Amazon.com: Customer reviews: Kasa Smart Plug by TP-Link, Smart Home WiFi Outlet works with Alexa, Echo, Google Home & IFTTT, No Hub Required, Remote Control, 15 Amp, UL Certified, 1-Pack (HS100)

Reviewed in the United States on July 24, 2017

This thing is pretty darn sweet!

My thoughts so far:

It's been 4 hours since I got this gadget and already I'm impressed. The response is fantastic. I'm still using it on my local network but I verified my email and I'm hoping it can be triggered from work, etc.

I installed the TP-Link into a socket inside my garage, then used it to trigger a fan on the outside of said garage, so it creates a breeze for the dogs in the backyard.

The benefit of this is because I can set a schedule on the app so it goes off at certain times of the day, therefore, enabling me to cool my dogs on-time for a certain amount of time.

Plus it was our dog's birthday and she wanted more fans............... 🤡

😬

The app is good, too. It's good.

Buy this sh*t.

*I added a picture of my dogs so you know I'm not a lunatic.

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1212 comments

C. Dunn

Easy to setup

Reviewed in the United States on November 28, 2016

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

I set this up on my Alexa and the Kasa app in less than 30 minutes start to finish. I noticed that sometimes I would say the command, "Alexa turn on lamp," and Alexa would respond "ok" without actually turning anything on. The issue was my 5-year-old router. I replaced the router with a new router that could handle more devices. The new router resolved the issue. I've been using this plug for a few months now and it is still working great.

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2424 comments

jring2

All that I had hoped. Works great.

Reviewed in the United States on December 28, 2016

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

Works great. There were a few questions and incorrect answers posted here on using it for a surge protected power bar. No problems however. One plug from a power back-up with a surge protector which is daisy chained to two power bars with surge protectors. Now a simple "Alexa, Turn my desk on" and I am ready to roll. Since my heavy duty power bar had no single on/off switch, this was a good benefit as I was stuck turning everything off one at a time. This plug I labeled "my desk" The plug has a 15 amp maximum load rating so no running your entire house off one plug. lol. However, to create what I now have with my desk using separate plugs for all my monitors, speakers, chargers, lamps would have required 8 plugs so the daisy chain was a considerable cost savings.

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Cathy K.

Mechanical failure?

Reviewed in the United States on January 7, 2018

Style: 2-PackVerified Purchase

I’ve had two of these plugs for nearly three months and they’ve been working flawlessly. Suddenly, one will not power any appliance that is plugged into it. This isn’t a network problem - it still connects to my WiFi, is recognized by the Kasa app and Alexa, all proper indicator lights are on, but the physical plug is dead. The outlet that it is plugged into is working, and all items plugged in are working on other outlets. I’ve moved the Smart Plug to different outlets and same thing.

I’ve done the factory reset and messed around with it for a while so now I think I give up. Disappointing because I’ve gone all in with TP-link - cameras, bulbs and plugs. To punish the company I guess I’ll buy their Smart Plug Mini instead. This thing was too big and clunky anyway.

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44 comments

Wanda

TP Link Smart Home are both "Offline." Un-usable.

Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2016

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

TP Link is one of my best investment as of late. I read it didn't work with WEP encryption which nobody should be using this day and age (vulnerable). My router's security mode is WPA2-PSK (AES) 2.4 GHz and it works perfectly connected to my living room light. Inserted TP Link into socket, installed Kasa on my Android Aquos first, verified my email address, entered my network's Pre-Shared Key, named the connection (lights), enabled Kasa, accessed Smart Home (in Alexa's companion app), Then scrolled down to "Your Devices" clicked "Discover Devices" and the app did the rest. Can't exactly remember the words Alexa used to indicate the connection was a success, but she informs she found the Smart Home device.

TP-Link setup directions is not very clear; however, if you have patience like with all things computer you'll have no problem. Thus far I tend to purchase a few more for my home.

The delivery was on-time, packaging professional, and the installation wasn't step-by-step, but not terrible either. That's why I gave it 4 stars.

My bottom line is this is a product that does what its advertised to do, so if you're into home automation this is a great choice.

