Which setup is more efficient: using smart lights on a regular dimmable switch or regular dimmable lights on a smart switch?
Asked by Jeremiah Gordon 
1 month ago
Last Updated: October 21, 2024
What do you think is the better option for setting up 6 dimmable lights that connect to Wi-Fi? Should I go with smart lights on a regular dimmable switch, or regular dimmable lights on a smart switch?
I have GoVee smart lights installed in my home. They are wired directly into the system. You can control them using the app or through Alexa.
Light I appreciate that suggestion! I considered going that route but I couldn’t quite convince myself to surrender the ability to control things manually.
Here! I have about 4 Alexas scattered around my house along with a bunch of Govee products. You end up getting used to saying “Turn on the lights” in no time. Haha.
Consider using a smart switch instead of individual smart bulbs to avoid any confusion. If your switch has a neutral wire, opting for a smart switch would be a good choice.
Appreciate it!
If your home is all about Apple products, look for something that is compatible with HomeKit. This way, you can easily manage your lights no matter where you are.
Super easy – dimmable smart bulbs that work with a regular light switch (not a dimmer switch). I have them in a few lamps and even in an outdoor back porch light due to strange wiring from the previous owner. What about you – are you connecting them with other smart devices? I also have LED disc lights that resemble recessed lights and smart dimmer switches. It’s been working flawlessly. Had to put in some effort to find a compatible 3-way dimmer switch setup to avoid any annoying high-pitched noises. But once everything was set up, smart LED disc lights weren’t available back then.
I’m currently struggling with finding the right dimmer switch that is compatible. It will be a single pole, one-way switch with a neutral wire. I’m having some trouble selecting one. Do you have any tips on how to ensure it works well with my setup?
I had to visit the manufacturer’s website to determine which bulbs are compatible with specific switches.
Let me find out which 2 I tested.
So Levitron is one dimmer switch I tried with regular light bulbs. However, that was before I switched to Kasa Smart switches. I actually have a 3-way dimmer configuration that Kasa doesn’t officially support but it works. I paired a Leviton regular, non-smart, non-dimming switch as the second switch in the 3-way setup.
For information on regular dimmers and bulbs:
https://leviton.com/products/residential/dimmers/led-dimmers-and-compatibility?_gl=1*1faax3w*_up*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2a6wBhCVARIsABPeH1vLbjcXru9R7No3XSx_SyEGDtdDjuFyogvQOLbQ4AyZ2X3Yiz8yxcwaAoGUEALw_wcB
I also have a standard single-pole non-dimming switch using a Kasa dimmable bulb for my screened porch.
*Initially, I attempted to use a Lutron in my 3-way switch setup, but encountered issues with a buzzing sound. The Leviton switch worked perfectly fine.
Thank you!
I upgraded the bulbs in my home with Kasa Smart Light Bulbs. All dimmable, all Wi-Fi enabled, and can be controlled through Google Home or the app. It’s been a game-changer. I use flood lights outside, same deal.
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Luton casseta light switch. You need a hub to use the app. Comes with a remote control that you can decide whether to mount or not. It’s similar to having a three-way light switch without having to mess with wires. The app allows you to schedule custom lighting times. A fantastic product.
So in this scenario, you’re directly wiring both smart lights and a smart switch. You would need a hub like Alexa to control them, right?
Hold on, are you suggesting that by wiring a single switch, the remote can function as a second switch without needing a traditional 3-way setup? And only the switch is smart, not the lights?
Wait, so you’re saying you can wire the smart switch and use the remote to create a 3-way setup without additional wiring? And you need a voice control device like Alexa to operate it.
With the , you have the ability to control it using Alexa.
The magazine
I’ve had this for years and it works really well.
Thanks, Phil Swift! So, it requires both the hub that is included in that package and Alexa?
I don’t have Alexa, but I’m pretty sure it mentions being able to use Alexa. You can simply buy the light switch with the remote. However, if you desire remote phone access, you’ll need the hub to connect to your wifi.
Most electricians probably wouldn’t want you to know about this product, as it eliminates wiring for a three-way switch.
Got it now, thanks for clarifying. I wasn’t quite grasping the function of the hub before.