Installation of interior lighting systems is not an easy task, associated with serious material and labor costs. Open wire routing will not be an interior decoration. For the device of hidden wiring, you will need to cut and gouge punches - furrows in stone and reinforced concrete walls and partitions, drill slots for junction boxes and switches. The problem becomes especially acute if you need to mount additional lighting fixtures after renovation in the room. A wonderful way out of this situation is to purchase a wireless switch. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" will help readers get to know this new product in the electrical goods market better and present a rating of the best wireless switches for 2020, based on customer reviews and expert recommendations.
Content
- 1 Scope of the wireless switch
- 2 Rating of quality wireless switches
Scope of the wireless switch
It so happens that one or more switches are inconveniently located and it would be great to move them to another place. Or you need to turn on and off the light from two or more different points of the apartment or house. Everything would be fine, but the installation of wiring on concrete and stone walls is a long, difficult and costly process, and in a wooden country cottage it is completely unrealistic.
But there is a way out, simple, modern and quite budgetary, no more than 1000 rubles. But the main thing is that all the work on assembling the kit will not last more than 30 minutes. In this case, you do not need a meter of wire or the help of a professional electrician. And no punishment is needed.
To organize this miracle, a wireless or radio switch will help.
Pass-through and cross switches
Pass-through switches are very convenient for lighting long corridors and staircases in office buildings and entrances of residential buildings. It is very convenient to turn on the light at the entrance to the corridor or on the first floor of the staircase, proceed to your office or go up to your floor and turn off the light while you are near your apartment or office.
Such a scheme allows you to seriously save energy. However, for its implementation, it will be necessary to perform a large amount of construction and electrical work and replace the standard serial key blocks with special ones - through, characterized by a large number of contacts.
The use of cross switches makes it possible to control lighting from three (or more) different points in the room.
The principle is the same as for pass-through devices. The difference is as follows:
- There are no dedicated cross key blocks. Conventional devices are used as crossover devices.
- Cross switches are used in circuits only with pass-through switches.
It is convenient in large apartments or country houses, and in ordinary "kopeck piece" apartments too. Imagine that you went to bed with the intention of reading a handbook before going to bed, turned on the night light, but forgot to turn off the overhead light.Usually, in such a situation, you will have to get up, turn off the light and go back to bed. With the cross switch next to the bed, you don't have to go anywhere. We lay down, turned on the night light, turned off the overhead light and that's it!
This is great, but the volume of construction and installation work, the device of hidden wiring and its termination, will turn anyone away from such ideas, as is the case with the pass-through scheme. The advent of wireless lighting control has simplified these tasks so much that the implementation of pass-through and cross-over circuits has become the most popular in modern residential construction, especially in individual projects.
Smart switches
Another type of wireless devices. Used in systems "smart House". For their installation does not require construction work and wiring. The fundamental difference is that its application requires constant access to the Internet, a controller (gateway) of the "smart home" system and smart bulbs. The connection between the control device and the lighting device is carried out via Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Z-Wave. The use of smart circuits allows the user to customize the operation of lighting fixtures according to different scenarios:
- Turning on and off the light from the motion sensor;
- Turning on street lighting at a certain time (for country houses);
- Adjusting the intensity of the luminous flux depending on the time of day.
There are a lot of smart lighting options. The most common ones are listed here.
How radio switches work
The set of the simplest kit includes two wiring units: a keyboard unit and a power radio module.
The first one acts in this pair as a radio transmitter, the signal of which is received by a receiver - a radio module. Communication is carried out at frequencies of 315 and 433.92 MHz.
Interesting! Radio channel 433.92 MHz is used for remote control of garage doors, barriers, activation of car alarms. Remote control - key fobs that are used in this case can also be used in lighting circuits as a portable control device.
For the circuit to work, you need to connect the radio module to the voltage supply wires to the lamp. On its board there are two groups of contact terminals, with two and three contact terminals - input and output.
In order to make it easier for the user to navigate when assembling the circuit, the terminals are signed. On one side of the module there are two terminals with the signature - input. This is the entrance. This is where the two power wires, neutral and phase, are connected from the existing junction box. On the other side of the module board there are three contact terminals. The two extremes are the exit. From here, two wires connect to the lamp holder. The dimensions of the radio module (width, depth and height) do not exceed the size of a matchbox and can be easily hidden in the luminaire body. That's the whole installation.
