Kasa Smart 3 Way Switch Kit Review: Worth Buying?
A surprising number of users report that while the Kasa Smart 3 Way Switch Kit, White earns consistent praise for ease of installation and integration with Alexa and Google Home, it can also present unexpected challenges in certain wiring setups. Across multiple platforms, this kit scores around 9/10 for usability and smart home compatibility, but wiring complexity, neutral wire requirements, and occasional software quirks keep it from being perfect.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — excellent for modern homes with neutral wires and solid Wi-Fi, but may frustrate users with older wiring or complex multi-switch configurations.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy guided app installation | Requires neutral wire, limiting compatibility |
| Works with Alexa and Google Home | Bulky size may not fit crowded boxes |
| Can operate with only one smart switch in a 3-way circuit | Status sync issues reported in some 3-way setups |
| Competitive price, often on sale | Customer support responsiveness criticized |
| Reliable performance in modern wiring | Not dimmable; separate dimmer kit required |
| Away mode and scheduling features | Loses pairing after power outages in rare cases |
| No hub required | Limited wall plate options from TP-Link |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing emphasizes “easy guided install” and “no need to understand complex switch wiring.” While many users confirm the app’s step-by-step guide is clear, others caution that installation is straightforward only if your wiring matches expected configurations. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “The only negative to this device is that you need a neutral wire, otherwise, it will not work. Luckily, the switch can be programmed to work with only one.” For users in older homes without neutral lines, installation becomes significantly more complex.
The brand also claims it “works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control” without a hub. This matches most user experiences, with Reddit user stagnu_de_morte explaining: “You only need to replace one of the 3-way switches with a smart 3-way switch… TP-Link Kasa has smart 3-way switches that can sense when the ‘dumb’ switches are flipped. Everything works perfectly.” However, Twitter/X reports highlight a flaw: multiple users found the switch “does not retain the status of the light,” breaking scheduling and automation.
Finally, TP-Link promotes “Away Mode” and scheduling to enhance security. Trustpilot reviewers and Best Buy customers often praise this feature for travel convenience, but several Amazon users documented Wi-Fi connectivity hiccups in multi-switch circuits, requiring re-pairing after power outages.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Ease of installation stands out. Best Buy customer shawn in kb said: “Super easy to install if you are comfortable replacing a light switch… the app walks you through it step by step.” Many highlight the ability to control lights from anywhere via the Kasa app, ideal for travelers. Reddit user u/stagnu_de_morte shared using these in a hallway with a 4-way switch and noted “everything works perfectly” without a hub. The flexibility to run with only one smart switch in a 3-way circuit is a cost-saver, allowing users to reassign the second switch to another location.
Integration with Alexa and Google Home is consistently smooth. A verified Best Buy buyer reported, “We now have 5 Kasa Wi-Fi smart light switches… ideal for programming lamps to come on and go off while we are traveling.” This voice control convenience is a major selling point for those managing multiple devices.
Common Complaints
The neutral wire requirement is the biggest barrier. Amazon reviews warn, “Many times builders will only run two wires and a ground… check they both have a neutral wire available before you order.” Incompatibility with older wiring often leads to returns. Size is another issue — TP-Link switches are bulkier than standard, making installation tight in multi-gang boxes. One Amazon reviewer recounted having to “chip away some drywall compound” to fit the switch.
Software misreporting the light’s status in certain 3-way setups is a recurring frustration. Twitter/X user @joe_gee described: “When the light is on, I ask Alexa the status and it says it’s off… the correct status holds for about 10 seconds.” This undermines automation reliability.
Customer support receives mixed reviews. Several users reported long delays or inadequate troubleshooting. One Trustpilot reviewer noted that while installation was fine, “pray if you ever need warranty or customer service because they suck at it.”
Divisive Features
The fact that only one smart switch is needed in a 3-way circuit pleases budget-conscious buyers, but others believe using two provides better visual uniformity and illumination features on both ends. Away Mode garners praise for travel, yet some users find the random switching pattern unnecessary in safe neighborhoods. Scheduling is loved by automation fans but irrelevant to those who prefer manual control.
Trust & Reliability
Fakespot data suggests over 80% high-quality reviews, with minimal deception detected. Long-term durability stories vary — some Reddit users run “a bunch of these set up in my house” for years with no failures, while Amazon reports occasional switch failure after about 3 years. Twitter/X complaints about status sync issues have persisted for months without a clear fix, raising concerns about firmware updates.
Despite sporadic problems, the majority of users consider Kasa switches stable once installed correctly. Best Buy customer jake, with 20 Kasa switches, said: “I have had very few connection problems and I think only 1 reset on one switch ever.”
Alternatives
Leviton emerges as a notable competitor in user discussions. Twitter/X user @joe_gee switched to Leviton after HS210 issues, praising its “fantastic” support and flawless scheduling. Lutron Caseta is mentioned on Quora for 3-way installs using remotes instead of extra switches, reducing wiring needs but requiring a hub. For those without neutral wires, Lutron may be a better fit despite higher costs.
Price & Value
Prices fluctuate — Amazon often discounts the kit to around $29.99 from a $39.99 list, with singles available for less. eBay listings show open-box units for under $25, while retail at Best Buy is $44.99. Community advice emphasizes buying during Amazon sales or multi-packs to outfit several rooms. Resale value is modest, but functional used units still sell due to demand for budget-friendly smart home gear.
FAQ
Q: Can I use only one smart switch in a 3-way setup?
A: Yes. Many users replace only the line-side switch and keep the other “dumb” switch. This saves money and still allows full app and voice control.
Q: Does it work without a neutral wire?
A: No. A neutral wire is required for operation. Verify your wiring before purchase to avoid installation issues.
Q: How does it handle power outages?
A: Some users report needing to re-pair switches after outages, though most retain settings. Reliability may depend on firmware version.
Q: Is it dimmable?
A: No, this kit is on/off only. TP-Link offers a separate KS230 dimmer kit for those needing brightness control.
Q: Will it fit in older switch boxes?
A: Fit can be tight due to bulkier design. In crowded multi-gang boxes, installation may require adjustments or deeper boxes.
Final Verdict: Buy if you have modern wiring with neutral lines and want affordable smart control without a hub. Avoid if your home lacks neutrals or you require perfect status tracking in complex 3-way circuits. Pro tip from the community: install on the line side, verify Wi-Fi strength at the location, and consider using only one smart switch per circuit for cost efficiency.
