The 5 Best Wi-Fi Light Switches to Save You Time and Money
Posted by BRENT DIRKS
Just like other mainstays of a home, technology is giving the light switch a big step up. A huge number of different Wi-Fi light switches allow you to turn a light on and off from virtually anywhere, using a smartphone app.
Along with that huge convenience—especially when away from home—a wireless light switch can even help by lowering your electricity bills. We’ve highlighted the best Wi-Fi light switches for you to consider.
The Pros and Cons of a Wi-Fi Light Switch
While smart switches are a permanent option, you’ll have to be comfortable with doing some basic DIY electrical work, or spending the extra cash to hire an electrician. An electrician is usually necessary if the switch doesn’t have a neutral wire, something that’s required in most wireless models.
But on the plus side, you can operate a Wi-Fi light switch even if it is in the off position from any location using a companion smartphone app. You’ll also have the option to set a specific schedule for the switch.
And in many cases, a single wireless light switch can also operate more than one bulb.
Best Overall Wi-Fi Light Switch
Wemo Wi-Fi Light Switch
Wemo Light Switch, Wi-Fi enabled, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Wemo Light Switch, Wi-Fi enabled, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Buy Now At Amazon $39.99
For a great all-around choice, take a look at the Wemo Wi-Fi Light Switch. After installation, you can control the light on the switch or through the companion app. It’s even compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. So you can simply use your voice to control the switch through the Amazon Echo Show or other Alexa device.
The companion Wemo app allows users to set automatic schedules for each switch. You can also set the switch to turn off at sunrise and switch on at sunset. A unique away mode will see the switch turn on and off at random times and intervals to make it look like someone is home even while you’re on vacation or out of town.
Each switch can also pair with the popular Nest Learning Thermostat and its home and away modes. So for example, when the thermostat switches to away mode, it can automatically turn a switch off to help conserve energy.
Best Wi-Fi Dimmer Light Switch
Lutron Caseta Wireless Starter Kit
Dimmer switches are also another unique type of lighting many homeowners take advantage of to provide a different amount of light in a location. The Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Light Dimming Switch Starter Kit offers a hub, two switches, and two remote controls.
A perfect option for older homes, the dimmer switches take around 15 minutes to install and don’t require a neutral wire, which is a big plus. Another advantage is the small remote that can control the lights when at home.
The companion app is perfect to create a lighting schedule, or to control from any location. The lights can also automatically adjust with Daylight Savings Time, and the changing seasons.
Control is also available through Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit. HomeKit support allows users to control the lights on the Apple Watch or iOS device by just asking the virtual assistant Siri.
Best 3-Way Wi-Fi Light Switch
Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Light Switch, 3-Way Kit
A 3-way fixture is a great way to provide multiple levels of light to your home and is often found in living rooms, stairways, and halls. And there are even special 3-way Wi-Fi light switches to use with those options.
Kasa’s Smart Wi-Fi Light Switch, 3-Way Kit offers a great two-pack to help turn a pair of outlets into wireless light switches. Because the wiring of 3-way switches is often more complex than a simple on-and-off version, the companion app offers a step-by-step installation process.
Just head to the smartphone app to set a light switch timer or a specific schedule. At home, you can also control the switch with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Microsoft Cortana.
Best 2-Gang Wi-Fi Switch
Kkcool 2-Gang Smart Light Switch
Another logistical problem when installing a wireless light switch might be an abundance of 2-gang light switches in your home. But a growing number of 2-gang smart switches are coming onto the market to take advantage of.
Along with the switch itself, you can operate the Kkcool 2-Gang Smart Light Switch with the companion app, or with an Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device. The companion app allows users to create a daily schedule, customize a preset on and off time, or even sync with the sunrise and sunset.
Best Wi-Fi Switch, No-Installation Required
Switchmate Smart Lighting
No matter the advantages of a Wi-Fi light switch, going through the installation process might be a non-starter for some potential users for a variety of reasons. Switchmate is an option you’ll definitely want to explore that installs in less than 10 minutes.
Available in both a toggle or rocker option, Switchmate instantly snaps over an existing switch, so there’s no need to worry about tools or wiring. Multiple control options are available to users besides using the switch itself. Along with the companion app, it offers built-in voice controls that don’t require another smart home hub like Amazon Alexa. You can also set a number of different schedules to suit a routine.
Get Turned On to Wireless Light Switches
Using one of these Wi-Fi light switches you should easily be able to add a big dose of technology to any home and make your life just a bit easier. That’s definitely a winning proposition.
If a wireless light switch doesn’t make sense in a specific situation, take a look at some of the newest smart bulb options available on the market. They offer many of the same advantages including the ability to save energy and control from any location with an internet connection.
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