Product Selection Guide · Smart Home
Smart switch or smart relay?
Compare applications, load capacities and connection limits, then use the live power calculator to identify the option that suits your requirements.
01 · THE BASIC DISTINCTION
Two solutions for different requirements
Smart switches and smart relays enable remote control of lighting or connected equipment. The appropriate product depends on the existing installation, connected load and design requirements. In most cases, both products are not required at the same control point.
Smart Switch
▸ When you also want to update the appearance of the wall switch
- The old switch is replaced with a glass touch smart switch
- Its glass surface provides a modern, integrated appearance
- Ideal for new homes or renovation projects
- Primarily designed for lighting control
- Higher cost
Smart Relay
▸ When you want smart control while retaining the existing wall switch
- Hidden behind the switch, in the ceiling, or on the device line
- Can be installed without changing the visible wall surface
- Enables remote control of equipment without a dedicated switch, such as pumps or signage
- Ideal for rentals or older buildings
- Lower cost
02 · SMART SWITCH
What can connect to a smart switch?
Smart switches are primarily intended for lighting. Capacity is typically limited to approximately 600 W per switch group (gang), making them unsuitable for high-power appliances.
✓ Compatible
- Chandeliers, LED panels, spots and recessed spots
- Wall sconces, pendants, LED strips (with a driver)
- Garden and balcony lighting
- Low-power devices below 600 W, subject to manufacturer specifications
✗ Not compatible
- Air conditioners, water heaters, electric heaters
- Ovens, irons, hobs and other high-power appliances
- Motors and pumps (high inrush current)
- Socket lines (risky, since what gets plugged in is unknown)
03 · SMART RELAY (10A / 16A)
Which devices can connect to a smart relay?
A relay's current rating determines the maximum load it can safely carry. Product selection should account for both the combined power demand and the starting current of connected equipment.
POWER (Watt) = AMPS × 220V
10 A ≈ 2200 W · 16 A ≈ 3500 W · follow manufacturer limits and maintain an appropriate safety margin
| Amps | Carries | Compatible | Not compatible |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10A~2200W | Lights, TV, modem, fridge, small devices | Lighting groups, TV/audio systems, fridge, mini pump, aquarium, garden lights, low-power socket line | Air conditioner, water heater, heater |
| 16A~3500W | Loads covered by 10 A models, plus medium-to-high-power equipment | Air conditioner (split), washer/dishwasher, medium water heater, water pump, heaters under 3500W, microwave | Large water tank (4000W+), built-in stove/oven, industrial heater |
| 30A+~6600W | Very high-power dedicated lines | Water tank heater, electric stove, powerful heater (on a dedicated line) | Manufacturer ratings and circuit capacity must be verified separately |
04 · WiFi IR REMOTE
Manage compatible devices through a WiFi IR controller
A WiFi IR controller enables compatible infrared remote-controlled equipment to be managed through a mobile app and supported voice assistants. Air conditioners, televisions, set-top boxes and audio systems can be consolidated within a single interface.
✓ Compatible equipment
- Air conditioners operated by infrared remote control
- TV, set-top / satellite box
- Audio and music systems
- Other remote-controlled devices (the remote is copied)
How it works
- Sends infrared signals just like an ordinary remote
- Select a compatible make and model from the built-in code library
- On supported models, register signals from the existing remote
- USB-powered and does not require changes to fixed electrical wiring
05 · LIVE CALCULATOR
Estimate the relay capacity you require
Select the devices and quantities you plan to connect to view the estimated total load and receive an initial relay-class recommendation.
⚡ Select devices
Total Power
0W
06 · HOW MANY DEVICES?
How should device and relay quantities be determined?
DEVICES PER RELAY
A relay controls a single output circuit. Multiple devices may share that circuit, but total load and starting current are more important than device count. Devices on the same circuit operate together; each independently controlled group requires a separate relay.
RELAYS / DEVICES PER HOME
WiFi models connect directly to the network router, and practical device capacity depends on the network infrastructure. Zigbee models operate through a compatible gateway. Maximum supported device counts vary by product and gateway, so manufacturer specifications should be consulted.
07 · FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Review answers to common questions about product selection and operating conditions.
Do I want the look of my wall switch to change?+
If you want a fresh look too, choose a smart switch; if the switch should stay the same, the hidden smart relay is the right choice.
What do I want to control, a light or a device?+
For lights only, a smart switch is enough. For devices like air conditioners, machines or pumps, you need a smart relay (16A).
Do I want to dim the light, or is on/off enough?+
To adjust the light level you need a dimmer and a 'dimmable' LED. If on/off is enough, a standard smart switch works.
How many separate lights will I control independently?+
This determines the gang (group) count: 1 gang for a single group, 3 gang for three separate groups.
How many devices will I connect, and how large is the space?+
For few devices, WiFi models; for many devices or large spaces, Zigbee + a gateway is recommended.
What should I watch out for with high-power devices?+
A smart switch is for lighting only. For powerful devices like air conditioners, water heaters and heaters, always use a smart relay with the right amperage.
Can I control my air conditioner or TV from my phone?+
Yes. With a WiFi IR remote you can manage IR remote-controlled devices like air conditioners and TVs from your phone. Each room needs its own device, since infrared signals don't pass through walls.