TP-LINK Wi-Fi Smart Plug, Works with Amazon Alexa, Controls Your Electronics From Anywhere (HS100)

Well, I recently purchased my second TP-Link Smart Plug because the first one performed so well. On February 28th I connected my second purchase and lo and behold both devices prompted they were "Offline." What the hell!! I've troubleshot both and the software on my Android phone. They both display; however, they are not responding. I hear a click, but no response from the lights.

I manually access Alexa's app and performed a discovery, she could not discover any devices. I've uninstalled Kasa, reinstalled, forgot both devices to no avail. Removed the second TP Link thinking the first one should perform as usual; but it didn't. What is the issue?

WHAT'S UP??? I purchased 2 of these and neither is working. One worked for approx. 2 months. To tell you the truth I'd gotten spoiled. I'm waiting now for over a month and still no word if this problem is on the verge of being resolved. By this silence does it mean that I can't trust this product or any other product to work with Alexa over the duration of 3 months? At the moment I have 2 paper weights. Still waiting!!!!

I'm just too through. I have two tplinks and neither works with Alexa. I'm amazed (maybe I shouldn't be) that I have not heard from the manufacturers of this product. Not one word. Not even in the forum. They could've gotten back to me and said try this, try that, but no . I'm assuming this product is working properly for others, so what occurred making my devices inoperable? My return window is over, but I would appreciate a reply.

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55 comments

J. P. Healy

Excellent start for home automation but understand wider context

Reviewed in the United States on May 5, 2016

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

TP-LINK Wi-Fi Smart Plug HS100 Review

A couple of weeks ago, I purchased a Smart Plug (HS100) to confirm that the product works with Alexa (Amazon Echo) and provides easy, reliable, secure remote control of plugged-in devices. Pros and cons are below.

If you use consumer Wi-Fi (IP) webcams (Foscam, etc.), then you may be familiar with this product's technology and potential concerns about security and privacy. A webcam contains a microprocessor which can be programmed (with network data, operational settings and user options) and controls a camera which may be monitored using an app. A Smart Plug contains a microprocessor which can be programmed and controls a power switch which may be monitored using an app. Both local (LAN) and remote (Internet WAN) control are possible in each case.

After confirming that the Plug indeed works as advertised, I was more curious about how and where operational data (supplied via the app) is stored and secured. That is, I'm not sure if all operational data is stored on-board the Plug in non-volatile memory in case of extended power outages and to secure such data locally. If remote control is used, what's stored in TP-LINK's Cloud server?

[A Vine Voice review on 1-23-2016 indicated that "the plug has internal storage for its own status and the schedule. ... a copy of the schedule is stored in the plug itself and does not rely on having a persistent internet connection to function. ... plug does rely on the power to keep time so that it can act on scheduled events."]

If the Plug is like a Wi-Fi webcam, then operational data is stored on-board, as can be verified using a local web browser connection to the camera's built-in web server. A Smart Plug, however, does not provide browser access, whether it runs a web server or not [there is a http port]. Remotely using a manufacturer's app, whether for a camera or Plug, introduces Cloud-based data storage and collection.

And because Wi-Fi webcams and Smart Plugs are computers, they can crash or glitch and need to be reset. That's why reliability is a key factor. Time will tell. The Plug has a 2 year warranty.

So, setup was relatively easy, and I discovered (as other reviewers have noted) that the best (but not perfect) instructions are in the Support section of TP-LINK's website, rather than in the included Quick Start Guide.

* * *
[...]
How to connect my TP-LINK Smart Plug to my home network via Kasa?
How to make my TP-LINK Smart Plug work with Amazon Echo?
* * *

1. Install the "Kasa" app on your iPhone.

2. Open Kasa. If you want to use the Smart Plug with Alexa (Remote Control), setup a TP-LINK (Cloud / P2P registry server) account; and, after receiving an email activation message, login; otherwise, you may Skip setting up an account for just local control.

3. With your iPhone on a local 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection, open Kasa and then: (a) plug Smart Plug into an AC outlet; (b) Add Device > SMART PLUG and follow the instructions; (c) which say to go to your iPhone's Wi-Fi settings and connect to the Smart Plug's Wi-Fi network and then return to Kasa; (d) customize your Plug -- with a unique name, etc.; and (e) connect the Plug to your local Wi-Fi (with or without Remote Control, but Alexa requires Remote Control enabled).

