If you don't want to change your current light bulbs or use smart plugs to remotely control your home's lighting, then what you need are smart switches . But how do they work, and how do you choose the right model?
Beyond smart bulbs and plugs
When talking about smart lighting, most users tend to think only of connected light bulbs and smart plugs. Both are devices that allow you to control home lighting remotely, although the latter have more uses for being able to plug in other appliances.
However, there is a third solution that is much simpler and cleaner than the previous two. In addition, it may even be cheaper and it does not imply, on the subject of lighting, also changing each of the luminaires that you want to control. What's more, it is not always ideal because they are fluorescent or other types of lights much more interesting than the bulbs that are so popular right now.
So let's talk about smart switches , a device that you can place in your existing recessed switch.
What are smart switches
As we said, smart switches are simply devices that allow you to remotely control the flow of electricity . They're basically smart bulbs and smart plugs without the on/off switch.
Of course, by only offering that control in the current that will or will not reach the device that is connected to or depends on said switch, they are usually cheaper and offer a series of advantages that can be much more interesting than those provided by the most popular solutions. on smart lighting issues.
Advantages of smart switches
Smart switches are one more solution when it comes to remotely controlling home lighting, although they can also be used for all those electrical devices that we have connected to a switch.
Therefore, its very existence is justified based on the advantages that the other solutions do not provide. Although they are not perfect either and there are some other negative aspects that it is always important to know in order to choose the option that really interests you the most.
Best
- They are usually cheap
- No lighting changes required
- Integrates into existing in-wall switches
- The remote control of lights will always work
Worst
- Requires installation
- It is necessary to know maximum wattage if you want to use it with other devices than light bulbs
- In some cases they may be impossible to install due to lack of wall space.
- Not all offer light intensity control (it also depends on the luminaire used)
How to choose a smart switch
Choosing a smart switch like this might seem simple, but sometimes it's not. Not all of them work the same way, nor do they all require a specific type of installation. In other words, some models, in addition to the standard two live wires, also need a neutral wire.
The other factor that will sound much more familiar to you is the type of connectivity they use: WiFi, Zigbee or Z-Wave. Here, ideally, it should be the same protocol that you may already have and use at home with other connected devices such as smart bulbs.
It's also important to consider compatibility with different smart home platforms . If you want to control them via Alexa, you'll need to ensure they support Amazon's assistant. The same goes for Siri and Google Assistant, so pay close attention. If they can only be controlled through their own app, you'll be limiting your options for the future.
Finally, it's also advisable that it offers functions beyond simply turning it on and off. The ability to dim the light is one such function, because if you later purchase a light fixture that can be used with dimmers , you'll enjoy a much better experience.
Therefore, and in summary, to choose the best smart switch according to your needs, you must take into account the following:
- Type of installation required for its implementation. Know if you need a neutral wire or a ground connection, if it completely replaces your wall switch or just the inner "box"
- Connectivity standard used: WiFi, Zigbee or Z-Wave
- Compatibility with Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant
Once these three sections are controlled, you will basically have no problem when deciding which switch to buy.
Recommended Smart Switches
A simple search will allow you to find a multitude of smart switches that will allow you to continue using your same lights, but with the advantage of being able to be controlled remotely through a mobile application or by voice commands if it supports any of the assistants. current.
Some of the most outstanding and recommended models in all this smart switches are the following. Of course, some completely replace the one you have on the wall and others only accessories that you connect inside, to be able to have the option of wireless remote control while you continue using the existing button/switch when you want to do it manually.
sonoff switch
These Sonoff switches offer different options depending on whether you want to control just one or several lights. In other words, they're compatible with any double wall switches you may have. The panel is touch-sensitive, and connectivity is via your home Wi-Fi network.
With different options, support for Alexa and Google Assistant, what is important to know is that it requires a neutral wire for installation.
See offer on AmazonBroadlink TC2 switch
Broadlink's smart switches are another interesting option, although their price is higher than the competition. This means that replacing all the switches in the house at once won't be easy for most users, but it will ultimately depend on each individual.
The good thing is that you do not need the neutral wire for installation and it is controlled through the WiFi connection together with the use of an app available for iOS and Android. There is also to control several lights from the same switch.
See offer on AmazonPhilips Hue Switch Wall
It's not yet available for purchase, but it will be soon. The Philips Hue Switch Wall is the official and much-anticipated solution for many Philips Hue users. It's installed inside the wall socket where your current switch is located and doesn't replace it, so even when used to turn off the lights, wireless control will still be available.
Priced at 39,95 euros, they still use Zigbee connectivity, so the Philips bridge or one compatible with this standard will be required.
meross switch
Finally you have the Meross smart switch model. Like the others, it sits in the place of your previous switch and offers support for Alexa, Google Assistant and even Samsung SmartThings.
With a fairly cheap price, only 18 euros, it is a very interesting proposal for a massive change. Of course, it requires the use of a neutral cable.
See offer on Amazon