Compatibility: Whenever you are buying Z Wave products or controllers, checking their compatibility is highly important. This is due to the reason that you can find both Z Wave only controllers as well as Z Wave and Z Wave Plus compatible controllers where the latter one is better for proper compatibility. Range: Since all Z Wave products including Z Wave controllers are wireless devices, making sure that they offer a long-range is highly important for versatility. While entry-level options may offer a range of up to 100 feet or up to 150 feet, higher-end models can offer a much higher range of up to 500 feet which should be plenty for most. Functions: While buying Z Wave controllers, you can find all kinds of options in terms of the different functions that they offer to the user. You can find Z Wave controllers for controlling other Z Wave devices, for controlling lights, for working as a switch, and much more depending on the Z Wave controller that you are going for.
Surely, these factors are quite important when it comes to Z Wave controllers, but you still need to consider much more. As a result, all the best Z Wave controllers given down below have all their major specifications and factors well explained along with a complete “Buying Guide” to help you buy the best Z Wave controllers with ease by the end of this list.
Best Z Wave Controllers 2023 List
Best Z Wave Controllers Reviews
1. Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 Z-wave Plus
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Aeotec is one of the most popular brands when you are talking about Z Wave controllers and other related products since most of its offerings are high-performance ones. The Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 Plus Z Wave controller comes at the 1st position of this list since it is one of the best all-rounder options available out there. This is due to the various high end features you get from it including support for both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices. And even though it is one of the most compact Z Wave controllers, it still features an excellent range of up to 492 feet for superb connectivity. Because this is a slightly premium Z Wave controller from Aeotec which is highly reputable, you get a 3-year warranty with it making it the most reliable option given here. Best Features:
Compatible with Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 492 feet Made for controlling other Z Wave devices Comes with a 3-year warranty
Pros:
Superb range rating for versatility Compatible with all types of Z Wave devices Quite a long warranty for high reliability and durability
Cons:
Not a budget-friendly option
2. Zooz 700 Series Z-Wave ZEN34 Controller
Zooz is a pretty small brand in the industry of Z-wave devices, yet manages to offer a great compact Z-wave controller and other smart devices to its users. This ZEN34 controller comes with a 700 series chip that offers more Z-wave coverage and quick communication within the maximum reach of up to 250 feet. This remote control resembles a wall switch that let you stick to any flat surface without any wires or hassles. This battery-powered device (2 CR2 batteries) is easy and flexible to install (DIY installation). They provide simple wireless control to all of its connected devices indoors for turning on/off the devices. It supports Z wave devices but not Z plus ones. Its sense controller will activate 14 senses or control up to 14 devices with multi-tap triggers. Also, it let you add new features to the remote switch, and has SmartStart S2 security for a safe smart network. The device is backed with 5 years warranty and provides lifetime tech support to its users. Best Features:
Rated for a maximum range of up to 250 feet Compatible with Z wave devices Made for controlling other Z wave devices Comes with a 5-year warranty
Pros:
Remote control buttons Easy to install and easy to use Compatible with Z-wave hub New 700 series for better signal coverage Offer lifetime tech support to their users
Cons:
Low connectivity range. Few users find that it is not compatible with smart things
3. Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Scene Controller
This Embrighten Z-wave plus wireless smart fan speed control switch is one of the best options for those using a z-wave controller for wireless fan control (power turn on/off, timer, customize, or speed level setting) from anywhere in the home. This in-wall Z wave smart fan control is easy to install with a requirement of the neutral wire and offer complete control of up to two ceiling fan (indoor or outdoor) and let you control it from your tablets, smartphones, PCs or Z-wave enabled remotes. The pack includes white and light almond changeable paddles to get match perfectly with your existing switches. The manufacturer offers a 2-year warranty on the product against any manufacturing defects. Best Features:
Compatible with Z wave and Z wave plus devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 150 feet Wireless fan control, operate, and schedule Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
Highly versatile and flexible device A pretty long warranty Easy to install Comes in two different colors to match your existing switch Works well with any device like smartphones, tablets, or Z-wave-enabled remotes
Cons:
Unable to control other Z wave devices A little bit expensive
4. EVA LOGIK ZW39 Z-Wave Smart Plug
This ZW39 smart plug-in outlet from EVA LOGIK is a perfect option for those who are looking to control the lights from anywhere through their smartphone app or voice control. The dimming functions of this smart plug device are compatible with CFL dimming bulbs, Incandescent, and dimming LED light bulbs that let you adjust the light brightness level from 10 – 100% either by remote control, wirelessly through an app, or manually. This is easy to install and compatible with Alexa voice control and Z-Wave certified hubs. Since the wall plug acts as a single repeater and range extender to enhance the connectivity of devices and hub that range from 100 feet. Best Features:
Rated for a maximum range of up to 100 feet Hassle-free installation and operation Brightness adjustment of lights Compatible with Alexa voice control and Z-wave certified hubs
Pros:
Plug and play Multiple controls and dimming functions Works as a signal repeater Meant for indoor usage only
Cons:
No information available on its warranty
5. FIBARO RGBW Controller 2 Z-Wave Plus
If you do not want a Z Wave controller for using with other Z Wave devices but want one for your appliances and lighting at your home, then Fibaro has got you covered with its Z Wave controllers. Fibaro’s RGBW Z Wave controller is the perfect option if you want to control LED strip lighting in your home via Z Wave. Since it supports both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices, it is also very versatile in terms of the devices you can use along with it. In fact, you also get a pretty good range of up to 164 feet with this Z Wave controller allowing you to easily control your lighting whenever you need it. Another great thing about going with a Fibaro Z Wave controller is that you get a 2-year warranty with it as well. Best Features:
