I made the jump to a "Smart Home" a little over a month ago after Alexa joined our family. After talking to some friends, doing some research and assesing my needs I settled on TP-Link because of the variety of Smart products they offered, no requirements for a Hub, the lower cost and the ability to control everything from one simple app on my Smart phone and Amazon"s Alexa.
I have not been disappointed. After a very short learning curve, I surprisingly found the installation and set-up of all the TP-Link Smart devices extremely easy and intuitive. I have installed several different Smart devices including three different bulbs (LB-100, 120 & 130) depending on the area, as well as, Smart Switches (HB-200) and Smart Plugs. All of it has installed, programed and worked with few problems.
The only criticism I have is the Kasa App. I have found it to be a bit bugy at times, but since I use it primarily for programming and setting up new devices and scenes, rather than operationally, it has not been an issue since Alexa handels most of that work. So far, in the six weeks my Smart Home has been in operation I have only had one problem where Alexa and the Kasa app lost communication with most of (but not all) of my TP-Link devices. But after a bit of head scratching I was able to restore communication.
So here's a tip to remember: I first tried rebooting the devices by cycling the power breaker, but that didn't work. Probably due to multiple devices signaling simultaneously and overloading Kasa. But, powering each device down for a few seconds then back up, and testing it before moving on ro the next one worked without a problem.
I also recommend using a different control application. I only have experience with Amazon Alexa, but it also interfaces with Google Home among others. I have found that controlling scenes from Kasa not to be reluable for some reason, while issuing the scene commands to Alexa works 90% of the time, with repeating the command becoming necessary about 10% of the time. But even with an occasional repeated command being necessary, TP-Link devices respond extremely well through Alexa's control. Plus Alexa is able to easily "group" multiple devices so you can control areas with a single command, or program macro activities that Alexa can perform with a single command. Capabilities Kasa does not have.
This is another deficiency of the Kasa app. Without the ability to group devices or run macro routines, it relies on programmed scenes which are very limiting for operational control. So another controlling app like Alexa or Home is essential to the TP-Link Smart Home system.
For me, because I have Alexa for operational control, both at home and away, these short comings in the Kasa app are non-issues. But if I didnt have this capability I think I would look to a different Hub controlled platform for my Smart Home lighting and device control.
HS-200 Smart Switch:
I am a retired electrician, so I found the installation easy. Most DIY homeowners with a basic knowledge of electricity and components should also have few problems with the installation.
I found this Smart Switch easy to control and the installation is about the same as replacing a standard light switch. But, a big drawback is not have a dimming capability. To me this should be a no-brainer and i cant understand why this featire is lacking. Because that would makevthis a 5 star product.
So before you procede there are a couple of precautions that should be noted.
First, you must three wires plus the ground (usually bare or green), and one must be the neutral (usually white) third wire, or the switch simply will not work. This can be an issue in some older homes (and even in some newer ones too).
The neutral wire is the "common" wire that runs throughout the house and is common to all circuits. It completes the loop in the circuit from the electrical box to the receptacle. The "hot" (or "line") wire (usually black) carries the electrical load for that circuit only (usually 15-20 amps max). And finally, the "load" wire (usually black, red, or it could even be white) completes the hot side of the circuit between the switch and the receptacle. To save time and money some electricians when wiring homes "old school" would complete the light circuit by running the neutral to the light receptacle and then run a 2 conductor (plus ground) to the switch. So even though you may have a white and black wire at the switch, the white wire is not a neutral, but the load wire that that completes the hot circuit when the switch is turned on (closed). So if you don't have 3 wires, one of them being the white neutral, you are out of luck using a Smart Switch. You can control the light however, by using Smart bulbs and then grouping them in the controling app (like Alexa).
Another caution is wire management. Standard light switches don't take up much room, so the original installing electrician had lots of room in the box to stuff extra wire. This is a luxury you don't have since the Smart Switch is much deeper and takes up most of the box. The new switch also uses leads that are wire nutted to the circuit wires and not terminated on the switch itself. Because of this, it may be necessay to shorten the wires to make room in the box for the extra electronics and wire nuts.
