Best Z-Wave Controller Reviews and Buying Guide
Introduction
You will primarily discover WiFi and Bluetooth gadgets if you want to install smart home appliances and devices at your house. Z Wave gadgets, however, will be a far better choice if you’re looking for something sophisticated, adaptable, and effective. And because of these features, you’ll need something like the best Z-Wave controller listed below to control these Z-Wave devices:
Compatibility:
Before making a purchase, make sure the Z Wave goods and controllers are compatible. This is because Z Wave-only, Z Wave, and Z Wave Plus compatible controllers are readily available, with Z Wave Plus providing the highest level of compatibility.
Range:
Since controllers are included in the list of wireless Z Wave devices, ensuring that they have a long range is crucial for flexibility. The majority of users should be satisfied with a range of up to 500 feet, which is possible with higher-end devices. Devices at the entry level may have a range of up to 100 or 150 feet.
Functions:
When purchasing Z Wave controllers, you have a variety of alternatives in terms of the multiple capabilities they provide. You may use a Z Wave controller to control a variety of things, including switching on and off lights, other Z Wave devices, and much more.
These criteria are obviously important for Z Wave controllers, but there are still a lot of other factors to consider. As a consequence, by the time you get to the end of this list, you will completely understand all of the key details and variables for all of the best Z Wave controllers. Additionally, you will discover a thorough “Buying Guide” to help you decide.
Best Z-Wave Controller of 2023
Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Scene Controller
UltraPro Z-Wave Smart Rocker Light Switch
Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 Z-wave Plus
FIBARO Z-Wave Plus Scene Controller
Zooz 700 Series Z-Wave ZEN34 Controller
FIBARO RGBW Controller 2 Z-Wave Plus
EVA LOGIK ZW39 Z-Wave Smart Plug Controller
Aeotec Heavy Duty Smart Switch, Z-Wave Plus Home
One of the best solutions for people using a Z-wave controller for wireless fan control (power turn on/off, timer, customization, or speed level setting) from anywhere in the home is this Embrighten Z-wave plus wireless smart fan speed control switch.
This in-wall Z-wave smart fan control is simple to install and only needs a neutral wire to function. It provides total control of up to two ceiling fans (indoor or outdoor), and you can use it with tablets, smartphones, PCs, or Z-wave-enabled remote controls.
Using Z wave technology, this controller will manage the home’s fan. It is a flexible choice that works with Z wave and Z wave Plus gadgets. Additionally, it boasts a respectable range of up to 150 feet for convenient voice control of Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa to plan and manage the fan.
The paddles in the set can be switched between white and light almond to properly match your current switches. The product is covered by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty against any manufacturing flaws.
You can control all the wall, accent, and ceiling lights with the UltraPro Z-Wave in-wall smart switch using commands and preprogrammed settings.
This switch is safer and easier to operate thanks to the Z-wave Plus 500 series, SmartStart, and S2 security. All Z-wave devices are supported, and installation is simple. The network’s range of up to 150 feet will be strengthened and extended by its built-in Z wave repeater and range extender.
Without any access to mobile devices, it is operated or controlled manually, but it may be controlled using Alexa and Google. A 5-year warranty covering any manufacturing flaws is included.
Given that the majority of its goods are high-performance Z Wave controllers and other related items, Aeotec is one of the most well-known brands.
As one of the greatest all-around alternatives available, the Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 Plus Z Wave controller takes the top spot on this list. This is a result of the several premium features it offers, such as support for Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices.
Additionally, although being one of the smallest Z Wave controllers, it still has a great range of up to 492 feet for good communication. This somewhat more expensive Z Wave controller is the most dependable alternative because it comes with a 3-year warranty from the well-regarded manufacturer Aeotec.
If you want a Z Wave controller to operate other devices, Fibaro also produces ordinary Z Wave controllers, which are actually extremely portable and flexible solutions.
One of the smallest and most compact Z Wave controllers available is this Fibaro KeyFob Remote. As implied by the name, this Z Wave controller attaches to your keychain and enables the simple operation of both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices.
This Z Wave controller has a range of up to 164 feet, which is fairly good considering its size and is similar to the previous one’s. In fact, this Fibaro Z Wave controller comes with the same 2-year warranty, making it ideal for long-term use.
Zooz is a relatively unknown company in the Z-wave device market, but it nevertheless manages to provide its customers with a fantastic, little Z-wave controller and other cutting-edge technology.
With a maximum range of up to 250 feet, the 700 series chip in this ZEN34 controller provides wider Z-wave coverage and rapid communication. This remote control looks like a wall switch and can be adhered to any flat surface without the use of wires or other complications.
Installing this battery-operated device, which uses two CR2 batteries, is simple and adaptable (DIY installation). To turn on and off all of their indoor connected gadgets, they offer simple wireless controls. It does not support Z Plus devices, only Z Wave devices.
Its sensing controller may use multi-tap triggers to activate 14 senses or operate up to 14 devices. Additionally, it allowed you to upgrade the remote switch’s functionality and included SmartStart S2 security for a secure smart network. The product comes with a five-year warranty and offers users lifetime technical assistance.
With its Z Wave controllers, Fibaro has you covered if you do not want a Z Wave controller for use with other Z Wave devices but instead want one for your home’s appliances and lighting.
If you want to use Z Wave to control LED strip lighting in your house, Fibaro’s RGBW Z Wave controller is the ideal choice. It is also incredibly adaptable in terms of the devices you may use with it because it supports both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices.
In fact, this Z Wave controller offers a respectable range of up to 164 feet, enabling you to simply adjust your lighting whenever you need to. An additional benefit of choosing a Fibaro Z Wave controller is that it comes with a 2-year warranty.
For individuals who want to be able to manage their lights from any location using a smartphone app or voice control, the ZW39 smart plug-in outlet from EVA LOGIK is the ideal choice.
