I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Smart Switch For Google Home (2023)

I recently purchased the smart switches and I have to say, they are exactly what I was looking for. I wanted the convenience of being able to control my bedroom fan and lights from my bed, and these switches deliver on that perfectly. With the ability to command Alexa and schedule the switches, it has made my life so much easier.

Installation was a breeze, even for someone like me who is not an electrician and not familiar with the wiring system in this country. I was able to install them myself without any issues. I opted for the 2-pack version so I could control the light and fan separately, and it worked flawlessly.

The accompanying app is great, and I already had experience using it to control a bedside lamp. I am now enthusiastic about expanding my smart home setup to include electric plugs as well. The switches themselves look sleek and stylish, and I have included some pictures to showcase their appearance.

All you need for installation is a screwdriver, although I did use pliers to straighten the cables in the electrical box. It took me about an hour to complete the installation, and afterwards, I did encounter a few issues with Alexa. However, after resetting the Smart Life skill, Alexa was able to find all the devices and I was able to set everything up seamlessly.

After using these smart switches for a while now, I can confidently say that they are a great investment for anyone looking to automate their home. As someone with experience in automation, I can assure you that this product is the best in terms of price and performance.

Installation is fairly easy, similar to any other smart switch. However, if you lack knowledge of electrical work, I highly recommend hiring an expert to avoid any complications. It is important to ensure that you have a neutral wire (usually white) in your electrical box, as these switches require a constant power supply.

The integration with Echo devices is seamless, with the switch being detected as soon as it connects to your network. Setting up a Kasa account and linking it to your Alexa account is a simple process. The switch fits well in a 3-gang box, although the inside of the box may appear crowded due to the larger size of the switch for the Wi-Fi and relay components.

In terms of functionality, I am thoroughly impressed. I have already purchased additional switches and expanded my smart home setup. The switches are reliable and work flawlessly, triggering commands from my phone without any issues. The app provided by the manufacturer is user-friendly and makes setup a breeze.

One of the standout features of these switches is the subtle illumination when the switch is in the "off" position. This makes it incredibly easy to locate the switch in the dark, a feature I didn't know I needed until I had it. Additionally, the app allows for customization, such as linking switches together, which has been a game-changer for me.

While I have mostly positive feedback, there are a few minor complaints. The face plates can be difficult to mount flush to the wall, but this may vary based on personal preferences. Another issue I have encountered is the duplication of devices in the Alexa app. Despite troubleshooting, the duplicated devices persist, which can be frustrating.

The Meross Smart WiFi Wall Switch is a versatile and user-friendly product that offers a seamless integration with your home automation system. Whether you want to control your lights manually or through voice commands via Alexa, this switch provides a convenient solution.

Installation is a breeze, and it comes with all the necessary screws, wire nuts, and wall plates. The switch is incredibly responsive, both physically and through the app, ensuring instant control over your lights. Unlike some other switches on the market, there is no noticeable delay when turning the lights on or off, making it a smooth and convenient experience.

One standout feature of this switch is the ability to turn off the LED indicator. This may seem like a small detail, but it's a thoughtful addition that many other smart switches lack. The app itself is user-friendly, offering a range of great features without overwhelming the user.

While the Meross Smart WiFi Wall Switch offers great value for the price, it is important to note a few limitations. Firstly, it does not have native Apple Homekit support. However, it can still be used with Apple Homekit via Homebridge, so it is still compatible with Apple users. Secondly, the haptic feedback when physically pressing the switch is a low pitch "thump" rather than a high pitch "click" found in some other switches. This is a matter of personal preference and does not affect the functionality of the switch.

Additionally, the switch has a matte, off-white finish, which may not match standard wall plates as well as switches with a glossy finish. However, this is a minor aesthetic concern and can be easily overlooked, especially if you plan to use the included wall plates.

One aspect to consider during installation is that this switch uses preinstalled wires instead of terminal screws. While this is not a major issue, connecting four wires to the house wires using wire nuts can be a challenge if you have limited space in your electrical box.