In addition to the input / output terminals and other electronics, a 5A fuse and a central button are mounted on the board, which is used to configure the system. How to connect the radio module to the lighting device is described in detail in the instructions for the product.
The lighting control unit (let's call it that) can be installed in any place convenient for you, at a distance not exceeding the range of the device. Depending on the chosen model, this distance ranges from 25 to 100 m. The block with the keys itself can be attached with screws to the wall or double-sided tape on any smooth surface: window glass, facing tiles, the outer wall of the refrigerator, etc.
Under the button there is a board with an antenna and a central power button, a battery, and a LED that signals that the transmitter is bound to the radio module.
The battery type may vary. Most often it is 27A12V. Its minimum working resource is at least two years. In addition to the central button, the board has free spaces for mounting two more buttons. If desired, you can replace one key with two or three.
How to bind a wireless keypad to a radio module
In order for the control unit to start functioning, it must be programmed (tied to the radio module).This is done as follows:
- Find and press the center button of the radio module.
- Wait until the LED on the key blinks.
- Without releasing the radio module button, smoothly press the transmitter button. In this case, a characteristic click of the activated relay will be heard.
- Wait until the LED lights up constantly, without blinking.
The setup is complete. If necessary, you can preprogram the device. To do this, just press the radio module setup button and keep it pressed for 5 seconds. When the LED starts blinking, the operation is complete
Selection criteria for wireless switches
By design and principle of operation, products from different manufacturers are practically the same. They are distinguished by some parameters.
By control type
There are three main types of switches: key, touch and remote. Keypad is a traditional single-pole control unit with one, two or three keys. Turning on and off the light is done by pressing the key.
Touch control blocks are called control blocks in which the keys are replaced by a touch panel. To turn the light on or off, just touch a certain icon on the panel with your finger.
The remote type assumes the presence of a remote control (or key fob).
By the presence of a dimmer
A conventional unit can either turn on or turn off the light. With the help of a special device - a dimmer, the intensity of the luminous flux can be controlled by turning the rotary knob on the panel of the device clockwise to increase it, or in the opposite direction to decrease it.
By the number of control channels
One channel is the simplest circuit, consisting of one keyboard unit that controls one source. Two and three-key blocks make it possible to control two and three lighting devices located in different rooms.
With the help of the remote control, you can organize control of four, six and eight devices.
By price
The choice of a particular type of product directly depends on how much it costs. Inexpensive products most often cannot boast of a rich set of functions. Their task is to turn on and off the lamp. Multichannel kits, with a built-in micro-generator, the ability to integrate into a smart home system, with a dimmer function - are many times more expensive.
By material
Most often, the body and keys are made of plastic. The frames for hidden switches can be plastic or metal in premium models. The plastic surface of the product is often glossy. Combinations are possible: glossy key surface and matte - overlays.
When choosing a radio control unit for lighting devices, you should determine for yourself the option of its use, the number of lamps that you want to link to it, whether regulation of the lighting intensity is required. A separate topic is the use of a smart switch. Setting it up and developing scenarios for its application is more complicated than just connecting a wireless unit. But the versatility of home lighting control is well worth it.
What else should you pay attention to
- Range of the device. Budget kits work flawlessly when the distance between the control unit and the receiver does not exceed 30 meters.
- More "long-range" products can be located within a radius of 100 meters or more from the receiver (lamp). The most advanced ones control the light at a distance of 250 m. These are especially useful when organizing outdoor lighting in a suburban area.
- The range of the device is significantly reduced if there are brick and reinforced concrete walls between the transmitter and receiver. To neutralize their negative impact, repeaters should be used to increase the signal transmission range.
- When deciding on an acceptable price, remember that the simpler the product, the less it costs. Long-range modules with extended functionality are always more expensive.
- Most car alarms, gate openers and barriers operate at 433 MHz radio frequency. By purchasing a model with such a "multi-noise" operating frequency, you get some problems.The number of circuit failures is increasing due to the numerous interference. To overcome them, the radio signal must be more powerful, and this reduces the working life of the battery. The range of the product at this frequency does not exceed 30 m. Modules with an operating frequency of 868 MHz are devoid of all this. The service life of the batteries in such devices is several times longer, the power consumption is much lower, the range is 200 m and more.
