Motion sensor light switches detect the presence of someone based on their motion or body heat as soon as they enter the room and turn on/off the light automatically upon their presence. They are easy to install and save electricity and thereby your money. There are several sensor light switches available in the market with a variety of technology, design, and functions, but you have to select them properly based on your specific applications. Here is an outlook of key factors to consider before investing in these motion sensor light switches. Type of Sensor – The performance of a motion sensor light switch depends highly on the type of sensor installed in it. Active and passive are two types of sensors that differ in effectiveness and operation speed.
Active sensors or radar-based lights will emit sound waves to bounce off all over the room and return back to the sensor. If any change in the speed or pattern of returning sound waves, then triggers the switch to turn on the light. If no change is observed after a certain time, then it turns off the light. Passive sensors or pyroelectric detectors that use PIR technology to detect the body heat and activate the switch to turn on the light, and turn off when no heat is not detected after some time.
Timeout Options – It is a pre-programmed setup that turns off the switch after a certain ideal time. This can be from 15 seconds – 30 minutes, in which you can set the time delay as per your requirement. Keep in mind that the shorter the timeout option, the more you can save electricity daily. Type of Light Switches – Occupancy and vacancy are two types of light switches that turn on/off the lights automatically. You have to manually turn on the vacancy switches when you enter the room, yet turn them off automatically after a preset time. While occupancy switches can easily turn on/off the light automatically upon your presence. To help you in choosing the right option, we have enlisted some Best Motion Sensor Light Switches after doing thorough research on several products. For more information, we recommend you read our detailed “Buying Guide” to get a clear idea of how to choose the best option as per your requirements.
7 Best Motion Sensor Light Switches in 2023
Best Motion Sensor Light Switches in 2023
1. Lutron Maestro Motion Sensor Light Switch
Lutron is a very popular brand for electrical appliances such as switches and lights. Lutron especially makes devices like the motion sensor light switch that makes your home a smart home. Present in the 1st position, we have the Lutron Maestro Motion Sensor Switch for you. It is a wall-mounted light switch that offers automatic operation based on when you walk in and out of the room. Based on the XCT sensing technology, it is also capable of detecting additional activities such as typing, reading, and so on for enhanced performance. There is also a built-in daylight sensor present that prevents the device from turning on the light where there is enough natural light present in the room. You can program the timeout options between 1, 5, 15, or 30 minutes for the Lutron Maestro Motion Sensor Switch. It can be paired with almost any type of bulb or light source, which also includes heavy light bulbs with up to 250 watts power capacity. The overall installation time that might be needed for installing the Lutron Maestro Motion Sensor Switch is nearly 15 minutes as it does not require a neutral wire. You will also get 2 years warranty period from Lutron. Best Features
Wall-mounted motion sensor light switch Push-button actuator SPST terminal 1, 5, 15, or 30 mins timeout options Supports up to 250 watts light bulbs 2 years warranty period
Pros
Many timeout options available Built-in natural light detector saves more electricity Can detect additional activities
Cons
Wall Plate not included with the switch
2. ELEGRP Occupancy Motion Sensor Light Switch
Our next choice is coming from yet another popular brand called ELEGRP. This manufacturer also designs special motion-activated light switches that do not need a neutral wire. Our 2nd choice for the best motion sensor light switch is the ELEGRP Occupancy Sensor Light Switch. It is also budget-friendly as well as easy to install option as it operates without a neutral wire required. Although, you must have a grounding wire to install this light switch. It has an ultra-slim profile that offers an in-wall installation for the switch. This is a universally compatible switch that works well with even the 300 watts LEDs and up to 600 watts incandescent bulbs. The design aspect of the ELEGRP Occupancy Sensor Light Switch is very attractive in terms of design as it has a matte finish surface and a frameless design. Although there is still a protective thermoplastic housing that prevents the switch from impacts and scratches. The ELEGRP Occupancy Sensor Light Switch offers multiple control options. You can either use the switch as a single-pole switch or for 2 locations at once. There is also a 2 year long warranty period offered by ELEGRP. Best Features
