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Oct 21, 2024

Best smart light switches in 2024 | Tom's Guide

The best smart light switches let you control your lights with a phone or voice assistant and can save you money When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best smart light switches let you control your lights with a phone or voice assistant and can save you money

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Does your home have a lot of built-in light fixtures, such as recessed lighting, chandeliers, or wall sconces? If so, replacing all those lights with smart light bulbs can get expensive quickly. A cheaper way is to install a smart light switch, which lets you control all the lights from one spot.

After testing a dozen or so models, we think the best smart light switch is the Leviton Decora. It works with every major smart home system, is easy to install, and comes in a number of configurations, so you can get it with or without a built-in motion sensor or dimmer, and there's even a model for homes without a neutral wire.

A smart light switch looks and acts like any traditional light switch or dimmer, but lets you control your lights from your smartphone, set schedules for when the lights should turn on and off, and connect them to other smart home devices using Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. Many of the best smart light switches even have a vacation mode, which will turn your lights on and off randomly to make it look like you're home.

Many of the smart switches we've tested are available in multiple models with different features. For example, you may be able to get it as a simple on/off switch, with a dimmer, or with a motion detector. We've attempted to provide links for as many options as we could find.

Best overall

This smart light switch works with every major smart home assistant and comes in a variety of configurations — we've highlighted the model with the motion sensor, as it will turn the lights on and off automatically when you enter or leave a room.

Read more below.

Best value

This switch also has a motion sensor built in and works well, but we didn't like its look as much as the Leviton. It also doesn't work with HomeKit, but it's a bit cheaper.

Read more below.

Best cheap switch

If you're looking for a simple connected smart light switch, it doesn't get much cheaper than this. And, it works with all major smart home systems.

Read more below

Most connected

While it requires its own hub, Lutron's Caseta switches work with every major smart home system: Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Nest, and SmartThings.

Read more below

Best Z-Wave switch

While there's a bit more setup required than the Lutron, this Z-Wave switch also works with a plethora of smart home systems. You'll need a third-party hub, though.

Read more below.

Editor's note: Brilliant, the company that makes the smart light switch panel in this guide, is no longer selling its devices, and has laid off most of its staff, including its support center, according to an article in The Verge. However, the company is maintaining its servers, so those who already own Brilliant products should be able to use them as normal for the time being.

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

Our expert review:

The Leviton Decora Smart WiFi Motion sensing Dimmer (D2MSD-1BW) is our favorite pick for the best smart light switch for those who want a dimmer switch with a motion sensor. We like its clean look and simple design, nice for those who want tech but don't want their switches to look too gadgety.

You can set specific dimming levels for times of the day (such as a nightlight), can handle a wide range of lights including LEDs, CFLs incandescent, and the less common Magnetic Low Voltage (MLV) type. It also supports a large number of smart home platforms, including the big three: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, and it's compatible with Matter.

About the only thing we didn't like is that it requires a neutral wire, which may be an issue for older homes. And, it's not Matter-compatible, though a dimmer-only version of the switch is.

However, Leviton has the Decora No-Neutral Dimmer ($49, Amazon) and a No-Neutral Switch ($44, Amazon), which work with the Decora Smart Wi-Fi Bridge ($20, Amazon); all are compatible with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google Home.

If you don't care for a motion sensor, Leviton also makes a dimmer-only version and an on-off only version of this switch, among others. If you have a room where you'd like a second switch, but don't want to pay an electrician to install one, the switch can also be paired with a Dimmer Companion ($27, Amazon), which is a battery-powered switch that can be attached anywhere with nothing more than some double-sided tape.

Read our full Leviton Decora Smart WiFi Motion sensing Dimmer review.

Our expert review:

The GE Cync Smart Switch isn't the sexiest or sleekest, but it's the best smart light switch because it gets the job done and is packed with features. The Wi-Fi-connected switch works with all kinds of bulbs, has apps for iOS and Android, and lets you control lights with a touch, voice, motion or remotely via a smartphone.

Installation, as with most other smart switches, requires a neutral wire, but it's fairly straightforward. The switch includes an ambient light sensor (so it can be set not to come on in daylight) and a motion sensor to automatically trigger the light. The latter feature worked seamlessly. If you turn it off with the switch, after a few minutes it will engage the motion sensor again, or you can disable the sensor via the app in case you don't want it switched on in the middle of the night.

Like other Alexa-enabled switches (it also works with Google Assistant), the dimmer responds to voice commands, but the Cync Android app needs some work; setting up an automation for a room is confusing, and it can even be difficult to tell when you've scheduled it to go on and off. At around $70, it's more expensive than most other smart light switches, but the GE Cync Smart Switch gives you a lot for the price. The switch is sold in two configurations: One that's compatible with homes that have neutral wires, and one for homes without neutral wires.