- A number of manufacturers produce products that operate without batteries. In the housing of the control unit, under the key, a microgenerator is provided that converts the mechanical energy of pressing the key into electrical energy, in an amount sufficient to generate a radio signal at the operating frequency of the radio module. Such devices save the user from having to buy and change batteries in time.
- When purchasing a wireless kit, pay attention to the manufacturer's warranty. If the warranty period does not exceed one year, the manufacturer admits the possibility of breakdowns after 12 months of product operation. Whether it is worth purchasing such a model is up to the buyer. It is better to opt for products with a 3-year warranty.
Which company is the best product to buy
There are a lot of suppliers of such equipment on the market. Which model to choose Certainly, from well-known companies. As mentioned earlier, all wireless units are structurally similar to each other. The difference is expressed by the presence or absence of the expanded functionality of the product.
The simplest and most inexpensive sets of radio control for lighting devices come to our market from China:
- ZDK Z-Light. Its products are equipped with a built-in mini-generator for converting mechanical energy when a key is pressed into electrical energy of a radio signal. The company's devices operate without batteries. The warranty period does not exceed one year.
- Agara. The lighting control units of this brand are used in the smart home system of the Xiaomi ecosystem. Users give the best reviews about the products of this manufacturer.
- Feron is a Russian development with production in China. Simple budget products enjoy a good reputation with customers.
One of the oldest companies on the electrical products market is the French company Legrand. Its products are distinguished by wide functionality, stylish design, high quality and price. These are premium models.
The Polish company Zamel, a supplier of advanced wireless switches, with a range of at least 200 m, the ability to configure five control modes for lighting fixtures and many other useful features. It is in demand among demanding buyers.
The Belarusian company Nootechnika produces electrical products Noolite. Its products are distinguished by innovative solutions, wide functionality and affordable prices.
The best manufacturers in Russia
- Gritt Elegance, produces popular models of kinetic control modules (with built-in micro-generator), operating frequency of 868 MHz and range of 250 m.
- Hite Pro. Wireless control units of this company are powered by one battery for at least 7 years. The manufacturer guarantees flawless operation of the device for 3 years, at a frequency of 868 MHz with a range of 250 m.
- Delumo. It also guarantees the correct operation of its products for three years. The operating frequency and range are the same as that of the Hite Pro. Uses CR2032 batteries for its devices.
It will take a long time to list all the companies whose models are undoubtedly popular. Before buying, listen to the recommendations and advice of experienced users and experts from various online stores, carefully read the description of the devices on the websites of online stores and make your choice.
Having learned what kind of lighting control radio modules are, and having familiarized ourselves with their features, let's move on to our review, which presents some of the popular models.
Rating of quality wireless switches
JoyDeal
The tenth line in the ranking is taken by the kit from the Chinese manufacturer JoyDeal. The company produces various lighting control units: keyboards and touchscreens, models for Smart Home systems, wireless, with a signal transmission at a frequency of 433 MHz. The kit includes two control units and a power radio module. This is a ready-made set for the implementation of walk-through schemes in long corridors, on mid-flight stairs, etc. The dimensions of the module allow its placement in a decorative luminaire base or behind a suspended ceiling. Its installation will not take more than 45 minutes, together with the unpacking of the goods. Wireless control units are attached in any convenient place with double-sided tape or self-tapping screws. The distance between transmitter and receiver should not exceed 20 meters in an apartment and 80 meters in an open area. The average cost of the kit is 297 rubles.
Advantages:
- ease of installation;
- two control units included;
- affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- batteries are not included in the package.
Feron TM 2334
The ninth in the rating is the remote two-channel lighting control panel from the Russian manufacturer Feron, model TM 23344. The set includes a two-channel radio module, a remote control panel and a battery for it. An excellent option for controlling a chandelier with any number of lamps, provided that the total number of lamps in the chandelier is divided into two groups:
- The chandelier of three lamps is divided into two groups: one lamp is switched on separately and the other two are also separately. Two pressed buttons on the remote control light all three lamps.
- The four-lamp chandelier can be divided into groups, 2 + 2 and 3 + 1.
