Best Z Wave Devices Reviews and Buying Guide
Introduction
Most home automation equipment, such as smart hubs, enable the use of Z-Wave as a communication medium. All Z-Wave-enabled smart devices, including those from different manufacturers, will communicate with one another. We have compiled a list of the best z wave devices in this article.
More importantly, these devices should be Z-Wave Alliance approved, which includes smart home controllers (or smart hubs) and other particular items such as smart plugs, smart locks, smart thermostats, and so on.
Overall, the Z-Wave is critical in creating an intelligent home that is secure, comfortable, and safe.
Z-Wave has emerged as a popular and widely utilized wireless communication protocol in the market for a variety of smart products.
In fact, the various brands have already formed a Z-Wave Alliance. Z-Wave is a communication protocol that was first introduced in 2004 by Zensys, Inc. in Denmark.
Z-Wave was developed and is mostly used for home automation. Z-wave has now become a frequently used technology for low-cost smart gadgets.
You must be conversant with the Z wave network and Z wave-enabled devices if you are interested in smart home systems and appliances. The Z wave network is an excellent substitute for Wi-Fi-enabled systems.
These devices use a specific Z wave that is controlled by a Z wave controller. If you’ve already discovered a fantastic Z wave hub, it’s time to expose you to the many Z wave-enabled smart products on the market. Almost all necessary Z wave devices are included in our list today, and they should be wonderful additions to your smart home system. But, before you do, double-check the following details on each item.
Supported Controller:
Before purchasing a Z wave device, ensure that it is compatible with the Z wave controller that is already installed in your home. Otherwise, you may need to purchase another Z wave controller for your home, which is not a realistic solution. As a result, it is best to confirm compatibility ahead of time for a smoother installation.
Type of Device:
Z wave functionality is supported by a wide range of devices. Our list includes smart door locks, deadbolts, light switches, dimmer switches, and even dedicated range extenders, which are required for large homes. As a result, you should completely review the list to become acquainted with the many types of Z wave equipment.
Warranty:
Every Z wave gadget is unique and operates differently depending on its build and application. However, one aspect that all Z wave devices have in common is their dependability. The manufacturer’s warranty period can be used to check the assurance supplied on each gadget. In short, Z wave equipment having a longer guarantee duration are more dependable.
There are a number of Z wave gadgets available on our list now that will operate nicely with your smart home system. You can also opt to connect the devices to the same controller, enabling automated and codependent system functions. If you want to learn more about the features and categories of Z wave devices, make sure to read all the way to the bottom of our list, where we’ll include a “Buying Guide” for the best Z wave devices.
Best Z-Wave Devices of 2023
Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Rocker Light Switch
SCHLAGE BE469ZP CAM 619 Connect Smart Deadbolt
FIBARO Double Switch 2 Z-Wave Plus Smart
First Alert Z-wave Smoke Detector and Alarm
Kwikset 98880-004 SmartCode 888 Smart Lock
UltraPro Z-Wave Plus Smart Light Switch
Z-Wave Plus Outlet, Mini Plug-in Socket
Zooz Z-Wave Plus Power Switch ZEN15
Kwikset 99140-103 Convert Z-Wave Plus Lock
EVA LOGIK Store Z-Wave Smart Plug
Minoston Z-Wave Dimmer Switch in Wall Light Switch
Light switches are one of the most ubiquitous household equipment. As a result, Enbrighten is launching a high-quality smart light switch that also works with Z wave networks.
Installing Z wave light switches around your home ensure that the Z wave controller has a good range and that many additional smart devices may be readily connected to your Z wave controller.
As a result, the Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Rocker Light Switch is ranked first on our list. This is a simple device that requires only minimal wiring and allows for a faster installation.
The switches also support voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. As a result, you can control the switches with voice commands for enhanced functionality.
The Enbrighten Z-Wave Smart Rocker Light Switch is compatible with several common Z wave controllers, including Samsung SmartThings, Wink, Honeywell, Vera, and many more. As a result, compatibility will not be an issue with these switches.