To use a Smart Plug with Alexa:

A. On your iPhone in the Alexa app settings (via "hamburger" icon), tap on Smart Home and then the TP-LINK Kasa item and login with your TP-LINK (Cloud) account name and password.

B. Scroll down Smart Home and near the bottom tap Discover devices (search your Wi-Fi LAN) to add your named Smart Plug, which will then be listed.

C. With Alexa, say "Turn on / off (name of plug)."

Pros

• Good package and product design (both hardware and app).
• Works with Alexa without a hub.
• Setup relatively easy.
• WiFi connectivity provides 2-way communication for control and real-time status (unlike one-way powerline modules).
• Remote access without router configuration (port forwarding) [probably using company's (or subcontractor's) Cloud / P2P server like most Wi-Fi cameras].
• 15A load max.
• Can unplug from AC without losing settings in order to relocate unit.
• Moderate price.
• TP-LINK supportive with comments on Amazon reviews.
• 2 year warranty.

Minor Cons

• No support for 5 GHz Wi-Fi (okay as long as most routers are dual band).
• Plug socket on front rather than the side or bottom (like on X-10 modules) of unit -- cord protrudes even farther from wall.
• Status LED always on -- no way to turn off (like on Sonos speakers).
• With Alexa, limited to only commands to turn on / off.

Cons

• Size (see photos) -- bulkier than standard X-10 appliance module (longer and thicker); even thicker than X-10 Pro appliance module and around the same length.

• Covers both outlets if plugged into bottom outlet; covers upper edge of bottom outlet if plugged into top outlet, making bottom outlet unusable.

Concerns

• UL certification

Some reviewers were worried about UL certification (which is not marked on the product or box). The manufacturer stated that certification was obtained. I searched UL's Online Certifications Directory (database) and found a listing: XACN.E481494 Miscellaneous Controls Operating Control, Smart Plug, Model(s) HS100, HS110 Last Updated on 2016-03-29.

• Heat buildup when connected to some (high wattage) appliances

Some reviewers were worried about the Plug getting too warm. I have only connected LED lamps (~10 W) to the Plug so far; so, I cannot as yet comment on possible thermal issues. The manufacturer stated that the Plug "will remain well within a safe temperature range."

• Security and use of encryption, e.g., protection of data stored in Plug's memory and TP-LINK's Cloud.

The manufacturer stated: "In order to control your Smart Plug remotely, a TP-LINK Cloud Account is required. Your Cloud Account is safe and secured, and remote access to your Smart Plug is controlled solely by you through the Kasa App. Cloud accounts and Cloud servers are an industry standard for Smart Plugs and Smart Home devices."

"The Smart Plug does not hand over or transmit any password information to us; It receives Wi-Fi profile information from your phone during setup, in order to connect the Smart Plug to your router."

• Privacy (privacy trade-offs)

The weighty Terms of Use and Privacy Policy pose questions about data collection and sharing of personal data, anonymized or not -- for marketing & promotion, including partners and other 3rd parties. "Device submissions" ... device names, groups, schedules, locations, ..."usage information" ...

Software limitations

• No offset possible on sunrise and sunset timer, but can use Away mode for randomness.

Questions

1. Security: Is Wi-Fi password saved only in Plug's memory or also in TP-LINK's Cloud? Encrypted?

2. Security: Are timers, schedule, Away settings stored in Plug's memory or the Cloud? Encrypted?

3. Plugs do NOT communicate with each other, correct? Only with the TP-LINK Cloud?

4. When the unit is unplugged from AC outlet, are all settings (defined using the Kasa app) truly non-volatile? Does the on-board clock re-synchronize via Wi-Fi on the LAN anyway when plugged into AC again?

UPDATE 6-13-2016

Purchased another 2 Smart Plugs on June 3. New packaging has UL certification mark, as well as new graphics and description: old "Wi-Fi SMART PLUG" vs. new "Smart Wi-Fi Plug;" old FC and RoHS marks vs. new UL and RoHS marks; model and part number unchanged.

