Does the Kasa KL135 work with Apple Home (HomeKit)?
Why it doesn't work
HomeKit compatibility isn't something a bulb can be "patched" into — it requires Apple-certified firmware and an HMI (HomeKit Accessory Protocol) implementation that TP-Link chose not to build into the KL135. The bulb communicates over WiFi to the Kasa cloud, which speaks only to Alexa and Google Home APIs.
There is one indirect path — running the bulb through Home Assistant with a Kasa integration, then exposing Home Assistant to HomeKit via its HomeKit Bridge add-on. But this requires running a Home Assistant server, isn't officially supported by TP-Link, and adds latency that defeats the purpose of buying a budget bulb.
What we measured (Kasa on its supported platforms)
The KL135 itself is reliable — these are our 30-day study results on Alexa and Google Home:
| Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Uptime | 97.4% |
| Response time | 400ms (avg) |
| Hub required | No |
| Protocol | WiFi 2.4GHz |
If you've already bought one
The Kasa KL135 still works perfectly with Alexa and Google Home. Set up via the Kasa app, then enable the Kasa skill in Alexa or link Kasa in Google Home. If you don't have an Apple Home use-case the bulb is a strong budget choice — our 30-day testing rated it 97.4% reliable.
Recommended Apple Home alternatives
If HomeKit is a requirement, two genuinely better options:
- Nanoleaf Essentials A19 (~$15) — Thread + Matter native, sub-200ms response, full HomeKit support. Comparable price.
- Philips Hue White (~$15) — needs the Bridge ($60 one-time), but unlocks the most mature HomeKit lighting experience available.
Frequently asked questions
Will Kasa add HomeKit support?
TP-Link has not announced any plans for HomeKit support on the KL135 or other Kasa bulbs. Their HomeKit-compatible products are limited to a few specific models in the Tapo range, not Kasa.
Can I use Kasa with HomeKit via Home Assistant?
Yes, indirectly — Home Assistant's Kasa integration plus its HomeKit Bridge add-on exposes Kasa devices to Apple Home. But this requires running Home Assistant on dedicated hardware and adds latency. Not recommended for most users.
What's the cheapest bulb that does work with HomeKit?
The Nanoleaf Essentials A19 at around $15 is the cheapest genuinely HomeKit-native bulb we've tested. It also supports Thread for sub-200ms response.