You can use your smartphone with the specific smartphone application for scheduled functions and remote access in addition to voice access. The switches come with a two-year warranty period, making them appropriate for any home.
SCHLAGE is a specific brand for door locks and other security-related accessories. Given the brand’s prominence, we chose a fantastic Z wave deadbolt from SCHLAGE.
Even if you have a complete smart home system, it will not provide physical security until you include a smart lock in your Z wave device option. The SCHLAGE BE469ZP CAM 619 has a number of security features that work well with a smart deadbolt.
To begin with, it has an exterior digital display with a numeric panel that requires a code to unlock the deadbolt. The code is solely known to the owner, and you can modify it as needed.
Aside from that, it features several alarm systems embedded into the deadbolt. There are three unique alarm systems for various activities that will notify you as soon as the activity is identified. First and foremost, a quick beep alarm serves as a warning method whenever unexpected activity is detected outside the door.
If an intruder attempts to tamper with the lock, the device will emit a 15-second alarm, which should be sufficient to notify you. Finally, there is a forced entry warning that activates the alarm for 3 minutes and prevents possible break-ins. If you have Alexa smart home speakers placed in your home, you may also configure them for voice control.
If you’ve already installed the majority of the required Z wave devices in your home, it’s time to add a remote relay for energy monitoring. We’re also bringing a fantastic FIBARO Z wave remote relay.
It is a smart remote relay switch that can control two devices at the same time. To make your existing wall switch box or electrical outlet compatible with the Z wave system, install the FIBARO Double Switch 2 remote relay switch.
It also works with a variety of switches and produces satisfactory results. The FIBARO Double Switch 2 can monitor energy usage, which you may regulate using the smartphone app.
The FIBARO Double Switch 2 is approved by Z wave technology, so you can be confident in its compatibility. However, keep in mind that it does not compatible with HomeKit, a popular Z wave technology. The FIBARO Double Switch 2 comes with a one-year guarantee.
Since its establishment in 1958, First Alert has been one of the market’s most popular and dependable brands. Their extensive product line comprises a variety of items like fire extinguishers, alarms, safes, smart home gadgets, and others.
This battery-powered smoke and carbon monoxide detector protect your family from potential hazards and mishaps. It is specially intended to work in conjunction with ring alarm security systems and Z-wave systems that have been certified. As a result, it will send cellphone warnings in the event of an emergency.
This two-in-one detector has a photoelectric smoke-sensing chamber, a tamper-resistant batter door, an electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor, and a silent button. This device is completely safe to install and has passed all ICC codes. This product is covered by a 7-year warranty.
Kwikset also makes an excellent Z wave-enabled smart lock for residences. However, the following Kwikset alternative is incredibly economical and costs roughly half as much as other options.
If you’re looking for an economical smart lock for your house, the Kwikset 98880-004 SmartCode is a great option because it includes several smart capabilities with Z wave compatibility. Include the Kwikset 98880-004 SmartCode in your smart home system to gain smartphone access to your door lock.
Even though the lock has a keyhole, it operates without a key thanks to the security code entered via the smartphone or the digital panel on the lock itself. Instead of providing a dedicated key to everyone, you can program up to 30 codes to distribute to trusted family members and guests.
The 98880-004 Kwikset SmartCode also serves as a sensor for other smart home devices. Once the lock is triggered, it will notify the Z wave controller of your presence, which will immediately turn on units such as air purifiers, air conditioners, and other smart gadgets.
If someone tries to open your door lock behind your back, your smartphone will notify you. If you believe your lock has been compromised, you can rekey it in three simple steps. The lock comes with a one-year warranty, which is reasonable considering the price.
UltraPro is also a low-cost brand option for Z wave-enabled smart gadgets. They also make low-cost smart switches that can be fitted without breaking the bank.
The UltraPro Z-Wave Plus Smart Light Switches may be the most affordable option for smart switches. However, they still offer a variety of smart capabilities that work well for a complete smart home system. It employs SimpleWire technology, which makes it compatible with all homes and simple to install.
