Cooper vs. Leviton Z-Wave Devices

[siegeld]

I'm getting ready to play with Z-Wave devices. I'm trying to decide between Cooper's line of devices, or Levitons. From what I can tell, both support 2-way Z-Wave - though I cannot determine if they both use the same "2-way" protocol. Is the 2-way notification standard for all Z-Wave devices? Second, it appears that Cooper's devices have a more standard approach to how the switch works, where pushing up on the paddle turns the light on, and pushing down on the paddle turns the light off. Leviton uses a toggle approach, and you always have to push up.

Do I have this right? Are there any other factors to consider?

Thanks!

 

[MikeB]

No. Although the Cooper devices look a bit more like traditional decora-style light switches, they are also toggle like the Levitons.

You actually have to press the bottom portion of the switch to toggle the Levitons.

I personally don't like how the Levitons always "look" on, but the Coopers are considerably more expensive.

 

[siegeld]

I see. Are there any other brands I should consider that also support 2-way notification? I agree with you that the Leviton devices always look on, which I think is confusing.

 

[AutomatedOutlet]

I also would suggest the Cooper devices for the nice touch. They also have additional features built into them.

We do carry the full line of Cooper devices but most of them aren't on the website yet. Please email us for a detailed quote.

I just hired another person today (starting in 2 weeks) that will make sure that we keep up better on getting new products on the website.

 

[twilo123]

just my opinion but neither one is really worth it. in fact, i have yet to find a decent z-wave light switch from a physical perspective. leviton and cooper are both toggles, leviton is a bottom toggle only (i keep trying to hit the top when i get up at night) and the cooper wiring has both top/bottom toggles but they are on the right side (seriously annoying). in other words you have to hit the top right or bottom right corner to toggle the switch, not top/bottom in the middle like most switches. i like the side toggle on the leviton's better. cooper is too flush for me. both are way too expensive for a light switch.

on the other hand, i like the side toggles for dimmers much better than the built in on the cheaper models.

as far as i know all z-wave devices are 2way. that is the nature of the protocol. the polling component is for controllers that did not originate the request.

cooper just came out with a battery operated z-wave wall switch via associations which i am looking forward to testing out. homeseer has them online for purchase. if the battery lasts it will be a good compliment to the z-wave device list.

my optimal physical version of a z-wave light switch. something designed like an act switch but with leviton's side toggle and side led status for dimmers. status led should be medium sized and in the top or bottom section of the switch and only lights when off (so i can find it in the dark). l like the rocker style on the leviton 4 zone controller but this style is tough to label so the 4 scene controller is sufficient on that end.

 

[MikeB]

i have yet to find a decent z-wave light switch from a physical perspective.

I agree, and I'm shocked there aren't more standard up/on, down/off Z-Wave devices available. There's Intermatic, but I wasn't a fan of their recessed paddle look or the feel of their switches, especially the relay.

cooper just came out with a battery operated z-wave wall switch via associations which i am looking forward to testing out. homeseer has them online for purchase. if the battery lasts it will be a good compliment to the z-wave device list.

I saw that at the most recent EHX. Pretty cool device. I wasn't aware it was shipping yet, though.

 

[twilo123]

i have yet to find a decent z-wave light switch from a physical perspective.

I agree, and I'm shocked there aren't more standard up/on, down/off Z-Wave devices available. There's Intermatic, but I wasn't a fan of their recessed paddle look or the feel of their switches, especially the relay.

--isn't it crazy how they are destroying their own industry. they are turning people off to the switches before they can even try out the technology to see the benefit. it's insane IMO. i like the relay on the act switches, just need the side toggle for the dimmers and some decent led lighting when the light is off by default.

cooper just came out with a battery operated z-wave wall switch via associations which i am looking forward to testing out. homeseer has them online for purchase. if the battery lasts it will be a good compliment to the z-wave device list.

I saw that at the most recent EHX. Pretty cool device. I wasn't aware it was shipping yet, though.

http://store.homeseer.com/store/Aspire-RF-...er-P552C70.aspx