Ever struggle to find the light switch when it's dark? Z-Wave switches make it easy to control your lights. Just tap or swipe on your phone, and like magic, the brightness changes to suit your mood. Discover how to boost your comfort and enhance your surroundings.
There are lots of ways to control your lighting fixtures with a Z-Wave hub. You can swap out your existing wall switches with Z-Wave compatible smart paddle, toggle or dimmer switches. Some switches support 3-way and 4-way for hallways and large rooms.
Micro-controllers can be installed to retrofit your existing switches or fixtures. Scene and remote controllers give a tactile lighting experience, while weatherproof switches are available for controlling outdoor lighting.
Updated February 2023 to remove the GE Enbrighten No Neutral switch: It appears the 14299 has been out of stock for more than 6 months. I don't know if it has been discontinued however I, unfortunately, cannot find an alternative “no neutral” Z-Wave switch.
What is a Z-Wave Light Switch?
A Z-Wave light switch is a smart home device that allows you to remotely control and automate the lighting in your home using a Z-Wave network. It can be controlled through a smartphone app or a voice assistant, and can also be programmed to turn on or off at specific times or in response to certain triggers.
Best Z-Wave On/Off Switches
The DZ15S is a switch that can be controlled remotely using a Z-Wave hub, Alexa, or Google Assistant. It can handle different types of light bulbs and has a multi-location (3-way) switching capability. It comes in a variety of colors and can be easily installed with a neutral wire.
- Supports LED and CFL bulbs up to 600 watts and incandescent bulbs up to 1800 watts.
- Requires a neutral wire for installation.
- Facilitates multi-location switching with a coordinating remote.
The Leviton smart switch can be connected to a Z-Wave hub, like SmartThings or Wink, to enable remote control and scheduling. This makes it easy to control your lights from anywhere in your home or even when you're away.
Light Bulb Compatibility
This smart switch is compatible with different types of light bulbs, including LED and CFL bulbs up to 600 watts and incandescent bulbs up to 1800 watts. This means you don't need to worry about whether your bulbs will work with the switch.
Installation
To install this smart switch, you will need a neutral wire, which is usually found in most newer homes. If you're not sure whether you have a neutral wire, it's best to hire an electrician to check and install one if necessary.
Voice
You can use your voice to control the Leviton smart switch with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, but you will need to connect it to a hub that supports voice control. This feature makes it easy to turn your lights on and off without having to use your hands.
Multi-location switching
If you need to control your lights from multiple locations, you can use the Leviton smart switch with a coordinating remote to enable 3-way switching. However, you will need to make sure you have the coordinating remote to use this feature.
Insights
Many users appreciated the easy installation and setup process of the Leviton Z-Wave switch, with some saying it was the easiest of all the brands and models they have tried. Some users also found the switch to work seamlessly with their smart home systems, such as Samsung SmartThings, Vivint Security, and Ring Alarm Z-Wave.
One of the major concerns that users have with the Leviton Z-Wave switch is its durability. Many users reported that the switch broke physically or lost its programming over time, leading to unreliable performance. Some users also noted that it requires a neutral and traveler wire that older homes may not have.
- Supports a variety of light bulbs, including LED and CFL bulbs up to 600 watts and incandescent bulbs up to 1800 watts.
- Enables voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant when connected to a hub.
- Facilitates multi-location switching with a coordinating remote.
- Comes in a range of colors to match any decor.
- Works well with various smart home hubs, including SmartThings and Alexa.
- Has a long wireless range
- Easy to set up and install for most users.
- Requires a neutral wire for installation.
- Multi-location switching requires a coordinating remote, which is not included.
- Voice control is only possible when connected to a hub.
- May require an electrician to install if a neutral wire is not already present.
- Screws for attaching the switch to the wall are not included.
- May not be compatible with all types of lighting fixtures or wiring setups, such as those lacking a neutral wire or requiring a traveler wire.
- Some customers reported reliability issues, with switches randomly disconnecting or failing.
