

Not OP but check out Dock Socket. Haven't used one because I don't have recessed lighting but it does just this.

https://www.amazon.com/Dock-Socket-Light-Mount-Google/dp/B07C687FP9

WITHOUT REFERRAL LINKS:

Pedestal

Package Spy

For those looking for links:
Pedestal: https://www.amazon.com/Mount-Genie-Google-Home-Pedestal/dp/B07H9H1BQB/ref=sr_1_23?ie=UTF8&qid=1538414406&sr=8-23&keywords=google+mini+stand

Package Spy: https://www.amazon.com/Package-Video-doorbells-Mount-Genie/dp/B07H9JRH26/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538414297&sr=8-1&keywords=video+doorbell+mirror

https://www.amazon.com/Dot-Genie-Google-Home-Backpack/dp/B078JNBMDG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1543541911&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=google+mini+backpack&dpPl=1&dpID=51-9ZdmIrJL&ref=plSrch

I picked this up and love it. Full access to the lower plug and with the speaker facing out I have no problems with the speaker hearing my voice from a distance. I use it in my kitchen.

Ya SmartThings Hub, It will find pretty much any Z-Wave or Zigbee Device. It might know what to do with it but it will show up as a "Thing". then you can write custom code to do whatever you want to do with it. there are a lot of people on Github that publish all sorts of stuff for devices. The smartthings interface actually allows you to publish to github directly from the smartthings interface. it is by far the most flexible DIY hub on the market. you can even use an
Arduino Xbee boards to make any sort of crazy thing you want to make.

Can you link the mounts your company is using? I mount my mini's directly to the outlet with a Dot Genie mount and it can be swiveled so the mount completely blocks access to the mic button. You could use adhesive between the mount and the speaker to make this permanent.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078JZFBBK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lG3RCbF2ZNREN

I'd buy it right now. $58 is the lowest I've seen.

Darnit, I couldn't decide when I was picking out a couple pluggers, ended up going with the WeMo (and have since added a second): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NBI0A6R/

I haven't been super thrilled with them, but I haven't had too many issues beyond "can't be reached" once in a while. Granted, I mostly blame Google's slow decline in responsiveness/accuracy over recent months, who knows. Sad I chose incorrectly, it was essentially a coin flip. I think they were priced identical. How's the TP-Link app? Ahh well...