Ultimate Smart Light Switch Comparison

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  • Опубліковано 18 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 775

  • @SmartHomeSolver
    @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +122

    Thanks for watching! I think I walked out to my electrical panel probably 100 times installing and uninstalling all of these switches… and it’s been 115° outside 🥵 But it was interesting to compare these and here’s the link to the article smarthomesolver.com/reviews/ultimate-smart-light-switch-comparison/

    • @rogersmj
      @rogersmj 4 роки тому +3

      Nice work. Having installed dozens of smart switches I can only imagine how long it took to make this comparison.
      I agree with your criticism of the GE z-wave switch in that it’s not intuitive. I used to have some of these, and the non-configurable fade on/off combined with no separate dimmer control caused no end of frustration with guests and even my wife - people would tap it, but because the fade causes a perceived delay they would sometimes hold it a little too long, which would activate the dimming mode. really irritated people. That’s why I switched to the Leviton z-wave dimmers, which have a separate dimmer control alongside the main paddle. Have you ever tried the Leviton switches?

    • @apevny
      @apevny 4 роки тому +1

      So I am new to the inovelli red dimmer. I bought a few for it’s smart home capability. My setup currently is for down press I used a bond bridge to turn off the fan, one press up low, 2 presses for medium, 3 for high. I’m wondering if there would be a way with a piston to make it function similar to a normal fan switch. For example it’s off, a press up makes it go to low, then another one press up to be medium and so on, then one press down to lower the speed, and another press to lower further till it’s off. It would ease the family’s learning curve I think. If not I’ll just stick with the multi presses for scenes.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      @Matt Rogers thanks! Yeah I'm looking forward to not installing a smart light switch for a little while. I haven't tried the Leviton switches but I've seen a few other people comment about it and I'll make sure to include it in the next one. The little rocker being more intuitive for dimming is a good point. Thanks!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      @Andrew Pevny I haven't tried to set something like that up in webCoRE yet but I might give that a try this weekend. I think it would be possible using a variable that cycles through the different speeds. I'll look into that for sure. Thanks!

    • @apevny
      @apevny 4 роки тому

      Smart Home Solver Sounds good, can’t wait to hear what you might come up with. We are in Sacramento, CA but our temp Sunday may reach your type of high: 111 degrees 🥵

  • @whitney5092
    @whitney5092 4 роки тому +39

    The frustration of trying to get the wires back in the box and lining up those faceplates is worth sooo many likes in itself

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +9

      Thanks you so much for recognizing how long that part of the process is! That probably took the most time for this review.

  • @DIY_Dad_83
    @DIY_Dad_83 4 роки тому +31

    You are out there doing the grunt work for the people! Thank you for this and everything else that you do!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +4

      Haha thanks, I appreciate that! I love making these videos.

  • @KeithAchorn
    @KeithAchorn 4 роки тому +17

    Thank you for covering such a wide selection of switches. I replaced a few just last week and appreciate what a hassle it can be to install them safely. I spent weeks before searching for a video just like this, but finding none with this breadth. I was a little surprised not to see the 'C by GE' or Leviton switches included, as they are sold in most major US retailers and are two of the few mass-market hubless options. I ended up going with the 'C by GE' ones myself. So far, so good, but I am still trying to get used to the style.

  • @ghaithalhalaby4013
    @ghaithalhalaby4013 2 роки тому +1

    This is a great video, thanks!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  2 роки тому +1

      I really appreciate the super thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video! Thank you so much Ghaith!

  • @ModernDayTech
    @ModernDayTech 4 роки тому +67

    Great job Reed. Well done. I know how much went into this and I'm impressed. Keep up the amazing work!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +2

      Thanks Eric! I appreciate that.

    • @GenerlAce
      @GenerlAce 4 роки тому +4

      Reed is my go-to when researching smart home stuff. Professional, clear, and very un-biased.

  • @dennisharris144
    @dennisharris144 4 роки тому +11

    Amazing as usual. I never feel you are selling me something like some other channels. Just clear concise info. What more could you ask for?

  • @skuzzyj
    @skuzzyj 4 роки тому +6

    every time you put a new thing up that shows up in my feed, it's exactly what I've been talking about with my girlfriend for like the last couple weeks. I don't know how you do it but you make me want to spend money.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      Haha that's awesome. Hopefully your girlfriend doesn't hate me too much.

  • @ryandickerson2329
    @ryandickerson2329 4 роки тому +3

    I love all your endings! I don't know how you come up with such clever endings for every video!

  • @claycottingham6505
    @claycottingham6505 4 роки тому +2

    I was an early adopter and developer for Insteon back in 2005/06. Early devices had heat issues and periodic failure. Jump forward 12 years, and their newer devices are rock solid. I built a custom home in 2018 and have over 80 Insteon devices with a Universal-Devices ISY-994 automation controller. This allows complex programming and configuration of my system. You definitely need to dip you toes into the system.

    • @jerrycarpenter9570
      @jerrycarpenter9570 2 роки тому

      It's too bad insteon went out of business. I was planning on using them on my remodel because that's what I've been using for several years. My home automation guy wants to use Zooz with Home Assistant. What do you think ?

  • @r3jk8
    @r3jk8 2 роки тому +1

    this is the best review of smart switches on the entire UA-cam!