The Zooz 700 Series lets you control your lights wirelessly through a Z-Wave hub and can work as a 3-way switch without needing an additional switch.
- Allows wireless on/off control of your lights with a Z-Wave system
- Allows wireless on/off control of your lights with a Z-Wave system Features like scene control, smart bulb mode, and adjustable LED indicator
- Compatible with Z-Wave hubs like SmartThings, Vera, Wink, and Fibaro Home Center Lite
To use this switch, you'll need a Z-Wave system that's compatible with it. The switch works with Z-Wave systems like SmartThings, Vera, and Wink.
Installation
This switch needs a neutral wire to work correctly. So, before you buy this switch, you need to make sure you have a neutral wire available. If you don't have one, you may need to ask an electrician to install one for you.
It's essential to check that the switch can handle the current and voltage of your lights before you buy it. This switch can handle a maximum load of 960W for incandescent bulbs, 150W for LED bulbs, and CFL bulbs. The switch has a current rating of 15 Amps and works at 120 Volts, which should be suitable for most lighting setups.
Single or 3-way
This switch can work as a single pole switch or a 3-way switch. If you're using it as a 3-way switch, you need to ensure that you have a neutral wire present for correct installation. You don't need an additional Z-Wave switch for this switch to work in 3-way mode.
Features
It comes with some extra features, such as scene control, smart bulb mode, and an adjustable LED indicator. However, you need to make sure that your Z-Wave system supports these features for them to work. Additionally, this switch has the latest security features, including S2 authenticated security protocol and SmartStart for instant and safe pairing, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.
Insights
Users of the Zooz Smart Switch have praised its value for money, quality, and ease of installation. They appreciate the variety of features, such as the customizable LED indicator, which can be controlled via SmartThings routines. The switch is also noted to work well in a 4-way configuration.
While the majority of users have had positive experiences with the Zooz Smart Switch, there are some reported issues. One common problem is the switch going offline, requiring the power to be reset to get it working again. Another issue is that the switch may only last a little over a year, with some users experiencing constant cut-outs.
- Provides wireless on/off control of your lights with a Z-Wave system
- Works as a single pole or 3-way switch, with no add-on switch needed if a neutral line is present
- Compatible with Z-Wave hubs like SmartThings, Vera, Wink, and Fibaro Home Center Lite
- Comes with extra features like scene control, smart bulb mode, and adjustable LED indicator
- Good value for the price
- Easy to install
- Good customer support
- Requires a neutral wire for proper installation
- Can only handle a maximum load of 960W for incandescent bulbs, 150W for LED bulbs, and CFL bulbs
- Some extra features may not be available on all Z-Wave hubs that support this switch
- May not fit in some shallow or crowded boxes
- Lacks additional features such as multifunction via double tap, hold, etc.
- The switch may go offline occasionally
Best Z-Wave Dimmer Switch
The Enbrighten Z-Wave Dimmer is a device that can be installed in-wall to control your lights remotely using your voice or smartphone. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant and requires a Z-Wave hub.
- QuickFit design for easy installation in limited space.
- Ability to adjust brightness from 0-100% for energy-saving and personalized scenes.
- Compatible with a wide range of Z-Wave hubs
When choosing the Enbrighten Z-Wave Dimmer, it's important to make sure that it will work with your smart home system. You need to check if your Z-Wave certified hub, like SmartThings or Wink, is compatible with the device.
Installation
You’ll need to ensure that you have the necessary wiring and tools to install it in the wall, and that a neutral wire is available. The Enbrighten Z-Wave Light Dimmer has a QuickFit design and SimpleWire technology, making it easy to install in even the smallest switch boxes.
Auto line-load sensing terminals detect line and load wires and the dual offset ground ports support multi-switch setups.
Bulb Types
The dimmer works with many different types of bulbs, including incandescent, LED, CFL, and halogen. You can also adjust the brightness level from 0-100%, saving energy and extending the life of your bulbs.
