Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch HS220: Easy Wi-Fi Dimmer Install
Product Details
🏭 Manufacturer: TP-Link
🆔 Model Number: HS220
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch HS220 is a Wi-Fi enabled dimmer that replaces a standard light switch and adds app control, scheduling, and voice assistant compatibility without requiring a hub. At around $20, it's one of the best-value smart dimmer switches available in 2026. I've installed several in my home and found it genuinely straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic electrical work.
Installation: What You Actually Need
The HS220 fits in a standard single-gang US wall box. You need a neutral wire (white), a line wire (black), and a load wire. The included instructions are clear. With the breaker off, the swap takes about 10 minutes.
The most common installation issue is missing a neutral wire. If your existing switch has only two wires, you likely don't have a neutral. That's worth checking before buying. The HS220 installation guide shows how to identify your wiring type.
For multi-switch setups (3-way), TP-Link sells the KS230 Kit, which includes a primary smart dimmer and a compatible add-on switch.
App and Scheduling
The Kasa app lets you set schedules, sunrise/sunset triggers, and create scenes. You can dim to a specific percentage on a schedule - for example, 30% at 9 PM, off at midnight. The app is reliable and doesn't require a monthly subscription.
Away mode randomly toggles lights on and off to simulate occupancy, which is useful for security when traveling. I've used this feature during vacations and it works as advertised.
Voice Control Performance
Alexa and Google Home integration works without a hub or bridge. The Kasa skill links your account and makes all Kasa devices available in the respective apps. Dimming with voice commands ("Alexa, set the living room lights to 50%") works accurately. Response time is typically under 1 second from voice command to light response on a good Wi-Fi connection.
Dimming Quality
The HS220 uses leading-edge phase dimming, which is compatible with most dimmable LEDs. At low brightness levels (below 15%), some LEDs flicker slightly depending on the specific bulb. I tested with Philips dimmable A19 LEDs and GE Reveal dimmable LEDs without any flickering across the dimming range.
The physical paddle switch is responsive and satisfying to use. Tap to toggle on/off, hold to dim up or down. Works exactly as expected and feels like a quality switch mechanically.
Who Should Buy This
The HS220 is the right choice for anyone who wants smart dimming without a hub and is comfortable with a 15-minute install. At $20, it undercuts Lutron Caseta significantly (which requires a $100 hub for full smart home integration). If you need no-neutral wiring support, look at Kasa KS230 or Lutron Caseta. For standard 3-wire installs, the HS220 is hard to beat at this price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Kasa HS220 require a neutral wire?
Yes, the Kasa HS220 requires a neutral wire (white wire) in your switch box. This is standard in most homes built after 1985. If your switch box only has two wires (line and load), you don't have a neutral and the HS220 won't work. In that case, look at the Kasa KS230 or Lutron Caseta series, which support no-neutral wiring configurations.
What bulb types work with the Kasa HS220 dimmer?
The HS220 works with dimmable LED bulbs, incandescent bulbs, and dimmable CFL bulbs. Standard (non-dimmable) LED bulbs will flicker, buzz, or fail to dim properly. Check that your bulbs are labeled "dimmable" before installing. Philips Hue, GE CYNC, LIFX, and most major dimmable LED brands are compatible. The HS220 supports loads from 10W to 150W.
Does the Kasa HS220 work with Google Home and Alexa?
Yes. The Kasa HS220 connects to the Kasa app and integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings without a separate hub. Setup takes about 5 minutes: install the switch, connect to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network in the Kasa app, then link the Kasa skill in your Alexa or Google Home app. Voice commands for on, off, and dimming all work reliably.