  • @garapueto96
    @garapueto96 4 роки тому +11

    Here it is! Been waiting for this one. Awesome stuff as always! 👍✌️

  • @Aloha_XERO
    @Aloha_XERO 4 роки тому +1

    DAMN !!!.... Where was THIS video 6 months ago🤦‍♂️ ..... This is "HANDS👍DOWN" the BEST👏 UA-cam comparison video that gives great in-depth useful information, I didn't even know there was so many option beside what they never have in stock at Lowes or Home Depot ..I'm so tired of the crappy computer generated top 10 videos on {insert search item here}
    (You Just picked up a subscriber for life bro😎)

  • @105mmshooter9
    @105mmshooter9 3 роки тому +2

    If not mentioned before, wanted to let you know you can program the center (dome) button on the pico remote for the brightness level. I have in wall switch and pico remotes by the lamps in the bedrooms. It fixed turning the switch on only to find someone had turned the lamp off. With the switch / pico arrangement you can turn the light on from either side of the room regardless of where it was turned off. If you tap the center button on the pico it turns on at the programmed brightness.

  • @stephensiemonsma
    @stephensiemonsma 4 роки тому +8

    Great comparisons! I started out with Kasa switches, and have moved on to Inovelli and Zooz Z-Wave dimmers. Kasa definitely feels like the highest quality hardware, but I'm a sucker for Z-Wave and both Inovelli and Zooz have put a good amount of work into their firmware and device handlers to makes these devices customizable and feature-packed. You didn't mention it, but it may be worth discussing little touches that may differentiate some of these Z-Wave switches/dimmers. For instance, Zooz has been moving to tab-less switches that are much less hassle to install in multi-gang boxes, and they claim the ZEN27 has greater compatibility with dimmable lights (less lightly to flicker/buzz). I'm not sure if your audience would be interested in leading edge vs trailing edge dimmer differences, but it can make a big difference as far as compatibility with "dumb" light bulbs. I think this may have been the cause of your issue with the Inovelli dimmer. Your lights probably prefer trailing edge dimmers instead.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks! Yes I still have more to learn about some of the more advanced things you mentioned about leading edge vs trailing edge. That makes sense about my issue with the Inovelli dimmer. There were some other things too with 3 way switches and how Zooz handles them. It gets pretty overwhelming but I'll definitely check out the ZEN27 and some of those more finite details. I appreciate the comment!

  • @TheMikeBaldwin
    @TheMikeBaldwin 4 роки тому +1

    Would love to see you review 3-way smart switches! Nice review as always!! Thank you!

  • @arielbaena5254
    @arielbaena5254 4 роки тому +7

    I know these videos are time consuming and I appreciate your efforts. Thank you.

  • @BallsworthBallsbury
    @BallsworthBallsbury 3 роки тому

    Been watching your videos for years now, finally subscribed! Thanks for all the great content, my friend! Wishing you continued success

  • @danielmerkley4543
    @danielmerkley4543 4 роки тому +1

    When starting my smart home, I felt like the industry was pushing smart bulbs (ie phillips hue). I didn't like the idea of spending $20 on a light bulb that would have to be replaced when it goes out three years later. Yes, I know that LEDs are supposed to last longer, but I've experienced less than advertised performance from my LED bulbs. Switches seemed like the best fit for me. Appreciate the review. However, I think you left out a major category of the market! The Sonoff Mini and Shelly products are excellent at a fraction of the cost of even the cheapest switches you listed. You can buy a 20 pack of Sonoff mini's on amazon for about $6-$7 a piece. You install behind your normal light switches and you are good to go. No, it doesn't have all the functionality and settings as these options (ie no dimming, multi press functions, etc) but it is an excellent option. And most importantly, wives and other family members don't have to have a learning curve to use it. It's the same light switch they are used to.

  • @BrandonDanz
    @BrandonDanz 3 роки тому

    Been searching for well over an hour for a resource like this -- GREAT review. Thank you!

  • @Ryder0910
    @Ryder0910 4 роки тому +29

    The smart home manual is back 😂

  • @JohnNeville617
    @JohnNeville617 4 роки тому +3

    I started out with the GE switches/dimmers partly on a whim but I have since replaced all of my switches with them. Some people may be looking for the bells and whistles but I just wanted hub controlled switches that felt normal so they definitely fit the bill. I do have the Zooz double switch for my bathroom light/fan but it feels cheap next to the more solid GE vanity switch.
    The real reason I went hub controlled was for security. Reliability is one thing but I mostly want to keep a barrier between the internet and my smart devices. There are too many sketch Chinese generic devices out there so knowing that it is z-wave and not wifi is comforting.

  • @MrTacoMan247
    @MrTacoMan247 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you for all the work you put into this video.

  • @stevewalker9888
    @stevewalker9888 4 роки тому

    Considering you produced this video in sept 2020 . You guys in the USA are leaps and bounds way ahead of us in the uk. I haven’t seen anything lately that remotely looks or does any of the things they do. Other than my Alexa and all the LIFX that’s voice activated and controlled. Thanks for sharing.

  • @jasonbaker2341
    @jasonbaker2341 4 роки тому +3

    The GE on/off dimming ramp can be changed. It can even be set differently based on whether it was turned on by z-wave or by a physical press. You can even set it to 0 for instant on/off. Guess it depends if your hub allows your to change that configuration parameter. I'm using Home Assistant.