I recently purchased the GE Cync smart switches to control my porch lights in my older home. I had been searching for smart switches that didn't require a neutral wire, and I was thrilled to find the GE Cync which met my requirements.

The installation process was straightforward and only took about 15 minutes once I figured out how the existing switch was wired. The switch is currently controlling three LED lights on my porch, and I had no issues with the installation. The app worked immediately, and I was able to control the lights through voice commands, the app itself, Google Home, and manually flipping the switch. I also have other non-GE Cync switches on the same circuit, and they all work seamlessly together.

I am extremely satisfied with the performance of the GE Cync switches. In fact, I have since installed a second switch to control an outside light above my garage. Initially, I had some flickering issues with a low-wattage LED bulb, but after replacing it with a higher-wattage bulb, the problem was solved. I have also set up a scene/routine to automatically turn the porch and garage lights on and off at specific times, and it works flawlessly.

Based on my positive experience with these switches, I have decided to purchase an additional 12 GE Cync switches of various types for my home. I am impressed with how easy it is to bring my older home into the modern age with these switches, even with the old wiring.

I have now installed a total of 12 switches throughout my home, and they are all working well. I have also learned some valuable lessons during the installation process that I would like to share. Firstly, the switches work perfectly fine in a 3-way configuration without the need for travelers. The lights within the same grouping can be controlled together by any switch within the group, and this functionality can be managed within the app or Google Home.

In one of my bedrooms, I have track lighting with a power adapter that plugs into a wall outlet controlled by a switch. The GE Cync switch works in this configuration, but it's important not to plug anything else into the controlled outlet. I initially had LED bulbs in the track lighting, but the switch didn't like the configuration. After replacing one of the LEDs with a traditional incandescent bulb, everything worked fine. The difference in lighting between the incandescent and LEDs is indistinguishable.

If you have multiple switches in one room, they will be controlled collectively by default. However, if you want them to function independently, you can create separate groups within the app. The switches can be controlled as a group or individually within the app and Google Home.

For those experiencing flickering issues, I suggest trying more powerful bulbs. LED bulbs vary in their actual power consumption, and using a higher-wattage bulb can often resolve the problem. In cases where a single switch controls multiple LEDs and flickering occurs, replacing one of the LEDs with an incandescent bulb can also solve the issue. It's important to note that if you're using a single LED bulb, it should be at least 150-watt equivalent to meet the minimum 15-watt requirement.

I did encounter an issue in my kitchen where both switches lost network connectivity when the microwave was in use. This may be something to consider if you have switches located near high-powered appliances.

In terms of quality assurance, I have successfully installed 12 switches without any issues. However, I did return three switches that I purchased as used, and they turned out to be defective. This is not Amazon's fault, as the switches were sold by third-party sellers. I also returned one brand new switch that didn't power the lights. It's worth noting that there are many used switches available, which suggests that some users may be returning them for various reasons. Therefore, it may be worth considering the purchase of new switches to avoid any potential hassles.

I highly recommend the GE Cync switches for anyone looking to upgrade their home to a smart lighting system. The ease of installation, compatibility with various types of lighting, and seamless integration with the app and Google Home make these switches a fantastic choice.

I recently ventured into the world of home automation and after trying out a few options, I have found myself leaning towards Lutron Casetas. These smart switches have proven to be a valuable addition to my home, especially when it comes to modernizing the lighting experience.

Lutron has established itself as a reputable brand in the smart switching market, and my experience with their products has only reinforced this reputation. The Casetas switches offer manual push-button light dimming capabilities, which can be incredibly useful. They can be easily automated with external home automation platforms, making them a versatile choice. It's worth noting that for 3-way applications, you will need to purchase a Pico remote to ensure smooth operation.

However, it is important to consider when to avoid using a dimming switch. Applications such as pumps, fluorescent ballasts, garbage disposals, outdoor security lighting, smart bulbs, and ceiling fans are better suited for Lutron's on/off switches. These switches are specifically designed for electrically dimmable devices, so it's best to use them accordingly.

Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic knowledge of electricity and a few hand tools. One notable feature of these switches is that they don't require a neutral wire, although some smart switches do. I highly recommend using Wago connectors for retrofitting, as they provide a secure and efficient connection. The slim design of the switches makes them suitable even for tight switch boxes.

Once installed, the switches offer a luxurious experience with their dim-on and dim-off functions. However, it's important to ensure that you have dimming-capable bulbs for optimal performance. Smart bulbs may not be compatible and may cause issues like strobing or incomplete power-off. It may be necessary to replace some bulbs with dimmable ones to achieve the desired results.

Pairing the dimming switches with the Lutron hub is a breeze, and integrating them with home automation platforms like Home Assistant is equally straightforward. This seamless integration ensures a hassle-free experience and allows for customization based on individual preferences.

In terms of critical infrastructure, such as lighting, these switches meet my three main criteria. Firstly, they work intuitively, just like a normal light switch. Secondly, they don't rely on complex server systems or special networks. Lastly, they integrate seamlessly with my chosen home automation solution, without requiring me to be tied to a specific cloud or app.

I have found various creative uses for these smart dimming switches in my home. For example, I have motion-activated lighting in bathrooms, closets, entryways, and stairwells, eliminating the need to manually turn lights on and off. I also use the dimming functions to set the bathroom lights to a low level during nighttime hours, avoiding the discomfort of bright lights in the middle of the night. Additionally, I have set up a dimmed "always on" outdoor security light, which brightens up when my security camera detects a human presence. These switches have allowed me to create personalized lighting scenes, enhancing the overall ambiance of my rooms.

While some may argue that these switches are expensive, their reliability, speed, and compatibility with various technologies make them a worthwhile investment. They add value to your home and can be considered a selling point when marketing your property as "home automation ready." I am extremely satisfied with my decision to go with Lutron's smart switching and would highly recommend considering them if you're in the market for smart switches.

I have been using smart switches for a while now, and I have tried various brands such as WeMo, TP-Link, and Lutron. However, I always found myself disappointed with their performance and the amount of money I had to spend on them. That's why I was pleasantly surprised when I tried the TreatLife smart switches. Let me break down my review into different sections for your convenience.

Ease of Install:

Installing these switches was a breeze. It took me no more than ten minutes per switch. It's important to note that you need to have a neutral wire and enough space in your electrical box for a dimmer. Make sure to turn off the power at the circuit breaker before attempting any installation work, and if you're unsure, it's always best to call an electrician. The package includes all the necessary hardware, such as screws, wire nuts, and a single gang wall plate. Unlike some other brands, TreatLife switches work with any decora wallplate, not just the one provided.

Looks and Feels:

I absolutely love the design of these switches. They have a sleek and modern look that is pleasing to the eye. The touch dimming slider is a great feature, and I really enjoy the way it glows. The night light/indicator light at the bottom adds a nice touch, and it shows the level that the dimmer is set to. The construction feels a bit plasticky, but it's not flimsy or fragile. Overall, the switches have a solid build quality.

Control:

The main on/off button has a satisfying click and feels similar to a mouse button. It may take some getting used to, but it's not a major issue. The touch panel for the dimmer is a standout feature. It's intuitive and futuristic, and I personally prefer it over traditional buttons or sliders. The switches also have a built-in shortcut where a double press of the main button sets the light level to minimum, which is quite handy.

Wi-Fi Connectivity:

Setting up the switches and connecting them to my smart home accounts was a breeze. The switches automatically go into pairing mode when powered up for the first time. Resetting is also simple, just hold down the on/off button for a few seconds. Once paired, the switches rarely give any connectivity issues. I have six switches, with four of them close to my router and two far away. While the Wi-Fi speed for the farther switches may dip to around 20 MBPS (compared to my 250 MBPS internet speed), it hasn't caused any major problems. There was only one instance where one switch lost connection, but it hasn't happened again in over a year. Occasionally, there might be a slight lag (maximum of 5 seconds) when controlling the switches from my phone, but it's very uncommon.