There are various ways to control it also. You can use your voice with Alexa or Google Assistant, control it remotely with your smartphone, or manually with the dimmer switch. This makes it easy to operate the device, whether you're at home or away. You can also create custom scenes, personalized schedules, and convenient alerts.
Design
The Enbrighten comes with white and light almond paddles, but you can change them to a different color to match your home's décor. The device makes it easy to replace existing switches and create a cohesive look throughout your home. You can even customize your lighting with personalized scenes and scheduling to suit your preferences.
Insights
Positive feedback on the dimmer included notes on easy installation, great functionality with SmartThings and Hubitat, graduated on/off experience, and the ability to control their lights via a smart home hub.
However, there were also negative comments regarding the product's reliability and customer service, particularly with regard to a high failure rate and poor dimming performance with LED lights. Some users reported issues with flickering or buzzing lights, difficulty with pairing the switch with their smart home system, and problems with the switch failing after power outages.
Overall, most feedback is positive.
- Easy installation
- Works with many different Z-Wave certified hubs like SmartThings and Hubitat
- Compatible with various types of bulbs
- Offers different control options
- Easy to customize with changeable paddles
- Users report a good dimming performance
- Requires a neutral wire for installation, which may not be available in some homes
- May not be compatible with some non-Z-Wave certified hubs
- Some customers may find the price of the product to be relatively expensive compared to other light dimmers on the market
- Even with the reduced size, some users may find the device to be too bulky to fit in certain switch boxes.
- Some users report issues with LED lights flickering or not dimming properly while others reported issues with buzzing or noise from the switches
- Some users reported limited or slow customer support
- Some users report issues with longevity and switches failing after a few months or years
The UltraPro smart light dimmer switch can be controlled using voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant when connected to a compatible Z-Wave hub.
- Allows you to control the brightness of your lights wirelessly from your mobile device.
- Uses QuickFit and SimpleWire technology to make installation easier.
- Works with most types of indoor or outdoor lighting fixtures.
This dimmer switch can be used with most Z-Wave hubs, but you need to make sure that your hub is compatible with it or you'll need to get a compatible hub separately.
Wiring
The dimmer switch needs to be wired into your electrical system, so you need to check that your wiring will work with it. If you have two switches controlling the same light, that's called a 3-way circuit and this switch is designed to work with that. If you don't have a 3-way circuit, you can still use the switch by capping off one of the wires. It's important to get a qualified electrician to help you if you're not sure about the wiring or installation process.
Lighting Fixtures
This dimmer switch is designed to work with most indoor and outdoor light fixtures, like ceiling lights, wall lights, and accent lights.
It is also designed to be easier to install in switch boxes that don't have a lot of space. The components have been made smaller, which means that the switch is not as deep as in older models. So it’s easier to install in places where you don't have a lot of room, like if you have a lot of switches next to each other.
Insights
Overall, users had mixed experiences with the product, where some found it to be a good value, while others did not recommend it. On the positive side, some users found it easy to install, reliable, and cost-effective. They were able to control their lighting fixtures and automate their home with ease.
Others, however, experienced flickering lights, difficulty pairing with their Z-Wave hub, and slow response times. Some found that the product failed after a few months of use or did not work at all. The blue LED light on the switch was also a common complaint, as it was too bright and not adjustable.
- Easy to wire and install.
- Cost-effective.
- Voice-controlled through Alexa or Google Assistant
- Comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
- Generally seen as reliable by users in their feedback.
- Requires a hardwired installation, which may require the assistance of a qualified electrician.
- Need to ensure compatibility with your existing Z-Wave hub or purchase a compatible hub separately.
- May not work with all types of light fixtures, so it's important to check compatibility before purchasing.
- May not fit in older-style switch boxes or multi-gang configurations with limited space.
- Some users may find the dimming feature to be less precise than other dimmer switches.