  • @alanmoore2197
    @alanmoore2197 3 роки тому +1

    Good review! I would note that while you mentioned some dimmers stand alone operation not being that intuitive to use - that is so much more true for guests (or even family members!) using switches that require multiple presses to control light scenes.
    Whilst the functionality is impressively squeezed in - I would never do that (because my wife would give me grief about it forever!). I always add scene controllers with dedicated labelled buttons so you don't need a smart home manual for everyday use.
    I also feel the look of a house is compromised by having many different types of light switches sprinkled around and of course that also compromises usability some for guests too. I don't automate everything so I also appreciate dimmers & switches that don't look jarringly physically different from regular decora switches - because they will all be living together. Keep up the good work (and humor!).

  • @asinheaven
    @asinheaven 4 роки тому +1

    Thanks for including comparisons of the click sound between different units. I prefer a totally silent switch.

  • @ckay92390
    @ckay92390 4 роки тому +11

    I love the video and how you categorized switches into different groups!
    I was hoping to see a renters/apartment category with smart switches that go over your existing light switches for those of us who have landlords that don't necessarily enjoy having their Tenants mess with the houses electricity. I know these videos take lots of work; even without this additional renters category i still found this video very helpful, thanks!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +4

      Thanks! Yeah that could be good for another video.

  • @volumeboyman
    @volumeboyman 4 роки тому +14

    "me, ross?" classic!

  • @aceagui1129
    @aceagui1129 4 роки тому

    Thank you very much for taking the time & doing the research, I being doing maintenance for 15 yr went 3yr of full time student in college, you surprise me with your information, and no one has surprise in years me, I know I can do all the electrical but you have done the most important technology end of it, thank you very much

  • @justind.6780
    @justind.6780 4 роки тому

    I'm currently using various TP-LINK and a 4 way brilliant light switch in my home and I absolutely love them. I too had issues with switches not fitting into the older switch covers and ended up buying slightly larger versions at home depot that actually do the trick and you barely notice the difference.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      That's good to know about larger versions. I'll have to look for those next time I'm at home depot.

  • @paulwood1163
    @paulwood1163 4 роки тому

    You might want to touch on something I had issues with. You did talk about switches being wide and hard to work in a two switch box. However, some of these switches get their "features" in by going deep. Deeper than some of the boxes you have had for so many years. I got halfway through a switch install in a wooden placement (my kitchen island) and ended up getting a crafty electrician to finish the install. Ugh! Its hard to fit the wiring in when the switch takes up all the space.
    Oh, and I cannot finish my comment without saying "Lutron? Booo!". I hate extra hubs. Its like the hidden initial cost that ends up making you wonder if you should just buy their product because ... in for a penny, in for a pound. Keep them coming.

  • @DanSeaber-Shinn
    @DanSeaber-Shinn 4 роки тому +1

    Another great video Reed! Huge support from the UK 🇬🇧 I love seeing all the products you guys have....that we can’t get 😂

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks! Hopefully more of this stuff can be available in the UK soon!

  • @eddiesanchez9095
    @eddiesanchez9095 4 роки тому +1

    Excellent Work Reed!!! Thank you so much for the time you put into this. This will definitely help me a lot.

  • @rjw8316
    @rjw8316 4 роки тому +2

    Nice comparison. However, next time could you include the Insteon devices? Thanks.

  • @bergermaestro
    @bergermaestro 4 роки тому

    I use the Kass switches and it's always a relief when Reed gives something a thumbs up! I use the dimmer and notice a bit of buzzing, but that seems to be because of the lightbulbs and not the switch itself.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Yeah I didn't notice any buzzing with the bulbs I was using. I wish I had more time and resources to try them all out with different kind of lights. Kasa switches are great though!

  • @DigitalBenny
    @DigitalBenny 4 роки тому

    I live in a rental house, so I can change bulbs, but not fixtures. I switched all of my bulbs that I could change to Hue. But that left some fixtures with "dumb" bulbs (for example, my kitchen has a square light with SMD LED diodes in it) so for all of those, I installed Kasa switches. They work awesome. I use Google Home and they have zero issues for me.
    I also have a bunch of Kasa outlets, for fans and my heat.

  • @TechProGabe
    @TechProGabe 4 роки тому

    I have some cheap treat life ones, the only compliant is in a bedroom the leds can be quite bright at night. Beyond that they work great.

  • @hiltoncancel2270
    @hiltoncancel2270 3 роки тому +1

    You missed the Leviton Smart Switches. They too are outstanding and very easy to use.

  • @asprywrites
    @asprywrites 2 роки тому

    Excellent work, sir. It's been my pleasure being a longtime subscriber.