And, because of the groundbreaking new design, UltraPro was able to make the device roughly 20% smaller than conventional switches. With QuickFit support, you can even install the smart switch over regular switch boxes.
The UltraPro Z-Wave Plus Smart Light Switch also offers voice control, making it a truly intelligent device. It supports Amazon’s Alexa speech assistant as well as Google Assistant for cross-platform interoperability. However, in order for these functions to work, you must have a compatible smart Z hub.
You will be able to remotely toggle the gadgets ON/OFF with the enhanced feature, allowing you to manage all electronic equipment in your home remotely. This will also allow you to keep track of your monthly energy costs. Despite their low price, these switches come with a two-year warranty.
Switching to intelligent power outlets is an excellent option for smart home systems since it allows you to manage external devices via the Z wave network. Minoston has a wonderful selection of smart Z wave wall outlets.
The Minoston Z-Wave Plus Outlet is a smart wall plug with excellent functions despite its small size. It has a tiny plug design, allowing you to install it on any board without interfering with other switches and connectors. It also functions as a range extender or repeater, similar to smart switches, so you can get a couple and place one in each room in the house.
It also has built-in overcurrent protection, ensuring that the connected device is safe in the event of a power surge.
The Minoston Z-Wave Plus Outlet is also a completely smart Z wave device since it supports voice requests from Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Aside from that, it works with major Z-wave controllers like Samsung SmartThings and Wink.
You can also configure each individual connector separately while preparing to utilize the linked devices directly through voice commands. It also offers time and scheduling tools, allowing you to automate the operation of lights, fans, and other external devices.
Zooz is bringing a one-of-a-kind Z wave-supported smart device to our list of recommendations today. This is a power switch that can be connected to any external device for energy monitoring and other smart functions.
Following that, we have a fantastic Z wave gadget for individuals who require a safe and secure connection choice for large devices such as air conditioners, refrigerators, microwaves, water heaters, and many more. The Zooz Z-Wave Plus Power Switch is a robust plug that allows you to control and monitor heavy-duty electrical appliances that aren’t smart by default.
It supports electrical devices up to 110 volts and provides Z wave-based smart features on each device. With the 45-degree angled shape, you can easily fit two switches on a single board.
While providing a secure and monitored connection to the devices, it also provides rudimentary Z wave repeater capability. It also has AES signal encryption, which keeps your signal secure and encrypted.
Even in terms of external dimensions, it has a very durable design with a high-quality construction that can withstand working temperatures ranging from 14° to 104°F. It is also ETL certified, ensuring that your connected devices are protected from power surges and other electrical difficulties. It comes with a one-year guarantee, which is an excellent offer for an energy-monitoring device.
Because Kwikset creates a range of smart locks that are compatible with Z wave systems, we’ve added one more Z wave-compatible smart lock to our list. This is an excellent option for a smart door lock with remote access.
Don’t worry if you haven’t found the ideal Z wave-enabled smart lock for your home yet. The Kwikset 99140-103 Convert smart lock will undoubtedly appeal to you. It is a relatively little device that can convert your existing deadbolt system into a smart lock.
This gives you keyless entry to your home via your smartphone. It enables you to control your lock system remotely from anywhere. As a result, you will never again be left wondering if you locked your door or not.
The Kwikset 99140-103 Convert is compatible with a variety of Kwikset, Weiser, Baldwin, and Schlage deadbolts. If you already own a deadbolt from one of these manufacturers, the Kwikset 99140-103 Convert will work with it.
You can also enable the auto-lock feature, which locks the door after 30 seconds of unlocking. However, if you do not have your smartphone with you, you may be locked out of the house. The Kwikset 99140-103 Convert comes with a one-year warranty.
The ZW36 smart outlet is a z-wave-enabled universal switch built specifically for residential and motor lighting applications.
This smart plug has one z-wave outlet and one always-on outlet, making it more versatile. It is simple to set up because you simply plug the gadget into a wall outlet and link it to the hub to control the functionalities.