Compatible with Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 164 feet Made for controlling LED strip lighting Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
Easily control LED strip lighting of all kinds Highly versatile in terms of compatibility and range Decently long warranty for your peace of mind
Cons:
Not made for controlling other Z Wave devices
6. FIBARO Z-Wave Plus Scene Controller
Fibaro also makes standard Z Wave controllers that in fact happen to be portable and quite a versatile option if you want a Z Wave controller for controlling other devices. This Fibaro KeyFob Remote is one of the smallest and portable Z Wave controllers out there. Just per the name, this Z Wave controller goes in your keychain and allows you to control both Z Wave as well as Z Wave Plus devices with ease. Similar to the previous Z Wave controller, this one also features a range of up to 164 feet which is quite good considering its size. In fact, you also get the same 2-year warranty with this Fibaro Z Wave controller as well making it perfect for long term usage. Best Features:
Compatible with Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 164 feet Made for controlling other Z Wave devices Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
One of the most portable Z Wave controllers Fairly versatile and compatible with most Z Wave devices Quite a long warranty for longevity
Cons:
Needs to be recharged again and again
7. Aeotec Heavy Duty Smart Switch, Z-Wave Plus Home
Aeotec also offers other kinds of Z Wave controllers which are ideal for practical usage and not for controlling other Z Wave devices like the one given here. The Aeotec Z Wave controller can be a great option if you want to replace the switches in your home with smart ones. Not only is this switch smart, but being a Z Wave controller, it supports both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices making it highly versatile. As you saw with the previous Aeotec Z Wave controller, this one is also rated for a superb range of up to 492 feet. Although, since this is not a standard Z Wave controller, it only comes with a 1-year warranty despite having a high-end price tag. Best Features:
Compatible with Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 492 feet Made for controlling switches in your home Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
Works great as a smart home switch directly Superb range for easy connectivity Perfectly compatible with all other Z Wave devices
Cons:
A bit on the expensive side
8. UltraPro Z-Wave Smart Rocker Light Switch
The UltraPro Z-Wave in-wall smart switch will let you operate all the wall, accent, and ceiling lights through command and programmed settings. This switch work on Z-wave plus 500 series paired with SmartStart and S2 security that makes it safer and simpler to use. It is easy to install and supports all Z-wave devices. Its built-in Z wave repeater and range extender will strengthen and extend the network that ranges for up to 150 feet. It is controlled or operated manually without having any access to the mobile devices, yet can control via Alexa and Google. It is backed with a 5-year long warranty against any manufacturing defects. Best Features:
Compatible with Z wave devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 150 feet Comes with a 5-year warranty Multi-switch compatible
Pros:
Changeable paddles to match your interior QuickFit and simple wire for easy installation Works with all types of light bulbs and devices Offer a decently long warranty
Cons:
Need to buy a compatible gateway to use with mobile devices Unable to dim the LED light indicator
9. GE 45603 Z-Wave Technology Wireless
GE or General Electric is one of the most popular and quite an old brand of electric appliances and components which also happens to be offering a few smart home options powered by Z Wave. This General Electric GE 45603 Z Wave controller is one of the best ways to control fluorescent lights and other home appliances via smart connectivity options. As you will not be controlling other Z Wave devices with it, it only supports Z Wave connectivity and not Z Wave Plus. However, the bigger issue with this Z Wave controller is that its range is quite limited at just up to 65 feet which is quite low for most. Thankfully, a great benefit of going with something as reputable as General Electric is that its Z Wave controller does come backed by a decent 2-year warranty. Best Features:
Compatible with only Z Wave devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 65 feet Made for controlling fluorescent lights and home appliances Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
Easily control and manage different light fixtures Highly reliable and durable with a 2-year warranty Works great with other Z Wave controllers
Cons:
Poor range for wireless connectivity over Z Wave
10. GoControl WA00Z-1 Z-Wave Scene-Controller Wall Switch
GoControl is one of the smallest and a fairly new brand of Z Wave devices when compared with other options present here because of which its Z Wave controller happens to be quite affordable. The GoControl WA00Z-1 Z Wave controller is the cheapest option present here which makes it perfect for those who are on a tight budget. Since this is an entry-level Z Wave controller which is made for working as a smart switch to be installed on your wall, it only supports Z Wave connectivity and not Z Wave Plus. Thankfully, for the given price, you do get a decent range of up to 130 feet which is always great to have. In fact, you also get a 1-year warranty with this Z Wave controller which is not common among other budget options. Best Features:
Compatible with only Z Wave devices Rated for a maximum range of up to 130 feet Made for controlling switches in your home Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
Extremely affordable Z Wave controller Decent range over Z Wave for the given price Good build quality with a standard warranty
Cons:
Lacks support for Z Wave Plus connectivity
Buying Guide for the Best Z Wave Controllers
Z Wave is one of the best interfaces for controlling smart home devices and appliances. Not only do Z Wave devices offer decent range while being highly efficient, but they can also form a large size network for communicating with each other. And to help you control the different possible Z Wave devices in your home, we are here with the best Z Wave controllers. These different Z Wave controllers also have their important features and factors to help you pick the right one. But if you are still confused, consider checking out this detailed buying guide for the best Z Wave controllers.