UPDATE 12-18-2017

All 3 Smart Plugs (HS100) are still working okay 24/7. Reliable. Some glitches with the Kasa app showing a blank on time when actually one is scheduled, but rarely needing to power cycle the unit (these glitches are rare but more common for the Smart Bulbs). The issue with unit bulk -- covering the second outlet, for example -- is not a problem with a newer model but that new model is too expensive to justify as yet.

The Smart Plugs work with Alexa. There's been an occasional (rare) problem using Alexa due to TP-Link service outages or Amazon Echo glitches.

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1717 comments

Wayne Tibbit

Love it! Here is a hint for Echo owners

Reviewed in the United States on March 15, 2016

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

The new Echo compatibility works very well and allows grouping controllers under a single group name. I just set up three controllers and now I can say "Alexa, turn on the living room lights" and viola, they're on! Much easier than finding each lamp's on/off switch on a cord behind a piece of furniture. I can also schedule them to turn on and off when we're away from home.

Go to the TP-LINK support site for full instructions and to the Alexa app if you're using an Echo to control the switches. The set up was mostly straight forward once I read the TP-LINK full instructions, but below is an more detailed hint for part of the instructions that weren't clear to me at first. I spent about 30 minutes puzzling this out, but the rest was fast and easy.

The controllers can be configured with Kasa to be "local" or "remote" connected. To be controlled by Echo each individual controller must be set to Remote Control ON, in the Device Settings menu. That menu is accessed in Kasa with this process after the controller is initially set up: From Kasa's home page tap the device name; a screen for that device appears, with selections for Schedule, Away, Timer, an off/on button and at the top right corner an icon that looks like three little sliders. Tap that icon to open the Device Settings screen and then slide the Remote Control slider icon to the right so that it lights green. Do that for all controllers you want to be controlled through Echo.

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5150+ comments

Trillian

You'll get exercise if you buy this (turning on your devices yourself)

Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2017

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

Like many others it seems, the TP link plug was working great when purchased a while ago (few months) but is now pretty much worthless. At first, my success rate at getting Alexa to turn on the lights with it was about 90%. Just before the TP link outage and ever since, I'm looking at about a 20% success rate, since it loses connections every other day. You shouldn't be surprised when a device actually works like its supposed to. Last TP link product I ever buy.

51 people found this helpful

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22 comments

DeKalb Land Man

Bulky outlet, questionably connectable with Alexa

Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2017

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

I purchased two of these for $5 each per the echo promotion Amazon ran this year. Upon opening, i discovered they are bricks. It is so large in will enevitably block every other outlet on your power wall outlet. Next the software. It's pretty looking, but almost completely uncustomizable, or at least for this device - note this is the bottom of the barrel for TP links product line. Finally Alexa.... The software is pretty useless unless you can pair it with Alexa, or an equivalent. The Alexa skill app can never recognize the device. I am an IT professional, and am not dumb when it comes to technology. I enabled the skill, I played with which wifi i connected to, i uninstalled and reinstalled the software. I even called TP link support (which is terrible). TP link suggested the device is not compatible with my router, which is garbage, because it connects fine with their software, just not Alexa. That's 3 hours of my life I can't get back. These puppies are going rightback to Amazon.

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11 comment

Jon

Don't buy TP products until they fix all their bugs.

Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2017

Style: 1-PackVerified Purchase

I got this and a Philips bulb in a bundle with the Echo Plus. I've since purchased several Philips bulbs and a security system that link to alexa, and those have worked perfectly without any problems whatsoever. The TP-Link, however, has been nothing short of a constant headache. To start with, it is not the most convenient setup process. (Installing our alexa-linked security system was faster and easier.) Cosmetically, it is large and crowds the outlet.
As far as functionality goes, the TP plug would randomly stop working with Alexa commands and would be unresponsive to the alexa app. I finally tried resetting it and reinstalling it completely. For a while, it would at least respond to the TP-link specific app, but would still not respond to alexa or any third party apps, which worked fine intermittently. But now, even though it is connected to them and to the TP app and worked with them at one point, it won't even respond to its own TP app. Looking at some forums, I don't believe that my frustration has been an anomaly. Save yourself the trouble and look into different products.

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5 star		72%
4 star		13%
3 star		5%
2 star		3%
1 star		6%

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