- Some issues of flickering lights with LED bulbs and slow response times
Best Z-Wave Toggle Switch
The UltraPro Z-Wave Switch is a device that can be used to turn on and off lights, fans, pumps, and other fixtures through individual commands and programmed settings.
- Features QuickFit and SimpleWire technologies for easier installation
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control
- Built-in Z-Wave repeater and range extender to strengthen and extend the home's Z-Wave network
The UltraPro Z-Wave Toggle is a switch that lets you control your home's lights or fans wirelessly, without leaving your couch!
You can use individual commands or set programmed settings to manage everything with ease. All you need is a compatible hub to get started, and you can control everything with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant.
If you prefer to go old school, you can also control the device manually by tapping the switch up or down. An optional light on the switch lets you know its location and status.
Plus, the device also extends your home's Wi-Fi signal, ensuring that your network stays strong and your devices stay connected. Installing the device is a breeze thanks to its QuickFit and SimpleWire technologies, so you can get everything set up in no time.
- QuickFit and SimpleWire technologies make an easy installation
- Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control
- Optional toggle guide light
- Built-in Z-Wave repeater
- Neutral wire is required for installation
- May not fit in older-style switch boxes
- May not be compatible with all Z-Wave hubs
Best 3-Way Z-Wave Switch
The Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Toggle Light Switch is a kit that includes a smart switch and an add-on switch that can be used to upgrade a traditional 3-way switch to a smart solution.
- Comes with toggle-style smart switch and matching add-on switch for 3-way installations
- Easy installation with simple wire and auto line-load sensing terminals
- Wireless control of overhead lighting via mobile device or computer
This Enbrighten kit lets you operate 3-way indoor or outdoor lighting fixtures without physically touching the switches.
You can control them using your smartphone or computer from anywhere, which means you don't have to worry about forgetting to turn the lights off before leaving your house. The kit includes a toggle-style smart switch and a matching add-on switch that will help you upgrade your regular 3-way switches to smart switches.
They work with Alexa, Google Assistant, and a compatible Z-Wave Hub, so you can use voice commands to operate your lights. The switches have a unique space-saving design that fits easily into small spaces, and their auto line-load sensing terminals make installation a breeze.
With these devices, you can schedule your lights to turn on or off automatically, giving you more control over your home lighting.
- The switches are compact and easy to install
- Voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant when connected to a compatible hub
- Space-saving design eliminates the need for heat tabs
- Schedule your lights to turn on or off automatically
- The product is easy to pair with smart home hubs and controllers
- May not be compatible with all home automation systems or hubs
- Requires a Z-Wave certified gateway/hub
- Installation can be difficult, especially in 3-way setups that require additional neutral and ground connections
Best 4-Way Z-Wave Switch
UltraPro's Z-Wave In-Wall Smart Switch lets you wirelessly control and schedule wall, ceiling, and accent lighting with voice commands through compatible hubs like Ring, Wink, SmartThings, and more.
- Z-Wave Plus with S2 security and SmartStart for better battery life and greater range
- Built-in signal repeater and range extender to extend your home's Z-Wave network.
- Manually control lighting with the switch in the event of no mobile device access.
This multi-way switch is a great way to upgrade your home lighting. It lets you control wall, ceiling, and accent lighting from your phone or another compatible hub.
QuickFit and SimpleWire tech make installation easy, and Z-Wave Plus with S2 security plus SmartStart makes this switch more reliable than ever.
It's compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant so you can control the lights with your voice, and it works with lots of hubs like Honeywell, SmartThings, and more.
Plus, you can manually control the lights with the switch itself if you don't have your phone or have visitors. In short, this switch is a cinch to install and is a great way to make your home smarter and more efficient.
- Voice control with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
- Built-in signal repeater and range extender
- Manual control at the switch
- Compatible with a variety of Z-Wave hubs
- Wallplate not included
- Neutral wire required
Best Z-Wave Outdoor Switch
Enbrighten Z-Wave Outdoor Switch lets you wirelessly control On/off functions for large load, hard-wired applications like pool pumps, heaters, and landscape lighting from anywhere.