Alexa and Google Home Integration:

These switches pair seamlessly with both Alexa and Google Assistant. Alexa automatically adds the switches to the app without having to go into device discovery mode. Although I primarily use Alexa, I can confirm that Google Home can turn the switches on and off. With Alexa, you can control various functions such as powering on/off, dimming to any percentage, and integrating routines. I particularly enjoy using routines, such as an alarm that gradually brings up the lights or a "Movie Night" routine that adjusts the lights to create a cozy ambiance.

P.S. Please ignore the gaps and uneven surfaces in the attached pictures. I plan to fix them as part of my home improvement projects.

I recently purchased the TP-Link HS210 3-way smart switch kit and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. As someone who already owns multiple TP-Link smart switches and plugs, I was eagerly awaiting the release of this 3-way switch, and it did not disappoint.

Installation was a breeze thanks to the user-friendly Kasa app. The step-by-step instructions guided me through the process, even reminding me to take a picture of the labeled wires before disconnecting the old switches. Configuring the switch to my Wi-Fi network was just as easy as with their standard single pole smart switch. The setup app is intuitive and I was able to complete the installation in no time.

I did encounter a small challenge when fitting the switch in the same box as a single pole TP-Link switch. The extra wires and large backs of these switches made for a tight fit. To save space, I chose not to connect the ground wires and simply cut them short and taped them off. My only complaint is that the white circle light on the switch is slightly dimmer than standard switches, which may bother those who are particularly picky about uniformity.

The kit comes with two sets of switches, each including wire nuts, mounting screws, a snap-on faceplate, wire labeling stickers, and the switch itself. I installed both switches in my home and the step-by-step instructions provided in the Kasa app were extremely helpful. Even though I had previous experience with switch and outlet replacements, it was reassuring to have the instructions to ensure I didn't miss anything. If needed, there is also an installation video available on TP-Link's YouTube channel.

In my case, both of my installation locations were in a 2-gang wall box, so I had to purchase separate wall plates to accommodate them. The provided wall plates are aesthetically pleasing, but unfortunately, they did not work for my setup.

I specifically bought this kit to use each switch on a separate 3-way circuit, and I'm pleased to report that the installation went smoothly without any issues. I didn't need any hacks or workarounds. It's worth noting that the setup app assumes both switches are on the same 3-way circuit, so when prompted to connect the second switch to Wi-Fi, simply keep pressing "Next" until the installation is complete. Everything is functioning exactly as desired, and with the Kasa App Skill enabled via the Alexa App, I can now control two 3-way circuits with voice commands, the Alexa App, and manually via the switches themselves. The old analog switches on the other side of the circuits continue to work as before.

For those using a newer tri-band mesh network like myself, it's important to change the wireless SSID name and password on your router for the 2.4GHz band. This allows your phone with the Kasa app to manually connect to the same network as the smart devices. The Kasa app and smart devices must be connected to the same 2.4 GHz network for communication. This is not a specific issue with TP-Link/Kasa, but rather a common requirement for most smart-home devices that connect via 2.4 GHz.

I am extremely satisfied with the Treatlife smart outlets that I recently purchased. As someone who considers themselves to be relatively handy, I was initially a bit intimidated by the installation process. However, I quickly realized that with a little bit of patience and determination, I could successfully complete the project.

Removing the old plate was a breeze, but things got a bit complicated when I discovered three switches on the plate, one of which was a three-way switch. Wires were everywhere, and I was concerned that I might not have the necessary neutral wire. However, after some careful examination, I was able to locate a bundle of wires in the back that contained the neutral wire. I had to make a decision whether to put the switch back or remove everything to get a better view, and I ultimately chose the latter option. This is when my wife arrived home and expressed her concerns, but I reassured her that I didn't need an electrician.