Compatibility
Before taking a look at the performance numbers or the functions supported by a given Z Wave controller, making sure that it is compatible with your other Z Wave devices is highly important. This is due to the reason that there are primarily two types of options available out there which includes Z Wave devices and Z Wave Plus devices. Fortunately, almost all Z Wave controllers support both Z Wave as well as Z Wave Plus making them highly versatile.
Range
Since Z Wave devices including Z Wave controllers work wirelessly when it comes to connecting to other devices, checking their range is highly important. This ensures that you get a large size Z Wave network at your home and you are able to easily control all your smart devices without losing the strength. Starting with entry-level Z Wave controllers, they can have a range rating like up to 100 feet or up to 150 feet which should be decent for most. But if you want something much more powerful, some Z Wave controllers can even offer a range of up to 500 feet for much better versatility and performance.
Function
While looking for a Z Wave controller for your smart home setup, you can find all kinds of options in terms of the different functions that they offer. And to ensure that a given Z Wave controller is suitable for your needs, checking these different functions is highly important. Even though most Z Wave controllers are designed to control other Z Wave devices and their functions, some Z Wave controllers may control the lights in your home or even act as a power switch while running on your Z Wave controller. Since all these different types of Z Wave controllers run on the same technology, you can go with any of these types which suits your needs the best.
Battery Life
Since Z Wave is considered to be highly efficient in terms of its power consumption, a lot of Z Wave controllers come with inbuilt batteries. This allows you to use them completely wirelessly without even needing a power source. And if your Z Wave controller also comes with an inbuilt battery, then checking its battery life can be a great idea. Thanks to the high efficiency of Z Wave devices, different Z Wave controllers can have different battery life ratings ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months on a single charge. And as you would expect, having a long battery life is always better while going with a practical and versatile Z Wave controller for your home.
Warranty
When you are buying any kind of smart home device including Z Wave controllers, you would want them to last for as long as possible. For the same, you can consider checking the warranty included along with your Z Wave controllers. Thankfully, almost all Z Wave controllers come with either a 1 year long or a 2-year warranty with some options even including a 3-year warranty for your peace of mind and making them highly reliable.
Conclusion
Just per the name, a Z Wave controller is used to control and connect the various Z Wave devices at your home. This makes them perfect for a smart home setup where you want to turn all appliances and devices into smart ones. Because of the same, we have already discussed a few of the best Z Wave controllers earlier in this listicle along with all their details and features. To help you further in choosing the right Z Wave controller, we have also stated an extensive buying guide for the best Z Wave controllers earlier. And on the basis of all this information, here are some of our favorite recommendations for the best Z Wave controllers:
In comparison to most other Z Wave controllers, the Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 Plus is one of the most versatile options. For starters, it supports both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices while working at an excellent range of up to 492 feet. You even get a 3 year long warranty with it which makes it great for long term usage. If you are looking for a Z Wave controller made for on the go usage, then the Hank HKZW-SCN04 can be a great pick. Despite being a portable option, it still offers compatibility with both Z Wave and Z Wave Plus devices. And while its range might be a bit limited at up to 130 feet, it is certainly quite decent considering its battery life of up to 6 months. Those of you who are on a tight budget and want a Z Wave controller for your home can consider the GoControl WA00Z-1 Z Wave switch. Since this is essentially a light switch and not for controlling other Z Wave devices, it only supports Z Wave devices at up to 130 feet and not Z Wave Plus devices. Thankfully, you do get a decent 1 year long warranty with it, unlike other budget devices.
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