Title: Iotty E1/E2 Plus Smart Switches: Italian Design Meets High-End Functionality

Subtitle: A Detailed Review of Iotty E1/E2 Plus Smart Switches: Perfect Blend of Style and Performance

By Pierre Herubel

If you are looking to add a touch of sophistication to your home decor and enhance your lighting experience, look no further than the Iotty E1/E2 Plus smart switches. With their sleek Italian design and impressive functionality, these switches are a cut above the rest.

One of the standout features of these switches is their eye-catching design, which captivates even without the added visual appeal of the backlight. Similar to other top-of-the-line smart switches, the Iotty E1/E2 Plus switches require a minimum 35mm deep backbox and modern ‘switch-first’ wiring with a neutral wire. However, older UK properties may not meet these requirements, so it is advisable to consult an electrician for a thorough assessment.

Once installed, these switches prove to be not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly capable and user-friendly. You can operate them by simply pressing on the touch-sensitive faceplate or utilize the various supported smart home ecosystems for seamless control of your home lighting.

However, it’s worth noting that these switches come with a hefty price tag, and professional installation by an electrician is recommended, which adds to the overall installation cost.

The iotty E1/E2 Plus smart switches are currently available exclusively in Europe, with UK retail prices of £99.90 for both the one-gang and two-gang switches. Amazon offers these switches, and there are also discounts available on the iotty UK website. However, navigating the website for purchase can be challenging. Additionally, as the switches are shipped from Italy, import duty at 20% is applicable.

Specification:

– Dimensions: 85cm x 85cm x 37.71mm (including faceplate)
– Available Colors: White, black, blue, tan, grey
– Hub Requirement: No
– Compatibility: Works with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, Siri shortcuts, IFTTT
– Wi-Fi Enabled: Yes
– Warranty: 2 years

Installing the iotty E1/E2 Plus switches does come with some complexities. While the installation of a single-gang switch is relatively straightforward, it is advisable to hire an electrician unless you have confidence in handling the installation yourself. One challenge is connecting the switches to solid wiring, which can be overcome by using flexible, stranded cabling and Wago lever connectors.

Installing a two-gang switch can be more complicated, and it may require a 47mm backbox for certain wiring situations. The multiway switching feature also requires careful configuration and experimentation to ensure optimal functionality.

In terms of performance, the iotty E1/E2 Plus switches offer a range of sensors that enhance automation capabilities. It can fetch information from the internet, such as sunset and sunrise times, geolocation data, and weather forecasts, allowing for a multitude of smart lighting automations. These switches can also be used as pulse switches for gates or garage doors and are highly responsive as physical touch switches.

The accompanying mobile application for the switches performs well and bears a resemblance to Samsung SmartThings. However, the small size of the buttons and the use of technical terms can be overwhelming for beginners in the smart home device space. Basic automations are easy to set up, but there are limitations in creating more complex scenarios.

For Apple Homekit users, the Siri shortcuts feature is a significant advantage, enabling customization of backlight settings to ensure a comfortable sleep environment.

Overall, the Iotty E1/E2 Plus smart switches offer a unique combination of style, performance, and functionality. While they are on the higher end in terms of price, the impeccable design and advanced features make them a worthy investment for those looking to enhance their home lighting experience.

Should I buy the Iotty E1/E2 Plus smart switches?

Buy it if you are seeking a premium smart switch that adds a touch of elegance to your home decor and offers advanced automation capabilities.

Don’t buy it if you have an older UK property with outdated wiring or if you have budget constraints.

Also consider:

– Wiz Wizmote: Offers similar functionality at a more affordable price point.
– Hue Dimmer Switch: Known for its reliability and compatibility with smart home ecosystems.