I proceeded to connect two additional white wires to the existing bundle of six wires and connected them to the two new switches. I also figured out how to wire the second switch, which had two black wires instead of the typical red and black combination. Once everything was wired up, I turned the power back on and was thrilled to see that both switches lit up and could be controlled. It was a EUREKA moment for me! The only downside was that the Treatlife switches took up more space in the plate box, so it took some time to fit everything back in.

I did encounter a slight challenge when it came to installing the app. The instructions for finding the "Smart Life" app were not clear, but I eventually realized that I already had the app from previous outlet purchases. However, I struggled to connect the devices to Alexa. After some investigation, I discovered that the old outlets didn't require me to set up an account, but the Treatlife switches did. I had to tell Alexa to forget the Smart Life skill, create an account, and then re-add the skill to Alexa. Once I completed these steps, everything worked seamlessly.

After successfully installing and configuring the first two switches, I proceeded to install a third switch. It took me approximately 45 minutes to install, verify, and add it to Alexa. The process would have been even quicker if I had assistance, but I managed to figure it out on my own. I must admit, it took me a bit of time to find the light switch in the outlet box, but once I did, it was smooth sailing.

The TP-Link Kasa KP200 WiFi two-outlet in-wall receptacle is a reliable and high-performing smart device that seamlessly integrates into a Google Mesh home network. With over 50 smart WiFi devices connected to the network, the TP-Link smart devices, including the KP200, have consistently delivered excellent performance without any technical issues.

Installation of the KP200 is straightforward and hassle-free, provided the proper steps are followed. It is important to note that a neutral white wire is required for installation. However, there is a caveat for amateur electricians like myself. Depending on your location, safety codes may require any wall receptacle within 15 feet of running water to be a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or commonly known as a "GFI outlet."

In the reviewer's case, they were unaware that some of their existing wall receptacles were unmarked GFCI outlets. When they replaced one of these outlets with the KP200, it caused a disruption in the electrical circuit, rendering not only the KP200 but also the other kitchen outlets inoperable. This violation of the state's electrical code necessitated the intervention of a licensed electrician, resulting in an expensive visit and a valuable lesson learned.

It is worth mentioning that the KP200 is not a GFCI unit and should not be used to replace GFCI outlets. It is essential to verify the type of receptacle you are replacing before installing the KP200 or any other non-GFCI outlet.

Despite this setback, the reviewer highlights the excellent performance and reliability of the KP200 when installed correctly. As a cautionary measure, they emphasize the importance of purchasing smart devices from reputable and established companies like TP-Link. This is crucial in ensuring that the devices receive regular firmware and software updates, enhancing their security features. By doing so, users can protect their home networks from potential hackers who may exploit vulnerabilities in cheaper, lesser-known IoT devices.

I recently purchased a 2-pack of these smart switches to replace the ones in my home. While the manual provided was a bit too simple, it was still easy enough to figure out the installation process. After connecting the switches to power, the LED lights turned solid red. To pair them with the app, I had to press and hold the switch for a few seconds until the lights started flashing. This step was not mentioned in the manual, which was a bit frustrating. However, once the switches were set up, they worked perfectly fine. I have been using them to control my driveway and front door lights.

With so many options available in the market, it can be a gamble to find smart switches that actually work. However, these switches worked flawlessly for me. I installed them in my basement to replace a 2-gang set of light switches, and everything worked perfectly from the first try. I didn't even need to read the manual. The Smart Life mobile application and Alexa skill worked together seamlessly, allowing me to group my lights together and control them with a single voice command. The wireless requirement of 2.4GHz was mentioned in the manual, so I made sure to connect to the appropriate Wi-Fi network in my house.

The installation process was relatively easy, although it was a bit tight. This is to be expected in most cases. If your house is wired correctly, you will have multiple neutral wires in the electrical box. Since these switches have a thicker back, it can be a tight fit, but it is manageable. The only downside I found was that the wires need to be screwed in, rather than using the more secure push-to-lock mechanism found in most switches.