In-wall motion sensor light switch On/off switch actuator SPST terminal 15 mins timeout option Supports up to 600 watts light bulbs 2 years warranty period
Pros
Modern and attractive design Multiple control options available Low standby power consumption
Cons
Time out options are limited
3. TOPGREENER TSOS5 Motion Sensor Light Switch
TOPGREENER is yet another familiar brand name that provides a lot of options that are aimed for power saving and smart home applications. The motion sensor light switch from TOPGREENER is a great variant from them. The TOPGREENER TSOS5 is our 3rd pick for the best motion sensor light switches available in the market right now. It also offers extended compatibility similar to other premium options in the market as it can detect the vacancy and occupancy of the room and offer different outcomes based on that. You can also switch the settings to manual mode and take control in your hands, and use the switch like a regular light switch. The maximum coverage area for the TOPGREENER TSOS5 is up to 707 square feet with a 180-degree field of view where it can detect the presence. You can also adjust the sensitivity from 30% to 100% based on the room size and requirement. You can also adjust the timeout option between 15 seconds to 30 minutes. TOPGREENER offers a year of warranty with all of its motion sensor light switches. Best Features
In-wall motion sensor light switch On-off type button actuator 2P6T terminal 30 mins timeout options Supports up to 500 watts light bulbs 1 year warranty period
Pros
The coverage area is very wide The sensitivity range can be controlled Time out option is highly adjustable
Cons
The warranty period is short
4. ECOELER Motion Sensor Light Switch
If you are looking for affordable options, ECOELER will be a suitable brand for buying a motion sensor light switch. The following option from ECOLER is the cheapest switch from our list today. ECOELER is a preferred choice for many buyers as they offer a full refund guarantee if you do not find its products suitable for your needs. On top of that, the ECOELER Motion Sensor Light Switch is available at the cheapest price tag in comparison. But before you buy this light switch, make sure you have a neutral wire available in your home. Once installed, you will be able to customize the light switch between vacancy and occupancy options. There are also a variety of timeout options available, ranging between 15 seconds to 30 mins. The ECOELER Motion Sensor Light Switch offers both an automatic and manual operation that offers versatile usage. The smart motion sensor installed in this switch is certified by the UL certification, FCC Listed, and California compliant standards. Thus, it is going to be a great pick despite the low budget range. ECOLER is also offering a year of warranty on the light switch, which is great considering its budget range. Best Features
In-wall motion sensor light switch PIR motion sensor-actuator SPST terminal 15 to 30 mins timeout options – 1 year warranty period
Pros
Most affordable motion sensor light switch Versatile adjustment options available Multiple time out options available
Cons
The design could be better
5. Legrand radiant Motion Sensor Light Switch
Now that you have seen the affordable choices for motion sensor light switches, let’s move on to the premium range options, Out of which Legrand is a great option for the price. The Legrand radiant Motion Sensor Light Switch automatically turns on and off the connected light sources when someone enters or exits the room. This is possible because of the high-quality motion sensor available with this light switch. There is also a dedicated LED indicator present on the switch, which gives you a visual indication for the location of the switch in the room, even in dark. It also offers great adjustment options for time-out functions ranging from 30 seconds all the way up to 30 minutes. There are 3 operation modes provided on the Legrand radiant Motion Sensor Light Switch that are automatic, manual, and selectable auto/manual settings. This switch supports interchangeable face plates so that you can always get a decent faceplate for your switch and keep it matched with the current decor of your room. Legrand is possibly the most reliable option from our list as it offers a limited lifetime warranty period on its motion sensor light switches. Best Features
In-wall motion sensor light switch Automatic on and off type actuator Most reliable motion sensor light switch 30 seconds to 30 mins timeout options Supports up to 600 watts light bulbs Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
A lifetime warranty period is a great advantage Time delay adjustment is great Supports interchangeable faceplates
Cons
Fewer features available for the price
6. Enerlites MWOS-W Motion Sensor Light Switch
