Last updated on February 17th, 2023 at 07:49 pm
Are you looking for a way to add some extra pizzazz to your home’s exterior décor? If so, then you may want to consider investing in some of the best WiFi landscape lighting controllers on the market. With these devices, you’ll be able to easily control the lighting in your yard wirelessly, using your smartphone or other mobile devices.
In a Hurry? Here are our Top Tested Suggestions:
- GE Z-Wave Plus 40-Amp Smart Switch – Editor’s Choice
- Sterno Home GL33300 – Most Affordable
Not only are these controllers great for adding a bit of extra flair to your home’s appearance, but they can also be used for security purposes. By being able to control the lighting in your yard remotely, you can deter would-be burglars and vandals from targeting your home.
So, if you’re interested in finding a quality WiFi landscape lighting controller, then check out the products that we’ve reviewed below. We’ve done the legwork for you and have compiled a list of the best controllers on the market, based on factors such as features, price, and customer reviews.
Comparison Table Of Best wifi Landscape Lighting Controllers:
Best wifi Landscape Lighting Controller | Style | More Info. |
Ring Smart Lighting |
200W | Low Voltage Lighting Transformer |
Check Price |
GE Z-Wave Plus 40-Amp Smart Switch | 40 Amp | Direct Wire Switch | Check Price |
VOLT 300W Multi-Tap Low Voltage Transformer | 300W with Timer/Photocell | Check Price |
Sterno Home GL33600 | 600W AC VI Efficiency Transformer | Check Price |
Lightkiwi U8810 600 Watt | Contemporary | Check Price |
Malibu 300-Watt Transformer | 300W | Check Price |
Sterno Home GL33300 | 300W AC VI Efficiency Transformer | Check Price |
Paradise by Sterno Home | 200W | Corded Electric | Check Price |
Best wifi Landscape Lighting Controller – Top 8 Picks!
The best wifi lighting controller for you will ultimately depend on your personal preference and what exactly it is that you want to control.
So, let’s look at the top 10 most recommended wifi landscape lighting controllers for your outdoor lighting needs.
1. Ring Smart Lighting – Best Overall
Ring smart landscape lighting transformer is one of the best wifi landscape lighting controllers that can be used to control smart lights.
This product lets you take non-Ring outdoor lights and connect them with your Ring system.
It is easy to install, connects in minutes, and enables smart controls for compatible low-voltage outdoor light fixtures when paired with the Ring Bridge.
You can control your landscape lighting without having to worry about complicated installation or changes to your existing lighting system.
All you have to do is place the landscape lighting transformer inside, connect it with the Ring Bridge and add any of your existing Ring smart products such as doorbells or cameras to get an added layer of protection.
Just attach it securely within 100 feet of your router, plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet and install the lighting transformer indoors where there’s easy access to a wifi connection.
Once installed, you can control your lights from anywhere with the Ring app. You will even get notifications when someone is near your home and connect to other Ring devices for more protection.
The built-in nightlight gives you added convenience when accessing the device at night. This smart device gives you control of your landscape lighting without the need to add complicated installation.
Now you can add Ring Doorbells and Cameras, which will enable a fully connected home security system.
The ring is compatible with any 12-volt to the 15-volt light fixture and works with most standard low voltage transformers, making it easy to use on existing fixtures.
Our recommendation After Testing:
If you want a fully integrated home security system, we recommend the Ring Smart Lighting. This product is easy to install and use, with no complicated installation required. You can add Ring Doorbells or Cameras to get a fully connected home security system.
What’s more, the built-in nightlight is a great feature that adds convenience. This product is ideal for those who want a simple and effective way to control their landscape lighting without having to worry about installation.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
Most people have said that it is very useful in controlling their landscape lighting and that they don’t have to worry about installation.
A few people have complained that it requires the Ring Bridge and a home router, which may not be compatible with some devices. However, this is clearly stated in the product description, so we don’t see this as a major issue.
2. GE Z-Wave Plus 40-Amp Smart Switch
This smart device provides the best garden outdoor lighting controller with Z-Wave connectivity. It is designed to allow you to control your landscape lighting without the need for complicated installation through a smart home hub.