You can control the smart plug using Alexa voice commands. Aside from that, it works with Honeywell, Nexia, SmartThings, Connect, Wink, Iris, and Nexia. There is no difficult installation procedure. You can plan timed events or create bespoke sceneries as needed.
Minoston has added another Z wave-enabled smart device to our list of the finest Z wave products. This is likewise a premium smart switch with a plethora of useful features.
This option is for you if you have already installed many popular Z wave devices in your home and want to operate the built-in devices via the Z wave network. If your switchboards contain a neutral wire, you can install the Minoston Z-Wave Dimmer Switch.
It provides a 3-way installation, which is not typically available with basic switches. In addition, compatibility for Samsung SmartThings, Wink, Vera, Honeywell, and other major Z wave controllers is included in. Voice access is now available through the Alexa and Google Home systems.
Aside from the standard ON/OFF function, the Minoston Z-Wave Dimmer Switch also has additional capabilities such as dimming LEDs, CFLs, and other light sources. As a result, you can use this switch to save energy by dimming the lights when they are not needed.
This switch’s maximum supported voltage is 120 VAC, which includes all standard lights and LEDs. The smartphone app can also be used to control the dimmer switch wirelessly. If you don’t want to open the program repeatedly, you can schedule it to run on a daily basis for automated performance.
What exactly is Z-Wave?
Zensys, a Danish corporation, invented Z-Wave in 1999, and it arrived in the United States in 2002. Z-Wave, like Zigbee, is a wireless technology that primarily focuses on smart home communication.
As the popularity of smart homes grows, more and more connected gadgets are being added to people’s homes. Many of these gadgets – sensors, lightbulbs, heating controls, locks, plugs, and so on – use Z-Wave to communicate with one another.
In reality, over 100 million Z-Wave devices are in smart homes throughout the world, with over 4,000 Z-Wave-enabled gadgets to select from.
Z-Wave, a far lower power alternative to Wi-Fi but with a much greater range than Bluetooth, communicates from device to device via low-energy radio waves.
What is Z-Wave Plus?
You may have heard the term “Z-Wave Plus” while referring to the most recent smart home products. It was essentially a huge upgrade to the platform that went live a few years ago… However, it looks fantastic on marketing materials.
Z-Wave Plus, also known as the Z-Wave 500 series, expanded on the technology that was introduced in 2004 by adding features such as improved range, prolonged battery life, OTA upgrading, and more RF channels.
If you buy a Z-Wave product today, it’s almost certainly a Z-Wave Plus product.
The most recent version is the Z-Wave Plus V2 certification program. It contains an improved S2 security framework as well as SmartStart, a setup tool that allows for real plug-and-play operation of the consumer smart home.
How does Z-Wave work?
To get technical, Z-Wave operates in the 800-900MHz radio frequency band, but the only reason you should care is that, unlike Zigbee, which operates on 2.4GHz (a significant Wi-Fi frequency), Z-Wave does not suffer from major interference difficulties.
The actual frequency at which a Z-Wave device functions is determined by the country in which it is utilized. For example, the United States uses 908.40, 908.42, and 916MHz, but the United Kingdom and Europe use 868.40, 868.42, and 869.85MHz. As a result, you must ensure that you get a Z-Wave device that is intended for your region.
Unlike Wi-Fi, which requires devices to connect to a central hub (often a router or similar access point), Z-Wave devices connect to form a mesh network.
The central smart home hub you use to manage your Z-Wave devices connects to the internet, but the devices themselves – sensors, bulbs, and so on – don’t have Wi-Fi at all; instead, they use Z-Wave connectivity to talk to the hub, and that connectivity doesn’t have to be direct; the mesh network allows signals to hop from device to device.
“Source-routed mesh network topology” is the technical phrase. If you want to impress your friends, keep that one in your locker.
However, not all Z-Wave devices can replicate a signal; some can only send their own. That’s why Z-Wave repeaters are so popular; they’re essentially an ‘always-on’ mains-powered device, like a smart plug, that can receive and relay signals from other nodes back to the hub.