Enerlites is a very premium brand that takes care of all your needs with its selection of premium accessories and sensors. Apart from the switch itself, you can also buy various accessories needed for a motion sensor light switch from Enerlites. Coming at the end of our list for the best motion sensor light switch, we have the Enerlites MWOS-W Motion Sensor Switch. It is the most premium choice for a motion sensor light switch, and rightfully so as it combines dual technology for motion detection. There is a PIR as well as an ultrasonic sensor present on this device which makes its performance unmatched by other options. Thus, there won’t be any false positive results on the Enerlites MWOS-W Motion Sensor Switch. It is a great choice for commercial usage as well, with delay options adjustable between 1 to 30 minutes. Apart from the delay options, you can also adjust the detection range, light intensity, and mode of operation for the Enerlites MWOS-W Motion Sensor Switch. There are essentially 2 modes of operation present that are occupancy and vacancy, that differ in terms of trigger modes and detection levels. As it is a premium device, Enerlites is offering a 5 year long warranty period with this light switch. Best Features
Embedded sensor light switch On/off type actuator Dual technology sensor 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mins timeout options Supports up to 800 watts light bulbs 5 years warranty period
Pros
Performance is accurate and precise Can detect additional activities apart from the movement Up to 800 watts of light sources can be connected
Cons
Neutral wire required for installation
7. Sensky SK037 3-12M Motion Sensor Light Switch
Sensky is offering the most value for the money options for a motion sensor light switch in the market right now. For a reasonable option, it offers many great features. Unlike most other motion sensor-based light switches that operate with a 180 degrees field of vision, the Sensky SK037 offers a complete 360 degrees coverage which is great for large-sized rooms. Each of these light switches offers a triple motion detector set up so that there is no blindspot present in the coverage area. The Sensky SK037 can catch even the slightest movement as you can adjust the light sensitivity between 3 lux to 2000 lux. And as the device can be installed on a ceiling or drywall, you can rely on its performance. The delay time option for the Sensky SK037 can be customized between 10 seconds to 7 minds based on your preference. In case a new motion is detected before the time runs out, the timer will reset for the selected time frame. The detection range for the Sensky SK037 is adjustable between 3 to 12 meters which makes it a great choice for small as well as large rooms. The PIR motion sensor that powers this device can detect movement as well as a heat source which makes its performance accurate and precise. Best Features
Ceiling, dry wall mounted motion sensor light switch Rotary actuator 360-degree coverage area 10 seconds to 7 mins timeout options Adjustable range between 3 to 12 meters PIR motion sensor
Pros
The switch can detect movement as well as a heat source Coverage area can be extended or reduced based on requirements The timeout option is highly adjustable
Cons
There is no warranty period
Buying Guide For The Best Motion Sensor Light Switches
Motion sensor light switches not only save you the trouble of operating switches (turn on/off the light) manually but also save a lot of electricity by switching off the lights when no one is there in the room. The above-mentioned light switches are the best and most efficient options. For your proper selection, we are providing you with a buying guide that explains several aspects and eases your selection process. Let’s get into the details of what factors to consider while shopping for the motion sensor light switch.
1. Type of Light Switches (Vacancy Vs. Occupancy):
Occupancy and vacancy are two types of working modes available for motion sensor light switches. Though some models use either of these types, some high-end models use both types. Knowing about their pros and cons will help you to use the switches more efficiently. Occupancy Light Switches – This switch will turn on the light automatically whenever a person enters the room and turn off after some time the person exists. The main drawback of these lights is that they turn on lights irrespective of the room’s brightness. Thus, it is an excellent option to use the lights at night but not that effective during the daytime, until the model feature a light sensor to know the light brightness and thereby lighten the room. Vacancy Light Switches – A person entering the room has to turn on the light manually (turning on automatically is not allowed). But the switch can turn off the light automatically certain time after they exist. It is an excellent energy-efficient option, as the natural lighting will be there during the daytime, yet a bit difficult to switch on the light at night time.
