Best Smart Dimmer Switch
With so many smart switches out there, finding the right one can be like finding a needle in a haystack. If you’re looking for new lighting solutions, I’m here to help. I’m here to show you the best smart dimmer switch on the market!
Best HomeKit Switch
Lutron Caseta
Out of all the smart switches, Lutron has the best third-party integration list.
Amazon.com | $94.99 5 new from $94.99 9 used from $90.68 | Buy Now |
Bestbuy.com | $99.99 | Buy Now |
Best Z-Wave Switch
Inovelli Red-Series
If you already have a Z-Wave smart home system, this is the smart switch for you.
Ebay.com | $54.17 out of stock | Buy Now |
Amazon.com | out of stock | Buy Now |
Best Budget
Kasa by TP-Link
Its cheap yet remains incredibly smart. It can connect to all of the primary voice assistants.
Amazon.com | $19.99 11 new from $18.97 3 used from $14.99 | Buy Now |
Ebay.com | $20.99 out of stock | Buy Now |
The Buyers Guide To The Best Smart Dimmer Switches
If you’ve made it to this section, you must be on the fence about which switch to choose. And that’s OK, as I said before, there are too many poor switches out there.
So, I’m going to give you a helping hand to find the best smart light switch, by the end of this section you’ll know exactly what you should be looking for. Sound good?
Great, let’s get started:
Scheduling
Setting light schedules can come in handy for a few reasons; my favorite use is for vacations. You can set the lights to go off on at various preset times, warding off any potential thieves. And while you're at home, you can set the smart switch to you.
Hub Required
Some smart dimmer switches require a hub to control the system, which can make it the expensive option if you do not already own one. But, if you do have a home hub, you'll need to make sure it's compatible with all your smart home devices to avoid disapointment.
Neutral wire required
If you live in a house that was built pre-1980's, there's a chance your home doesn't have a neutral wire. Some smart dimmer switches require a neutral wire to operate, buying the wrong switch could result in you calling out an electrician.
Control Options
The majority of smart dimmer switches will not work with a three or four-way lighting system. Which makes this something you need to think about before you purchase a smart switch. Think, "Do I need two switches to control one set of lights"?
Geofencing
Adding geofencing to your smart light switches can open a whole world of possibilities. Geofencing allows you to program lighting commands based on your actual location. For example, you could have it set for the driveway light to turn as you approach your house.
Voice Control
Voice control isn't a pre-requisite of a smart dimmer switch. If you're looking to add voice control to your light bulbs, then you better make sure it's compatible. In the list below, I've got something for any of the principal voice assistants.
And finally, the warranty:
Certain Z-Wave and Homekit switches can be costly; the lasts thing you want is it breaking. If you’re unfortunate enough for this happen, it’s nice to know the manufacture has your back.
Table of Contents
The Best Smart Dimmer Switches
By now, you should have a good idea of what you’re looking for, and that’s the essential step. Now its time to find the right smart light switch for you.
Below are five of the best dimmer switches; each one will offer important features, but are they the right features for you?
Let’s take a look:
Lutron | Inovelli | Kasa TP-Link | TREATLIFE | Gosund | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Control Options | Requires Caseta Switch for extra controls | 3-way to 5-way | 2-way | 3-Way | 3-way |
Scheduling | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Hub required | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
Geofencing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Neutral Wire Required | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Voice Control | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Warranty | 1-Year | 1-Year | 2-Year | 90-Day | 90-Day |
Buy | Find Best Price | Find Best Price | Find Best Price | Find Best Price | Find Best Price |
#1 – Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Starter Kit
BEST HOMEKIT SWITCH
Amazon.com | $94.99 5 new from $94.99 9 used from $90.68 | Buy Now |
Bestbuy.com | $99.99 | Buy Now |
Lutron’s smart dimmer starter kit is compatible with all major brands of voice assistant Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, and much more.
They are compatible with so many devices that no other smart switches can compete with them.
They claim to be a very easy dimmer to install, only requiring a screwdriver to get installed.
With no neutral wire to connect, it takes three easy steps. Once the smart light switch is connected and ready to go, you can start scheduling.
This allows you to schedules based on your routine or use their smart away plan; this turns the lights on and off randomly.
It includes geofencing capabilities through the App by creating lighting solutions based on your location.
From one dimmer switch, you can control up to 17 dimmable bulbs. You can do this by creating groups or setting scenes for particular bulbs.
Key Features
- Geofencing
- HomeKit compatible
- Voice Control
- No neutral wire required
- Can control 17 bulbs
- 1-Year warranty
What Other People Say
They’ve been using this switch for the past few months and were very impressed with its versatility. It was great having a massive selection of voice controls to pick from. The whole thing worked seamlessly, but they did mention you need a little electrical knowledge to get it started.
Another user said this was the perfect dimmer switch if you’re looking for a complete home system. They had no trouble installing and connecting the light switches; it took them around 20-minutes. All in all, the majority of people would recommend it.
