Wireless light switch: selection criteria + review of the best models

The practical wireless light switch is a multifunctional element that allows you to control your home lighting system.It activates light sources by sending a signal from a transmitter to a receiver.

To install the module, you do not need to cut walls or lay new wiring. The surface-mounted switch can be placed anywhere without causing any damage to the decorative finish.

Components of the wireless module

The design of a wireless switch is very simple and consists of two working components: a receiver and a transmitter. Each of these nodes has its own area of ​​responsibility and performs strictly defined functions that ensure correct control of the lighting system.

Design and principle of operation of the receiver

The receiver is a radio-controlled relay, which during operation picks up the corresponding signal and closes the galvanic circuit of household electrical wiring.

The relay is placed as close as possible to the lighting fixture, or somewhere in the neighborhood, but always in a place that falls within the coverage area of ​​the transmitter.

Due to the compactness of the receiving radio relay, it can be placed in a chandelier, sconce or floor lamp. When you want to take control of the control of spotlights, it is appropriate to “hide” the receiver behind the suspended ceiling

Another option is to mount the element into a distribution box, if its dimensions allow this to be done technically. The mini-device is controlled from a remote control, smartphone, tablet, computer via Wi-Fi or radio waves.

Specifics of the transmitter operation

For correct operation, the transmitter does not need to be connected to an active power supply. Power is provided by autonomous energy sources - batteries.

More advanced models have a small internal generator that generates electric current when the user presses a key. The energy pulse that occurs at this time is transformed into a radio signal, which is picked up by the receiving device.

Commands to the module are given from the remote control or via a phone with access to Wi-Fi. In this way it is possible to control up to 8 devices simultaneously

A signal transmitter equipped with an energy generator is more expensive than a similar battery-powered model. But the price is quickly compensated by the ease of use, and the owners do not have to think every time about how not to forget and replace worn-out batteries in a timely manner.

The coverage area of ​​a device depends on many parameters. This is primarily influenced by the general technical characteristics of the product and the structural features of the room (layout, presence of furniture, false walls, etc.) where the module is located.

Simple budget devices transmit the correct signal within a radius of 20-50 meters. In more advanced models, this figure reaches 350 meters, but the price for such powerful devices is still high.

The signal transmitter, operating on rechargeable batteries, does an excellent job of turning on and off the lights in rooms, serves for a long time and requires only one thing from the owners - timely recharging of the batteries using a charger

Some manufacturers produce products with expanded functionality. Smart devices They take on not only the standard control of turning on/off light bulbs, but also regulate the intensity of the lighting devices and the degree of illumination of the room. This mode is ensured by a special component – ​​a dimmer.

The device, equipped with a dimmer, allows you to set the most convenient level of luminous flux saturation. This action is carried out by holding or scrolling the operating button located on the switch itself

Purpose dimmer — adjustment of electrical power responsible for the brightness of the light. The device works normally with both LED and traditional incandescent lamps.

Distinctive features of wireless devices

Modern wireless switches, manufactured under different brands, are similar in design and operating principle.

The devices differ in the following parameters:

• type of control (push-button, touch, remote);
• the ability to control the intensity of the light flux in the room (whether present or not);
• number of devices to be managed (from 1 to 8 depending on the model and manufacturer).

In addition to the above items, there are significant differences in functionality. The majority of devices simply control the switching on/off of lights in rooms.

Only advanced models are equipped with additional features such as:

• response delay - the device is activated or deactivated not immediately at the moment the button is pressed, but somewhat later, for example, while a person is walking towards the bed or to the exit from the room;
• multi-channel control - it is possible to configure several channels, allowing you to turn on several devices at once, even those located in different rooms of the same building;
• touch panel - there are no buttons that can lose sensitivity over time and fail. To activate the equipment, just touch the display;
• availability of Wi-Fi - the extension makes it possible to send a signal through available gadgets such as a smartphone, tablet or computer with Internet access.

The wider the functionality of the device, the higher its cost.

Wireless type switches look attractive, fit easily into the interior and give the decorative design of the room elegance and a stylish, modern look

The premium class includes “smart” wireless switches with a wide coverage radius (up to 350 meters), equipped with an internal energy generator, a touch control panel and the ability to multi-control the lighting system.

Such devices are usually installed in large houses, large apartments or country cottages that have an extensive lighting system. Budget ones include simple battery-powered models. Their coverage area is limited to 20-50 meters, which is quite enough for an average city apartment.

Classification by type of control

Based on the control method, wireless switches are divided into three groups. The first includes electronic devices that control the lighting system using mechanical buttons.The second includes models with touch controls.

