TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303: Smart Power Strip Comparison

By Naila Syifa
Updated September 2023

TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303

If you're looking for a smart home device that can control your multiple appliances individually or all at once, a smart power strip can be the perfect solution. 

TP-Link Kasa HS300 and TP-Link Kasa KP303 are some of the best smart power strip products in the market. Even though they are from the same manufacturer and share some features, they have key differences that set them apart.

In this article, we'll compare the price, technical specs, design, features, and installation process of both smart power strips to help you determine which one is the best fit for your needs.

Key Takeaways

TP-Link Kasa HS300 offers 6 outlets and 3 USB ports, while KP303 has 3 outlets and 2 USB ports. Kasa HS300 also features energy monitoring, while Kasa KP303 doesn't. However, Kasa KP303 is more affordable.

TP-Link Kasa HS300 Smart Power Strip

TP-Link Kasa Smart WiFi Power Strip HS300

More Expensive, More Capabilities

✓ 6 outlets + 3 USB ports
✓ 2.4GHz WiFi
✓ ETL-certified surge protection
✓ Schedule, timer, scenes, away mode, energy usage

TP-Link Kasa KP303 Smart Power Strip

TP-Link Kasa Smart WiFi Power Strip KP303

Affordable but Reliable

✓ 3 outlets + 2 USB ports
✓ 2.4GHz WiFi
✓ ETL-certified surge protection
✓ Schedule, timer, scenes, away mode

#1 Price

TP-Link Kasa HS300

TP-Link Kasa HS300

TP-Link Kasa HS300 is the more expensive of the two smart power strips, coming in at $79.99. The newer model, TP-Link Kasa KP303 is almost three times cheaper, priced at only $29.99. However, it's important to note that these prices may vary depending on where you purchase the product.

#2 Technical Specs

TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303

TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303

TP-Link Kasa HS300 and KP303 share several technical features, including the ability to connect to a 2.4GHz wireless network without a hub, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Samsung SmartThings. Additionally, both models have a maximum load capacity of up to 15A and 1875W.

Both models also have ETL-certified surge protection that shields sensitive electronics and appliances from sudden power surges that can occur during weather storms and cause irreparable damage.

However, both smart power strips differ in the number of smart power outlets they provide. TP-Link Kasa HS300 has 6 individually controlled smart outlets and 3 USB ports while TP-Link Kasa KP303 only has 3 individually controlled smart outlets and 2 USB ports.

#3 Design

TP-Link Kasa HS300

TP-Link Kasa HS300

TP-Link Kasa KP303

TP-Link Kasa KP303

TP-Link Kasa HS300 and KP303 have a similar compact design, except that the HS300 model is larger in length due to the greater number of outlets it provides. Both are also made of flame-retardant material that ensures safety and durability.

Outlets of both smart power strips are each equipped with a control button to turn on and off the corresponding outlet manually, and an LED indicator that lights up when the corresponding outlet is on. Both power strips also have a SYS WiFi LED that shows the status of the WiFi connection, and a Protected LED that lights up when it is under surge protection.

Despite the similarities, TP-Link Kasa HS300 as the more expensive model has additional design features. These include a Grounded LED that lights up when the smart power strip is properly grounded, and an Overcurrent Protection Switch that allows for manual turning on and off of the entire power strip. This switch is particularly helpful as it allows you to manually restore power in case the HS300 turns off automatically when it's overloaded with electricity, preventing any potential electrical hazards.

#4 Features

TP-Link Kasa HS300

TP-Link Kasa HS300

TP-Link Kasa HS300 and KP303 offer a range of features to make controlling your appliances simpler and more convenient. Both devices can be controlled remotely through the Kasa Smart app, which is available for iOS 10 and Android 5.0 and higher.

Some features of the HS300 and KP303 models available on the app include:

• Schedule. You can set a schedule to turn the smart outlet on or off at a specified time.

Timer. You can also set a countdown timer to automatically turn on or off the smart outlet after a specified amount of time.

Runtime. This feature allows you to keep track of how long each outlet of your smart power strip has been working.

Scenes. A scene is a preset group of smart devices that can be activated simultaneously with a single command, allowing you to easily set the mood to fit certain activities or special occasions. For example, you can set a "Movie Night" scene that will turn off your lamps and turn on the TV and sound system.

Groups. With this feature, you can group together a number of outlets of your smart power strip for unified management.

Away mode. This mode allows the smart outlet of your power strip to turn on/off automatically at random intervals while you are away to make the appearance that someone is home, deterring potential intruders.

• Smart Actions. This feature enables device interconnections and home automation, allowing your Kasa devices to work together to create a seamless smart home experience. For example, if you have a Kasa camera with motion sensing, you can set up a smart action that turns on the smart outlet of your KP303 or HS300 when motion is detected.

When it comes to features, the key difference between TP-Link Kasa HS300 and KP303 is the energy usage feature. With the HS300, you can see how much energy each outlet of your smart power strip is consuming, allowing you to make adjustments to save energy. This feature is not available in the more affordable KP303 model.

#5 Installation

TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303

TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303

TP-Link Kasa HS300 and KP303 have the same installation process. You can simply plug the smart power strips into an electrical outlet, download the Kasa Smart app, and follow the instructions in the app to complete the setup. Smart hubs are not required for the installation.

TP-Link Kasa HS300 vs KP303

Final Thoughts

TP-Link Kasa KP303

TP-Link Kasa KP303

TP-Link Kasa HS300 and KP303 are excellent smart power strips that offer a range of features and benefits.

With a significantly higher price, TP-Link Kasa HS300 offers more power outlets, an additional LED and manual switch, and an energy monitoring feature. If you don't need many outlets or energy monitoring, opting for the more affordable TP-Link Kasa KP303 will save you some dollars.

If you like to read more about Smart Plugs, check out our other relevant guides here:

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