Tp-link Kasa vs Tapo Smart Plug

Elisabeth Christ

Updated November 2024

Smart plugs are the foundation of any connected home, offering convenience, energy savings, and control at your fingertips. The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini KP115 and Tapo P125M, two contenders from trusted brands, embody this versatility. Compact in design and affordable in price, both promise to simplify how you manage your devices. Choosing between them means get to know more about the details, so let’s break it down.

On our list

#1 Design, Fit, & Price

#2 Features

#3 Companion App

#4 Connectivity

Key Takeaways

The TP-Link Kasa KP115 excels in energy monitoring and app integration, making it ideal for data-focused users. The Tapo P125M offers Matter certification and faster response times, catering to those who prioritize compatibility and speed. Both deliver reliable smart plug functionality at an affordable price.

TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini KP115

Compact Smart Plug with Advanced Features

✓ Easy setup
✓ Maximum load of 15 A
✓ Customized scenes
✓ Average consumption display

Buy on Amazon

Tapo P125M Smart Plug

Compact Smart Plug with Advanced Features

✓ Tiny, White design
✓ Responds immediately to voice commands
✓ Max loads of 1,800 watts and 15 amps
✓ Schedule, Timer, Vacation mode, and Usage features

Buy on Amazon

#1 Design, Fit, & Price

TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini KP115

Compactness is a virtue both the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini KP115 and Tapo P125M embrace, but their execution varies subtly. The KP115, with its sleek design measuring 72.5mm x 51.5mm x 37.5mm, integrates an LED indicator and a manual power button for quick control. However, its size can obstruct adjacent outlets on multi-socket extensions.

Meanwhile, the Tapo P125M offers a slimmer profile with a depth of just 1.5 inches, enabling two plugs to fit snugly in a standard outlet. Its power button is backlit for visibility, and a QR code simplifies setup, though it requires a hub for full functionality. Priced similarly at around $19.99, both deliver solid value for their features, with the KP115 often available slightly higher due to its energy-monitoring capability.

#2 Features

TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini KP115

Diving into features, the KP115 takes the lead in energy management. It boasts live energy monitoring, giving precise details on appliance consumption and costs. The Kasa app lets you customize scenes, automate schedules, and group devices for a seamless smart-home experience. Its Away Mode randomly toggles devices on and off, adding a layer of security while you’re away.

Tapo P125M Smart Plug

Tapo P125M, though lacking energy monitoring, compensates with lightning-fast response times and robust local control through the Tapo app. It handles max loads of 1,800 watts, features a Vacation Mode for security, and supports creating schedules or routines for added convenience.

Both support routines, timers, and away modes, but the KP115 excels in tracking power usage while the P125M shines in its snappy performance across various smart home platforms.

#3 Companion App

TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini KP115

User experience is critical, and the Kasa app and Tapo app approach this in unique ways. The KP115’s Kasa app is an ecosystem hub, enabling seamless integration with other Kasa Smart devices, while offering detailed power usage statistics over seven and 30-day periods. You can even toggle the LED indicator or configure an auto-off setting.

Tapo P125M Smart Plug

On the other hand, the Tapo app provides a simpler, intuitive interface. Despite lacking advanced analytics, it ensures reliability and immediate responses, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize ease of use over extensive monitoring.

While the Kasa app caters to data-driven users, the Tapo app focuses on fast, straightforward control, catering to users looking for simplicity and speed.

#4 Connectivity

Tapo P125M Smart Plug

Both plugs deliver extensive compatibility, working with Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and more. The KP115 connects seamlessly over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi but skips Apple HomeKit.

The Tapo P125M, however, adds Matter certification to its repertoire, supporting the latest cross-platform smart home standard and enabling it to function with HomeKit.

This gives the P125M a broader ecosystem reach, particularly for Apple users, though its need for a hub might deter some. For Wi-Fi-only simplicity, the KP115 remains an easy winner.