You can easily add this product to your existing system and get an added layer of protection for your home by pairing it with other Ring Doorbells or Cameras.
This product is weatherproof, making it suitable for indoor use in an outdoor shed, garage, or porch and outdoor installation for patios, decks, pool areas, etc.
It can be used to control single-pole light switch metal boxes, including switches bundled with water heaters, electric dryers, and garbage disposals.
The switch features multiple configuration possibilities where it is easy to set up with an existing Z-Wave network or create a new one using the Z-Wave controller.
It also supports two 120VAC devices and single- or dual-load control options. This device does not require any wiring of your home’s electrical panel, nor does this product disrupt any of your existing electrical wiring.
The installation is easy and fast, takes no time to set up, and does not require additional tools or special knowledge.
You can easily monitor the energy consumed by each device connected to the switch’s circuit through a Z-Wave compatible hub.
Its digital timer will help you see the current situation of your outdoor lighting. The best part about this product is that you can remotely track the wattage and kilowatt-hours consumed when connected to a Z-Wave hub.
Its indicator LEDs are visible on the front of its housing, which displays power status without opening the water-tight door.
You can use this product inside your garage or shed and control it from anywhere you want by pairing it to other Ring Doorbells and Cameras.
This allows you to access family members and trusted neighbors when you are on vacation, while at work, or on a holiday break.
The switch supports 120-277VAC and provides compatibility with most switches installed in the market. It also has a throw range of 0 to 100 percent.
Our recommendation After Testing:
It is designed to allow you to control your landscape lighting without the need for complicated installation through a smart home hub. You can easily add this product to your existing system and get an added layer of protection for your home by pairing it with other Ring Doorbells or Cameras.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
Customers have appreciated the easy installation process and the fact that it does not require any wiring of your home’s electrical panel, nor does this product disrupt any of your existing electrical wiring.
People have also liked the multiple configuration possibilities offered by the product, which makes it easy to set up with an existing Z-Wave network or create a new one using the Z-Wave controller.
However, some customers have not been able to get the product to work with their existing system and have found that it is not compatible with certain brands for some reason.
3. VOLT 300W Multi-Tap Low Voltage Transformer
This 3-Volt 300 Watt Multi-Tap Low Voltage Transformer with Timer is the perfect solution for all of your low voltage lighting systems if you need to upgrade your existing landscaping lighting system.
Whether you already have a landscape lighting transformer or want to upgrade the existing landscape lighting system, this product will provide you with a large selection of varied voltage taps that make it easier to switch up your system.
This smart landscape lighting transformer also features a timer integrated into the product and includes a photocell that will automatically turn on or off your lights at dusk and dawn.
This allows for optimum operation of your outdoor lighting system, saving you money by using less power during these times.
This low-voltage transformer is one of the best solutions to provide trusted power to your outdoor landscape lighting system.
It has a high-performance toroidal core that delivers more reliable, efficient, more relaxed, and quieter operation than standard soft-start transformers.
The four voltage taps provided in this product make it suitable for medium to large projects with up to 300 watts.
This smart landscape lighting transformer is highly durable and reliable also includes a digital timer, thanks to the professional-grade design that’s ETL listed and backed by VOLT’s lifetime warranty.
The ETL listing also means that this product is UL/CUL approved, making it safe for use in homes with children.
The enclosure of this 3-volt 300-watt transformer is made of stainless steel with a lockable hinged lid. It also has a built-in GFCI feature for added safety and protection from unexpected shocks.
This product is perfect for those who have trouble finding the proper transformer since it offers more options than traditional transformers.
Our recommendation After Testing:
If you are in the market for a reliable, durable, and safe low voltage transformer with plenty of features, we recommend the 3-Volt 300 Watt Multi-Tap Low Voltage Transformer with Timer. This product is easy to set up, includes an automatic timer, and can deliver up to 300 watts of power. It is also corrosion-resistant and features stainless steel construction.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
Customers appreciate the fact that this product is ETL-listed and UL/CUL approved, making it safe for use in homes with children. They also like the fact that it is easy to set up and comes with an automatic timer. Some customers have noted that this product is not suitable for large projects, but overall, they are happy with the performance of the product.