However, it's unlikely that current GE Cync products will be updated to support Matter.

Our expert review:

If you're looking for a no-frills smart light switch, the Kasa HS200 is a great option. It costs less than $20, looks just like any other light switch, yet works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit, and there's even a Matter-compatible model so it'll work with SmartThings, too. A lot of the value with this smart light switch comes from the Kasa app, which lets you create schedules for when your lights turn on and off, connects you with other smart home devices, and even lets you set a vacation mode, which will turn your lights on and off to make it look like you're home.

Of course, there are a few tradeoffs with a model this inexpensive. For one, this is a simple on-and-off switch, so there's no dimming capability. You'll also need a neutral wire, so it may be difficult to install in older homes. And, it's a single-pole switch, so you won't be able to install it in any situation where two switches control a single light.

Our expert review:

The Brilliant touch-screen light switch lets you control not only your lights, but also other smart home devices, such as cameras, speakers and more. The panel has a large touchscreen, which you can use to look in on your security cameras, play music through smart speakers, and more. A touch-sensitive slider to one side is a simple way to change the brightness of the lights. Brilliant sells models with multiple sliders, in the event you have multiple light groups.

In addition, the panel has built-in motion sensors, so it can turn lights on and off as you enter and leave a room; a small camera lets you use multiple Brilliant panels as video intercoms. The Brilliant panel also works with a wide range of smart home systems, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri/HomeKit, Ring, August, Ecobee, Honeywell, Sonos, Philips Hue, and Genie.

However, the Brilliant control panel is expensive, as it starts at $399 for a single-switch panel (a two-switch panel is $449, a three-switch panel $499, and a four-switch panel costs $549).

If you don't want to replace a light switch — or want a satellite switch that you can simply attach to a wall — the company also released a plug-in panel ($399) that replicates everything its smart light switch can do, including controlling music, acting as an intercom, checking security cameras, using Alexa — and yes, turning your lights on and off.

Brilliant said its devices would support Matter sometime in 2023.

Read our full Brilliant smart home controller review.

Our expert review:

For those who have one of the best smart home hubs, the Jasco Enbrighten Z-Wave dimmer is a very good smart light switch. It's a cinch to install, as there's no neutral wire needed and the terminals are agnostic. A simple paddle switch handles both on/off duties as well as dimming functions.

If that's all you need, then you're all set. However, more adventurous types can also modify the switch's code to change what happens when you press its switch. The Enbrighten can also work with a host of other smart home systems once you connect it to a hub, too. We only wish it came with a cover plate.

Read our full Jasco Enbrighten Z-Wave No Neutral Smart Dimmer review

Below are a number of smart light switch accessories; while they act like a smart light switch, they don't require you to replace an existing switch. However, with all of these, you'll either need a smart switch already installed in your home, or have smart lights that will work with this product.

+ Works with Siri, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant+ Lots of customization- Only works with Philips Hue lights

If you have Philips Hue bulbs, the Philips Hue dimmer can be used as a wireless remote. There's a power button, a dimmer in the middle, and a button on the bottom that you can program to activate a specific scene. (The original dimmer, which you can still find, lacks this last button.)

+ Works with Philips Hue, Zigbee+ Works with Siri, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

If you have a wall switch that controls an outlet, rather than a light fixture, the Lutron Aurora lets you smart up that switch without replacing it. That way, the outlet can stay on, so you can use it for other appliances, like a clock or radio, and not worry that someone's going to flick the switch and cut its power. The company also makes a model for paddle switches as well. It works with Philips Hue and Zigbee smart lights

Read our full Lutron Aurora review.

+ Tiny- Only works with Lutron products

If you have Lutron smart light switches or plugs, you can use the Pico Dimmer remote to control them, too. The Pico is much smaller than a typical switch, so it can be easily lost, but it can also be wall-mounted wherever you like.

The Lutron Pico comes in four colors (white, black, light almond and ivory); if you don't like its look, Lutron also sells a newer Paddle Remote with a much cleaner design.

+ As capable as wall-mounted version- Expensive

The Brilliant Plug-in Smart Home Control works just like the model that replaces a light switch, but is far easier to install — just plug it into an outlet, and you can control your lights, Sonos, cameras, locks, and more. The main drawback is that it's just as expensive as Brilliant's other devices.

Smart light switches vs. smart light bulbs vs. smart plugs

First thing to consider is whether you need a smart light switch or a smart light bulb. The difference is, with a smart light bulb, you can control the bulb itself with your phone, rather than the switch. Because of this, smart light bulbs are a good option if you’re just trying to control a single light. If that’s the case, we’ve rounded up the best smart light bulbs to help you choose. You should also check out 9 things you never knew you could do with smart lights while you're at it.

