Category: Product Reviews

Automating Z-Wave/Zigbee Home Basics

Alfred DB1 Z-Wave + Bluetooth Smart Lock

Alfred is a relative newcomer to the smart lock market. I first learned about them at CES 2020 when I passed what I thought were some of the most interesting locks I’ve ever seen. Very sexy in my opinion. Currently Alfred makes an entry-level line (DB1) and a professional line (DB2). This article discusses the…
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Inovelli 4 in 1 sensor

Inovelli 4-in-1 Sensor Review

The Inovelli 4-in-1 Sensor model LZW60 is Inovelli’s first venture into the sensor world. I find the decision to go after the 4-in-1 market to be a good idea. The sensor offers Motion, Temperature, Humidity and Light detection. What else would you need? In true Inovelli form, this is a highly configurable device and requires…
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Yale YRD256-CBA / ZW2 / iM1 Smart Deadbolt Review

The Yale YRD256 line provides options for all home automation enthusiasts regardless of your platform. There are options for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave Plus which aligns it with Apple HomeKit, SmartThings, Hubitat, Connected by August and other popular platforms. You can even use it with an app or no automation at all.  Connected by…
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yale yrd156 lock thumbnail

Yale YRD156-ZW2 Smart Deadbolt Review

If you’re a dedicated Z-Wave enthusiast or you’re looking for reliable Z-Wave lock to integrate with your security system, this lock deserves a serious look. While it doesn’t have all of the cool features contained in the YRD256, this lock (YRD156) contains the functions required to ensure your smart home is safe and secure.  Buy…
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zooz zen30 double switch

Zooz Zen30 Double Switch

The Zooz Zen30 Double Switch is ideal for those single-gang boxes that have two switches. This is often found in bathrooms where you have a double-switch that controls a light and a fan, or a normal light and a heat lamp. The Zen30 has a single dimmer switch (top) and an on/off switch that controls…
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iblinds z-wave blinds thumbnails

2020 iBlinds Z-wave Smart Window Blinds Review

Automating window treatments is an important aspect of home security, energy efficiency, and the overall ambiance of your home. The issue, until now, is that this has not been very affordable. iBlinds has an affordable DIY solution for controlling 2 – 2.5 inch horizontal blinds and offer an additional solar panel to make this a…
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inovelli dimmer lzw31

Inovelli LZW31 Smart Dimmer Review

Inovelli Red Series Dimmer Inovelli Black Series Dimmer Overall Rating  The Inovelli LZW31 comes in two flavors, red and black. The Black Series dimmer is the utilitarian little brother of the Red Series dimmer. It’s nice that they decided to provide a basic version (that’s still very capable) for those customers that don’t want or…
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inovelli lzw30 smart switch

Inovelli LZW30 Smart On/Off Switch Review

Inovelli Red Series Switch Inovelli Black Series Switch Overall Rating  The Inovelli LZW30 on/off switch comes in two flavors, red and black. The Black Series switch is the utilitarian little brother of the Red Series switch. It’s nice that they decided to provide a basic version (that’s still very capable) for those customers that don’t want or…
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sylvania zigbee recessed lights

Sylvania Lightify LED Recessed Lighting Kit Sylvania SMART+ RT5/6 RGBW Zigbee Bulbs

Overall Rating  These are one of the favorite lights in my home. The family loves them. It’s not just about the color, it’s how clear the light  and vibrant the lights are. I know everyone has heard that Osram intends to stop the production and support of their cloud service. But never fear. These are…
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zooz zen26 and zen27 z-wave smart switch review

Zooz Zen26 Switch & Zen27 Dimmer Review

Zooz Zen26 on/off Switch  Zooz Zen27 Dimmer Switch Overall Rating  The Zooz Zen26 and Zen27 are two reliable Z-Wave Plus S2 switches. The Zen26 is a scene capable on/off switch, and the Zen27 is a scene capable dimmer. Being scene switches, they both support double-tap and multi-tap functions. The offer most of the capabilities you’d expect from…
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