Final Verdict
Lutron is one of the most advanced dimmer switches on the list, and this comes down to compatibility it offers. And because of this, it allows you to make some pretty cool lighting solutions. For example, a motion sensor turning lights on, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, or carbon monoxide alarms that turn your lights on.
Another stand out feature for me was the Lutron App; everything was neatly laid out and looked clean and crisp. If you enjoy building complex smart home systems, this is an excellent option for you.
What We Liked
- Amazing Compatibility
- Works with some Z-Wave hubs
- Easy To Configue
- Works With Sonos
What We Didn’t Like
- Requires the Caseta Switch For 3-Way control
#2 – Inovelli Dimmer Switch Red-Series
BEST Z-WAVE SWITCH
Ebay.com | $54.17 out of stock | Buy Now |
Amazon.com | out of stock | Buy Now |
If you’re looking for a Z-wave light dimmer, then this is the one for you.
It’s about half the price of any of its competitors and offers just as good if not better functionality.
Due to the Z-Wave compatibility, it can connect to multiple smart home hubs, including SmartThings and Wink.
The installation is made more accessible because of the lack of neutral wire, although you may have to purchase a bypass in some cases.
It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you’ll have no trouble adding voice controls to your smart dimmer switch.
You can also get third-party devices to perform lighting actions based on certain triggered events.
This particular dimmer switch can be configured into three control options, including 3-way to 5-way. The RGB LED notifies you of actions being performed, scene selection, and remote energy monitoring.
Key Features
- Creates Scenes
- Connects to Z-wave hubs
- Remote energy
- Built-in configuration button
- Google Assitant and Amazon Alexa
- No neutral wire required
What Other People Say
They loved how well it worked with there SmartThings home hub. And they were also very pleasantly surprised with how cheap it was considering it’s Z-Wave capability. Using their smart hub made it very easy to configure all the different settings.
Others said it was the easiest Z-Wave dimmer to install out of all the ones they owned. So far they have a few dimmer switches littered throughout the house, they just wished they were all Inovelli. The smart switch could fit in the wall socket better than other brands, and they didn’t need a neutral wire.
Final Verdict
It was effortless to set up with a SmartThings hub, and the fact that there was no neutral wire made it even easier to install. One thing to mention was they suggest using a bypass by Aeotec; if loads that under 25W, and to open more control options, you can also install an AUX switch.
The problem is adding these things costs time and money, whether it’s worth it down to you. But, ask yourself this question “Am I willing to spend hours playing with all the fancy features?” If the answer is yes, then this is 100% the smart light switch for you.
What We Liked
- Price is great
- Easy to configure
- Maintains a three-way connection
- Connect to multiple hubs
What We Didn’t Like
- Max is 99% on Alexa
#3 – Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch by TP-Link
BEST BUDGET
Amazon.com | $19.99 11 new from $18.97 3 used from $14.99 | Buy Now |
Ebay.com | $20.99 out of stock | Buy Now |
The Kasa smart switch works with voice assistants, including Alexa, Google, and Cortana.
By connecting the dimmer switch to your WIFi, you can control your lights from anywhere in the world.
The App is compatible with iOS and Andriod and allows you to set out a range of functions.
Using the touch strip lets you make tailor-made fade scenes, or you can double click to gently fade the lights out on your way out of the room.
From your smartphone, you can schedule your lights to turn on and off automatically.
This can be used as theft protection or for your personal schedule.
Before installing the device, make sure you download the App; it will guide you through the process.
Once installed, the App gives you the ability to monitor and control the dimmer. To provide you with more lighting options, you can combine the smart switch with other lighting devices.
Key Features
- Set schedules
- Gentle off feature
- Control your lights from anywhere
- No hub required
- Compatible with iOS and Android
- Voice control
What Other People Say
One customer couldn’t help but mention how easy it was to install and how well it worked. The smart switches were easy to control, which they put down to the great App and Amazon Alexa integration. But they did mention you needed a neutral wire to complete the installation.
Other users claimed to have tried more expensive and established brands; unfortunately, they had issues with them. They opted to go for this cheaper version. They were thrilled they made the switch over, it was straightforward to install, and it was smart enough for you not to know which wire is the load.
Final Verdict
This is a great budget option made even better if you don’t want to use a hub connection. It worked well with all principal voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The Smart dimmer was easy to install but did require a neutral wire to be set up.
Programming the features is very easy using their App, setting schedules, and turning the lights on and off couldn’t be easier. Overall this is a top budget option. It brings all the features of a smart home without the need for multiple smart devices.
What We Liked
- The switch design is sophisticated and stylish
- Kasa app is streamlined, easy, and intuitive
- Wiring design saves a bit of room in your junction box
What We Didn’t Like
- No provision for operating on multi-way circuits
#4 – TREATLIFE Smart Dimmer Switch
Amazon.com | $22.99 1 new from $22.99 | Buy Now |
Ebay.com | $25.84 out of stock | Buy Now |
TREATLIFE allows you to manage your lighting from anywhere in the world using a smartphone or tablet.