2. Type of Motion Detection Sensors (Active Vs. Passive):
As the name implies, these motion sensor light switches detect the motion or presence of someone in the room by using either one of these sensors – active or passive. The type of sensor you choose will determine the overall performance of the device. So, you have to check the type of sensor installed on a switch so that you can ensure whether the switch applies to you or not. Active Sensors – Here, the sound waves sent by the sensor will get bounce off objects in the room and thereby return to the switch by using ultrasonic technology. If there is any change observed (sent wave Vs. received wave) by the returning sound waves in their pattern or speed, then the sensor activates the switch to turn on the light due to the someone’s occupancy in the room (motion). The switch turns off the light automatically if the sensor finds no changes in its pattern after some time (scheduled or set light turn-off time). This is an ideal option to use for commercial buildings and open places due to its light sensitivity and detection of fine motions (even around corners or obstacles) Passive Sensors – This sensor activates the switch whenever it detects heat (body heat) of human or animals in the room with the help of a passive infrared sensor (PIR), and turn on the light. The light gets turned off whenever the sensor won’t detect body heat for a specific time period. Mostly, the sensor might trigger the sunlight (heat) in the room and turns on the light. So, choose the model whose sensor’s sensitivity overlooks the gradual heat changes in the room to prevent accidental triggers. These PIR motion sensor light switches are ideal to use in both commercial and household due to their less power consumption, affordable and react well to human actions. Note: Some premium motion sensor light switches use dual technology (ultrasonic technology and PIR) that trigger the light. Yet both simultaneously detect motion and turn off the light till there is no identical detection of motion by either of these techs.
3. Light Bulb Compatibility:
A substantial amount of wattage can be easily handled by these motion sensor light switches. Mostly, it is based on the type of light bulb you are using. For instance, models using incandescent bulbs then it can handle up to 500 watts, whereas it is 250 watts for CFL and LED bulbs that are better compared to an individual light bulb. However, it is essential to consider the light bulb compatibility before buying the motion sensor light switch, especially when the switch runs a light fixture using several light bulbs. For instance, the light fixture in the kitchen using 60-watt incandescent bulbs need a light switch with a greater capacity of 350 watts (or more).
4. Installation and Wiring:
You need a screwdriver (flathead and Phillips-head) for installing the motion sensor light switch. Single-pole light switches come with two wires and ground wire (copper wire). Connect a wire from the household power source to one of the terminals of the light switch, while connecting the second wire from the light fixture to the other end of the light switch. Finally, don’t forget to connect the grounding copper wire to the third terminal to protect the switch from shorting out when having a power surge. Hence, it takes hardly 30 minutes for replacing a standard light switch with a motion sensor switch (irrespective of pros or DIYers). However, there is no need of using any special tools, yet you have to follow some safety precautions like buying a voltage detector for safe and effective wiring and installation of these motion sensor light switches. Moreover, you can go with a 3-way light switch, which let you control the lighting from two distinct places. However, standard motion sensor light switches can only control a single light, yet if having a longer area, then a single motion sensor won’t cover it properly. Hence you need to use two sensors at both ends, and for this, you require two 3-way motion sensor light switches for the proper coverage of the area. If you are planning to upgrade your existing motion sensor light switches, then prefer to go with wireless sensor switches. These are getting popular for their quick and easy installation without any need to install new wiring or mess up with existing ones. These are battery-powered and remote-controlled via wi-fi, where you can send the singles without wires to the controller for turning on/off the light.
5. Timeout Options:
The timeout options (time delay) are widely used to save electricity while using this automatic motion sensor light switch. Unlike manual switching, these automatic switches offer a certain delay time, after when the light turns off automatically. The delay timer starts when the motion sensor detects the ideal condition in the room and makes sure that the room is vacant. You should be able to customize this timeout option as per your preference to get the best performance from your light switch.
6. Adjustment Options:
The motion sensor light switch has adjustment options that include light intensity, variable range, and operation mode. The range adjustment is needed if you are installing the light switch in a smaller room where a larger range would work against energy saving. As for the light intensity adjustments, you will find this setting useful for when the occupancy level changes for the room. The light intensity can be adjusted based on the number of people present in the room and the type of activity you are performing.