My advice is to open your intended switch boxes to survey your electrical wiring BEFORE you order the switches, so there are no surprises when it comes time to install.
One last safety precaution. Be sure to turn off the circuit at the electrical panel (breaker box). Also don't assume that all switches in a multi-switch box are on the same circuit. It is often the case that multiple circuits are in the box. This is especially true when a switch is controling a plug. So check all wires in the box with a meter to insure nothing is hot.
Finally, when wire nutting multiple wires it is VERY EASY to leave a wire loose. This can be very dangerous, as loose wires can work themselves free and cause arking and sparking that can damage connected equipment, and worse, start a fire. This is a common cause of electrical fires, and you might not know there is a problem until it's too late. So to ensure all wire nut connections are tight and secure, tug on each wire at the nut with needle nose pliers. If you can't pull it loose it should be good to go. Also make sure there are no bare wires poking out of the nuts. The switches use stranded wire so it's easy to have some stray strands loose outside the nut.
So that's about it. The install is pretty easy most of the time, but if you don't think you're experienced enough to do the job safely, put this phase of the job in the hands of a professional. It should be an easy job for any professional electrician, and should not be terribly expensive. Consider it cheep insurance!
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From the brand
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Leading Smart Home Brand
Launched in 2015, Kasa Smart quickly became a leading smart home brand giving convenience, fun, and security to over 7 million delighted users and has garnered praises from PCMag, Wirecutter, and more. Users can control their lights, appliances, and view security camera footage from anywhere, anytime. Kasa offers terrific synergy between devices for enhanced automation.
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From the manufacturer
Away Mode
Set your smart light switch to turn connected fixtures on and off at random intervals to give the appearance you're home even while you're away.
Schedule
Set schedules to automatically turn on/off your smart switches according to your daily routine and preferences.
Group
Combine your smart switch with other Kasa Smart devices for seamless control with a single tap on Kasa app.
Set Scenes
Customize your lighting for any occasion. Control multiple devices for the perfect ambience.
Products related to HS200
 HS200 |  HS200P3 |  HS220 |  KS200M |  HS210 | |
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Customer Reviews
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Price
| $11.98 | $29.99 | $14.99 | $17.99 | $14.99 |
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Unit Configuration
| 1 Pack | 3 Pack | 1 Pack | 1 Pack | 1 Pack |
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Dimmer Switch
| ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
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3-Way Switch
| ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
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Motion & Light Detection
| ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
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Neutral Wire Required
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
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Maximum Load
| 600W Incandescent | 600W Incandescent | 300W Incandescent | 600W Incandescent | 600W Incandescent |
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Compatible Devices
| Alexa, Google Assistant & more | Alexa, Google Assistant & more | Alexa, Google Assistant & more | Alexa, Google Assistant & more | Alexa, Google Assistant & more |
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Illuminated Switch Locator
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
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Schedule & Timer
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
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Group Control
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
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Wi-Fi Frequencies Supported
| 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz |
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Kasa Smart Light Switch Overview
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TP-Link Kasa Smart Switch - Quick Review/Install/Demo
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WARNING! You MUST have NEUTRAL WIRE for KASA HS200 to work!
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TP-Link Kasa Smart Switch. WATCH BEFORE YOU BUY...
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Review of the KASA Smart Wifi Light Switch
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My TP Link Wifi Switch Review
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Kasa Smart Switch. WATCH BEFORE YOU BUY.
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Reviews with images
Worked just fine in an existing multi-switch plug
Installed HS200 in an existing switch. Despite the plastic housing around the HS200, it fit under the existing plate and two 'hot' leads allowed me to easily wire to the existing setup in the wall. A better Kasa app user interface would help make the install process smoother. I think maybe the fault there is just as much to do with Android interfaces in general as it is with the software itself. The switch was easily picked up by Alexa once the Kasa software had the switch programmed.