- A five-lamp chandelier can give many options, but in our case, the product provides control only in two channels: 2 + 3 or 1 + 4. The first option is more functional.
Recently, spotlights with LED backlighting have been popular. This is a lighting device that, in addition to the main lamp, has a built-in backlight from an LED strip. Feron TM 23344 will do an excellent job of controlling such a luminaire. In 30 minutes, a person who knows how to hold a screwdriver in his hands and who has some idea of safety during electrical work will connect such a device to the existing wires from the 220 V network, through the two-channel radio module from the kit. With the remote control, you can implement three scenarios for the lamp:
- turn on the backlight separately;
- separately - the main lamp;
- main light and backlight together.
The range of the remote control is up to 30 m. The cost of this device is 795 rubles.
Advantages:
- ease of installation;
- two configuration modes;
- there is no need to hit the fence and lay wires to implement various lighting scenarios;
- each channel can withstand a load of up to 50 W; in all-inclusive mode - up to 1000 W.
Disadvantages:
- the manufacturer gives a short warranty period - 12 months.
Agara WXKLG02LM
The eighth place in the ranking is occupied by the Chinese "smart" lighting control unit Agara WXKLG02LM. The model is actively used in the work of the smart home ecosystem from Xiaomi Mi Home. The Agara two-key control module is registered in the smart home system and receives a signal via Wi-Fi, ZigBee or Bluetooth. In order to turn on or off the light in the room, it is not at all necessary to press the keys, although they are included in the kit. The module is registered in the application installed on a smartphone, iPhone or tablet. To turn the light on or off, just lightly touch the module icon on your gadget. In this case, the owner can be as far away from his home as desired. The main thing is that it is within the Wi-Fi range. The model costs, on average, 998 rubles.
Advantages:
- complete absence of the need for any installation;
- trouble-free work;
- the ability to implement a large number of lighting scenarios;
- affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- works only if the Internet is available.
Hite PRO SN-R1
In seventh place is the Russian-made and Russian-made Hite PRO SN-R1 radio switch. The model is interesting in that it operates at a frequency of 865 MHz, with a range of 250 meters. The manufacturer promises flawless operation of the device for 15 years and gives a three-year warranty. These are the best conditions from the manufacturers of this type of equipment. The Hite PRO SN-R1 radio module is not inferior to the best foreign counterparts. The power supply battery provides the model for 7 years! Its capabilities make it possible to successfully use it in suburban areas, when you need to turn on the backlight in order to reach its most remote corner. The use of Hite PRO SN-R1 in this variant will save a decent amount on laying wires or cables. The average cost of the model will be 1,480 rubles.
Advantages:
- large radius of action;
- ease of installation, long-term trouble-free operation;
- three-year manufacturer's warranty;
- seven years of operation on one battery.
Disadvantages:
- the product is overpriced.
Inted 220V
The sixth place in the ranking is given to the next Chinese model Inted 220V. The package contains two power radio modules and a wireless wall-mounted two-button module. The model's operation scheme is simple: one radio module - one lamp - one key. Thus, the kit is suitable for the following lighting scenarios:
- main ceiling lamp + sconces in the hallway;
- main ceiling lamp + kitchen lighting;
- main lamps in separate bathrooms - bathroom + toilet.
There can be many options. Principle one - the inclusion of two devices or two groups of lighting with one two-key block. For installation, you will need a screwdriver, terminal blocks and time - no more than one hour. And no work on the installation of shtraba, laying of wires, followed by sealing of hidden wiring channels. Savings in time and money are evident. The switch can be attached with double-sided tape at any convenient location for the user on a smooth surface, or with self-tapping screws on any free and suitable section of the wall. The average price of the model will be 1,790 rubles.
Advantages:
- ease of installation;
- lighting devices power up to 1000 W;
- battery included.
Disadvantages:
- short warranty period - 12 months;
- overcharge.
ZDK Z-Light 0287
The fifth in the ranking is a set from China ZDK Z-Light 0287. This is a two-channel (two-key) wireless switch. The model is interesting because the battery is not included in the kit as unnecessary. The built-in micro-generator provides the necessary and sufficient amount of electricity to transmit a signal at a frequency of 433 MHz to the radio module. In addition, ZDK Z-Light 0287 can be used in lighting control scenarios of a smart home system from the same ZDK brand. Then it can be used as a simple wireless wall switch, or it can be controlled remotely from anywhere in the world using your smartphone or iPhone with a special application as a remote control. To implement this feature, an Internet connection is required. This switch costs an average of 1,750 rubles.
