Among a host of options, what could possibly be the best smart light switch for your Google Home? I would like to think that almost any smart device is compatible with Google Home but we can not be so certain until it has been put to the test, right?
Google Home works with numerous smart home devices that assist you with everything from organizing your daily routines, controlling the entertainment system, managing your energy usage to improving your home security.
Well, it also not unusual for Google Home to be compatible with smart light switches. Honestly, I am of the opinion that Google Home is actually the smartest way of controlling the lights in your home. It doesn’t require any stressful process. All that is needed is just the use of your voice.
But there is one thing you have to watch out for. Not all smart light switches are compatible with Google Home. Hence, the title of this post -‘Best Smart Light Switch For Google Home’.
After running a series of tests, we have come to the decision that the best smart light switch is the iDevices Smart Switch.
We have properly explained everything you need to know about this smart light switch for Google Home, and as you read on, you will find that some smart light switches will require hubs while most will need no additional equipment to function. It all depends on the switch that you choose to install.
Anyways, our quest of finding the best smart switch for Google Home led to us putting together an accumulated list entirely for your reading pleasure.
Best Smart Light Switch For Google Home (Our Top 3 Picks)
iDevices Smart Switch
Here is everything you need to know about this smart light switch:
- Voice Commands: It responds to Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant voice commands
- It Can Grant You Access Anywhere: This smart switch can control your home’s lighting from anywhere using any iOS/Android device and the iDevices Connected app, no hub, or additional hardware required. Note that, it is not compatible with ceiling fans or ceiling fan lights
- Seamless Control: Dimmer Switch works in single pole, 3- and 4-way setups. In 3- and 4-way setups, all secondary switches must also be iDevices Dimmer Switches, which pair via Bluetooth for a simple and seamless connection. Bluetooth connection distance may vary based on environmental factors
- It Functions With IFTTT: You can accomplish even more with Dimmer Switch by connecting to hundreds of apps and web services for the whole home automation
- It has a 2-Year Warranty Period.
Philips Hue Dimmer
Another option we considered is the Philips Hue Dimmer. This smart light switch is not only the least expensive option, but it is also the easiest to install amongst its peers. All you need to do is; merely attach it to the wall and, it is ready for use — no wiring necessary.
On the plus side, it can also act as a remote control, you can pop it off, and voila, it becomes a remote control!
However, the catch to this is that; you will have to remember to leave your regular light switch in the ‘on’ direction.
Note that, this is the most suitable for users who still have Philips Hue lights and don’t want to replace their wall switches.
Brilliant Smart Dimmer Switch
Finally, our last pick is the Brilliant Smart Dimmer Switch. Although Brilliant smart switches are known to be pricey and unique, this particular model is different.
It also has a touch-sensitive slider. It can be used to control not just lights, but music volume as well. There’s much more it is capable of, but there is a catch to accessing them, as it requires that you also own a Brilliant Smart Home Control panel.
Understand that we got to this decision using factors such as Smart Home Compatibility, cost, design, and functionality of the smart light switch as the grading system/marking scheme.
Anyways, these smart light switches are our pick for the Best Smart Light Switch For Your Google Home.
But we won’t stop there, here is our pick for other smart light switches that will work with your Google Home effectively but could not make the cut.
Google Home-Compatible Smart Light Switches
WeMo Dimmer WiFi Light Switch Work With Google Assistant
WeMo smart light switch can be controlled through Wi-Fi and then can be operated remotely directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
Your lights can be optimized through the WeMo Dimmer, and it works by calibrating the bulbs that you have fixed to your home which in turn provide the maximum amount of dimming range without any flickers. It also has a ‘Night’ mode feature that you can set so as to protect your eyes from the bulb’s luminosity.
Not only that, the WeMo smart light switch does not require any hub to function nor does it need any subscription plans for installation.
Lutron Google Home Compatible Wireless Light Switch
The Lutron smart light switch enables you to manage all your connected devices in your home. This is only possible because the light switch manufactured by Lutron comes with a Pico remote control. Hence, with this remote control, there is absolutely no need for you to manually use the plug except you want to.
The installation of this smart switch is pretty much straightforward, and it will also require a Lutron Smart Bridge.
With these features, the Lutron smart light dimmer provides the best dimming performance for all the bulbs in your home.
Markevina Google Home-Supported WiFi Light Switch
This is another smart wi-fi switch that is compatible with your Google Home.
Markevina smart light switch comes with a physical ON/OFF switch in case other connectivity options fail. This smart switch can be easily set up and it requires an app to control the lights from your smartphone and tablet device.
And unlike other smart light switches, it can allow you to schedule time for the automatic activation of your devices when needed. Also, you don’t need to worry about a short-circuit or fire cause it has been equipped with overload protection which ensures safety from such home hazards.