  • @hjkaye
    @hjkaye 4 роки тому

    I have a category for you: Smart switches with RF433 support. I have a few of these installed now, that have support for the RF433 remote controls. This is very handy because there are a ton of inexpensive wall or table mount RF433 remotes available for almost nothing, 1-2-3-4 gang, in lots of colors and styles. I have a couple of variations of the battery operated switches:
    1) A Sonoff RF/WiFi switch that I've installed into the base of a table fan, with a little bit of hot glue and drilling, the control switch and the status light are accessible from the base. It's Alexa/Google compatible, uses the eWeLink app. So, Alexa "turn on/off fan works", and I have a tabletop button on the other side of the room to toggle on/off with a tap, very handy.
    2) Another variety is a WiFi wall switch replacement available in 1-2-3-4 gang models, in a variety of colors and styles. One implementation: I have a 3 gang version installed, all have relays for switching actual line voltage, but I have only one wired up (neutral is required). The other two gangs I have configured via Tuya automation to toggle on/off smart light groups in the adjacent living room. Just about any scenario is possible with the automation, even changing channels on the TV if you have a smart IR box.
    Also setup is Tuya automation that sets the wall switch gangs on/off when Alexa, the app, or other automation turns the smart lights on/off, so the indicator lights correspond with the on/off state. So, if I say Alexa turn on Smart Bulb 1, the automation turns on the corresponding indicator on the wall switch.
    The RF433 support allowed me to add a wall mount battery operated RF433 toggle switch at the other room entrance, so just a tap toggles the corresponding wall switch gang, and controls both the virtual automation gangs, and the physical wired gang.
    Also included is the support for up to six different remote buttons for each gang. So, the switch installed at the entrance I can use a car remote style RF433 remote to turn the lights on/off from outside the front door it seems to work about 100 feet away.
    The only downside is it's a toggle, so if on, it will switch off and vice versa.

  • @Traveling.w-Tiyah
    @Traveling.w-Tiyah 4 роки тому +1

    I'm so glad u did this video. I plan 2 buy can lights and switches during Labor day sale.

  • @MarkS6789
    @MarkS6789 4 роки тому

    I have the GE and the Kasa Dimmer light switch. The GE has never failed and never had any connection issues however the dimming isn't the best, you have to use the app in order to get the right dim. The Kasa brand as a whole ive had issues with them just disconnecting all of a sudden. But im starting to believe it might be my network getting crowded. When Kasa works however, it works great and the app is really good too! Great job Reed!

  • @willdonovanaus
    @willdonovanaus 4 роки тому

    AWESOME! Thanks Reed. Switches are my No1 topic at the moment and trying to work out where to start and how to narrow down the selection. Cheers from Australia ;)

  • @EternityM
    @EternityM 4 роки тому

    Excited for this video! Needed to see these compared!

  • @invisihome4476
    @invisihome4476 4 роки тому

    Great comparisons! I'm partial to press and hold for dimming myself. Really handy for elbows or just using what's in your hand when your hands are full or wet.

  • @baronlopez8788
    @baronlopez8788 4 роки тому +2

    You have great videos and look forward to watching more in the future. However, I'm curious why you didn't consider any Insteon switches in this review. I've found a lot of success in mixing both z-wave and Insteon.

  • @jmz6
    @jmz6 4 роки тому

    I am using Leviton smart switches. They have many different versions available. Currently have the regular wifi smart switch and a dimmer as well their 3 way remote switch. App and features are updated pretty frequently and have a decent amount of features included. they have been decently reliable over 2 years, though have had 2 out of 15 burn out randomly but was replaced by Leviton

  • @jasonperry6046
    @jasonperry6046 4 роки тому +3

    Fantastic job. I really enjoyed the overview.
    I am currently mostly Kasa and lutron switches right now. I hate the interface on both. I have a Wemo dimmer waiting to go in and have plans to buy an inovelli red switch and a GE switch.
    I am a little surprised you didn't include the Wemo switch, because it seems popular, but I think you included ever other switch I have heard of. Great work.
    All this to try and find an interface I like.
    Could I suggest a similar video on in wall plugs.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      Thanks Jason! Yeah I've heard mixed reviews on WeMo and I've had a few bad experiences with WeMo. But yes they are popular and there has been enough comments wanting me to include it in the next one that I will for sure. That could be interesting about wall plugs.

    • @curtisbme
      @curtisbme 4 роки тому

      @@SmartHomeSolver I have had four Wemo dimmers in the house for years now and have never had any issues with them. The Treatlife and Gosund are essentially worse knock-offs of them. Only reason I don't use them everywhere is that they (like most smart dimmers) don't support 3-way. I don't use any other dimmers, like Inovelli, as I don't want to have to hold to adjust dimming. This is especially true if you are controlling lights in double or triple gang and want set them all to the same brightness level (manually) quickly.
      Wife and I intensely disliked the Casetta as it has to be the worst ergonomically designed wall switch of all time (and nearly completely unusable in the dark as you note) but we both love the Wemo. The only thing I liked about the Casetta was the remote that could be used from the bed so you didn't have to use your voice or phone to control brightness or turn off the main lights. But there are plenty of button options to at least control the on-off.

    • @jasonperry6046
      @jasonperry6046 4 роки тому +1

      Curtis B, my girls room has a Casetta light switch and it is going to be one of my first moves. There is nothing like running into their room because they are crying and hitting the wrong button, turning the lights on full brightness, and waking both of them up. One day I will find the perfect switch.

  • @michaeleckman3016
    @michaeleckman3016 4 роки тому +7

    Wemo has some nice switches. Initially, I had issues with my wemos since my house has wifi repeaters/extenders, but it seems that wemo has corrected that issue and now they work flawlessly.

  • @ronm6585
    @ronm6585 4 роки тому +1

    Thanks Reed. Great comparison.