Advantages:
- ease of installation;
- no wiring device required;
- control of two channels (groups) of lighting;
- no battery required;
- the ability to integrate the module into a smart home system from ZDK.
Disadvantages:
- the radio module is not included in the kit and is purchased separately;
- taking into account the absence of a radio module in the kit, the price is clearly overpriced.
Armalight AS-6M
The fourth place in the ranking is the Armalight AS-6M wireless kinetic radio switch. The radio module, connected to a power supply from a 220 V network, receives a signal and turns on or off the lamp. Armalight AS-6M has all the advantages of wireless lighting control: ease of installation, no wires, the ability to place the keyboard unit in any convenient place and on any surface, from window glass to concrete walls, without damaging the finish. In addition, this model has its own unique features:
- pressing a key activates a special module that converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, in an amount sufficient to transmit a radio signal to the lamp receiver in the 433 MHz range, without using batteries;
- the product works without problems in conditions of high humidity and even completely immersed in water;
- the working resource of the module is designed for 200,000 on / off switching, which corresponds to 15 years of trouble-free operation.
The average cost of the device is 1950 rubles. Components can be purchased separately. But you must remember that one channel will work with only one with one radio module. The radius of action is 70 meters.
Advantages:
- easy installation;
- no need to cut channels in the walls and install wiring;
- fastened with self-tapping screws or double-sided tape in any convenient place;
- batteries are not needed.
Disadvantages:
- not found.
Delumo
The third place in the rating is taken by the device of the Russian brand Delumo. Has all the advantages of a wireless radio switch. The two-channel version allows it to be used to control two luminaires or groups of luminaires. A distinctive feature of this model is the transmission of radio signals at a frequency of 868 MHz and a range of up to 250 meters. A rich palette of 25 colors will make this model a decoration of any interior. The average price of the product is 2050 rubles. For the same amount you can buy a Delumo radio dimmer with built-in surge protection. This will allow you to adjust the light intensity, save energy and extend the lamp life up to 5 years. The manufacturer guarantees the battery life up to 7 years without replacement. According to buyers, the Delumo model has the best value for money.
Advantages:
- two channels for lighting control;
- touch panel instead of mechanical keys;
- a large selection of product colors;
- long battery life;
- the possibility of using a radio dimmer.
Disadvantages:
- the need to purchase a radio dimmer separately doubles the cost of the product.
Gritt elegance
The second line in the ranking is occupied by the Gritt Elegance model, the Russian manufacturer Gritt Electric LLC. The wireless two-button radio switch is supplied complete with one radio module for two lighting lines. The control module is equipped with a micro-generator that converts mechanical energy of pressing a key into electrical energy for transmitting a radio signal in the 433 MHz range. In addition, an energy storage unit is added to the microgenerator. The working resource of the device is from 200,000 clicks. This is enough for at least 10 years of proper operation. The kit includes double-sided tape and self-tapping screws for fixing the product in any place convenient for the owner. The purchase of this device will cost the buyer an average of 3405 rubles.
Advantages:
- works without batteries;
- working resource - at least 200,000 clicks;
- ease of installation;
- control of two lighting channels from one radio module.
Disadvantages:
- somewhat overpriced.
Zamel RZB - 04
The first place in the rating is taken by the product of the Polish manufacturer Zamel RZB - 04. This is a set of two-channel wireless control of lighting or other electrical devices: gates, curtains, etc. The set includes a two-channel radio switch RNK 4 and a four-channel power radio module ROP-02. The model is adjustable to five operating modes:
- switching on and off;
- mono and bistable work;
- turn-off delay by time.
The average cost of the device is 4980 rubles.