- Remotely control on/off functions, schedule and customize scenes
- Remotely track watts and kilowatt-hours when connected to a compatible Z-Wave hub.
- Easy-access wiring with clearly numbered screw terminals for secure connections.
This switch is a great way to give your home and garden a smart upgrade. It'll let you wirelessly turn on and off hard-wired devices like landscape lighting from anywhere, plus it's weatherproof so it won't be fazed by outdoor elements.
You can keep track of energy usage with it too, monitoring watt and kilowatt hours. Its universal design supports up to 120-277VAC with 40A and can control two 120VAC devices, plus it's compatible with LED, CFL, and a variety of other bulbs.
It's easy to install with easy-access wiring and secure connections. So, if you're looking to make your home smarter, this switch is a great way to do it.
- Weatherproof metal enclosure
- Energy monitoring capability
- Integrated toggle switch for manual or remote operation
- Complete control and Z-Wave signal repeater capabilities
- Requires a Z-Wave certified hub
- Maximum load of 11,000 watts (277v)
- Override switch to turn connected devices on or off manually
Best Z-Wave Switch Remote
WallMote Quad is a wireless Z-Wave Plus remote control and wall switch in one, allowing you to control up to 16 scenes and devices wirelessly.
- Wireless Z-Wave Plus remote control and wall switch in one
- Lithium-ion battery for long-lasting use
- Haptic feedback for confirmation of commands
This wireless controller features a sleek, simple design and lets you control up to sixteen different scenes and devices. You'll get a responsive and easy-to-use control with its haptic feedback and lithium-ion battery, plus it's super easy to install you can use mounting tape or a wall-mount plate.
So, you get the convenience of a remote control with the convenience of a wall switch. Whether you want to control your lights from the couch or any other room, this product has you covered.
- Compatible with multiple Z-Wave gateways
- Haptic feedback to confirm your every action
- Rechargeable lithium battery
- Tap, press and hold, swipe up, and swipe down controls to control up to 16 scenes
- Some users reported issues pairing with SmartThings
- Some users reported the device had a poor range and issues with battery life
Best Z-Wave Micro Switch
FIBARO Dimmer 2 is a Light controller that lets you adjust the brightness of your lights from 0-100%, and also helps you monitor energy consumption.
- Automatically calibrates to the type of light source
- Overheating, overload, and voltage drop protection
- Voice control, remote access, and energy measurement
This device is a Z-Wave Plus light controller that helps you get the atmosphere just right! You can dim the lights from 0-100%, making it perfect for unwinding or getting the right amount of light to work.
It also has energy monitoring, so you can keep track of your energy usage and save money on bills. It comes with safety features like protection from overheating, overload and voltage drop, so it'll protect your bulbs and help you save energy.
The best part is, you can control it remotely or with your voice, so you can set the mood from anywhere. All in all, it's great for setting the atmosphere and saving energy.
- Automatically calibrates to the type of light source
- Works in buildings with 2 or 3-wire systems
- Overheating, overload, and voltage drop protection
- Z-Wave Plus certified with better range
- Voice control, remote access, and energy measurement
- Not compatible with HomeKit
- Bulb voltage must be 120 volts
- Requires a Z-Wave Plus hub for full functionality
Best Z-Wave Motion Sensor Switch
This Enbrighten smart switch turns lights on and off with motion detection, works with compatible hubs and Alexa or Google Assistant, and can be used as a 3-way switch with add-on switches.
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and various compatible hubs
- Can be used as a 3-way switch with add-on switches
- Five time-out duration options from 5 seconds to 30 minutes
This gadget is perfect for making your home lighting more automated. It'll turn your lights on and off based on motion, so you don't have to do it yourself.
Plus, you can connect it with Alexa or Google Assistant for voice commands, and you can use compatible hubs. It can even be used as a 3-way switch with add-on switches, giving you extra control.
