10 Smart Home Light Switch & Dimmers To Get In UK (Wifi Controlled)
Homeowners nowadays have access to a plethora of smart gadgets to improve their homes. These devices can perform automated tasks that can make things convenient for the users and enhance the property’s security.
One advanced and convenient device that’s used by many homeowners around the world is the smart light switch. It is a vital component of smart homes because, unlike a typical light switch, users can control it remotely via a mobile app or even voice commands. This saves you the hassle of fumbling around in the dark to physically flick the switch.
Smart home switches can be a valuable part of any home because of their seamless integration with other smart devices on the property. You can also use them to enhance your home’s security by connecting them to your video doorbells, alarm systems, and other devices.
If you’re looking to enjoy this convenience and security, you should invest in a smart light switch—but how can you ensure you’re choosing the right one? In this article, we’ve researched the best smart light switches that you can get in the UK!
Wiring & Bulb Compatibility
One of the first things you should check before buying a smart light switch is if it is compatible with the bulbs and wiring in your home. This will ensure that everything is safe and operational.
Compatibility With Existing Smart Devices
The best app-controlled light switches are compatible with multiple smart devices and platforms, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings. Always check if the smart light switch you’re buying is compatible with what smart home hubs you have.
Ease Of Installation
If you’re planning to have a DIY project, it’s best to look for a smart light switch that’s easy to install. This way, you’ll be saving time and energy in installation.
Number Of Light Switches
The number of light switches should typically align with the old switch. Having too many or too few switches just results in inefficiency.
Dimmer Function
Most homeowners want their Android-controlled lights to have dimmer functions so that they can fine-tune the brightness of lights. This helps set the right ambience, save energy, and prolong the life of lightbulbs.
Best Smart Light Switch Compatible With HomeKit
If you have Apple HomeKit in your smart home, you might notice that many devices are not optimised for your system. In this case, the Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Switch may just be for you. This smart light switch is compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant, but it doesn’t require a hub to operate. It can be voice-enabled, and the app allows for scheduled functions and many more features.
Best Smart Light Switch Compatible With HomeKit | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED, Magnetic Ballast, CFL, Incandescent, Electronic Ballast, Halogen, Motor Loads | |
Dimmer Function? | Yes | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best Value Dimmer Switch
If you’re looking for value for your money, then the TREATLIFE Smart Dimmer Switch is the one to get. You can set it up in multiple rooms because it comes in a pack of 4. You can dim the lights via voice commands or through the mobile app.
Best Value Dimmer Switch | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Alexa & Google Home Assistant | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED 150W Max, Halogens/Incandescent 400W Max, CFL 150W Max | |
Dimmer Function? | Yes | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best Alexa-Compatible Smart Switch On A Budget
If you’re looking for a top-rated smart switch that won’t break the bank, then the meross Smart Light Switch might be perfect for you. This device is compatible with many smart home hubs, and it’s also easy to install. It also works well with the ever-popular Amazon Alexa.
Best Alexa-Compatible Smart Switch On A Budget | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Apple HomeKit, Apple Watch, Siri, Carplay, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings | |
Compatible Bulbs | 400W Incandescent, 150W CFL & LED | |
Dimmer Function? | No | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best 2-Gang Google Home Light Switch
The Lesim Wireless 2-Gang Light Switch is best for wall switches with 2-gang setups. Both of the switches can be controlled via the mobile app or your smart home system of choice.
Best 2-Gang Google Home Light Switch | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Amazon Alexa (Echo/Dot/Tap), Google Assistant, IFTTT | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED, but no particular mention of compatibility | |
Dimmer Function? | No | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best Alexa-Enabled 3-Gang Smart Light Switch
Similar to the previous product, the Lesim Wireless 3-Gang Light Switch is also great for switches with multiple wiring options available. This 3-gang smart light switch does not require a separate hub like Zigbee or Z-Wave.
Best Alexa-Enabled 3-Gang Smart Light Switch | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, IFTTT | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED, but no particular mention of compatibility | |
Dimmer Function? | No | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best With SmartThings
If you have the Z-Wave smart home hub and Samsung SmartThings, the EVA LOGIK Z-Wave Smart Dimmer Switch is the perfect choice for your home. It’s compatible with Alexa-Supported hubs, SmartThings, and Wink. It also has a dimmer function to set the room’s mood right.
Best With SmartThings | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | Yes, Z-Wave Hub Required | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Alexa-Supported Hubs, SmartThings, Wink | |
Compatible Bulbs | Incandescent, CFL, LED | |
Dimmer Function? | Yes | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best For Full-Home Coverage
The Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Toggle Light Switch is ideal if you want full-home coverage. The switch can control both indoor and outdoor fixtures and has a signal repeater that enhances the Z-Wave hub’s range. It’s the best choice for those looking for whole-home automation.
Best For Full-Home Coverage | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | Yes, Z-Wave Hub Required | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Alexa-Supported hubs, Google Assistant | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED, CFL, Incandescent, Halogen, Other Hardwired Devices | |
Dimmer Function? | Yes | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best For Zigbee Hubs
If you have a Zigbee hub, then the Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Light Switch is the one you need. Although this smart light switch works well with Zigbee, it can also work with many other hubs, making it an all-around excellent choice.
