TP-Link Kasa (Matter)
VERDICT
Stop looking. This is the smart plug to buy. It is compact, reliable, monitors energy usage, and thanks to Matter, it works seamlessly with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings simultaneously. It is nearly perfect.
The Big Picture
For years, buying a smart plug was annoying. You had to check: "Does this work with Siri?" or "Is this Alexa only?" The TP-Link Kasa KP125M solves this with Matter. It is a universal translator. It connects over Wi-Fi but speaks the language of every smart home platform locally, making it faster and more private.
🌍 Matter Certified
What is Matter? It's the new industry standard. You can scan the QR code on this plug with your iPhone, and it adds to Apple Home. Then you can share it with a Google Nest Hub.
The Benefit: Local control. Your phone talks directly to the plug on your network, not via a cloud server in China or the US. This means when you tap "On," it reacts instantly.
⚡ Energy Monitoring
Most cheap plugs just turn on/off. This one is a Power Meter.
The Data: Through the Kasa app, you can see exactly how many watts your space heater or portable AC is using in real-time. It estimates your monthly bill based on usage. It turns "dumb" appliances into data sources.
✅ The Pros
- Works with EVERYTHING (Matter support).
- Compact design (does not block the second outlet).
- Real-time energy monitoring included.
- Very affordable (often under $15).
❌ The Cons
- Uses Wi-Fi (not Thread), so it adds load to your router.
- Requires the Kasa App for firmware updates (can't update via Apple Home).
- Plastic build feels a bit cheap (but it is cheap).
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES. Buy a 4-pack. It is the most useful gadget to automate lamps, fans, coffee makers, and holiday lights.
NO if you specifically want a "Thread" device to act as a router for your network (get the Eve Energy instead).
See the showdown: TP-Link Kasa Matter vs. Eve Energy Comparison