7. Extra Features:
Any product featuring additional functions will ease its usage and make the user complete their work efficiently. Here are a few extra features that help you perform by customizing your task quickly and properly. Dimmer – Several lights don’t function as dimmers, yet some premium models have this dimmer feature. They can control the dimming by using its paddle switch and motion detector to set the light at comfortable lighting (not too dark or too light). Daylight Sensing – This feature will allow the sensor to evaluate the ambient lighting level in the room. Then it turns on/off the light depending on the specific lighting level. The sensor won’t trigger the switch to turn on the light when the room has ambient light brightness. All you need is to customize the sensitivity of these daylight sensors by using their dials. Smart Technology – This function allow you to connect the smart sensor light switch to your household’s smart hub. Thereby it let you easily control various features like program schedules, generate lighting scenes, dimming options, and sensor sensitivity settings by using your smartphone at any time. Motion Sensitivity – The sensitivity settings of most of these light switches will allow you to tune the movement level triggering the light.
8. Price:
The price of these light switches will vary depending on several factors. We suggest you choose the best model that balances your budget range and requirements. The general price range of these motion sensor light switches will be from $12 – $100 While it is worth investing in the model offering extra features at a bit higher price, as you can save money on your power bills.
9. Warranty:
Warranty on any product will be like assurance towards its longevity, reliability, and durability. Some motion sensor light switch models come with a minimum of a 1-year warranty, while other models offer a 2, 3, or 5 years warranty. However, some brands provide a lifetime warranty on their products. Apart from the warranty period, you have to check the customer service and online reviews and ratings before you plan to purchase these light switches.
Benefits of Using a Motion Sensor Light Switch:
Apart from its main purpose of cutting power bills by preventing energy waste, you can be benefitted in several ways by using these motion sensor light switches rather than regular switches. Here we have listed some of the main benefits you can get by using this sensor-based light switch. Clean, Convenient, and Hands-Free: Turning on/off the light with occupied, dirty, or oily hands while entering/exiting the room is much more difficult. Also, frequent touching of light buttons is not suggested in this pandemic situation. So, the use of motion sensor light switches will control the lighting through sensor based without operating it manually, which means a hands-free and convenient option. Reduce the Power Wastage: We all know that motion sensor lights save energy compared to the lights operated manually. Yet it is essential to know how much energy it can save before making its purchase. As per the US Environmental Protection Agency, the use of automatic shutoff motion sensor switches can easily save lighting energy by 30 – 60% in residential applications, while up to 80% in commercial places. Thereby reducing the power waste. Use LEDs for Longer Lifespan: Turning on/off the lights frequently will not only damage the light bulb but also reduces the lifespan of the light. However, the damage done is based on the type of light bulb (LED, incandescent, fluorescent, or halogen) you are using. Most experts suggest that LED is the best option to enhance the longevity of the light due to the absence of filament, and also saves a lot of energy and money. Safety: Safety is an utmost feature to consider while buying this motion sensor light switch, especially in security cameras to detect burglars. Now the main question arises how this light switch helps to enhance the indoor safety of the home? Without sufficient lighting, it would be a risk to walk or do your work at night, especially for kids or older people. So, the use of these sensor light switches will turn on/off the light automatically whenever you go through the rooms, particularly in storage or garage rooms.
Conclusion
While buying a motion sensor light switch, you will have to consider a lot of things that will help you pick up the best option in your budget. As it is impossible to verify a switch before buying it, we will strongly recommend you to go through our buying guide so that you can get an idea about these switches before buying them. Although, all of our picks for the best motion sensor light switches are chosen based on these facts so that you can easily pick one without any problem. Here are some great choices from our picks today.
If you are looking for a cheaper option so that you can get multiple light switches and install them in all of your rooms, the ECOELER Motion Sensor Light Switch will work out perfectly for you. It is the cheapest motion sensor light switch with various adjustment settings available for time, sensitivity, and light. It comes with a year of warranty as well. On the other hand, the Enerlites MWOS-W Motion Sensor Switch is the most premium option that operates on dual PIR and ultrasonic sound technology to offer the best performance. It can also detect whether you are working in a room or simply walking by and perform accordingly. There are 8 different timeout options available with this switch. Electric switches get damaged easily, especially critical devices such as motion sensor light switches. To avoid that, you should prefer a reliable option like the Legrand radiant Motion Sensor Light Switch This motion sensor light switch features a limited lifetime warranty period along with timeout options ranging from 30 seconds all the way up to 30 minutes.
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