Buying Guide For The Best Z Wave Devices
After reading our list of the finest Z wave devices, you should be familiar with the many possibilities on the market and the sort of full home system you can accomplish after installing them. However, in order to avoid issues later on, it is critical to obtain the necessary information before purchasing the products.
If you purchase a set of Z wave devices with comparable compatibility but varied functionality, you will be able to easily connect them to a single Z wave controller. These devices can also communicate with one another to establish a feedback loop, allowing for automation.
We’ve compiled a list of the greatest Z wave gadgets to assist you in designing the ideal smart home system. However, to ensure that the system will operate and be functional for years to come, read our buying advice for the best Z wave gadgets, which are available right here.
Compatibility
For smart features, Z wave devices are fully reliant on the Z wave controller to which they will be attached. As a result, you should properly examine the compatibility of any Z wave device before purchasing it. If you’re familiar with the Z wave system, you’ve probably already got a Z wave controller and a couple of Z wave-compatible gadgets.
If this is the case, you must ensure that the Z wave devices you intend to purchase are compatible with your controller. If not, now is the time to purchase a high-capacity Z wave controller as well as a compatible set of Z wave devices for immediate comprehensive home automation. When purchasing a controller, ensure that it also supports smart features and third-party services like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home Services for voice access and other smart functionality.
Type of Device
A complete smart home system includes a wide range of devices, including door locks, light switches, wall outlets, remote relays, and much more. Even if all of these possibilities are not totally necessary for everyone, it is advantageous to progressively add devices to your smart home system in order to obtain a complete and gratifying system.
Today, we have a wonderful assortment of Z wave devices that will work with a Z wave controller and offer tremendous applications when combined. Before determining which of these devices to purchase, you should create a map of your smart home system and a list of Z-wave devices that you will require. You should prioritize purchasing simple devices first, such as light switches and locks, because they are more important in the long run for safety and automation.
Range of Controller
As you may already be aware, Z wave devices have a limited operating range. The range specifies the shortest distance allowable between the Z wave controller and the Z wave device. However, one outstanding characteristic of the Z wave system is that it operates as a mesh system, with each device acting as a junction or contact point for other devices.
This allows a large number of devices to be linked to the same Z wave network even if the last device is not directly in range of the controller. However, depending on the size and capacity of the Z wave gadget, it can only expand the range to a limited extent. And if the intermediate device fails, all of the associated devices in the chain will be severed, rendering the system inoperable. If your connection fails, you will need to install a dedicated range extender to connect all Z wave devices without trouble.
Warranty Period
Many external sources have been known to cause damage to electronic gadgets. And, most of the time, you will have no influence over any of these elements, resulting in damaged electronic equipment. The same can be said for the Z wave devices mentioned in this article. Each device is available in a specific price range, and its features and dependability are based on that.
Each of our recommendations includes a warranty duration that serves as an assurance of the device’s performance and reliability for the specified time period. If something goes wrong with the Z wave gadget within that time, you may simply contact the manufacturer and receive free repair services. If repair is not possible, you will be given a replacement device, which is rather good in terms of long-term functionality.
Budget Range
Finally, before purchasing the Z wave devices and controller, we recommend establishing a financial range. If you acquire a set of Z wave devices initially and go over budget, you won’t be able to get a competent Z wave controller, limiting the capability of these devices.
In most circumstances, it is preferable to purchase the Z wave controller first and then gradually add the Z wave devices to complete the system. You won’t have to sacrifice the quality of the Z wave controller or the Z wave gadgets that will be added to the system later in this approach. You can also prioritize the most crucial Z wave smart devices initially and gradually add new devices as you begin utilizing the system on a daily basis.
Conclusion
If you are already familiar with the Z wave network, you should be aware that a dedicated Z wave controller is an essential component of the system. However, there is a problem with Z wave device compatibility with various Z wave controllers.
In most situations, multiple types of devices allow connectivity with different controllers, further complicating the system. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the greatest Z wave gadgets right here. You’ll also see several alternatives for the same product category, which can help you make a decision.