Advantages:
- ease of installation;
- a large selection of modes;
- range of up to 200 m;
- LED signaling of operation;
- economical use of power.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Model name and country of origin | Main technical characteristics | average price |
---|---|---|
Zamel RZB - 04 Poland | Two output relays (potential-free contacts 230 V AC), control of lighting or other receivers, easy installation in an inner box Ø60 mm, 5 operating modes: on, off, monostable, bistable, temporary (delayed off), long range (up to 200 m), optical signaling of work, low power consumption, the possibility of continuous operation, the possibility of increasing the operating range by using the RTN-01 retransmitter. | 4980 rubles |
Gritt Elegance Russia | Color Gray matt Number of keys 2 cl. Operating range (street / room) 150 m. Key operation Latching after pressing Complete with the control unit there is Working voltage 220 V Load power 5 A Switch supply Without batteries, kinetic microgenerator. Set: 1 switch, 1 control unit for 2 lighting lines, instructions in Russian, double-sided tape for attaching the switch Switch dimensions (L x W x T): 87 x 87 x 15 mm Control box dimensions (L x W x T): 60 x 43 x 27 mm | 3405 rubles |
Delumo Russia | Operating temperature range from 0 ° С to + 50 ° Maximum transmission distance 250 meters Supply voltage 220V, 3V cell 2450 Working frequency 868 MHz Colour White pearls | 2050 rubles |
Armalight AS-6M | Operating frequency ranges 433 MHz Range up to 70 meters Max. power 1000W Signal coding addressable transmission Power supply - autonomous, kinetic energy Operating temperature range from -40 to +45 ° С Mounting method - double-sided tape, self-tapping screws Dimensions 86 × 86 × 17 mm White color | 1960 rubles |
ZDK Z-Light 0287 China | Brand ZDK Z-Light 0287 Type of food - From the 220V network. Type - Control module. Purpose - lighting control. Module view - switch Number of controlled devices, pcs. - 2. Dimensions, mm: 86 x 86 x 14. Product weight - 85g. The color is silvery. | 1750 rubles |
Inted 220V China | Type: Wireless Light Switches Working voltage: 220 - 240V Number of channels: 2 Load power, W: 1000W Remote control power supply: 1 * 12V / A23 Warranty: 12 Months | 1790 rubles |
HiTE PRO SN-R1 Russia | Operating frequency ranges - 868 MHz. The operating range is up to 250 meters. The signal transmission method is unidirectional. Signal coding - addressable transmission. Power supply - CR2032, battery. Estimated time to battery replacement is 7 years. Operating temperature range from -30 to +50 ° С Mounting method - double-sided tape, self-tapping screws. Dimensions - 81x81x11 mm Color: beige, black, white. | 1480 rubles |
Agara WXKLG02LM China | Type - switch with electronic commutation. White color. Number of keys / connectors - 2 Works in the "smart home" system Ecosystem - Xiaomi Mi Home Dimensions (W x H x D) mm - 86 x 15 x 86. Connection to a smartphone - yes. The material is plastic. Additional Information: Android 4.1 and above, iOS 8.0 and above. ZigBee communication protocol. Device connection type - wireless. | 998 rubles |
Feron TM75 23344 Russia / China | Appearance: Main color (metal) black silver. Dimensions in mm (L * W * H): 97 * 53 * 25. Voltage 230 V. Degree of protection IP20. Additional data: Type 2-channel; working temperature -10 ° C - + 40 ° C Warranty 12 Number of programs (modes) 2 Load - 1000W. Produced by Feron. | 759 rubles |
Joydeal China | Brand: joydeal Remote. Product type: push-button radio switch. Working frequency 433 MHz; voltage 110 - 220 V; current 10A. The material is plastic. The range is 20 meters in an apartment, 80 meters in an open area. Size: 86mm x 86mm x 11.5mm Possibilities of use: pass-through switches are room, wall. 1 year warranty. Complete set: two one-button switches (transmitter), one power radio module (receiver). | 297 rubles |
Wireless radio switches have greatly expanded the possibilities for customizing lighting in our homes and apartments. Their installation is available to non-professionals.They save us from a huge amount of work on the installation of hidden wiring, save our time, money (on the purchase of wires) and nerves, relieving us of the need to gouge walls, close up channels with laid wires, move furniture that has closed stationary switches. And this is all with the cost of the most advanced models quite affordable to everyone, most of which are very easy to order and quickly receive from Ali Express. Our review will help you navigate among a huge number of manufacturers and not make the mistake of choosing a decent wireless switch model.