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2016
I had the switch installed in 10 minutes and downloaded the TP-Link Kasa app in order to pair the switch with my WiFi. Again, it works exactly the same as the WeMo devices and found my wireless with no problems.
The software sets up any schedule or timer you want associated with the switch. In addition there are "scenes" you can create to do things like dim the lights. Unfortunately, my LED bulbs aren't dimmable, so the only thing that happens when I enable the scene to dim them is that they shut off. I like the idea though, and if I ever upgrade the bulbs it'll be a cool feature, one that isn't available on the WeMo app.
The differences between the WeMo and TP-Link switches are minor. As an example, with the WeMo switch, the on and off times can be set up as one rule. With TP-Link's device it needs to be two rules: one for when it comes on, and one when it turns off. One thing I like much better about the WeMo is that you can gear events based on sunrise and sunset. As an example, turn the lights on 15 minutes before sunset and turn them off at midnight. Since it's an Internet-connected device, it will change the time every day by a minute or two. It's a bit strange that TP-Link doesn't offer that feature in their app as it would make it significantly more functional.
On the other hand, upgrading the firmware is easier on the TP-Link than the WeMo. The WeMo pops up an alert telling you there's a firmware update for your device(s.) I've owned them for over 3 years now, and my experience is that installing the upgrade is a hit or miss affair. There is no area of the WeMo app that will allow you to trigger the firmware upgrade manually. The TP-Link, however, has a separate function under settings that will tell you the current firmware version and whether there is an update available. From there you can trigger it manually. It's a much better design, and more straightforward.
I love the Alexa integration and had it up and running in under a minute. Now this light switch can be voice controlled as well as from my iPhone.
The only real disappointment I have is the color. The switch is only available in white. As you can see from the photo that accompanies this review, it stands out against the beige switches that are already installed. It sure would be nice if these devices were available in the same colors as, say, a Leviton switch. To be fair, the WeMo is also only available in white, so if TP-Link decided to offer it in colors, I'd definitely consider it over the competition. This switch is installed in a room that is not highly decorated so I'm not too concerned about the mismatch, but I'd definitely hesitate installing it in an area like the living room where the difference in color would make a stylistic difference.
In summary, a very good device for automating a light switch, but the WeMo app is superior to TP-Link's Kasa for scheduling. My advice is to wait for them to go on sale, as they do periodically on Amazon. I'd bet money that TP-Link will be adding features to their software in the future that will put it on an even keel with Belkin's WeMo switch.
Color: WhiteSize: 1 PackVerified Purchase
A very good device for automating a light switch, but the WeMo app is superior to TP-Link's Kasa for scheduling
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2016
I already own several WeMo switches, but when this TP-Link went on sale for one day at Amazon, I decided to use it to expand my system. Installation was identical to the Belkin F7C030FC (WeMo equivalent of the TP-Link). This switch requires a common line in addition to the two wires that connect directly to the switch. The ground is optional, but should be used if present.Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2016
I had the switch installed in 10 minutes and downloaded the TP-Link Kasa app in order to pair the switch with my WiFi. Again, it works exactly the same as the WeMo devices and found my wireless with no problems.
The software sets up any schedule or timer you want associated with the switch. In addition there are "scenes" you can create to do things like dim the lights. Unfortunately, my LED bulbs aren't dimmable, so the only thing that happens when I enable the scene to dim them is that they shut off. I like the idea though, and if I ever upgrade the bulbs it'll be a cool feature, one that isn't available on the WeMo app.
The differences between the WeMo and TP-Link switches are minor. As an example, with the WeMo switch, the on and off times can be set up as one rule. With TP-Link's device it needs to be two rules: one for when it comes on, and one when it turns off. One thing I like much better about the WeMo is that you can gear events based on sunrise and sunset. As an example, turn the lights on 15 minutes before sunset and turn them off at midnight. Since it's an Internet-connected device, it will change the time every day by a minute or two. It's a bit strange that TP-Link doesn't offer that feature in their app as it would make it significantly more functional.