Essentially, this smart light switch has been built to give your home the best lighting possible.
Note that, the Markevina smart light switch does not require any hub for communication.
TP-Link Light Switch (Works With Google Home and Mini)
This single smart switch from TP-Link requires a neutral wire and can work on a single-pole setup. You just need to connect it to your Wi-Fi network and it is ready to serve your commands right from your smartphone or tablet.
Of course, it is compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, so it can also be controlled via voice commands.
Note that, the TP-Link smart light switch requires no hub for its installation.
WeMo WiFi Light Switch (Works With Google Assistant)
This model of WeMo smart light switch is Wi-Fi enabled and can be fixed in place of your old wall switch.
It has some exciting features such as; the setting of different schedules and timers, automatically turns on the porch light when the sun sets, or turns on the heater as you enter the house. It also has an ‘Away’ mode feature that can randomize your house’s lights so that they turn on and off automatically even when you are not at home.
These exciting features can be accessed via the free WeMo app, and only then can you operate your home appliances using voice commands.
Meross Google Home Compatible Smart WiFi Wall Light
Meross smart light switch is quite similar to the smart switches we have reviewed so far, you can control the light switch via Google Home voice commands. It has an app that enables you to control it from your smartphone or tablet. It also does not require a hub, and when purchased, it comes in a pack of 2.
The Meross smart light feature includes:
Scheduling of Timer and auto-off timer routine which allows you to assign scheduled time to manage electricity efficiently.
With these features, I am sure an ordinary house can be made into a smarter home.
GRESATEK Smart Switches (Works With Google Home)
This smart light switch has a smart touch control button that is unlike other traditional switches available on the market.
It s very compatible with Google Home as well as Alexa-enabled devices.
Its intricately sleek design and flat, elegant surface make it a work of art that beautifies a home. That’s not all, it has a ‘glow in the dark’ feature which makes it easier to locate when it becomes dark.
Similar to other smart light switches listed here, the Gresatek smart light switch also doesn’t require any hub or subscription plans.
GE C-Start Smart Switch Motion Sensing Dimmer
The GE C-Start Smart Switch isn’t as sleek in design as the Gresatek, but it has very important features that get the job done.
For starters, it is compatible with all kinds of bulbs and lets you control them via touch, voice commands, the motion sensors that are built-in, or remotely with a smartphone.
This switch works with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Siri. It has apps for both Android and iOS devices.
Lausatek Smart Switch (Works With Google Home and Mini)
The Lausatek smart wi-fi switch has a flat LED surface and added to that is a touch control feature that is built to make interaction easier with lights in your home.
To effectively control this smart wi-fi switch, you have to download the ‘Smart Life’ app which makes it easier to use.
Additional features include:
You can schedule the time for the lights to turn on or off. It is equipped with ‘Away’ mode. This gives additional security when you are not at home. When this mode is activated, it keeps all the lights turned on, especially when the house is empty.
Leviton Decora Smart Switch
The Leviton Decora is a simple dimmer switch that supports three-way switches (which can be helpful for larger rooms). Not only that, but it also works effortlessly well with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and IFTTT.
Its no-frills design isn’t its strongest attribute, but it still has the basics like a small status LED on the bottom that lets you locate the switch in the dark, a row of LEDs, and a large paddle switchwith a smaller toggle on the right, which lets you dim the lights in increments.
It does not require a hub to function and lacks two-factor authentication which is a safety procedure against hackers.
NewRice Google Assistant Compatible WiFi Light Switch
This smart light switch is quite similar to most of the switches already listed. It is compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. It can also be scheduled to turn on/off the appliances automatically.
It is simple to use and doesn’t require any hub or subscription plans for it to function.
LeGrand Tru-Universal Smart Dimmer Switch
Legrand is one of those companies that aren’t so popular but has been around for quite some time now.
The in-wall dimmer switch works well with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit. Also, it does not support IFTTT or Zigbee devices.
LeGrand Tru-Universal Smart switch has the following features to its name; It schedules automatically on and off of your devices. It can auto-detect and calibrate with LED, CFL, halogen, incandescent, and EFL bulbs. It can also control up to 450W of LED and CFL or 700W of halogen and incandescent, which covers most light sources.
You can download the ‘Legrand Home’ app from the Apple Store, this enables you to effectively control the smart light switch via voice commands and also gain access to other useful and exciting features.
KYGNE Google Home Supported Smart Switch
This switch has proven to be a durable smart light switch with high-performance features.
Besides the fact that it is compatible with both Google Home and Amazon Alexa, it is also eco-friendly.
