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The GE Cync Smart Wire-Free Light Switch

Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the GE Cync Smart Wire-Free Light Switch. Now, I’ve seen a lot of smart switches in my time – some glorious, some… less so. And I’ll tell you straight up, this little guy from GE? It’s got some interesting things going for it, but also a few quirks that keep it from achieving true smart home nirvana.

Let’s start with the good: Installation is a breeze. Seriously, if you can operate a screwdriver, you’re golden. No neutral wire required, which is a massive win for older homes. We’re talking minutes, not hours, people. Plus, it comes with everything you need right in the box, even the little wall plate. That’s attention to detail I appreciate. And the design? Clean, minimalist, fits right into most aesthetics. It doesn’t scream “I’M A SMART SWITCH, LOOK AT ME,” which, let’s be honest, is a welcome change.

Pairing is generally painless using the Cync app (powered by Savant, another reputable name in the game). I had it connected to my Wi-Fi and talking to my other smart devices in no time. Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant? Works like a charm. “Hey Google, dim the living room lights to 50%” and boom, instant ambiance. You can also set schedules, create scenes, and group lights together for coordinated control. It offers all the basic smart switch functionalities you’d expect, and it executes them reliably.

Now for the not-so-good. First off, while the no-neutral wire is great, it does require a bit of juice to keep the switch’s internal electronics alive, which leads to a slight “vampire drain” on the connected lights. I’m talking a very faint glow even when the switch is “off.” Not a dealbreaker for most, but if you’re hyper-sensitive to light when you sleep, this could be an issue.

Second, the app, while functional, isn’t the most intuitive I’ve ever used. Navigating through menus and settings feels a little clunky at times. There is a slight learning curve to master all the features and setting them up to fit your exact needs. But, after a few trial runs, I was in a good flow.

And lastly, and this is a minor gripe but worth mentioning – the tactile feedback on the switch itself is a bit… mushy. There’s no satisfying click when you press it. It’s more of a gentle push. I know, I know, it’s a smart switch, not a mechanical marvel. But still, a little click would be nice.

The Bottom Line: The GE Cync Smart Wire-Free Light Switch is a solid contender in the smart home arena. Its easy installation, reliable performance, and compatibility with major voice assistants make it a strong choice, especially for those with older homes. However, the slight vampire drain, somewhat clunky app, and lack of tactile feedback prevent it from reaching its full potential. If you’re looking for a straightforward, no-frills smart switch that gets the job done without requiring a major electrical overhaul, this is a good option. Just be aware of its minor shortcomings. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely a bright spark in the smart home landscape. 

– Aaron D.