Smart light switches are a better option if you have lots of bulbs though or multiple rooms you want to control. They also tend to be much more cost efficient than splashing out for lots of smart light bulbs.

If you’re old school and your home is lit via floor and table lamps, then one the best smart plugs is likely the best option for you. You simply connect your lamp straight to it, and then the smart plug into your wall socket, no wiring involved! Smart plugs tend to be less expensive than smart light switches as well.

Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Matter?

Smart light switches usually connect to your internet via Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, or Zigbee. Through Wi-Fi, your switch links to your router, whereas Z-Wave and Zigbee use smart home hubs. While the latter options mean you will need to purchase a separate hub, it does mean you will still be able to use the smart light switch when the internet is down. A new standard, called Matter, has recently come online; While there are only a few devices that currently have this enabled, we expect plenty more to come in the near future.

Do you need a neutral wire?

Some smart light switches will need a neutral wire to work. Homes which were built in or after the 1980’s likely will have one, but older homes might not. Because of this, it’s a good idea to check whether your home has a neutral wire before you make a purchase. If you’re unsure, here’s a breakdown on what’s a neutral wire and what to do if you don’t have one.

Single-pole vs. three-way switches

If a light fixture is controlled by more than one switch — for example, when you have a light switch at the top and bottom of a set of stairs — then you'll need to get a three-way smart light switch. However, if there's only one switch controlling an outlet, you can get a "single pole" switch.

Even if you don't have a three-way switch, there's an easy way to get around it; many smart light switch makers now offer a remote, or companion switch that's battery-operated. All you have to do is attach the switch to your wall using screws or adhesive — no wiring required.

Dimmer

Some smart switches have a dimmer function, so you can adjust the level of the lights' brightness. While these generally cost more than non-dimmer switches, it's nice functionality to have. If you do opt for a dimmer switch, you should also know that CFL, incandescent, and LED lights will all react differently — some LEDs may flicker if you dim them too much.

Motion sensor

If you don't want to bother actually pressing a light switch, then check out models which have built in motion sensors. These can sense your presence in a room and turn the lights on automatically. Just be sure that it's in a place where it can sense you the entire time you're in the room, or else it'll turn the lights off on you!

Smart home connectivity

Most smart light switches will work with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, so you can connect them to other smart home devices, and control them using your voice.

Away Mode

This is a feature we like: If a smart light switch has this feature in its app, it will automatically turn your lights on and off randomly while you're away, to make it look like you're home.

No, you do not need to hire an electrician to install a smart light switch. However, it is important that you take the proper safety precautions. Make sure that you turn off the circuit breaker to the switch before starting any work, and be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on how to install a smart light switch. If you're unsure at all, it's worth calling an electrician.

Yes, you can. The majority of smart light switches are designed to replace traditional light switches. However, you may need to determine if your existing switch uses a neutral wire, or is connected to another switch, so you know to purchase a compatible smart light switch.

For the most part, smart light switches will work with any light — incandescent, LED, halogen, and fluorescent. However, certain types of bulbs may not work properly with a dimmer switch; if you turn the switch down low, your bulb may start flickering, for instance. It's best to consult the manufacturer's site before purchasing a smart light switch.

Unlike most smart home devices, which merely require you to plug them into an outlet, installing a smart switch involves replacing a current in-wall switch. Since few, if any, light-control products include professional installation as part of the package, you will need a basic understanding of electrical work, which includes turning off the circuit breaker.

Smart switches are often bulkier than their traditional counterparts, however; so if they don't fit in the electrical box properly, you may need to get a new box, which is probably a job for an electrician. Similarly, some older homes don't have the right wiring, so an electrician is a good idea here, too.

To test smart switches, we either installed them ourselves, or had an electrician install them in our house. We then evaluated the switches based on the following criteria:

If you're looking to outfit your house or apartment with other smart home devices, be sure to check out some of our other guides.

Here at Tom’s Guide our expert editors are committed to bringing you the best news, reviews and guides to help you stay informed and ahead of the curve!

Michael A. Prospero is the U.S. Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide. He oversees all evergreen content and oversees the Homes, Smart Home, and Fitness/Wearables categories for the site. In his spare time, he also tests out the latest drones, electric scooters, and smart home gadgets, such as video doorbells. Before his tenure at Tom's Guide, he was the Reviews Editor for Laptop Magazine, a reporter at Fast Company, the Times of Trenton, and, many eons back, an intern at George magazine. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston College, where he worked on the campus newspaper The Heights, and then attended the Columbia University school of Journalism. When he’s not testing out the latest running watch, electric scooter, or skiing or training for a marathon, he’s probably using the latest sous vide machine, smoker, or pizza oven, to the delight — or chagrin — of his family.

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