4. Sterno Home GL33600
The Sterno Home GL33600 Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Transformer uses a 12-volt 600-watt system. It is explicitly designed to meet the needs of your low voltage lighting system.
The smart landscaping lighting transformer also offers long-lasting LED lights, which are energy efficient and feature an accessible timer mode.
This landscape transformer is perfect for outdoor projects such as building fences around your property or creating a perimeter for your home.
You can also use it for smaller projects, such as installing outdoor lighting under the deck where you entertain guests and family during gatherings.
The product comes with five modes: on, timer, off, dusk-to-dawn, and separate day and night settings to help you conserve energy costs.
The transformer also uses SunWise technology which calculates your geographical location and the sun’s position to ensure that it turns on at dusk and off at dawn.
This ensures that you do not waste energy powering the transformer during the day when your lights are already on.
The transformer is also very easy to install since it has plug-and-play compatibility with VOLT, Enerlites, and similar brands. This allows you to set up your low voltage lighting system in just a few minutes.
The product is ETL-listed, and UL/CUL approved for your safety. It is also made of premium materials that are corrosion resistant and can work in most weather conditions.
The product features rugged construction that allows it to be used outdoors. The maximum wattage that this product can deliver is 600 watts, and it has a 4-tap input voltage of 110-130V AC for added flexibility so that you can use this with different types of outlets around the world.
It also includes a built-in photocell and a timer which saves you money and makes sure that it has a delayed start and stop whenever you need it.
Our recommendation After Testing:
The Sterno Home GL33600 is a great pick for anyone who wants an easy-to-use, reliable, and powerful transformer for their low voltage lighting needs. It has a variety of features that make it perfect for larger projects, and its energy efficiency will help you save money on your power bill. The only drawback is the price, but we think it’s worth the investment.
5. Lightkiwi U8810 600 Watt
This light wiki smart landscape lighting transformer is perfect for various outdoor projects such as lighting large areas, building a fence around your property, or creating a perimeter.
It can also be used for smaller projects, such as installing outdoor lighting under the deck to entertain guests and family during gatherings.
The product comes with five modes: on, off, timer night light, dusk to dawn mode, and separate day/night settings.
This is very helpful for energy conservation since you are only using the transformer during certain times of the day.
It also has a built-in photocell that calculates your geographical location and the sun’s position to ensure that it automatically turns on at dusk and off at dawn.
This product’s transformer is also very easy to install since it comes with plug-and-play compatibility, so you should have no problems setting up your existing lighting system in just a few minutes after opening the package.
The product has a maximum wattage capacity of 600 watts and operates at 12 volts, 14 volts, or 15 volts. This ensures that you can use it for different types of projects around your home to ensure that you power all your lights accurately.
It features a quiet operation and excellent reliability, which are great for areas where there are multiple people.
The LED lights are also very energy-efficient, so you do not have to worry about spending too much money on electricity bills. It is also made of heavy-duty stainless steel to ensure that it can last a long time without corroding or rusting.
Our recommendation After Testing:
We highly recommend the Lightkiwi U8810 600 Watt Landscape Lighting Transformer for various outdoor projects. It is very easy to install, and it comes with five modes that you can use for different purposes. The product is also energy-efficient, and it has an impressive maximum wattage capacity of 600 watts. For these reasons, we believe that the Lightkiwi U8810 600 Watt Landscape Lighting Transformer is the best product on the market.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
Most users are highly satisfied with the product and love how easy it is to install. Some users also appreciate how energy-efficient the product is, as it helps them save money on their electricity bills.
There are a few complaints about the product, with some users saying that it is difficult to install and that they needed to hire an expert to help them. Overall, the Lightkiwi U8810 600 Watt Landscape Lighting Transformer is a highly rated product that is perfect for various outdoor projects.
6. Malibu 300-Watt Transformer
The Malibu 300 Watt transformer is another smart landscape lighting transformer with many great features.
It has an easy installation method which makes it perfect for people who do not know much about electrical systems, and also allows you to install the landscape lighting transformer right on your wall.
The product provides wide application since it can be used for different low voltage light fixtures such as LED and halogen landscape lights, making it perfect for various outdoor lighting applications around your property.
The product has an automatic power feature that ensures that the transformer can power outage at nightfall and early morning.
