As a long-time HomeKit enthusiast, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect smart dimmer switch that doesn’t require a neutral wire—especially in older European homes like mine. When Wemo announced their Smart Dimmer with Thread, I was immediately intrigued. After installing it in my bathroom, I can confidently say it’s a standout product. Here’s why:
Design and Packaging
The packaging is sleek and minimalistic, with Wemo’s signature green accents. Inside, you’ll find the dimmer switch, a faceplate, and a jumper wire for neutral setups. The switch itself has a clean, modern design that blends seamlessly with any decor.
Installation
Installation was a breeze, even without a neutral wire. The switch offers two wiring options: screw terminals or push-in connectors. I appreciated how it saved space in my already crowded switch box. The included jumper wire was a thoughtful touch for those with neutral wires.
Features
- Dimming and Custom Brightness: The dimmer supports smooth transitions and allows setting custom minimum and maximum brightness levels. This feature was perfect for my bathroom, where I wanted different brightness levels for me and my partner.
- Power Tab: A handy tab disconnects power to the bulbs, making bulb changes safer and easier.
- Thread Compatibility: As someone who loves the reliability of Thread, I was thrilled this switch uses it. It also acts as a Thread router, extending my network’s range.
Performance
Once I paired it with compatible dimmable bulbs, the Wemo Dimmer performed flawlessly. Reaction times were snappy, and it integrated seamlessly with my existing HomeKit setup. The ability to set custom brightness levels via the switch itself was a lifesaver for my unique bathroom needs.
Conclusion
While the lack of Matter support might be a concern for some, I’m not fazed. For now, Thread has been more than reliable. If you’re in the HomeKit ecosystem and need a smart dimmer without a neutral wire, the Wemo Smart Dimmer with Thread is an excellent choice. It’s a solid investment that’s sure to enhance your smart home experience.
Happy dimming! 