You can set the dimmer from 0% to 100% depending on your needs. The best bit is you don’t need to purchase a smart home hub or subscribe to anything.
The smart switch works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to bring you hands-free control.
All you have to do is utter the words “Alexa/Google set lights to 50%”; the action will be completed.
You can also set up schedules or enter into vacation mode to simulate activity.
Use the App to create powerful personalizations and custom scenes; group control is a great way to add some mood to the room.
Using the Google Home device or An Echo, you link multiple switches to create complex grouping abilities.
Key Features
- 0%-100% dimming range
- Scheduling and vacation mode
- Voice assistants
- Group lights
- Neutral wire required
- No smart home hub necessary
What Other People Say
They’ve had the dimmer switch for some time now, and so far, they were delighted with the performance. The physical installation was straightforward. Compatibility-wise they had theirs connected to a SmartThing home hub, which they said worked fantastically.
Another customer said they had to place some wiring to get the dimmer to work; this was because they had no neutral wire. Once everything was set up, it was a breeze to get the whole thing set up and configured. They loved being able to turn on their lights with Amazon Alexa but felt the percentages didn’t match the actual brightness.
Final Verdict
It’s an incredibly cheap light switch, which is made better by the fact you can link it to your Google Home Hub or Amazon Alexa devices. The touch sensitivity was very responsive and gave you great control over your smart light dimmer.
There was one problem I found; the off button wasn’t isolated from the dimmer. This meant you could quickly turn off your lights instead of dimming them. Overall it’s an adorable, smart light switch, but it was let down by its little design fault.
What We Liked
- Very easy to install
- Alexa grants it Zigbee communication
- Responsive to Alexa and Google Assistant.
What We Didn’t Like
- Design fault
- Requires Google Home Or Amazon Echo
#5 – Gosund Smart Dimmer Switch
Amazon.com | $29.99 out of stock 1 new from $29.99 | Buy Now |
You can control this smart light switch from 0% to 100% using the touch-activated slidder.
Or you can connect it to your phone using the App. From there, you can adjust the brightness or add voice controls such as Alexa, Google Assitant, and more.
The smart dimmer switch will remember the last used brightness when it turns on.
It supports bulbs from 150W dimmable LED/CFL to 400W incandescent and 100W ceiling fans.
No hub is required, but it works best with Google Home and other voice assistants.
You can set schedules based on your daily routines, all from your smartphone.
The smart light switches need to be connected to a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection. After that, it’s straightforward to install and fits most standard wall plates. One last thing to note is you’ll need a neutral wire to connect the smart light switch.
Key Features
- Smartphone control
- Set schedules
- Voice assistants
- Dimmable from 0%-100%
- Requires no hub
- Neutral wire required
What Other People Say
This light switch came with everything they need to install the device; all you need was a screwdriver. They also felt like you had a lot of control options. They deiced to set their device up with Google Home; so far, they’ve had no problems.
Other people loved being the geofencing ability; having the driveway lights turn on as they approached their home was great at night. They found it very easy to install; if you’re very adept at DIY and technology. But they also mentioned for the price it was perfect.
Final Verdict
It’s an excellent choice for people on a budget or if you’re not sure how far down the smart home rabbit hole you want to go. It connects to Alexa, Google Assistant, and other devices. The smart dimmer switch was effortless to control using the clean App.
The smart dimmer switch was reasonably easy to install but by no means the easiest. I have to note this dimmer switch also requires a neutral wire to get the lights working. Overall it performs well, but for me, it’s not significant compared to its competitors.
What We Liked
- Great Price
- Alexa/Google Assistant
- Easy to control
What We Didn’t Like
- Cheap material
- Limited features
- Harder to set up
But This Is The Best Smart Dimmer Switch
It has to be the Lutron Caseta due to its fantastic compatibility range. Being able to connect to Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit can be very beneficial.
The smart light switch performed well and could be controlled easily using their free to download App.
It came with a range of features, including scheduling and vacation mode, both of which were designed to make your life easier.
Their smart light switches are relatively easy to install even for a novice, and the App shows you the way. Once installed, you can set out your geofence location. The smart switch can locate multiple smartphones and perform actions based on their geolocation.
I hope this has answered all your questions if it hasn’t, feel free to comment below and let me know what I missed.
And while we’re on the subjecting lights, why not check out this review of the Lifx Vs Hue? They’re two of the best smart lights on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Personally, the Lutron Caseta starter kit is the best dimmer switch; it provides a load of options to connect to various smart devices, including a motion sensor, Google Assistant, and much more. It’s a great smart home switch for all homes.
If you’re more of a Z-Wave fan, there are different smart light switches for you, like the Inoveli dimmer switch. It’s compatible with any Z-Wave hub and all their devices.
Yes, absolutely! All smart light switches can dim your lights, as you can see in this article from CNET. And it’s not just light dimming you have access too. Some act as pop-out remotes and let you build schedules based on your routine.