  • @KirkandRA
    @KirkandRA Рік тому

    Great review. I’m currently upgrading to Kasa Single pole from the standard switches. Just buying a couple at a time so my wife doesn’t blow a gasket 😂

  • @formerx
    @formerx 4 роки тому

    All that work paid off. Excellent vid!

  • @Silkyshun
    @Silkyshun 4 роки тому +2

    Great video, I am interested by leviton wifi swith

  • @andrepandohie582
    @andrepandohie582 2 роки тому

    Thanks for the video. I’ve had a lot of problems with the GE Z-Way switches during power outages. getting the Peter Pan click clicking going to replace them with something better.

  • @Techridr
    @Techridr Місяць тому

    I've been using the Kasa switches for a long time now and love them. You can set scenes, schedules, you can have one switch control another switch or outlet, tell it to turn on outdoor lighting at sunset or 30 min before, 20 min after etc. and even schedule different brightness levels. For instance, I have two carports with dimmable LED lighjt strings. With the Kasa outdoor dimming outlet, I have my carports light up 30 minutes after sunset to about 80% brightness. At 8pm the schedule goes to 60% brightness, then once again at 10:30 pm it goes to a nice 20% brightness. They stay that way till 15 minutes after sunrise. I also have a set limit on one switch. When I turn on the Whole House Fan, it is set to shut off after 20 minutes automatically. And of course, they all work with Alexa too including dimming levels. Yeah, this video is 4-years old, but I still love my Kasa switches.

  • @MichaelHarrisPhotography
    @MichaelHarrisPhotography 4 роки тому +4

    Great job, very informative. Is there a reason you didn't include Insteon switches in the hub section? I've been using them for years and love them.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks Michael. I tried to pick some of the most popular smart switches and there were plenty I would have liked to include but time is a big factor. I'm glad to hear you like Insteon switches and I'll remember that for the next light switch comparison.

  • @YT-yq6rx
    @YT-yq6rx 2 роки тому +1

    I’d love a video comparing noon orro & brilliant switches

  • @seththetechguy
    @seththetechguy 4 роки тому +1

    Great video! Always looking forward to your videos!

  • @RonMoore
    @RonMoore 4 роки тому +1

    Great video as always! Keep up the good work.

  • @pnmtech
    @pnmtech 4 роки тому

    Awesome Video! One you missed was the Lesim Smart Switch I got from Amazon. It’s a touch only WiFi switch that comes in 1,2 and 3 gang configurations and also has a 3 way switch option. It’s basic but has a small WiFi icon on the switches so you can always see where they are even when they are off and in the dark. They are also very inexpensive, I replaces all of the switches in my house, about 20 total for less than $450. Worth checking out. Thanks!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks for the info! I'll have to look into those if we do a follow up video!

  • @kevino.agosto1010
    @kevino.agosto1010 4 роки тому +2

    I always love your videos, seen your hard work, thank you !!!

  • @vwing20
    @vwing20 4 роки тому +1

    Hey Reed, great video! I was hoping you might review the Insteon switches since I recently purchased a lot of them for my home remodel. So far they serve me well as a hub-connected series.
    My main need was to wire in some 3-way smart switches and wanted them to be the same brand as other smart switches in my home. I got almost all dimmers since they were the same cost as regular on/off switches, and only got a regular switch for a vent fan that couldn’t take varying power. I still haven’t tapped into all the options yet, but I hope that they’re as good as advertised and that they get a favorable review from you in the future. Thanks and looking forward to your next video!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Hi Ian I appreciate it. Yes there have been a lot of requests for Insteon and I'll make sure to include them in the next one. I wish I could have included more switches in this video but due to time I could only include so many.

    • @vwing20
      @vwing20 4 роки тому

      Smart Home Solver Of course, no way you could review every switch out there, and this gives a great overview for switches that most people are shopping for

    • @spanny52
      @spanny52 4 роки тому

      Hi Ian, I've used Insteon for years with a Universal Devices ISY-994 hub. I've also had the Insteon Hub. They are nice smart switches but they don't last. The hub lasted 2 years. I had a 220 volt heavy duty switch go out this spring. This is in addition to other switches that I've replaced over the years. I'm glad I found Reed because I think there are better, cheaper ways to do things. That's my two cents. Cheers! 😉

    • @colormedubious4747
      @colormedubious4747 4 роки тому

      Hi, Ian. I've had decent longevity with my Insteon installations. I've lost about 1 in 7 switches per decade, mostly in high humidity (bathrooms), high heat (multi-gang), or 2-wire situations. I lost 3 at once in August 2017 but lost most of the house that surrounded them, too, so I don't count that as a switch failure. That house has been rebuilt since and the switches replaced. Just watch your wattage, make sure everything's grounded properly, and you should be all right.

  • @MrCoolguy80
    @MrCoolguy80 4 роки тому

    I've been pretty happy with Meross. Have too many to go back now! Interesting to see the other options!

  • @ObscuredTravel
    @ObscuredTravel 3 роки тому

    Thank you for the breakdown! Well done and informative

  • @scobob
    @scobob 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the video. Was curious why you didn’t include Insteon? I was hoping to see how they compared to newest options. I have used Insteon for many years and find them super easy to install and configure.

  • @JamesMason888
    @JamesMason888 4 роки тому +5

    Nice comparison. I'm wondering what your thoughts are on the HomeSeer dimmers (e.g., HS-WD200+ series).

