The 8 Best Smart Light Switches and Dimmers of 2024

Looking for the best smart light switch? These versions offer functionality, convenience and plenty of customization options.

Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.

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Make the Switch to Smart Light Switches

New to smart light switches? We’re here to answer the common questions about them and break down their benefits. Efficiency is probably the biggest advantage, but convenience is a close second. The best smart light switch products can control most—or even all—of your lights.

We analyzed the market to determine the best smart light switches out there, based on functionality and features, ease of use, installation and product reviews.

Lutron Caséta Wireless Smart Lighting Lamp Dimmer Switch Starter Kit Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best Smart Light Switch Starter Kit

Lutron Caseta In-Wall Smart Dimmer Switch

Lutron brings a lighting control experience to its rock-solid lineup of smart switches. The Caseta In-Wall Smart Dimmer Switch Starter Kit is just the solution if you want an integrated, professional-looking in-wall option. The kit includes the required Smart Bridge and a Pico remote switch (basically, a portable copy of the in-wall switch). It provides the smooth on/off and dimming control you’d expect, scheduling and timers with its mobile app and voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit.

You can also purchase a kit that includes the Pico Adapter, which allows you to mount the remote switch on another wall. In other words, it allows you to install a second in-wall switch without the wiring.

Pros:

  • Installs with three steps in 15 minutes
  • Doesn’t rely on WiFi
  • Connects with Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, Ring, etc

Cons:

  • Not rated for low voltage applications

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Philips Hue Wireless Dimmer Switch With Remote Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best Overall Smart Light Switch

Philips Hue Smart Dimmer Switch

The Philips Hue ecosystem is one of the most robust and well-developed of any smart home product collections. Its Smart Dimmer Switch upholds that reputation. Providing easy-to-stick-anywhere wall installation and a magnetic remote control, this switch makes an excellent addition, especially if you’re already set up with Hue smart lights.

Control any or all of the lights in your house: turn them on and off, dim or brighten them and select custom lighting scenes. It’s a powerful tool to add to your toolbox, and the portable remote control can be particularly useful for the elderly or those with mobility challenges. Here, find out how to install a dimmer light switch.

Pros:

  • Each switch controls up to 10 room lights
  • Includes a portable remote control
  • Offers installation-free dimming

Cons:

  • Requires the Hue Hub (sold separately) for full experience

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Lutron Aurora Smart Bulb Dimmer Switch Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best Smart Light Switch for Easy Setup

Lutron Aurora Smart Bulb Dimmer

The Aurora Smart Bulb Dimmer Switch from Lutron pulls off an innovative trick—it makes your old light switch disappear! It fits over the top of the existing manual toggle switch, which means that you don’t have to worry about accidentally disabling the switch if someone turns off the manual switch.

If you want a quick stick-on smart switch upgrade, but also want to take the old switch out of service, this is a dependable pick. Once the small puck-shaped switch is in place, it locks the old one in the on position. Then, you can tap it to turn on and off, or rotate it to dim or brighten the lights. The switch is made to work exclusively with the Philips Hue ecosystem, but it definitely scores points for creativity.

Pros:

  • Can be set up in two steps in two minutes
  • Fits over an existing switch
  • No app required

Cons:

  • Works exclusively with the Philips Hue ecosystem

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Leviton Decora Digital:decora Smart Coordinating Switch Remote Ecomm Homedepot.com
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Best Multi-Location Smart Light Switch

Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Switch

Leviton is another company that delivers innovative, quality in-wall smart light switches. Its Decora line, which includes the Decora Smart Coordinating Switch, features multi-location three-way switching and allows for up to 10 switches on the same circuit.

You can control the switches remotely or set timers and schedules with the Leviton app. There’s also the option to add voice control to the WiFi switch with Alexa or Google Assistant. Leviton recently launched a No-Neutral Dimmer and Switch too, which connects to the brand’s app and other smart devices.

Pros:

  • Allows up to 10 switches on same circuit
  • Available in white, ivory and light almond colors
  • Five-year limited manufacturer warranty

Cons:

  • More expensive than some competing options

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Wemo Wifi Smart Dimmer Switch Dim Control Lights From Anywhere Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best Smart Light Switch With No Hub Required

WeMo Smart Light Switch

The WeMo Smart Light Switch is a solid performer and especially convenient if you’re already using the WeMo system for smart plugs. Another plus? This display option doesn’t require a hub. It connects directly to WiFi, which can be good for simplicity as long as you have reliable coverage.