This smart plug device’s dimming capabilities work with CFL dimming bulbs, Incandescent dimming bulbs, and dimming LED light bulbs, allowing you to manually or remotely change the brightness level of the light from 10% to 100%.
This is simple to install and works with Z-Wave-certified hubs and Alexa voice control. Since the wall plug doubles as a repeater and range extender, it can improve connectivity for hubs and devices up to 100 feet away.
In addition to the Z Wave controller mentioned above, Aeotec also provides other Z Wave controllers that are more practical for everyday use.
If you wish to replace the regular switches in your home with smart ones, the Aeotec Z Wave controller can be a fantastic choice. This switch is not only intelligent but also highly versatile because it is a Z Wave controller and supports both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices.
This Aeotec Z Wave controller is rated for a fantastic range of up to 492 feet, as you saw with the last one. Despite having a premium price tag, this Z Wave controller only has a 1-year warranty because it is not a standard model.
How do Z-Wave Controllers and Devices Work?
A particularly effective wireless home automation technology is Z-Wave. You can control every part of your automated home with ease because of the network devices’ ability to connect with one another. You can operate your heating system, security system, and lighting whenever you want.
Z-Wave is also incredibly adaptable; you can create a system that is as little or as large as you like, and there is an enormous selection of devices that can accommodate any needs you may have.
Z-Wave Device Basics
There are three layers in the Z-Wave system: radio, network, and application layer.
Together, these three layers build a strong and dependable network that enables multiple nodes and devices to connect with one another at once.
The Application layer, which describes how and why two nodes can connect with one another, will be the main emphasis of this essay.
Controlling devices are known as controllers in Z-Wave lingo, while reporting devices are known as sensors and controlled devices are known as actuators. Even though there are thousands of Z-Wave products on the market, almost all of them fall under one of four function categories:
Controllers
Universal remote control (with IR) or specialized Z-Wave remote control with network function keys, group and/or scene control USB sticks, and IP gateways that enable PC applications to access Z-Wave networks are all examples of remote controls. Gateways also permit online remote access.
Sensors
Measure characteristics like temperature, humidity, and gas concentration with Analog sensors.
Digital Sensors: Flood Warning, Motion Detector, and Door/Glass Breaking.
Actuators
Electrical switches: straight replacements for conventional wall switches or plug-in modules for wall outlets (digital).
Plug-in modules or alternatives to conventional wall switches and dimmer switches are electrical dimmers (analog).
Open or close a door, window, blind, or Venetian blind using a motorized device (analog or digital)
Electrical Display: Offer visual cues or alerts, such as a siren, LCD screen, etc (digital).
TRVs (Thermostat Radiator Valves), are often known as thermostat controls, or floor heating controls (analog or digital).
Buying Guide for the Best Z Wave Controllers
One of the greatest interfaces for managing smart home equipment and appliances is Z Wave. In addition to having a respectable range and being very effective, Z Wave devices can also build a sizable network for communication.
And we are here with the greatest Z Wave controllers to assist you in controlling the many Z Wave gadgets that could be in your home. These many Z Wave controllers each offer key characteristics and deciding elements that can assist you in choosing the best one. However, if you are still perplexed, take a look at my comprehensive buying advice for the best Z Wave controllers.
Compatibility
It is crucial to confirm that a Z Wave controller is compatible with your other Z Wave devices before looking at its performance metrics or supported functionality. This is because there are essentially two categories of alternatives accessible, namely Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices. Thankfully, practically all Z Wave controllers are compatible with both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus, making them incredibly versatile.
Function
You have a wide range of alternatives when looking for a Z Wave controller for your smart home system in terms of the various features they provide. Checking these many functionalities is crucial to making sure a particular Z Wave controller is appropriate for your needs.
Although the majority of Z Wave controllers are made to control other Z Wave devices and their operations, some Z Wave controllers can also operate your home’s lighting or even serve as a power switch. Since all of these many Z Wave controller types utilize the same technology, you can choose the one that best meets your requirements.
Range
Checking the range of Z Wave devices, especially Z Wave controllers, is crucial because they connect to other devices wirelessly. This makes sure that your home has a sizable Z Wave network and that you can simply operate all of your smart devices without losing power.
Starting with entry-level Z Wave controllers, their range ratings can be as high as 100 feet or as low as 150 feet, which should be sufficient for most people. However, some Z Wave controllers can even have a range of up to 500 feet for far better adaptability and performance if you want something much more powerful.
Battery Life
Many Z Wave controllers have built-in batteries since Z Wave is thought to be extremely efficient in terms of its power usage. Because of this, you are able to utilize them totally wirelessly without having a power source. Additionally, it can be a good idea to check the battery life of your Z Wave controller if it has one.
Different Z Wave controllers can have battery life ratings varying from a few weeks to a few months on a single charge because of the excellent efficiency of Z Wave devices. Additionally, as you may anticipate, choosing a functional and adaptable Z Wave controller for your house is always preferable to one with short battery life.
Warranty
You want your smart home appliances, including Z Wave controllers, to survive as long as possible when you purchase them. You might think about looking into the warranty that comes with your Z Wave controllers for the same purpose. To your relief and for your peace of mind, practically all Z Wave controllers come with either a 1-year or a 2-year warranty, with some options even featuring a 3-year warranty.
Conclusion
A Z Wave controller is used to connect and control the numerous Z Wave devices in your house, just as the name suggests. They are therefore ideal for a smart home setup if you wish to make all devices and appliances smart.
Due to this, we already covered a couple of the top Z Wave controllers in this listicle, in addition to all of their specifications and features. We previously provided a thorough buying guide for the top Z Wave controllers in order to assist you in making the finest Z Wave controller choice.
