Not every lighting fixture in a gaming room is easily replaceable with a smart bulb. Smart light switches are practical solutions to transition older lights into the modern age. These switches can also accept voice commands and communicate with othersmart home gadgetsthrough Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri.
Wyze Smart Light Switch
Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Light Switch
After searching for smart light switches, gamers face a bombardment of choices. Often, their capabilities are nearly identical, which poses a dilemma for inexperienced buyers. Compatibility with smart home platforms is paramount to avoid disappointment. If gamers already ownwall panel lights, they can avoid purchasing additional hubs to adjust conventional lighting. Game Rant examined all the possibilities to find the best smart light switch for gaming rooms, regardless of budget and desired features.
Kasa Matter Smart Light Switch
The Kasa Matter Smart Light Switch modernizes traditional light bulbs with Matter connectivity. If gamers have a Matter hub in the form of a popularsmart speakeror display, there is virtually no app or ecosystem the WiFi light switch can’t work with. Once ready for action, the light switch allows homeowners to turn lights on and off, even during power losses or when away from home. The Kasa App guides users through a simple setup process, requiring a neutral wire and single pole installation scenario. Game Rant believes Kasa’s device is the best smart light switch because of its wide smart home compatibility and affordable price.
TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch
There isn’t a dramatic difference in features or price between many Tapo and Kasa products, which are both owned by TP-Link. The Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch is an incredible value, bundling two switches together for less than the price of some single switch alternatives. Tapo is more of a budget-focused brand, but gamers can still connect this switch to Matter hubs for more reliable whole-home control. The Tapo app is surprisingly advanced, enabling users to set up Matter Multi-Admin, removing the confusion of trying to access smart devices in competing apps. Supporting the latest smart home protocols for an incredibly low per-device price, this Tapo is one of thebest cheap smart home gadgets.
BroadLink Wireless Smart Button
Leviton Decora Smart Dimmer Switch
The Leviton Decora Smart Dimmer Switch allows for fine-tuning the brightness of gaming room lighting. After a straightforward installation with an existing neutral wire, this Leviton switch is upgradeable for Matter connectivity. Even without Matter, the device replaces traditional dimmers with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple Home voice commands. Users can program routines where lights are automatically softened during relaxing evening gaming hours. The Decora line is unique because it’s extendable with additional wireless switches that are perfect for 3-way light switch configurations. Gamers should also find the dimmer switch highly customizable, with alternate colors to change the look of the device.
Philips Hue Smart Wireless Dimmer Switch V2
The Philips Hue Smart Wireless Dimmer Switch V2 is another WiFi switch that works without a wired connection. It only connects to Hue bulbs and smart lights, but anyone with these premium lights will find it an invaluable accessory. Using batteries, the Hue Dimmer Switch V2 easily adheres to walls but has a removable magnetic remote. Gamers can program the buttons to load dynamic Hue scenes, making it capable of more than simple power toggling and dimming. It’s also possible to adjust the lighting in multiple zones or rooms from a single switch.
Lutron Caseta Smart Dimmer Switch w/ Pico Remote
For gamers looking for a versatile smart dimmer, the Lutron Caseta switch serves several different roles. The main switch component replaces existing light switches without needing a neutral wire. However, the Pico Remote can be removed from its wall mount and extend the functionality of the dimmer. A separate Lutron Caseta Hub is necessary, but the benefits include connectivity to more devices and platforms than a typical smart light switch. Also, gamers will still be able to adjust the brightness and toggle the power of lights even when aWiFi routerisn’t operating.
MOES Smart Wall Touch Light Switch Glass Panel
Even some smart light switches look rather dated, but the MOES Smart Wall Touch Light Switch adds a touch of luxury to gaming rooms. Available in several different sizes and styles, the switch with a touch capacitive glass panel works flawlessly with Google Assistant and Alexa. The switch emits a soft glow to keep the glass panel illuminated at night. Otherwise, this MOES device shares many of the features as the best smart light switch options. Buyers can rely on an app to control traditional lights when away from home. Gamers can also set schedules to turn lights off and on at specific times.
GE CYNC Smart Dimmer Light Switch
Amazon Basics Single Pole Smart Dimmer Switch
The Amazon Basics Single Pole Smart Dimmer Switch is an obvious target for gamers committed to the Alexa smart home ecosystem. This reasonably priced dimmer switch aims to make installation as simple as possible with a step-by-step guide in the Alexa app. Buyers will need a neutral wire behind existing switch plates, but Amazon makes it clear where to make the appropriate connections. The dimmer itself also has an intuitive layout withLED lightsindicating the current brightness levels and status of the device. Alexa voice commands work flawlessly with the switch, but gamers should be aware there is no straightforward way to connect it to Google Assistant.
Wyze makes some of the more budget-friendly smart light switches, especially when purchased in bulk. The company also offers very affordable smart bulbs, making it a practical solution to upgrade gaming rooms. Unlike many cheaper switches, the Wyze units are touch-based. Working with Google Assistant and Alexa, the switches can be configured for double or triple taps to adjust brightness or change the color of lighting. Vacation Mode is one of the more useful features in the Wyze mobile app, sporadically turning lights on and off to fool potential intruders.
The Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Light Switch is one of the easiest-to-install switches. Its slim design allows gamers to secure it in existing wall sockets with less frustration. Also, the switch can intelligently recognize what wires are in use to avoid having to repeat installations. The Enbrighten light switch requires a compatible Z-Wave hub, but buyers will benefit from a low-latency, mesh network of smart devices. Once set up, the switch can be controlled by Alexa or Google Assistant commands. Although this basic toggle switch isn’t as cheap as some alternatives, its intelligent design and reliable performance are worth the investment.
