Lutron vs Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch: Which is Better?
By Naila Syifa
Updated September 2023
Are you looking for a smart dimmer switch to control your home lighting? Lutron and TP-Link Kasa are two well-known brands that offer a range of smart dimmer switches.
A smart dimmer switch will not only allow you to turn on and off your home's lighting, but also to adjust the brightness levels of it. In this article, we will compare Lutron and Kasa smart dimmer switches and help you decide which one is better for your home.
Key Takeaways
The primary difference is that the Kasa dimmer switch requires a neutral wire, while Lutron doesn't, making Lutron compatible with more homes. Lutron also supports a 3-way configuration, while Kasa doesn't. However, Lutron requires an additional smart bridge while Kasa doesn't, making Kasa a more cost-efficient option.
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch
Higher Cost, Higher Functionality
✓ Supports 3-way switch
✓ Works with Alexa, Google, Siri, Ring, Serena Shades, Sonos
✓ No neutral wire required
✓ Requires Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge
TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch KS220
Affordable with Comparable Features
✓ Single pole
✓ Works with Alexa, Google, Siri, Bixby
✓ Requires a neutral wire
✓ No smart hub required
#1 Price
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch
When it comes to price, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch KS220 is more affordable with a price of around $27.99. On the other hand, the Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch is more expensive, priced at around $59.95 depending on where you purchase the product.
#2 What's in the Box
TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch KS220
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch comes with one dimmer switch, three wire connectors, and two screws. The coordinating wall plate is sold separately. This can be something you might want to consider because purchasing a separate wall plate can add an additional cost to your purchase.
Despite its affordability, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch provides a complete package with the switch, wall plate, four wire nuts and labels, and a quick installation guide included in the box.
#3 Technical Specs
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch
Lutron smart dimmer switch works with dimmable LED/CFL bulbs up to 150W, incandescent/halogen bulbs up to 600W. Kasa smart dimmer switch can also handle up to 150W of LED/CFL load, but its maximum rating for incandescent bulbs is lower at 300W. This lower rating means that you may not be able to use the Kasa switch with larger fixtures or chandeliers that require bulbs with higher wattage.
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch doesn't require a neutral wire for installation. However, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch does require a neutral wire which is not commonly found in older homes built before 1985. The Kasa dimmer switch also requires a 2.4GHz WiFi network.
The Lutron smart dimmer switch supports a 3-way switch setup using Pico remote mountable to any wall surface for easy installation. A 3-way switch allows you to control a single light from two different locations. This configuration is not supported in TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch because it only allows for a single pole setup.
#4 Design
TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch KS220
Lutron smart dimmer switch features 4 buttons in its body: an ON button, an OFF button, a brighter button, and a darker button. Such a layout gives a futuristic look, while also being intuitive and easy to use. It also has brightness indicator lights that temporarily display light levels when adjusting brightness. It comes in varying color options, including white, ivory, light almond, and black.
Kasa smart dimmer switch, on the other hand, resembles more to a typical traditional switch. It features a rocker that will get pressed down when you press on it and will spring back up when you let go. The dim and bright buttons are above the rocket. It also features a brightness indicator, a status LED indicator, a reset button, and a restart button. However, it's only available in white.
#5 Features
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch
Both Lutron and Kasa offer a range of features for their smart dimmer switches. You can remotely control your switch away from home from the convenience of their respective apps, the Lutron app and the Kasa Smart app. In both apps, you can create schedules, set scenes, and activate the Away mode to turn your lights on and off at random intervals to give the impression that someone is home.
Both smart dimmer switches also support voice control. TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung Bixby. Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch supports more connectivity, including Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Ring, Serena Shades, and Sonos.
However, it is worth noting that the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge is required for the full functionality of the Lutron switch. Kasa switch on the other hand does not require any additional smart hub, making it a more affordable and convenient option for those who don't want to invest in a separate smart home hub.
Lutron Caseta Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch vs TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch KS220
Final Thoughts
TP-Link Kasa Smart Dimmer Switch KS220
Both Lutron and Kasa dimmer switch offers comparable features and functionality. The Kasa dimmer switch is more affordable, though it requires a neutral wire and doesn't support a 3-way switch. With a more expensive cost, the Lutron dimmer switch doesn't require a neutral wire, supports a 3-way switch, and has better technical specs.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your personal preferences, needs, and budget. You should consider what feature is the most important to you when making the purchase decision.
If you like to read more about Smart Switches, check out our other relevant guides here:
Best Smart Switches Singapore
Aqara H1 Smart Wall Switch Review
Leviton Decora Smart Motion Sensing Dimmer Switch Review
Amazon Basics 3-Way Smart Switch Review
TP-Link Kasa KS200 Smart Switch Review
Aqara H1 vs D1: Smart Switches Comparison
Leviton vs GE: Smart Motion Dimmer Switches Comparison
Leviton Decora vs Lutron Caseta: Smart Dimmer Switches Comparison
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