  • @thedarkness2646
    @thedarkness2646 4 роки тому +1

    Great info! With my new house just 25 days from being done I am definitely looking to start it out on the right foot.

  • @SebVEVO
    @SebVEVO 3 роки тому

    Your reviews are excellent, thx

  • @brianp9937
    @brianp9937 4 роки тому +3

    My daughter would love a unicorn mode too. 😆

  • @pcruz3135
    @pcruz3135 4 роки тому +1

    @5:42 Awesome description using Star Wars, lol

  • @DREADPOOL
    @DREADPOOL 4 роки тому

    Awesome as always. FYI... You you can use Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting ELV Dimmer Switch for Electronic Low Voltage Light Bulbs, PD-5NE-WH, White. (Bought mine at Amazon)It looks like the Pico and the round button in the middle can be programmed as your favorite setting. Also you can control Lifx bulbs with any the Caseta switches. Just colors are limited to the type of switch and how you program it.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Interesting! Cool I'll have to check that out. Thanks for the tip!

  • @awlthatwoodcrafts8911
    @awlthatwoodcrafts8911 3 роки тому

    I've had a couple of Meross switches to control some outside lighting for a couple of years now and have had no issues. When I started using Alexa, I was able to integrate the Meross switches easily with a "skill". Since then, I've added some Meross smart plugs and a couple more smart switches and when I set them up in the Meross app, they were automatically added to Alexa's list of devices. The 2 new smart switches were purchased from Amazon for under $25 for the pair. Can't buy a single Leviton in a store for less that $35.

  • @Totalballa41
    @Totalballa41 4 роки тому +1

    Dang, lookin good Bro😎👊 Lookin healthy/ been workin out😅💪 Great video, no one else puts in the work you do Man, keep up the great videos!👋

  • @joshthewritersmith
    @joshthewritersmith 4 роки тому +1

    Awesome video. I'm just diving in to Smart Home stuff. I've liked the way TPLink works out of the box, but I need some 3-way light switches. Time to troll through your detailed article...

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks Josh! TP-Link has 3 way light switches amzn.to/2Gx1MHV but I don't think they have 3 way dimmer switches.

    • @joshthewritersmith
      @joshthewritersmith 4 роки тому

      @@SmartHomeSolver Sweet. Thanks for the reply! I also have a SmartThings hub, so I probably need to dive into Z-Wave.

    • @davidlei6930
      @davidlei6930 4 роки тому

      @@SmartHomeSolver Kasa will release 3-way dimmer Switch next year.

  • @andymok7945
    @andymok7945 4 роки тому +1

    Nice review. One important thing missing is which units can be flashed with custom firmware like tasmota for those that don't want to be locked in to using cloud based app to control vs local based control.

  • @victoriabrown6753
    @victoriabrown6753 3 роки тому

    Thank you so much for your help Reed!

  • @wonderInNoWhere
    @wonderInNoWhere 3 роки тому

    I appreciate your inputs about the smart switch. I have a 2007 built-house and the switch is too shallow to have those smart switches due to their deep transformer. It is really difficult to reorganize the wire in the switch boxes unless you upgrade them with deeper boxes. I can't do it myself. It would cost thousands to hire a professional. I guess I have to give up the plan to automate my house.

  • @teba7492
    @teba7492 4 роки тому +1

    Great video as always! I have learned so much from your videos since starting my smart home. When I have questions, I always search your content first. 😁
    I would be interested in smart button switches that you can install (no wiring) at the light switch as opposed to the little smartthings buttons. (I need control for lamps by the door).

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      Thanks Terri! I bought a bunch of different IKEA Tradfri buttons that work directly with SmartThings. I'll be showing some examples in the next video. There's some useful things that can be done with them and they work well.

  • @brycelaw4950
    @brycelaw4950 4 роки тому

    Great video! I put in a bunch of treatlife switches that get the job done and im happy with them. I ordered the older version of the treatlife dimmer switch has buttons on top similar to kasa which i knew i would prefer over the slider thing. My only complaint and something that i think would be good to cover is size and ease of installation, specifically if any were more shallow than others. I have a smart fan switch and a smart switch together in one panel and it swear i had to almost break the switches to get them in there.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks Bryce! Yes I noticed that the Treatlife switches were large in the light switch box. I thought about mentioning that but I didn't think it was a big enough factor because it still fit so I left it out of the video. I'll try and mention that with light switches in the future though.

  • @MakeMoneyGuide
    @MakeMoneyGuide 4 роки тому +1

    Keep posting interesting contents like this!

  • @whoisericevans
    @whoisericevans 4 роки тому

    You have to review the lutron RA2 switches. Those are some of the high end lutron switches, offer more features and have better designs then the Caseta line.

  • @GaryBickford
    @GaryBickford 4 роки тому

    I recently bought and installed a couple of Martin Jerry low cost dimmer switches. They use the 'Smart Life' app to get set up. I don't yet have an internet connection through my wifi router, so I haven't done that. But they work well locally.

  • @KylersStudio
    @KylersStudio 4 роки тому

    Great job! Great reference for comparisons!

  • @darryldubrall7205
    @darryldubrall7205 4 роки тому

    Excellent video. I have a couple weemo dimmers and was curious if there was something better I should be using. Thanks.