Wireless switches can have either one working key or 2-3. This makes it possible to connect several lighting devices to the control module at once. True, the cost of multi-key products will be slightly higher than that of analogues with one key

The third group consists of devices equipped with a remote control. It provides digital signals to a switch, which receives them and activates or deactivates the lighting fixtures.

When operating the switch, the remote control does not produce noticeable interference and does not negatively affect the operation of other equipment in the house. The movement of radio waves is not obstructed by walls, furniture, or any other vertical elements of the furnishings.

The presence of a remote control allows the owner to simultaneously activate up to 8 wireless systems and allows you to adjust the lighting in the entire apartment or house without leaving the couch.

The range of the device depends on criteria such as:

• general layout of the premises;
• specific design features;
• type of materials on which the working components are placed.

The switch itself is equipped with an autonomous power supply unit that receives the necessary energy from rechargeable batteries. The range of remote controls is usually 25 meters. To properly service large premises, it is recommended to install a repeater, otherwise the supplied signal simply will not “reach” the receiving station.

Area of ​​application of the devices

The scope of use of wireless devices is very wide. Models are installed in apartments where there is a need for installation changeover switch or in transferring the old one traditional switch, but this is hampered by the structural features of the room, household appliances and furniture.

In case of urgent need, a wireless switch can be installed not only on the wall, but also on a mirror or inside one of the cabinet shelves. Regardless of its location, the module will function efficiently and provide comfortable control of lighting fixtures

To correct the errors of incorrectly made wiring, you no longer need to dismantle the external decoration of the walls and punch new grooved channels. The problem will be instantly solved by installing a wireless switch. It can be placed in any convenient place, forever forgetting about the difficulties associated with the home lighting system.

Installing a wireless device is the least labor-intensive and cheapest way to ensure comfortable control of the lighting system. The switch can be installed even in rooms with high humidity and sudden temperature changes

Lack of free space in a living space is another reason for installing a wireless module. The device can be placed in a minimal area and even built into any piece of furniture.

For wooden buildings, where electrical wiring equipment is associated with increased security measures, wireless elements are more than relevant. Of course, you can organize external wiring, however, this does not always match the interior and often spoils the attractiveness of the room.

In addition, exposed electrical wires are vulnerable to mechanical damage from residents, children and animals.To protect yourself and your home, it is wiser to install wireless modules and no longer worry about a force majeure situation (fire, short circuit, etc.) resulting from wire damage.

Organizing hidden wiring in a wooden building is problematic and unsafe. An overhead wireless switch will be a lifesaver for owners here. You don't need to call an electrician to install it. The work is simple and even an inexperienced home craftsman can handle it.

If the room is divided into locations, each of which requires its own type of lighting, it is not at all necessary to do a huge amount of work and run wiring to all the switches.

Easy enough to install wireless device, capable of controlling several light sources and using a remote control to turn on or off lighting fixtures as needed.

When all repair work in a room has been completely completed and the walls are decorated with a finishing coating (wallpaper, fabric, paint, tiles, laminate, etc.), but there is an urgent need to install another switch, there is no point in dismantling the finishing and punching additional groove channels.

It is better to install a practical wireless device. This will take a minimum of time, and the appearance of the room will not be affected in any way.

To control the lighting system in large cottages, conference rooms, long corridors and other large spaces, wireless modules are simply created. They allow you to turn on the light while being at a great distance from the room or even from the street.

If the building has historical value (antique houses, museums, etc.) and making changes to the interior solutions is considered unacceptable, it is worth using wireless switches. They will provide full control of the lighting system and will easily “hide” in pieces of furniture, without giving away their presence and belonging to modern life.

Increasing the comfort of your home is an excellent reason to install a wireless system. It will allow owners to control the lighting of rooms and utility rooms, literally, with one click of a button and adjust the light intensity according to personal needs and preferences.

Pros and cons of systems

Wireless devices for controlling lighting systems are practical, convenient and modern.

The main advantages of the modules include the following:

• elementary installation, which does not entail dismantling the finishing of the walls, gating and laying additional wiring branches;
• the ability to control all lighting fixtures in the room at once through a single control panel (smartphone, tablet, desktop computer with Internet access);
• wide reception radius of the supplied signal - from 20 to 350 meters, depending on the model, layout and degree of occupancy of the room with furniture and interior elements;
• absolute operational safety for residents - the device is designed for a minimum level of operating current and, even if used carelessly or if the structural integrity is damaged, will not cause any harm to human health.

The list of shortcomings is not so wide, but still there are several important points in it.

