Comparing Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi ELV/LED Dimmer and Lutron Diva ELV+

Smart lighting solutions have become integral to modern home automation, providing convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced ambiance. Two leading contenders in this market are Leviton's Decora Smart Wi-Fi ELV/LED Phase-Selectable Dimmer (D2ELV) and Lutron's Diva Smart Dimmer ELV+. Both offer advanced features and broad compatibility but have distinct differences. Here's an in-depth comparison to help you understand each of its key features and functionalities.

Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi ELV/LED Phase-Selectable Dimmer (D2ELV)

Leviton has long been a trusted name in electrical wiring devices, and its latest addition to the Decora Smart Wi-Fi portfolio is the D2ELV dimmer. This device is designed for versatility and ease of integration into various smart home systems.

Key Features:

1. Broad Compatibility: The D2ELV dimmer works with multiple lighting types, including ELV, LED, CFL, incandescent, and halogen. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications such as undercabinet, track, recessed, accent, or tape lighting.
2. Phase-Selectable Dimming: Users can choose forward or reverse phase dimming modes to ensure smooth and flicker-free performance, especially with LED lighting.
3. Smart Home Integration: The dimmer is compatible with My Leviton, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple Home. It is also Matter-enabled, which enhances its interoperability with various smart devices.
4. Advanced Control Features: The My Leviton app allows users to fine-tune settings such as dimming range options and fade rates, customize preset light levels, and set up auto-shutoff features.
5. Convenience and Customization: The D2ELV supports three-way control by pairing with wire-free Anywhere Companion Dimmers or hard-wired Companion Dimmers, providing flexibility in installation and usage.

At GearBrain, we have tested previous models in the Decora Smart Switch and Plug lineup and found them highly reliable. We will test the new D2ELV in the coming weeks to see if it maintains the same high performance.

Lutron Diva Smart Dimmer ELV+

Lutron, another leader in the lighting control industry, has expanded its Caséta product line with the Diva Smart Dimmer ELV+. Known for its precision and ease of use, this dimmer is designed to meet the needs of professional installers and homeowners alike.

Key Features:

1. Comprehensive Dimming Capabilities: The Diva Smart Dimmer ELV+ offers phase-selectable dimming for various lighting types, including LED, MLV, ELV, incandescent, and halogen. This ensures optimal performance across different load types.
2. Professional-Grade Integration: The dimmer works with the Lutron app, allowing for precise control of lighting settings and integration with other smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
3. Versatile Mounting Options: The Diva Smart Dimmer can be paired with the Pico Paddle Remote, providing effortless three-way control without additional wiring. The Pico remotes offer intuitive control and are available in multiple colors to match the dimmer.
4. Elegant Design and Colors: The dimmer is available in six color options—white, ivory, light almond, black, brown, and gray—and matches the paddle-style aesthetic of the Caséta family, ensuring a cohesive look throughout the home.
5. Installer-Friendly Features: The dimmer's design simplifies installation, making it a preferred choice for professional installers who need to provide versatile and customizable solutions to their clients.

Comparing the Two Dimmer Switches

Compatibility and Integration: Both the Leviton D2ELV and Lutron Diva ELV+ offer broad compatibility with various lighting types and smart home platforms. However, the Leviton D2ELV is Matter-enabled, potentially providing broader interoperability with future smart home devices.

Control Features: Leviton's My Leviton app offers extensive customization options, including dimming range, fade rates, and auto-shutoff features. Lutron's app provides precise control but is complemented by the Pico Paddle Remote for easy, wire-free three-way control.

Design and Aesthetics: Lutron offers more color options and a paddle-style design that matches other Caséta devices, which might be preferred by those looking for a cohesive aesthetic. Leviton's design is also sleek and modern but with fewer color options.

Installation and Use: Lutron's dimmer is designed for professional installers. It offers straightforward installation and easy expansion with Pico remotes. Leviton's dimmer also supports three-way control and provides a user-friendly app for setup and adjustments.

Pricing

When it comes to cost, there is a notable difference between the two dimmers:

• Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi ELV/LED Phase-Selectable Dimmer (D2ELV): The MSRP is $69.99, making it a more affordable option for those looking to upgrade their lighting control systems without breaking the bank.
• Lutron Diva Smart Dimmer ELV+: The MSRP is $129.95, reflecting its advanced features and professional-grade integration. This higher price point may be justified for users seeking the added versatility and design options.

Summary

Both the Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi ELV/LED Phase-Selectable Dimmer and the Lutron Diva Smart Dimmer ELV+ are excellent choices for smart lighting control. They offer advanced features and broad compatibility. Your choice will likely depend on specific needs, such as your preferred smart home platform, design aesthetics, and installation preferences.

As we prepare to test Leviton's new dimmer, we are optimistic that it will continue to uphold the high standards of performance and reliability that Leviton is known for. Stay tuned for our comprehensive review to see how it performs in real-world scenarios. For more information on these innovative dimmers, visit Leviton's website and Lutron Electronics.

Check out The GearBrain, our smart home compatibility find engine. It can help you find, buy, and connect any smart device, including smart lights. It can even help you find other smart devices or systems compatible with your existing smart devices, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa-enabled devices.

Like GearBrain's content? Be sure to follow us.