  • @garypleasant3116
    @garypleasant3116 4 роки тому

    Wow, you did a great job researching all of these manufacturers. I have had 20 Wemo light switches and outlets throughout my home for the past 3yrs. Was not a good choice. The app is terrible on iOS no Apple Watch app and although they are WiFi a hub is required for them them to work with HomeKit. I also have devices that randomly stop responding.

  • @clellbritt3434
    @clellbritt3434 4 роки тому

    Great video. I'm looking to get the Brilliant switch for Christmas (maybe?) I'd only do the main room with the most traffic or someplace that is convenient for multiple interactions. I've got the Inovelli Fan/Light combo; it currently has a bug when controlling in Alexa through ST, but I was given a work around on the forums. I do love the notification light setting though. You'll have to tell me how to setup that Unicorn setting for my daughter, LOL.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      Thanks Clell! Haha yeah she loves that she can activate it with 4 down presses and no one else that comes over knows how she does it. I have the Inovelli Fan/Light combo on the shelf but I haven't set it up yet. I'll have to look for your work around in the forums.

  • @dnoland77
    @dnoland77 4 роки тому +2

    One other feature to consider is the ability to change the brightness level on a dimmer while powered off. I replaced 2 Meross dimmers with Kasa dimmers because the Kasa's always powered on to the last setting. If the last setting was high, I don't want that. The Kasa's I can either change the level before turning on or I can program the switch with one of the presets.
    Another consideration when choosing a switch is if you still use incandescent lights, by using a dimmer and powering on at a lower setting your old filament bulbs will last a whole lot longer. My house is now 23 years old and I am still using some of the original bulbs installed in 1998.

  • @paulshawnjones147
    @paulshawnjones147 4 роки тому

    Great Video Reed. I install a lot of smart switches and I can only imagine the amount of time and effort it took to make this video and then all the editing on top of that. I have a few different switches you listed in your video, but I am a big fan of the inovelli red series products.
    1st their company listens and gives feedback on issues from their community forum on their website. 2nd Their scene control is great, but you can also control smart zwave bulbs with their switch using zwave association. Set the switch to bypass the relay and your smart bulb gets constant power, but a touch of the switch turn the bulb on/off and you can even use the dimmer to dim the bulb just as if you were using the app or alexa to do it. I love this feature because it lets me put a RGB bulb in places that I really want one, but doesn't take switch control away from those in my home that are not interested in smart home tech. The scene control feature lets you control so many things, I programmed one to turn my TV on and off just to see if I could do it and it works very well.
    3rd and actually my favorite thing is the configurable LED's. I have one setup to just tell me the state of my garage door, red for open and green for closed. Another one that I walk by on the way to bed: Green light means front and back door is locked and garage door is closed, if any one of those things are not true the light is red. They also have a new fan/light switch combo that lets you control a fan and light separately even though you only have a one gang switch box and one hot wire going to the fan/light.
    I have had to do a couple of firmware upgrades with their stuff and there are more that will have to be done as they work out some bugs but I am really impressed with their switches and their zwave bulbs so far.

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому

      Thanks! Yeah the Inovelli Red Series are great. I'm still using one in my office for all the smart lights/fan and I've been very happy with it so far. I'm looking forward to finding new ways to use their RGB LED lights on them for notifications.

  • @MattTaylor7
    @MattTaylor7 4 роки тому +1

    Great video, that must of taken forever to do. I have a few dimmer and switches from Leviton. Very reliable over the past 2 years and the app gives you some options if you get the dimmer version. Mine were $50 each

  • @fofochinho73
    @fofochinho73 4 роки тому +1

    Hey Reed, been watching your channel while setting up our first house in Gilbert. Wondering if you’ve heard of Feit products? They are very inexpensive and have a great app. I installed several of their dimmers and smart bulbs. Costco carries multi-packs that often go on sale. They seem decent so far for the price, just a few WiFi dropouts once in a while. Would love to see your take on some of their stuff. Great work!

    • @SmartHomeSolver
      @SmartHomeSolver  4 роки тому +1

      I have heard of Feit and I bought some of their smart bulbs at Costco. I haven't tested them yet but I was planning on it soon. If I see their switches at Costco I'll make sure to buy them. Thanks!

  • @shafter111
    @shafter111 4 роки тому

    Thanks for the video.
    I found the kasa lights easiest to install. Its sturdy, with thick wires connected to the device and the app taking you step by step through the process. I wished they 3-way dimmers.
    I have a lutron smart dimmer and its painful to operate in the dark.

  • @netrospect6525
    @netrospect6525 4 роки тому

    very solid review. covers a very wide set of options

  • @bmac9949
    @bmac9949 4 роки тому +4

    Thank you, I had been looking for a video like this recently! Please check out the Leviton Decora Smart Wifi Dimmers if you have the opportunity. In my mind, they are the big competition to Lutron Caseta because they are a big established lighting brand with similar compatibility.

    • @ChristinaK1024
      @ChristinaK1024 4 роки тому +1

      Absolutely, I have 14 Leviton smart switches in my home, once you get into full house automation it's really important to pick a company thats likely to stick around. Lutron, Leviton, GE are all going to exist for a while. I would probably never invest hundreds or thousands into an ecosystem of switches made by companies named after a mix of letters and have little probably of sticking around for a few years and supporting their app.