With the brand’s app, you can control the switches remotely, set light schedules and timers and set up groups. That means you can turn groups of lights on and off with a two-second press on the smart switch. This choice is compatible with voice control features via Alexa, Google Assistant and HomeKit, as well as Nest and IFTTT.

Pros:

  • No hub or subscription needed
  • Away Mode creates illusion that you’re home
  • Night Mode prevents bright light blinding

Cons:

  • Neutral wire required for installation

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Kasa Smart Light Switch Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best Budget-Friendly Smart Light Switch

TP-Link Kasa Smart Light Switch

If you’re looking for an affordable, streamlined option, check out the Wi-Fi Light Switch HS200, which is Kasa Smart’s basic model (we tested other versions from the brand!). This in-wall switch provides simple on/off functionality, scheduling and timers with an app and voice control with Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, IFTTT, Nest and others. No hub is required, but in-wall installation requires a neutral wire.

Pros:

  • Won’t break the bank
  • Set custom scenes for waking up, parties, etc.
  • Away Mode creates illusion that you’re home

Cons:

  • Neutral wire required for installation

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Ge Cync Smart Dimmer Light Switch Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best WiFi Smart Light Switch

Ge Cync Smart Dimmer Light Switch

No smart home hub is needed to set up the Smart Dimmer Light Switch from Ge Cync. It does, however, require a neutral and ground wire to enable the controls, which are done with the brand’s app or from the switch itself. It can also be controlled via Alexa and Google Home. While the switch works with any bulb, you can pair it with Cync or C by GE smart bulbs to keep them connected even when the switch is turned off.

Pros:

  • Features built-in WiFi
  • Works with any bulb
  • Connects to Alex and Google Assistant

Cons:

  • Indoor use only
  • For use in homes built after the 1980s

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Idevices Idev0022 Instinct Switch Ecomm Amazon.com
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Best Smart Light Switch with Virtual Assistant

iDevices Instinct

If you have Alexa and want a smart light switch with virtual assistant functionality, the iDevices Instinct is just what you’ve been looking for. It works like any other smart speaker you’d use with Alexa. Plus, you’ll be able to control your lights via voice control, along with getting your calendar, weather, music and whatever else you use your virtual assistant for each day. The system comes with additional sensors that track motion for a bit of extra home security lighting even when you’re not home. It truly is about as smart as you can get with a light switch.

Pros:

  • Combines light control with Alexa
  • Features motion and ambient light sensors
  • No hub required—just WiFi

Cons:

  • Can’t be used with other smart systems

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Choose the Best Switches for Your Smart Home

Since most smart light switches allow you to set timers and dim the lights, think about how you want to control those features. Would you prefer using a virtual assistant, such as Alexa or Google Voice? Or would you rather use an app or WiFi?

Next, consider what lights you want to control with the gadget. Will all your living room lights work with one switch? Do you want a switch for just one room or for your entire home? Will you use it to control your inside and outside lights?

Think about how comfortable you are with installing a smart light switch. Since different switches require different installation methods, one may be better suited for your skill level.

Finally, smart light switches are available at a number of price points and can get quite costly. Determine how much you are willing to spend to help narrow down the best options for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you install a smart light switch?

Your new device will likely come with instructions for installation, but there are some basics to know before installing your smart light switch. First things first: Make sure the power is off before doing anything else. Most require a neutral wire, which is usually gray or white, to run the inside of the switch (and most will specify if one is needed).

You’ll need to remove the old light switch first. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws holding the wires to the switch. Disconnect the wires. Check the instructions that come with the switch to determine how to attach the wiring. When that’s done, make sure the wires are secure, then push the new switch into the electrical box and fasten it in. The new switch should come with screws to complete that last step. Finally, attach the wall plate, which may be sold separately.

When you’re done, turn the power back on to test your new smart light switch.

Are smart light switches worth it?

Smart light switches may not be a necessity, but they sure do make things convenient. Not only can they make controlling the lights in your home simple, whether it’s through an app or by voice control, but they can be installed with any indoor or outdoor lighting style or socket style.

Can smart switches dim lights?

Smart light switches can be used as dimmer switches. You can also program them to go on and off at certain times, customize their light levels and control them through a virtual assistant or your smartphone, even when you’re not home.

Do smart light switches save money?

While installation can initially be costly, you’ll save money on energy bills in the long run. Forgot to turn off the lights when you left home? Just turn them off via your smartphone. Set the switches to a timer and you’ll never leave the living room light on again when you go to bed for the night. Dim the lights during peak hours to save even more cash.