Its touch-sensitive control and LED indicator which displays the power status of the smart switch is waterproof. It is a safety feature that can prevent you from harm, especially if you unwittingly touch the switch with a wet hand while it is turned on.
It also has a power-saving mode that reduces the misappropriation of electricity and saves you a lot of expenses in turn.
Ecobee Switch+
Ecobee has become a household name in every niche they find themselves in, and true to past experiences, their products don’t disappoint.
This smart switch has Alexa built in, and can also work with Google home. However, it is most suited to Amazon Alexa.
It is equipped with Motion and temperature sensors and also Integrated night light, which helps you find your way in the dark when it is activated.
It lacks some of the necessary features needed to be among our top-ranked smart switches and they are:
- No dimming function,
- It can’t be used in a three-way setup, and
- It requires a neutral wire.
Anyone of these smart light switches can communicate with your Google Home conveniently. You just have to choose which one among them you would want to fit into your home.
Smart Light Switches vs. Smart Light Bulbs
Many people can’t seem to figure out why a smart light switch is more preferred to a smart light bulb. They almost have the same functionalities and can be controlled using smart devices. So, why are smart light switches the better choice?
Well, the prominent reason is that; when it comes to controlling a room, or rooms, with many ceiling lights, then smart switches are the best option for it.
Here’s why;
Adding a smart switch is definitely much more cost-effective than adding five or more smart lights, each of which is likely to cost as much as a single switch.
How Smart Light Switches Compatible To Google Home Work
The first step is installation. This involves removing your old light switch, and in place of that you install the new smart light switch and finally set it up through the manufacturer’s app on your phone.
Once the setup is concluded, you then have to connect the smart light switch to your Google Home app which enables you to control your smart light switches using your voice on your Google Home device or via Google Assistant on your smartphone by saying this command “Ok, Google Turn on my bedroom lights.”
There are two ways for smart light switches to function with your Google Home effectively, and they are:
- With a Direct Wi-Fi Connection: Most smart light switches will connect directly to your wi-fi network and then connect to your Google Home through the app installed on your phone. The smart light switches that function this way do not need any type of home control hub and are practically the easiest to set up and install.
- With a Smart Home Hub: There are also smart light switches that are compatible with Google Home but they require a smart home hub to communicate with the smart light switch and your home network.
Criteria To Consider Before Purchasing A Smart Light Switch
We evaluated our choice of ‘Best Smart Light Switch For Google Home’ based on the following criteria:
Smart Home Compatibility: Does the switch work with other smart home devices? If yes, then How many?
App: How easy was it to use the app that works with the switch? What sort of features do you get, such as scheduling when lights turn on and off?
Functionality: Does it support three-way or four-way connections?
Design: Is it an attractive switch? The best will come in multiple colors to best match your decor.
Price: While smart light switches are more expensive than traditional switches, some are pricier than others.
Why Smart Lighting Is A Good Investment
A large majority of the world’s population today are upgrading their residences with smart security cameras and smart doorbells amongst others.
Studies have shown that; upgrading your regular home to a smart one can significantly increase the value of your home when you eventually want to sell it off.
Upgrading your lighting to smart light switches that are compatible with Google Home is a good investment that offers a number of benefits that most people aren’t even aware of. It can help you in the following ways:
- You can save energy with smart light switches because you can turn off lights remotely if you left them on when you went to work or if you left lights on before you went to bed.
- If you have kids and your hands are full, you can quickly turn on and off lights with your voice without the need for your hands.
- You can set schedules to turn on lighting at night or when you are away to deter criminals.
- With smart light switches that work with Google Home, you can turn on and off lights while laying in bed, or sitting on a couch and avoid tripping in the dark.
So, I put this question to you, as the rest of your home gets smarter, why shouldn’t your lights?
The Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Home Devices
In case you are wondering what other smart home devices are most compatible with your Google Home, don’t wonder anymore cause we’ve got you covered. Google Home works with thousands of smart home devices and it can be quite a headache choosing the best smart devices suited for your home.
We have done the studies and here is what we dug up.
Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Home Hub
Samsung’s SmartThings Hub
A smart home hub centralizes the control of all your smart devices. Our current top choice in this category is Samsung’s SmartThings hub.
This hub is capable of integrating various smart devices that communicate over ZigBee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi, and gives its users control of all of them from a single app.
One of the reasons Samsung’s SmartThings hub became our top choice is because it is broadly compatible with third-party products.
Wink Hub 2
Wink Hub is quite similar to Samsung’s SmartThings hub. It is broadly compatible with third-party smart-home devices and can also communicate over Wi-Fi, ZigBee, and Z-Wave.
Fun fact: Wink Hub is currently owned by Will.i.am from the Black-Eyed Peas music group.
Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Bulb
Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Bulb Starter Kit (Includes A Hub and 4 Bulbs)
Amazingly, this brand has surpassed any other company in bringing smart LEDs into our residences.
What’s more, all their products are compatible with Google Home, and this smart bulb isn’t different.
Your Google Home enables you to control this smart bulb in the following ways:
- By adjusting the dimmer
- You can set and change its colors
- You can configure its timers
It doesn’t end there. You can use voice commands to turn the lights on and off as well as also ask your Google Home if you’ve left the lights on in any room.
It is available on Amazon and requires a bridge to function with.
LIFX Color 1000
LIFX bulbs are known to connect directly to your Wi-Fi network. They are built differently from Phillip Hue. As such, they do not require a bridge to operate. What is most impressive about this smart bulb is that it produces a super bright 1,055 lumens, with most of this energy directed through the top of the bulb rather than the sides, making it the perfect use for overhead or canister lamps. They are available on Amazon and are definitely compatible with Google Home.
Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Plug
The Wemo Mini Smart Plug
Smart plugs have the ability to animate any dumb devices (such as lamps and fans) that aren’t wired to an electrical switch.
The WeMo Mini smart plug truly is one of a kind. It comes equipped with an ‘Away Mode’ feature that puts on the devices you select for longer periods of time whenever this mode is enabled.
Leviton Decora DW15P Smart Plug
This is another option you should consider. The Leviton’s Decora DW15P connects directly to your Wi-Fi network and pairs to your Google Home smart speakers. This goes to show that it does not require a separate smart home hub to control it.
Currant WiFi Smart Outlet
The Currant WiFi Smart Outlet comes with two independently controllable smart outlets and only makes use of just one of the outlets in your in-wall receptacle.
You can monitor and report your energy consumption through the Currant app. It also supplies insights on how you can save money on your monthly electric bill.
Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Thermostat
Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Generation)
This is one of the smartest smart thermostats available on the market. It is cut from the same cloth as Google Home, so they are definitely compatible.
Asides from its ability to learn on the job, it also has a geofencing feature, a top-class scheduling interface, a user-intuitive app, and compatibility with a broad range of other smart-home devices.
Nest Thermostat E
This is Nest’s cost-reduced version of their Nest learning thermostat.
It is equipped with features that include; scheduling, geofencing, and the ability to learn your energy usage patterns and preferences.
What differentiates the Nest Thermostat E. from the Nest Learning Thermostat is the number of HVAC systems.
The Nest Thermostat E functions with fewer HVAC systems than the original Nest Learning Thermostat.
Before choosing this option though, ensure it is compatible with your heating and cooling setup.
Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Door Lock
Nest Hello
Smart door locks allow you to lock and unlock your doors remotely—whether you are at home or away.
You can also extend digital keys to your friends and family members, housekeepers, lawnmowers, and anyone else to whom you want to grant access. Revoking the key is also possible.
Nest Hello is our top pick for this category, and just like the Nest Thermostat, it is cut from the same cloth as Google Home, so compatibility is for certain.
Its features include:
- A 24/7 live streaming,
- HDR imaging, and night vision to give you a clear view, day or night.
- It can light up and send you an alert when someone approaches your door, even if they don’t ring the bell.
It is priced at $450.66 on Amazon.
Best Google Home-Compatible Universal Remote
Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote Control
It is quite pricey for a universal remote I’ll tell you that, but it gets the job done.
The Logitech Harmony Elite is a two-part system that consists of a candy-bar-style remote with a touchscreen, 24 buttons, and a Wi-Fi-connected hub which can be put inside your entertainment center.
Your commands are processed via RF signals from the remote to a pair of IR blasters on the hub, so you don’t need to point the remote directly at anything. You can use Google Assistant shortcuts to turn your entertainment devices on and off; to play, pause, and stop your DVR, and also turn on channels such as Netflix or Youtube Original.
It is priced at $529.99 on Amazon.
Best Google Home-Compatible Music Service
Spotify
Google Play Music is the default music service for Google Home but you can switch to Spotify to gain access to its massive library of tunes. Voice commands can be used to create a playlist, add songs to your music library, play particular genres or artists, “like” songs, and add them to your library. Your Google Home can also identify tracks if you ask it to.
YouTube Premium
YouTube Premium offers paid access to ads-free experiences on both its platforms which are YouTube and YouTube Music, plus access to YouTube Originals.
It is compatible with Google Home and the subscription fee is $11.99-per-month.
Finally,
There are a lot of options to consider when it comes to choosing a smart switch, I know. So, why don’t you give the iDevices Smart Switch a trial. Same applies to other categories you might be interested in as well.
Cheers!