    • @395sreed
      @395sreed 4 роки тому

      Question
      Is it best only one manufacturer of WiFi switches in your house so that they can all be controlled on the same Factory application?
      Or are there apps that will control a variety of different manufacturer?
      It seems to me that it would be best to have all of the same type of light so that you could control everything from the one together app.
      For example, I purchased one of the Leviton Wi-Fi Decora smart switches. I haven't used it yet because I want to make sure that this is the proper light to use and then I will try to use only over the Leviton Decora switches in my house.
      The problem is is that of all the UA-cam videos I've seen, nobody really talks about the app or the enter compatibility between one manufacturer and the other in control.
      The last thing I want to do is have to open 15 different applications to control my lights.

    • @tonyunderwood9438
      @tonyunderwood9438 4 роки тому

      @@395sreed I'm still kind of new to the home automation game, but I'd say it kind of depends. If you're only controlling the lights with their respective app, then absolutely buying all the same manufacturer would be key. However, most of us integrate with Homekit, Alexa, etc and tie them into that. I had several Lutron Caseta smart switches in my house that were fully integrated with Alexa. I removed most of the Caseta recently, due to my wife not liking the tactile feel of them and replaced them with Leviton Decora switches so I now have a mixed environment with both of them integrating with Alexa. So I can turn the lights off or on with both switches seamlessly through Alexa, but if I wanted to use the vendor app I'd have to log into each application separately.

  • @walterandreis5083
    @walterandreis5083 4 роки тому

    Hi Reed,
    After viewing this video, i've decided to change all my smart switches from the "TreatLife" to Brilliant.... because of the possibility of dimerize the 3-ways and use the built-in motion sensors as well..
    As you know, it's a huge step in price about 5x difference. As soon as i've received the Brilliant stuffs and begins the installation i noticed some particularities not covered by your review that i think it's very important to everybody know before buy:
    LAG / LATENCY = The 3way switches works based on WIFI/BLUETOOTH mode, it's not hard wired to the LOAD itself, for instance, when you click a switch that is configured as 3-way but not on the load side of the wiring diagram, it sends a wireless signal to the switch/controlled that is actually wired to the load and this second os responsible to turn the load on/off. But this doesn't occurs instantly, and sometimes it takes 3 or 4 seconds to switch the load, and it's a very weird experience: sometimes you open a door, the room is dark, you touch the switch expecting to have light instantly and it doesn't occurs, then you wait 1 or 2 seconds and your brain automatically thinks that you've missed the switch and touch it again turning the light state to OFF... than you stop in front of the switch, and spend some time trying to figure out what's really happening "behind the scene". Another point: you don't have any kind of feedback from the switch (a sound, a vibration, a light or a simple "click"), nothing... you really doesn't know what is happening behind the scene until it decided to act. It's really annoying, and i would never had changed the previous switch to this, if i knows this before.
    INSTALLATION = Brilliant has kind of "proprietary way" to install and manage the devices. The step by step process is really useful for less experienced users, DIYers, etc... but considering the step of assign 3way switches to a specific load is a really pain in the butt... first of all, the app doesn't recognize the switches to be installed in a 3way, you should configure it as an "oulet/always on", then make some weird (not logical) steps to assign the switch to the 3way load, it's really not intuitive, it crashed all the time and you had to remove the face plate if your switch is already installed, to reach que QR CODE on the front of the switch to get scanned by brilliant app, other way it will not find your switch just by wifi... it's really not intuitive, not "logic" process.
    ALEXA COMPATIBILITY = You can't use the built-in motion sensors to trigger a routine in ALEXA (Don't know about other smart home assistance, i just use alexa). The way this built-in sensor works is, again, inside the proprietary app that switches a light, if this light is available inside the "brilliant" ecosystem, it means that if you want to use the motion sensor on smart switch to trigger anything else on your smart home, it's useless.
    Well, i've reached Brilliant Support by e-mail, they just answered me that this LAG/LATENCY is an issue that engineer team is looking for a solution, but if i can't get a solution berfore the 30 days after buy period, i'll be returning 30+ switches and 2 controllers to avoid get stucked with it, without a solution from the manufacturer.
    Sorry about this long comment, but i found my self in the need to warn another people and prevent them to do the same move i made.
    TY!

  • @bryane2000
    @bryane2000 2 роки тому

    I have both smart switches and smart dimmers. I did not find the problems he described. I have gosund and use them with multiple cans. Good app and easy programming. No bleed thru either

  • @chrispierce1305
    @chrispierce1305 4 роки тому +1

    Awesome vid. Could you include the Iotty in your next review please?

  • @teresaj8290
    @teresaj8290 3 роки тому

    I totally love your channel. I'm in the middle of a home remodel and am adding smart items and you've been so helpful. I haven't purchased anything unless you've recommend it. Thank you especially for these video on smart switches.
    I have a question - i haven't purchased my Echo Dot yet. Do you know or have you heard Amazon saying they are coming out with an Echo Dot 5th Generation? And if so, perhaps anytime soon? I would have to purchase one today and then in two weeks they announce the 5th Gen. Thank you!

  • @justacupofjoe9049
    @justacupofjoe9049 4 роки тому

    crushed it, loved this breakdown!

  • @hvk3929
    @hvk3929 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you bro. I was looking for the same.