Remote/internet controlled 110v outlets without Alexa, etc.?

[SactoDoug]

True..., but I guess to be more straight forward. There are 0 products that are standalone plugs that can be used over the internet that do that.

The solution you provided while solving for the "spying" aspect does introduce the following:
1) "Server" type device (either standalone or re-using)
2) Opening up network via port forwarding to said device
3) Managing ongoing security / maintenance of said device / platform
4) still requires a compatible socket/adapter to be used with the Home Assistant application.
5) some type of dynamic DNS server to be set up

So to meet all of the OPs requirements is technically not possible...you solve the privacy issue with the solution you referenced.. the solution I provided an example of solves for the rest of the OPs requirements (aside from the privacy)..

So ultimately, depending how much the OP cares about privacy will drive how much work he wants to put into a solution to control 1 or 2 power sockets.

At least with those other providers you can provide all fake information if you wanted which lessens the exposure of any actual privacy issues if you don't care if they know when you turn on/off your device(s).

The things you list are either simple, such as clicking a single button to update the software or are a one time setup such as setting up a free dynamic DNS through DuckDNS (which might not even be necessary since most people have a static IP address). All of the documentation of the steps to do everything is on the Home Assistant web page.

Also, should the maker of that cheap product ever go out of business or decide to stop supporting the product, then the remote access goes away too. In the tech world, not many products last more than 10 years. With an open source project, if the original project fails, there is a good chance that it will be picked up by other developers/enthusiasts. If worst comes to worst, you still own everything and can keep using it indefinitely.

In today's world, you either pay for your tech either with money, knowledge or with your data. The OP is going to have to decide what is more important for him. There is no free lunch.

[SkyHawk]

I prefer KASA products

+1, I have a ton of them - KASA/TP-LINK. I have smart switches, 3-way switches, and smart plugs

They store a schedule locally so they will keep a schedule even if the internet connection blips out. In addition to smart plugs and smart wall switches, they also have power strips with individually controlled outlets. They also have smart routines - you can trigger them with various inputs or make them always turn off after a time (timer switch). Great for warming lamps or fans in bathroom - you can set them to turn off automatically after some time has passed after turning them on.

They will integrate with home automation but they do not require it. The standalone app is just fine. It will also work offline - you can control the devices from the app if you are on the same network with no internet required

[OlderThanDirt]

Well, it you want to avoid the internet, there is always this>

I think that's a bit overkill for someone that just wants to control 1 or 2 power outlets.

It always starts with just one or two devices. The OP might as well jump down the rabbit hole and pick a hub, like Hubitat, and save the grief of having to change directions later.

[pratchett]

I've bought WeMo smart plugs from Amazon. They're a little clunky looking but I've had good luck with them and their app.

[ugimports]

...
In today's world, you either pay for your tech either with money, knowledge or with your data. The OP is going to have to decide what is more important for him. There is no free lunch.

Agreed...

[Dan_Eastvale]

This season I've left them on 100% since we've had record snows

Winter storm tonight, possible snow day tomorrow, again

[brassburnz]

I also like the KASA smart plugs. You can control them with the KASA app or any of the smart devices. I also have Wyze products, but they can have connectivity issues.