Best For Zigbee Hubs | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No, But Works With Zigbee Hub | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Vera, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED, CFL, Incandescent, Halogen Bulbs, Other Hardwired Devices | |
Dimmer Function? | No | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best Smart Rocker Switch
The Kasa Smart Light Switch is one of the best smart rocker switches in the market. One of its best features is its “away” mode that turns the lights on and off at random intervals, giving the impression that someone’s home even when you’re away.
Best Smart Rocker Switch | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant | |
Compatible Bulbs | Incandescent, LED, Halogen, CFL | |
Dimmer Function? | No | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best Motion-Sensing Smart Wall Light Switch
The Kasa Smart Motion Sensor Switch is an excellent option if you’re looking for a switch with a motion sensor. It automatically turns the light on as long as it detects movement, which can help save energy and spare you the hassle of manually turning the lights on and off.
Best Motion-Sensing Smart Wall Light Switch | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant | |
Compatible Bulbs | Incandescent, LED, Halogen, CFL | |
Dimmer Function? | Yes | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
Best For Ceiling Fans And Dimmable Lights
If you’re looking to control a ceiling fan and a dimmable light bulb, then the TREATLIFE Smart Ceiling Fan Control and Light Switch is the one you should purchase. It’s specifically designed for these functions, allowing you to control multiple fixtures without physically interacting with the switch.
Best For Ceiling Fans And Dimmable Lights | ||
| ||
Installation Method | Wire Leads, Neutral Wire Required | |
Hub Required? | No | |
Smart Hub Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Remote Control | |
Compatible Bulbs | LED, CFL, Incandescent | |
Dimmer Function? | Yes | |
PROS | ||
| ||
CONS | ||
|
How To Choose The Best Smart Light Switch For Your Home (In Depth Buyers Guide)
Are Smart Light Switches Worth It?
You may be wondering if smart light switches are worth buying in the first place, and the answer will depend on your preferences and what you need in your home. Generally, however, they’re absolutely worth considering if you’re looking for ways to make your property more convenient and secure.
Some homeowners invest in smart light bulbs, but these only have an advantage if you’re looking to control a single light. On the other hand, smart light switches are better to buy if you’re looking to control multiple lights in different rooms.
Choosing Between Wi-Fi, Zigbee, And Z-Wave
For your smart home light switch to work remotely, you will have to connect it to a wireless network. There are three main ways to connect it: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Z-Wave. Wi-Fi connects the device to your router, while the other two require separate smart home hubs.
The latter options come at an extra upfront cost, but they enable you to use your switch even when your Wi-Fi is down. You can still activate your smart light switches remotely even without the internet, and your Zigbee or Z-Wave hubs will also not affect your internet speeds!
Neutral Wires
Many models of app-controlled light switches require neutral wires to operate, as these connections provide a return path for currents and help prevent overloading. Many older homes may not have these wires. Before you buy a smart light switch, check if your electrical system has a neutral wire. If you’re unsure, then it’s best to contact an electrician.
Dimmer Or No Dimmer?
Many smart light switches include “dimmer” functions that enable you to adjust the brightness of the room lights. This is a useful feature to have in living rooms, entertainment rooms, and bedrooms, as it helps set the ambience of the space. It also can help save electricity and prolong the life of your bulbs. However, it’s best to ensure that your bulbs are also compatible with this function.
How Do You Install A Smart Light Switch?
When installing a smart light switch, you will need to have a basic understanding of electrical systems. This is because most of these devices are hard-wired and need you to replace an in-wall switch.
You’ll have to turn off the circuit breaker before working with the wires in your in-wall switch. Open up the switch by unscrewing the wall plates and pulling the switch off the wall. Then, you need to familiarise yourself with the wiring setup to identify the live, ground, and neutral wires.
Remove your old light switch by completely disconnecting the wires one by one. Then, you can connect the wall wires to your new smart light switch. Secure the connections, then turn the power to test it out.
Keep in mind that doing this yourself can be dangerous to yourself and your property. It may be in your best interests to call a professional electrician for help.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to upgrade your property to a smart home, it’s a good idea to purchase smart light switches! These devices can make your life convenient, so keep this guide in mind before you buy the best one for your house.
If you’re ready to buy a smart light switch, here are our top picks:
- Best Smart Light Switch Compatible With HomeKit: Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Switch
- Best Value Dimmer Switch: TREATLIFE Smart Dimmer Switch
- Best Alexa-Compatible Smart Switch On A Budget: meross Smart Light Switch
- Best 2-Gang Google Home Light Switch: Lesim Wireless 2-Gang Light Switch
- Best Alexa-Enabled 3-Gang Smart Light Switch: Lesim Wireless 3-Gang Light Switch
- Best With SmartThings: EVA LOGIK Z-Wave Smart Dimmer Switch
- Best For Full-Home Coverage: Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Toggle Light Switch
- Best For Zigbee Hubs: Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Light Switch
- Best Rocker Switch: Kasa Smart Light Switch
- Best Motion-Sensing Smart Wall Light Switch: Kasa Smart Motion Sensor Switch
- Best For Ceiling Fans And Dimmable Lights: TREATLIFE Smart Ceiling Fan Control and Light Switch