Smart lamp, plug or recessed switch?
When the possibilities are many, it can be difficult to choose. With this guide, we will try to make the choice easier for you as a consumer.
Smart lamp, recessed switch or smart plug? When to use which one really. As usual, there are pros and cons to the different options. It's important to think about how you want it to work when you're done.
Do you have more lights you want to connect later, are these the same type of fixture or do they require a different type of switch? If so, check if these switches are compatible with each other or your controller/hub so you can automate these together.
When to Use a Wall Plug (Plug in Relay)
One of the easiest ways to convert a lamp into a smart lamp is to use a smart wall plug. One of the advantages is that you don't need any electrical knowledge, just to plug in and drive. If you change your mind and want to automate something else in your home, it's easy to move the plug to something else, such as a coffee maker.
Keep in mind that if you want to dim a lamp, it does not work with a smart plug, but there it is only on and off that applies. Another disadvantage is that your lamp will not be two-way compatible. This means that if you accidentally turn your lamp off on the regular switch, the lamp loses its smart function unlike ceiling luminaires which are often controlled with a recessed dimmer, more on this below.
When to use a smart lamp
Just like the wall plug, a smart lamp is very easy to install. You screw these into the existing fixture, just like a regular light bulb. The advantages of smart lamps are that you can dim them, as well as change the color and color temperature. Here there are different variations to choose from. Lamps with color, also called RGB and lamps that have only one white light. In some cases it is possible to set the temperature of these, this is referred to as Kelvin.
With a smart bulb, you have the same problem as with a smart plug. If someone in the family chooses to turn off the light on the regular button, the light will lose connection to your app or controller.
A lamp that we like very much is LiFX. A very reliable smart wifi lamp with good accompanying app. There are a lot of fun features, scenes and scheduling. If you live in a home where the wifi signal does not reach all the nooks and crannies, you may want to choose a lamp that is controlled with ZigBee or Z-wave. These build a mesh network with each other that allows the signal to be passed on from the connected lights to the next. In this way, the signal reaches all the lamps. A good example of this is Philips Hue that uses ZigBee.
Unlike a smart plug, only the light bulb works in the selected luminaire. Thus, it will not be possible to move them to places other than compatible luminaires.
When to use an in-field relay/smart switch
Smart recessed switches are installed behind your wall switch. The absolute most advantageous situation to use a product like this is when you want to control a ceiling lamp, and any other lamp controlled by wall plug for that matter. If you have multiple bulbs connected to the same button, it is convenient and economically advantageous to use a built-in switch instead of changing all the bulbs in one light fixture.
A major advantage of a recessed switch is that it becomes two-way compatible. If someone turns off the light on the regular wall switch that is there is still power in the box which allows you to still turn your lamp on via an app or controller. That way, your schedules or automations always work.
Recessed smart switches are also available with dimmer function. Then use a re-spring button that you hold down to dim.
The disadvantage of this type of solution is that it requires some electrical knowledge. If you are not sure about this, you have to count on the cost of hiring an electrician. If you live temporarily in a rental apartment or similar, it may be smart to use a smart lamp or plug instead of a recessed switch as a recessed switch is more permanent.
FAQs
What are the differences between a smart lamp, smart plug and a recessed smart switch?
A smart lamp is an autonomous device that can be controlled and dimmed via an app. A smart plug turns ordinary appliances into smart devices. A recessed smart switch is installed in the wall and controls existing light sources or appliances.
What types of lamps are compatible with smart lamps?
Most smart bulbs are compatible with common sockets such as E27 and E14. Some also offer GU10 models for spotlights. Always check the product description to see compatibility.
Can I use both smart lights and recessed smart switches in my home?
Yes, you can use a combination of smart lights and recessed smart switches to create a flexible and user-friendly smart lighting system.
Do smart lights and devices work without an internet connection?
Smart lights and devices can still work like regular lights even without an internet connection, but some advanced features and remote access require the internet.
Who are the best manufacturers of smart lights and smart switches?
There are several reliable manufacturers on the market, including Philips Hue, LIFX, Ikea Tredfri, Osram and Fibaro, which offer a wide range of high-quality smart lights and smart switches.
