SwitchBot Bot Rechargeable Solves Kitchen Light Problem for $33.99, Helping Deter Cockroaches
Updated
Updated · The Verge · Jul 8
SwitchBot Bot Rechargeable Solves Kitchen Light Problem for $33.99, Helping Deter Cockroaches
1 articles · Updated · The Verge · Jul 8
Summary
$33.99 bought the author a SwitchBot Bot Rechargeable that can flip a kitchen light switch remotely before entering a roach-prone room.
The adhesive-mounted gadget uses a small robotic arm to physically press or pull existing switches, letting “dumb” devices gain basic automation without rewiring.
USB-C charging replaces disposable batteries, but the tradeoff is shorter endurance—up to six months per charge with one daily trigger versus 600 days for the original model.
Setup took trial and error because the arm and plastic switch attachment had to be positioned precisely, and the written instructions were less clear than the video.
Once aligned, the Bot worked reliably from across the apartment and never missed a scheduled action, making it a practical low-cost option for homes without full smart-device setups.