One way to make your home smart is to invest in smart switches. These switches are designed to be remotely controlled from a portable device. They can be installed in the place of regular light switches to save energy and to offer you more convenience. They come in many stylish designs. To help you choose the right ones for your home, we’ve listed a few of the best smart switches available.
meross Smart Light Switch
Switches lights on and off with voice commands
This single-pole switch is the perfect solution for turning your home into a smart home. It conveniently works with voice control and connectivity options between Alexa and Hey Google. It is easy to install and features a basic design that will suit most homes.
Pros:
- Works with local control even when the router is disconnected
- Can be scheduled to switch on and off at certain times
Cons:
- Requires its own app installed
Kasa Smart Single Pole Dimmer Switch by TP-Link
Best Single-Pole Dimmer
Features dimmer settings between 0 and 100%
This dimmer switch does not require any expert knowledge to be installed, with easy instructions from the Kasa mobile application. The switch can be scheduled to turn on and off the lights at a certain brightness levels throughout the day or night.
Pros:
- Works with both Android and iOS
- UL-certified and very safe for use
Cons:
- A Wi-Fi network of 2.4GHz is required
TREATLIFE 2.4 GHz WiFi Smart Light Switch
Best Group Control
Shares access to switches through the app
This dimming light switch works well when connected with Alexa and Google Home by letting you control your light switches from anywhere. It also enables you to easily create schedules for your home’s lighting conditions through the app.
Pros:
- No hub required
- Features touch control
Cons:
- Does not work with 5 GHz WiFi
Amazon Basics Single Pole Smart Switch
Best Compatibility With Alexa
Pairs well and works flawlessly
With this single-pole smart switch you can control the lights in your home via voice control through Alexa or with the Alexa app from anywhere with an internet connection. No smart home hub is required, just the switch, a 2.4GHz WiFi connection and Alexa.
Pros:
- Comes with an instructional video for easy installation
- Can be used as a traditional light switch too
Cons:
- Response time may be slow at times
Lutron Caseta Smart Switch Starter Kit
Most Versatile
Switch can connect with almost all smart devices
This smart switch features geofencing, which will alert you when you have left home without switching off your lights. It can also pick up when you are back home to switch pre-set lights on automatically.
Pros:
- Features Sunset tracker technology
- Comes with three-way control
Cons:
- No dimming function is available
Frequently Asked Questions
How do smart switches work?
Smart switches are connected to your home’s wireless network, allowing you to switch the lights in your home on and off or dim them from a distance through a portable device.
Do smart switches need smart bulbs to work?
Typically, no. Most smart switches work with any regular light bulbs. However, if you want to enhance your home even more and save more energy, you can invest in smart bulbs too. Smart bulbs work by automatically switching on and off when you leave or enter a room or when the lighting conditions change.
Buying Guide
Choosing smart switches start with identifying the right type. This depends on the existing switches you want to upgrade. Usually, the most basic switches are single-pole switches at a single location. These are easy to replace with smart switches. To replace three-way switches that control sets of lights from more than one location, requires a smart switch that supports special wiring. Furthermore, you can choose if you want something more than just a toggle for switching lights on and off, like motion sensors or a dimmer. If you already have a range of smart devices, you may also consider one switch with a display that serves as a universal control panel.
Compatibility is another key aspect that needs you to check what your home already has. Most smart switches support Google Home and Amazon Alexa. But there are also ones that support Apple’s HomeKit smart platform. Some switches may require special programming of platforms such as brand-specific smart hubs to work effectively.
Lastly, you want to consider ease of installation. This may depend on whether or not you have neutral wiring at the switches’ locations. Some older homes do not have this type of wiring. This is where you need to opt for no-neutral smart switches. Most smart switches are quick and easy to install. However, if you are not used to working with wiring, you may need the help of a professional.
