The array of controls on this capable smart dimmer allows direct management of light scenes and hues independent of mobile applications, though such capabilities are exclusive to compatible GE Lighting Cync devices.
No one requests an in-wall smart switch laden with excess complexity. Yet the GE Cync Keypad Dimmer Smart Switch lives up to its lengthy designation in terms of intricacy. Nevertheless, for those deeply embedded in the GE Lighting Cync platform, this multi-control dimmer merits consideration.
It handles up to 450 watts for incandescent lighting or 150 watts for LED bulbs, with a peak current of 3.75 amps. The unit offers flexibility for single-pole, 3-way, or 4-way setups and requires a neutral wire at the installation site.
Restricted to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connections, the device operates without a separate hub and holds Matter certification, alongside compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings platforms. It also integrates with GE Lighting's premium Savant system and application, intended primarily for expert setups.
Suitable for single-pole or multi-way configurations, the GE Cync Keypad Dimmer Smart Switch employs an all-pigtail wiring approach featuring five protruding wires. In single-pole applications, just four connect; the extra serves as a traveler for multi-location use. An extensive installation manual includes diagrams for various wiring cases. For anything more than basic single-pole, thorough review of the guide is essential. The package supplies assorted wire nuts, though larger ones from personal supplies proved necessary in my case due to the provided sizes being insufficient.
Securing five wire nuts—including one for the unused traveler—creates significant crowding in the electrical enclosure. Fitting the switch securely and aligning it neatly with the wall demanded considerable effort, and despite repeated attempts, the final positioning left minor imperfections. Anticipate investing substantial time and physical effort for precise alignment. Post-installation, a frame secures to the unit via two small screws, followed by a snap-on cover plate bearing a subtle GE emblem.
Although Matter-compatible, most configuration occurs through the Cync application. The initial pairing process is uncomplicated but proceeds at a deliberate pace, frequently needing manual refreshes for tasks like detecting Wi-Fi options. After about five minutes of intermittent progress, I completed setup, encompassing a firmware upgrade. Integration into a Matter network occurred without complications.
Beginning with the physical components, the prominent central button serves as an on/off switch. Adjacent up and down controls adjust intensity in 10 discrete steps per press. A line of white LEDs at the top displays the current brightness level visually. Prolonged presses on these enable gradual adjustments, though the pace remains leisurely, typical of dimmer mechanisms.
Fitting all wiring and connectors back into the enclosure presents a challenge for the GE Cync Keypad Dimmer. The device includes two prominent extra buttons positioned above the main power control, which are user-customizable—the extent of options hinges on existing home automation equipment.
At minimum, these buttons manage the attached load by turning it on exclusively, off exclusively, or alternating states, programmable via the Cync app. Their true potential emerges in directing light colors or navigating app-defined scenes.
Essentially, a single press can establish the desired ambiance without retrieving a smartphone or invoking voice commands. This proves useful for frequent theme changes in a space, but a key limitation applies: such color and scene functions require GE Cync smart bulbs, which need not connect directly to this switch.
The Cync application enables customization of the dimmer's numerous buttons for hue and scene shifts, optimized for GE Lighting's Cync lineup. Lacking provided Cync bulbs, my testing of these aspects was constrained. Standard operations for the buttons and overall switch performed reliably, despite the app occasionally presenting an overly intricate interface that hampers ease of setup.
Another noteworthy Cync app element is TrueImage, sparsely explained in documentation, leaving initial expectations unclear. Activation involves capturing an image of the linked fixture in its off state and another at maximum illumination. The tool combines these to generate an adaptive icon within the app.
Interacting with this icon mirrors the dimmer's intensity variations, offering a refined preview of room illumination. While somewhat unnecessary, it delivers an impressive and effective visual aid beyond initial assumptions.
Ultimately, the primary justification for selecting this dimmer over rivals—such as budget options like Tapo or pricier choices—rests on coexisting GE Lighting Cync bulbs in the target area. Even so, users must accept its cluttered, utilitarian appearance more fitting for commercial spaces than residences.
For homes often alternating between light setups and tones, this arrangement could enhance convenience. Priced at $38 on the market, it exceeds some alternatives but undercuts a Lutron Diva smart dimmer, which necessitates a hub. If not outfitting every space with a switch, the design drawbacks may seem less significant.
This evaluation forms part of TechHive's comprehensive analysis of top smart lighting solutions.
Christopher Null, an acclaimed tech writer with over 25 years covering consumer and enterprise products, previously held roles as Executive Editor at PC Computing and founded Mobile magazine, the pioneering print outlet for mobile technology. For TechHive, he reviews diverse smart home devices and contributes regularly to Wired, This Old House, and AAA’s Via Magazine.