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Home Lights

Best Dimmer Switches

Updated October 2021
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Impact Merchandising 1,000 Watt Dimmer
Impact Merchandising
1,000 Watt Dimmer

Combines easy operation, impressive wattage control, and versatility to earn the top spot on our shortlist.

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Bottom Line

Combines easy operation, impressive wattage control, and versatility to earn the top spot on our shortlist.

Pros

Supports a variety of lighting with up to 1,000 watts of power. Sturdy construction is compatible with outdoor lighting. Easy to install and use. One-year warranty.

Cons

Though it works with outdoor lights, it's not weatherproof; dimming function tends to malfunction in wet weather. It's also a bit pricey.

Best Bang for the Buck
Lutron 300 Watt Lamp Dimmer
Lutron
300 Watt Lamp Dimmer

If you want a quality dimmer on a budget, you won't find a more reliable or affordable option.

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Bottom Line

If you want a quality dimmer on a budget, you won't find a more reliable or affordable option.

Pros

A basic, uncomplicated model that's easy to use. Plugs into standard outlets. Works with table lamps and floor lights up to 300 watts. Affordable price.

Cons

It's not as versatile as costlier models, and it isn't recommended for use with LED lights.

Eaton Aspire
Eaton
Aspire

If you want a smart model with Z-Wave technology and don't mind the higher price, this is your best option.

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Bottom Line

If you want a smart model with Z-Wave technology and don't mind the higher price, this is your best option.

Pros

Compatible with Z-Wave technology to provide "smart" wireless, remote control. Works with SmartThings app. Dims lights effortlessly. Two-year limited warranty.

Cons

Expensive, and it requires electrical wiring knowledge or professional installation.

Insteon Smart Plug
Insteon
Smart Plug

An acceptable choice if you want a wireless "smart" model that doesn't require Z-Wave technology, but be aware of setup and programming issues.

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Bottom Line

An acceptable choice if you want a wireless "smart" model that doesn't require Z-Wave technology, but be aware of setup and programming issues.

Pros

A "smart" model that can be controlled by voice, tablet, or smartphone with the Insteon Hub. Works with a variety of small appliances up to 1,800 watts. Requires no wiring to set up.

Cons

Difficult to install, and customer support is inferior. Some users have issues with programming it to their devices.

Leviton SureSlide
Leviton
SureSlide

A great choice if you want a wall-mounted dimmer switch. Otherwise, the Lutron is less complicated and a better value.

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Bottom Line

A great choice if you want a wall-mounted dimmer switch. Otherwise, the Lutron is less complicated and a better value.

Pros

Low-profile design and smooth dimming operation. Works with a variety of lights, including LED bulbs.

Cons

Professional installation is recommended. Only accommodates 150 watts of power.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
How We Tested

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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First Reviewed
October 01, 2021
30
Models
considered
8
Hours
researched
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Jennifer Manfrin
Written by Jennifer Manfrin

Updated October 2021

A dimmer switch enables you to control the amount of light in your dining room, living room or other areas of your home. It can even be used to manage your outdoor patio lighting like never before. A dimmer switch boasts sturdy construction, ensuring the switch won't break easily. Also, a dimmer switch can be used in conjunction with a wide range of LED light bulbs, and it may help you reduce your electricity costs. A dimmer switch usually is simple to install, and once the switch is in place, it is easy to control. Most dimmer switches work with standard outlets as well.

Our Top Picks
Impact Merchandising
Best of the Best
Impact Merchandising
1,000 Watt Dimmer
Bottom Line
Combines easy operation, impressive wattage control, and versatility to earn the top spot on our shortlist.
Shop Now
Lutron
Best Bang for the Buck
Lutron
300 Watt Lamp Dimmer
Bottom Line
If you want a quality dimmer on a budget, you won't find a more reliable or affordable option.
Shop Now
Eaton
Top Pick
Eaton
Aspire
Bottom Line
If you want a smart model with Z-Wave technology and don't mind the higher price, this is your best option.
Shop Now
Insteon
Top Pick
Insteon
Smart Plug
Bottom Line
An acceptable choice if you want a wireless "smart" model that doesn't require Z-Wave technology, but be aware of setup and programming issues.
Shop Now
Leviton
Top Pick
Leviton
SureSlide
Bottom Line
A great choice if you want a wall-mounted dimmer switch. Otherwise, the Lutron is less complicated and a better value.
Shop Now
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