Smart home technologies are on everyone's lips and there are now many ways in which existing households can be retrofitted. One of the many variants is the WLAN light switch. It enables permanently installed electrics to be easily controlled via an app. More and more models are also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, in some cases up to 3 devices can be connected to a Wi-Fi switch.
Wi-Fi light switch as a smart home system
The functionality of Smart Home light switches is similar to WLAN sockets. Existing devices in the household that cannot be controlled via app are connected to the Smart Home system and can therefore also be controlled while on the move. The intelligent light switches make it possible to retrofit your home quickly at relatively low cost.
The Smart Home light switches are connected to the flush-mounted sockets instead of the usual light switches. In the case of electrical installations of this type, it is generally recommended to consult a qualified electrician. It is important that the voltage is removed from the line before starting the retrofitting. The Wi-Fi switch must be connected to the neutral conductor and the outer conductor, which must be screwed tight as usual. In order to be able to install the intelligent light switch in the flush-mounted installation, it is helpful if it is the right size when buying it. With the appropriate diameter, the Wi-Fi light switch is quickly built into the cavity wall socket and the smart home socket is networked.
Control smart home light switches via an app
The nice thing about smart home systems in general is the flexible control of them, so you can even control the wireless light switches. After installing the intelligent light switch, the appropriate app for the device can be downloaded. A user account is usually created there before a connection to the Wi-Fi light switch can take place. To do this, the light switch must be pressed for about 5 seconds until the WLAN symbol lights up. Then, the smart home light switches can with the wireless home connected to, so that the control is available via an app.
Google Home and Alexa light switch
Of course, smart home devices that can also be controlled via a hands-free system are particularly practical to use. In fact, many Wi-Fi sockets on the market are already compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. The intelligent socket is connected to the loudspeaker via the Alexa app, for example . For this you have to log into the eWeLink account and add the corresponding WLAN socket as a new device with a suitable name . By giving this name, the desired light can be switched on, for example via the call command “Alexa: activate the desk lamp”.
1. Hama WLAN light switch
The Hama Wi-Fi light switch has two switching gears and is priced at around £25. The intelligent light switch has a time control function, is ideal for retrofitting and can also be controlled via the app while on the move. In addition, switching via voice command to Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant is possible. The timeless design of the glass surface of the Wi-Fi Smart light switch, which can be inconspicuously integrated into living rooms, is also very pleasing with this Wi-Fi light switch. A neutral conductor is also required for the installation of this Wi-Fi light switch.
Benefits
- Elegant simple design
- A switch for 2 lamps
- Suitable for retrofitting
Hama Wi-Fi Touch light switch / WLAN glass wall switch (compatible with Alexa / Google Home, flush-mounted, without hub, timer, app / voice control (e.g. Echo Dot), 2 lamps controllable (2-way), 2.4GHz, IFTTT)
2. Bosch Smart Home universal switch
The Wi-Fi Smart Home universal switch from Bosch is the most expensive model in our comparison at around £43 . In addition to many configuration options in addition to the app, the Bosch WLAN light switch can be controlled with up to four functions at the push of a button. Furthermore, this universal switch is portable and can therefore be used throughout the house.
Benefits
- 2x 3AA batteries included
- Can also be attached to the wall with adhesive tape
- Flexible use
3. Wi-Fi Smart Light Switch from Luminea Home Control
In addition to Amazon Alexa, Luminea Home Control's Wi-Fi Smart Alexa light switch can also be controlled with the Google Assistant - ultimately, it can be operated via voice control, an app or direct contact. The switch is compatible with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi . For around £23 there is a plastic model with a pretty button made of tempered glass. A plus of this model is the dimming function for even more control options . The connection is 3-wire, as with many other Wi-Fi light switches, a neutral conductor is required for attachment.
Benefits
- Simple design
- Additional dimming function
Luminea Home Control WLAN light switch: Touch light switch & dimmer, comp. to Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant (Dimmer LED)
Alexa WiFi light switch from GREMAG
The Wi-Fi Smart Switch from GREMAG with two switching gears costs around £17.99 and makes it into the good midfield in our test comparison . This WiFi light switch can be controlled using voice commands via Amazon Alexa and Google Home. An app for controlling or using the timing function can be downloaded free of charge . A neutral line is required for installation, it is best to have a trained electrician do the installation. Of course, the Alexa switch can also be switched manually, a hub is not possible for this light switch, which can be bought separately. So this is a good option to make the home a little smarter without a lot of (cost) effort.
Benefits
- Inexpensive
- Available as a 2-way switch
- Elegant design
Smart Alexa light switch, Wlan Wifi Smart light switch works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, tempered glass touchscreen switch with timer function and overload protection (1-gang)
5. Sonoff WiFi Smart Light Switch from yunlink
For about £20.99 yunlink already has a WLAN light switch with 2 switching paths , so two lamps can be controlled via the intelligent light switch, for example. The light switch is compatible with Amazon Alexa . Of course, the light can also be switched on and off as usual by pressing the switch on a glass touchscreen . The model has up to 8 timing functions so that the light can be set automatically at dusk, for example. The yunlink Wi-Fi light switch is waterproof and is a great help in saving energy. The switch is suitable for iOS and Android. Overall, the Wi-Fi light switch is a fair offer with good performance .
SONOFF T0EU2C intelligent wireless WLAN wall light switch, 2-channel switch of the 86 type for automation solutions in intelligent home technology, works with Alexa, Google Home
The models presented are perfect for quick and inexpensive retrofitting in older apartments and houses. The intelligent light switches are, for example, a good alternative to smart lightbulbs, which at the latest with LEDs reach their limits. The advantage of Wi-Fi light switches is that they can be used in the classic way and switching via app is the special addition. If you want a smart home device that is, above all, quite easy to install Smart home. However, the models presented are perfect for the Smart Home device, which is above all very. Depending on your needs, you must weigh up whether you are better served with a WLAN socket.