On the other hand, upgrading the firmware is easier on the TP-Link than the WeMo. The WeMo pops up an alert telling you there's a firmware update for your device(s.) I've owned them for over 3 years now, and my experience is that installing the upgrade is a hit or miss affair. There is no area of the WeMo app that will allow you to trigger the firmware upgrade manually. The TP-Link, however, has a separate function under settings that will tell you the current firmware version and whether there is an update available. From there you can trigger it manually. It's a much better design, and more straightforward.
I love the Alexa integration and had it up and running in under a minute. Now this light switch can be voice controlled as well as from my iPhone.
The only real disappointment I have is the color. The switch is only available in white. As you can see from the photo that accompanies this review, it stands out against the beige switches that are already installed. It sure would be nice if these devices were available in the same colors as, say, a Leviton switch. To be fair, the WeMo is also only available in white, so if TP-Link decided to offer it in colors, I'd definitely consider it over the competition. This switch is installed in a room that is not highly decorated so I'm not too concerned about the mismatch, but I'd definitely hesitate installing it in an area like the living room where the difference in color would make a stylistic difference.
In summary, a very good device for automating a light switch, but the WeMo app is superior to TP-Link's Kasa for scheduling. My advice is to wait for them to go on sale, as they do periodically on Amazon. I'd bet money that TP-Link will be adding features to their software in the future that will put it on an even keel with Belkin's WeMo switch.
Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
Marcus Pfeiffer
Simple. Inexpensive. Reliable. What more do you need?
Reviewed in Canada on June 18, 2024Color: WhiteSize: 1 PackVerified Purchase
Duko
Excelente producto
Reviewed in Mexico on April 22, 2024Color: WhiteSize: 1 PackVerified Purchase
Shooter
Funcionan excelente
Reviewed in Mexico on June 2, 2024Color: WhiteSize: 1 PackVerified Purchase
Amazon Customer
BestOverall, Newer version got slimmer
Reviewed in Canada on April 7, 2024Color: WhiteSize: 1 PackVerified Purchase
Amazon Customer
Reviewed in Canada on April 7, 2024
I've personally compared this to couple of other brands: Sinopé, Leviton and Globe,
But the TP link are so far the best for me. Surprisingly, Leviton came last contender
Tp-Link hs200 and hs220
Pro
Great tactile feel when you press the switch
Good Price point, this won't ruin you
Wifi is very stable and very few/almost never any dropped connections (check your router if you do have connections issues with those!
The newest version is now slimmer
Cons:
WiFi only (if you install a ton of those, this may cause your router to not like you)
Globe light Switches and light dimmers
Pro:
WiFi connectivity good
Price.... that's it
Cons:
Bad tactile feel (feels like cheap plastic)
Wifi only
Dimmer is more difficult to set precisely
Depending on your lights, dimmer could be still on without you noticing
The slide switch at the bottom makes elderly people this this is an off switch for the light, when really it disconnect everything from the network too, making you automation useless 😒
Globe suite could use a ergonomic rework...
And the list goes on
Sinope Zigbee smart switch (3way)
Pro:
Best of the best ! (But...)
Great, great build quality, best way to add 3way switch without always needs of a 3rd wire conductor, (believe me, huge plus)
Good tactile feel
Extremely reliable
Zigbee!!!! Your router will love you (less strain on the Wifi signal)
Cons:
As all things Zigbee, high price
Leviton smart dimmer (Wifi version)
Pro:
Medium to Ok tactile feel (will feel like a normal, "dumb" dimmer switch)
... that's it
Cons:
Wifi signal drops everyday since new, no matter the network configuration and regardless of how good of a router you have, nor how far it is from it
The reset to default sequence can easily be confused with normal operation of other brands dimmers, which forces you to go back to the app every single time
Price point still way to high for a Wifi device, and can cost you up to 5 to 7 time more that a good TP link switch 👍
All in all, TP link come on top, can't wait to try their matter version
Images in this review