Choosing a Smart Light Switch for Gaming Rooms
There are dozens of options available, so finding the best smart light switch can take effort. The most critical factor during the buying process is compatibility with existing smart home devices. Most smart light switches are intended to replace wired in-wall switches and control traditional bulbs and fixtures. However, smart switches are usually used with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple Home for voice commands and wireless toggling. Buyers may already have a smart speaker or hub with theirgaming room lighting. Finding a smart switch that functions on the same smart home network can streamline a setup.
Gamers must also ensure that a smart switch can connect to existing wiring. Although it may seem intimidating to first-time installers, the setup is usually straightforward after turning off the power in a home’s breaker box. On the other hand, some switches require a neutral wire, which homes built before the mid-1980s often lack. Fortunately, alternatives exist for these buyers, including switches that operate using only batteries. Philips makes such a solution for their smart lights, but gamers will need to connect fixtures using standard bulbs to Hue-compatible smart plugs.
Features can vary from switch to switch, and some gamers may prefer a candidate with motion detection or a fancy touch display. Game Rant found that the following smart light switches are ideal for any budget or installation scenario:
Best Overall Pick
One of the most significant recent developments in smart home technology is the arrival of Matter. This protocol alleviates some roadblocks to setting up differently branded smart devices in multiple apps. Kasa’s Smart Light Switch takes full advantage ofMatter like many Nanoleafand Govee gaming lights. In some cases, the switch is even accessible over a home network without an internet connection.
To experience the full benefits of the switch’s connectivity, buyers will need a Matter-supported hub like a Google or Alexa smart speaker. Then, the device should respond instantaneously to voice or mobile app commands at home or when traveling. The Kasa Matter Smart Light Switch is otherwise fairly basic without a dimmer, allowing gamers to toggle lights on and off. Its mid-range asking price and support for the latest smart home standards are enough to rank it as the overall best smart light switch.
Best Value Pick
Smart light switches can be surprisingly pricey, especially when gamers have already invested inbudget keyboardsand mice. Shipping in packs of two, the TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Light Switch is an affordable way to outfit an entire household with upgraded technology. There aren’t many significant differences between the Kasa switches and this budget pick, with both embracing Matter technology. Still, some gamers may prefer features like Multi-Admin, which Matter makes possible and allows users to control the Tapo switch from multiple apps. Despite its low price point, the TP-Link Tapo light switch offers essential scheduling capabilities, so lights will turn off and on automatically.
Best Premium Pick
Brilliant Smart Home Control
The Brilliant Smart Home Control panel appeals to buyers with a gaming room already stocked with smart devices. This device has slider switches to dim lights on its right side, but it’s meant to be used in tandem with its impressive color touch display. Even so, the Brilliant Smart Home Control replaces ordinary switches with a neutral wire tucked behind them. The touchscreen unlocks additional functionality involving Google Nest, Alexa, and HomeKit devices like smart doorbells, thermostats, cameras, andSonos wireless speakers.
Not all smart switches are content with performing basic tasks; some, like the Brilliant Smart Home Control, act as all-in-one smart hubs. Other light switches add a touch of luxury to a gaming room with glass touch-capacitive surfaces or replaceable wall plates. The Leviton Decora Smart Dimmer Switch is more expensive than Game Rant’s budget picks, but its modular construction allows gamers to modify it like acustomizable mouse.
Editor’s Choice
Broadlink Wireless Smart Button
While technically not a light switch, the Broadlink Wireless Smart Button controls lights and many more devices. Gamers can mount the Broadlink Smart Button to walls or use it like a handheld remote control. The only downside of this solution is that purchasing a Broadlink S3 hub is necessary. The small added expense may be worth it, considering its compatibility with a wide range of smart devices. With the IFTTT app that can program complex sequences with products from multiple brands, the button’s power is truly unleashed.
The Broadlink Smart Button is also a fantastic alternative for gamers without the proper electrical wiring. However, when shopping for the best smart light switch, it’s important to remember the device is not meant to control older fixtures directly.
Making the Smart Choice in Light Switches
A smart light switch is a sensible purchase for gamers who want more control over gaming or living room lighting. Most options, like the Kasa Matter and TP-Link Tapo switches, can be connected to existing wiring without needing an electrician. Since repeatedly replacing switches becomes time-consuming, it’s wise to ensure that any purchase will work with already-owned smart speakers and displays. Touchscreen hubs, including the Brilliant Smart Home Control, make more sense if a gamer is after more than just a basic switch.
Smart home technologies are constantly advancing, so be sure that manufacturers are still providing support for a product before purchasing it. In some cases, switches can be upgraded to Matter and gain access to additional features through software.
FAQ
Q: What are the disadvantages of smart light switches?
Smart light switches are a cost-effective way to gain more control over a household’s lighting. On the other hand, buyers may lack the correct wiring to install them easily. Also, as smart home standards change, upgrading switches can be time-consuming and complicated compared to replacing smart light bulbs.
Q: Do smart light switches work without Wi-Fi?
Whether a smart light switch operates without Wi-Fi depends on the individual device. Most switches work without the internet if they are connected to hubs that use Matter or RF protocols over home networks. Still, many of the more advanced features found in apps, like scheduling and scene changes, may not be available.
