Practical Review of the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100): A Life-Changing Gadget for a Busy Student

Hey everyone! As a 20-year-old college student living in the age of smart technology, I’m always on the lookout for gadgets that make my busy life a little bit easier. I’ve recently delved into the world of home automation, and let me tell you – it’s a game-changer. From voice-controlled lighting to automated coffee makers, the possibilities are endless, and today, I want to talk about one of my favorite finds: the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100).

TLTR: The product is awesome. Check it out on Amazon:

Now, I know what you’re thinking – what’s so special about a smart plug? Well, let me tell you, the Kasa Smart Plug has genuinely transformed the way I interact with my electronic devices. I can control them using my voice, schedule them to turn on and off, and even monitor their energy usage – all without leaving the comfort of my bed. In this blog post,

I’ll share my practical review of the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) and how it has revolutionized my daily routine. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of smart plugs and home automation!

Getting Started with the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100)

Setting up the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) was surprisingly simple. All I had to do was plug it into an available outlet, download the free Kasa Smart app on my smartphone, and follow the easy step-by-step instructions. The app walks you through connecting the smart plug to your Wi-Fi network and linking it with your Amazon Alexa or Google Home if you have one.

Compatibility and Integration

The Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana, which means I can control my devices with simple voice commands. It’s awesome to be able to say “Alexa, turn on my desk lamp” while I’m studying or “Hey Google, turn off my fan” when I’m ready for bed. The integration is seamless, and it works with most of the electronic devices I have in my apartment.

Scheduling and Away Mode

One of my favorite features of the Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) is the ability to create schedules and timers for my devices. For instance, I’ve set up a schedule for my coffee maker to turn on every morning before I wake up. This way, I have a fresh pot of coffee waiting for me when I roll out of bed – it’s a lifesaver on those early mornings before class!

The Away Mode is another great feature that I’ve found to be incredibly useful. When I’m out of town or away from my apartment for an extended period, I can set the Away Mode to randomly turn on and off my devices, like lamps or a TV, to make it look like someone’s home.

It’s a great way to deter potential burglars and adds an extra layer of security to my living space.

Energy Monitoring

As a college student on a tight budget, saving money is always a top priority. The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) allows me to monitor the energy usage of my devices through the Kasa Smart app. It’s an excellent way to keep track of which devices are consuming the most power and adjust my usage habits accordingly.

Plus, it helps me save money on my energy bills, which is always a win!

Design and Build Quality

The Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) has a sleek and unobtrusive design that doesn’t take up too much space on my wall outlets. It’s also built with high-quality materials that feel durable and long-lasting.

I’ve been using it for several months now, and it has held up exceptionally well, even with daily use. The plug doesn’t obstruct access to the second outlet, so I can still use both outlets without any issues.

Real-life Applications

Since I started using the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100), I’ve found countless ways to integrate it into my daily routine.

Here are a few examples of how the smart plug has made my life as a student easier and more efficient:

1. Study sessions: When I’m in the middle of an intense study session, the last thing I want to do is get up and turn off the lights. With the Kasa Smart Plug, I can control my desk lamp using voice commands or the Kasa Smart app, allowing me to stay focused on my studies.
2. Weekend mornings: On weekends, I love waking up to my favorite playlist. I’ve connected my speakers to the Kasa Smart Plug, so I can set a schedule to turn them on and start playing music every Saturday and Sunday morning.
3. Gaming marathons: When I’m gaming with friends, the Kasa Smart Plug makes it easy to control the lighting in my room for the perfect ambiance. I can dim the lights or change the color temperature without having to pause the game.
4. Late-night snacks: I’ve set up a mini-fridge in my room for those late-night study snack cravings. With the Kasa Smart Plug, I can monitor the energy usage of my fridge and even set it to turn off at specific times to save on electricity.
5. Safety and security: As mentioned earlier, the Away Mode helps me feel more secure when I’m not at home. Knowing that my devices are turning on and off randomly to simulate occupancy gives me peace of mind.

Conclusion

Overall, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) has been a fantastic addition to my smart home setup. It’s easy to use, versatile, and has a ton of practical applications for a busy college student like myself.

I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to simplify their daily routine and add a touch of automation to their living space.

If you’re interested in trying the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS100) for yourself, you can check it out on Amazon. It’s a small investment that can make a significant impact on your daily life, and I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do.

Happy automating!