It's got five time-out options, a range of up to 150 ft, and works with all types of bulbs. So if you want to upgrade your home, this is the way to go.
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and various compatible hubs
- Multiple time-out duration options
- Works with all LED, CFL, incandescent, and halogen bulbs
- Can be used as a 3-way switch
- Neutral wire required
- Wall plate not included
- Some users reported motion detection problems
- Mixed reviews on SmartThings compatibility
Methodology for Choosing the Best Z-Wave Light Switch
When it comes to choosing a Z-Wave light switch, there are several factors to consider. Z-Wave switches offer an easy way to control your lights from anywhere, but it's important to choose the right switch for your needs. Factors such as compatibility, features, design, and price should all be taken into account before making a decision. In this section, I'll break down the decision-making process and provide tips on how to choose the best Z-Wave light switch for your home.
Installation and Wiring
When it comes to installing a Z-Wave light switch, you have two options: hiring a professional electrician or doing it yourself. If you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it's best to hire a professional. They can ensure that the switch is installed correctly and safely.
However, if you're confident in your DIY skills, installing a Z-Wave light switch is relatively straightforward. Make sure you turn off the power to the circuit you'll be working on, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Hub Compatibility
Before buying a Z-Wave light switch, it's important to make sure that it's compatible with your home automation system or hub. Z-Wave is a wireless communication protocol that many home automation systems use to control smart devices like light switches.
Some popular systems that use Z-Wave include Samsung SmartThings, Wink, and Vera. Check the manufacturer's specifications to see if the switch is compatible with your system.
Features
Z-Wave light switches come with a variety of features, so it's important to choose one that has the features you need. Some common features include dimming, scene control, energy monitoring, and voice control.
Dimming allows you to adjust the brightness of your lights, while scene control lets you program multiple lights to turn on or off together. Energy monitoring can help you track your energy usage and reduce your electricity bill.
Voice control allows you to use voice commands to control your lights, which can be especially useful if you have mobility issues or want to control lights without using your phone.
Bulb Compatibility
It's important to make sure that the Z-Wave light switch you choose is compatible with the type of light bulbs you have in your home. Different types of bulbs have different power requirements, and not all Z-Wave switches are designed to work with every type of bulb.
For example, some switches may only work with LED bulbs, while others may be compatible with incandescent or CFL bulbs. Check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that the switch is compatible with the type of bulbs you have in your home.
Range
The range of a Z-Wave light switch is the distance between the switch and the hub or controller that it communicates with. The range can be affected by a variety of factors, including the layout of your home and the materials used in your walls.
If you have a larger home or want to control lights from a distance, it's important to choose a Z-Wave light switch with a longer range. Some switches may also have a repeater function that can extend the range of your Z-Wave network.
Check the manufacturer's specifications to see what the range of the switch is and whether it's sufficient for your needs.
Z-Wave Light Switch FAQs
What is the difference between Wi-Fi and Z-Wave light switches?
Wi-Fi light switches connect directly to your home's Wi-Fi network, while Z-Wave light switches use a lower-frequency wireless band to connect to a dedicated Z-Wave hub. Z-Wave may be more reliable and secure, but Wi-Fi may be more convenient for those with simpler setups.
What types of Z-Wave light switches are available?
Z-wave light switches are available in various types, including dimmer switches, on/off switches, and smart switches. They differ in functionality and design, with some offering features like voice control and motion detection, while others have more basic functionality.
2 Comments
Gene
Hi Dan
At one time, Leviton and a couple of others made 4 button Zwave controllers and scene switches. They even had 4 button controllers with one button as a local on off switch. Now ? Nothing to be found anywhere. I can’t seem to get an answer from anyone. Even Leviton. I can’t imagine that “NO ONE” can use a multi button controller so I’m thinking it might be a reliability or maybe even a cost issue. (?)
Any comment on this? Anyone?
Glen Mark
Can you say which switches and dimmers you tested support scene creation by multi-tap/hold?