Most often, wireless modules are criticized for their higher cost compared to wired counterparts and the inability to use the system if the battery in the remote control is completely discharged

Unstable Wi-Fi has a negative effect on the performance of the device. The receiver does not pick up a weak, poorly defined signal, and blocks the user’s ability to turn on/off home lighting fixtures.

What to consider before purchasing?

You should purchase a wireless module in a specialized store, taking into account such product characteristics as:

• type of light bulbs available for control;
• dimensions and general appearance of the product (material from which the case is made, color scheme, shape and number of keys);
• operating voltage range;
• number of channels;
• signal coverage radius;
• maximum permissible load during operation;
• rated current level;
• factory equipment;
• list of operating frequencies;
• method of transmitting a command signal;
• encoding (presence or absence);
• type of power supply for the transmitter (generator, battery);
• the period declared by the manufacturer for which the battery capacity is sufficient;
• principle of mounting the device;
• price.

Additionally, you need to find out from the seller what warranty period the manufacturer provides for the product and where the service centers are located. Complete information will help you make the right choice and purchase exactly the model that will satisfy the buyer’s requirements for the device in all respects.

Top 5 most popular products

The market for lighting fixtures and related communication modules offers the widest range of wireless switches.

All of them are similar in operating principle, but have different configurations and seriously differ from each other in appearance, shape, color and available functionality. The choice is made by the buyer based on his own needs and financial capabilities.

Features of the Feron TM-75 module

Feron TM-75 is made of durable plastic and is designed for a base voltage of 220V. Works correctly with suspended multi-lamp chandeliers, LED, spot lights and track lamps, sconces and floor lamps.

The module is equipped with a remote control, a special holder and a proprietary power supply (battery). Refers to budget models, but at the same time reliably and efficiently serves for many years

The wireless unit is equipped with 2 channels with good power. Each of them can be connected to a separate group of devices. There is a shutdown delay function, and the coverage radius is 30 meters.

Introduction to the Inted 220V device

The Inted 220V wireless radio switch has a neat but durable plastic case, 1, 2 or 3 keys and a receiving unit. Operates on a voltage of 220V. The impact range ranges from 10-50 meters. Load-bearing walls, false panels and partitions do not affect signal transmission in any way.

The device receives full power from an A23 rechargeable battery. It alone is enough for uninterrupted operation of the device for one year.

Attached to the wall using double-sided tape (for single-key products) or using self-tapping screws (for devices with 2-3 keys).

Brief overview of the INTED-1-CH model

The INTED-1-CH has an operating voltage of 220 V and can control a system with a base lamp power of up to 900 W. Receives signals from the remote control and relays them over a distance of up to 100 meters.

The INTED-1-CH device is equipped with good functionality and is capable of correctly controlling not only home lighting equipment, but also an alarm system

The only negative is the moisture-sensitive body. Because of this, it is not recommended to install the device in damp rooms or outdoors without special additional protection.

Characteristics of the device Sapphire-2503

In addition to the basic “filling”, the Sapphire-2503 infrared device is equipped with a progressive dimmer. True, this element works correctly only with traditional incandescent lamps. The unit is not suitable for controlling energy-saving light sources.

An original feature of Sapphire-2503 is the function of automatically turning off the lighting after a certain period of time. Even if everyone left home and forgot to turn off the light in one of the rooms, the system will protect the owners from wasting energy

The body of the model is made of high-strength modern plastic. The permissible operating load is 40-400 W.

Advantages of the Feron TM72 device

Feron TM72 looks elegant, fits perfectly into various interior designs and affects electrical appliances located within a radius of 30 meters.

One of the main advantages of the model is the presence of a switch delay function. The interval that suits you can be set individually within 10-60 seconds

The device has two channels for connecting different light sources. The power of each of them reaches 1 kW.

This makes it possible to fully use a variety of lighting sources in your home system.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Interesting review of wireless switches. A clear and detailed description of the design features.Operating principle and rules for using equipment.

A guide to installing a wireless light on/off device and some interesting features of this work.

Rules for selecting and purchasing wireless controllers. What you should definitely look at before purchasing, and where you can make concessions. Useful tips from a home handyman from personal experience

When installing a lighting system at home, it is worth equipping it with a wireless switch. Installing the device will not require dismantling the external decoration of the room, making grooves in the walls and laying new wiring.

Installation work will take a short amount of time and will provide owners with the opportunity to control home lighting fixtures in the most convenient mode.

Please leave comments in the block below, ask questions and post photos on the topic of the article. Tell us how you chose a wireless switch device. Share useful information and guidelines based on which you decided on the optimal model for you.