It also comes with an easy installation method that allows you to easily install the transformer right on your wall, even if you do not know much about electrical systems. The product comes with a grounded shield and an auto-reset overload protector for your safety.
This lighting transformer is also very easy to install since it can be set up just a few minutes after opening the package.
The product has an auto power feature that ensures that it will automatically turn on and off depending on the day.
This is very helpful for people who cannot regularly monitor the system because they do not have to worry about whether the lights have been turned on or off.
The transformer also has a wide application that allows you to use it for different low voltage light fixtures such as LED and halogen lights—a perfect upgrade to your existing lighting system.
It is very durable and guarantees a long working life, so you do not have to buy a new one after a short period.
This product has a maximum wattage capacity of 300 watts, making it perfect for lighting small areas around your property.
Our recommendation After Testing:
The Malibu 300 Watt transformer is a great product for people who are looking for an easy-to-install, smart landscape lighting transformer. It has many features that make it perfect for different outdoor lighting applications around your property. We recommend this product because it is very durable and guarantees long working life. It is also easy to install and has an auto power feature that ensures that it will automatically turn on and off depending on the day.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
The product is highly appreciated by its users. People love the easy installation, wide application, and auto power feature of this product. Some people found it difficult to install because they were not familiar with electrical systems, but overall, people are very happy with the product.
7. Sterno Home GL33300
The Sterno Home GL33300 Low Voltage Smart Landscape Lighting Transformer with Dusk-to-Dawn Timer is another smart landscape lighting transformer used for different low voltage light fixtures such as LED and halogen landscape lights.
It has an easy installation method that allows you to easily install the product right on your wall, even if you do not know much about electrical systems.
The product is also straightforward to install since it can be set up just a few minutes after opening the package.
The product has an auto power feature that ensures that it will automatically turn on and off depending on the time of day, making it useful for people who cannot monitor the system regularly.
The transformer also works with different low voltage light fixtures such as LED and halogen landscape lights. It is very durable and guarantees a long working life, so you do not have to buy a new one after a short period.
This product has an easy installation method that allows you to easily install the product right on your wall, even if you do not know much about electrical systems.
The transformer also works with different low voltage light fixtures such as LED and halogen landscape lights.
This product has an easy installation method that allows you to easily install the product right on your wall, even if you do not know much about electrical systems.
This landscape lighting transformer is weatherproof, so it can be used even when raining. It is very durable and guarantees a long working life, so you do not have to buy a new one after a short period.
Our recommendation After Testing:
This product is our recommendation for the best landscape lighting transformer. It is easy to install, has an auto power feature that ensures it will turn on and off depending on the time of day and is very durable with a long working life. If you are looking for a smart landscape lighting transformer, this is the one we recommend.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
Positive reviews mention that the product is easy to install, works well, and is very durable. Negative reviews mention that the product can be difficult to understand at first, but most people say that it is worth taking the time to learn how to use it properly.
8. Paradise by Sterno Home
Another landscape lighting transformer that works for LED, halogen landscape lights is the Paradise by Sterno Home Low Voltage Smart socket A/C Transformer which comes with a load indicator panel for effortless monitoring.
This is very user-friendly and has an LCD screen which shows five different modes. The product also features an easy-to-read load indicator and a removable panel.
The transformer creates a customized outdoor lighting solution for your needs which is very useful, especially if you are not knowledgeable about electrical systems. It is weatherproof and fully customizable.
It has an easy installation method since it can be done quickly without employing the help of an expert to handle the job for you.
The transformer comes with a user-friendly LCD screen which shows five different modes. It also features an easy-to-read load indicator and a removable panel that provides effortless monitoring.
The product is weatherproof and fully customizable, making it an excellent choice for people who do not have the time to install it right on their wall.
The product also has an easy installation method which makes it very convenient. It works with other low voltage light fixtures like LED and halogen landscape lights.
Our recommendation After Testing:
If you are looking for an easy-to-install, user-friendly and weatherproof landscape lighting transformer, we recommend the Paradise by Sterno Home Low Voltage Smart socket A/C Transformer. It comes with an LCD screen that shows five different modes and an easy-to-read load indicator. Additionally, it is also very convenient as it has a removable panel for easy monitoring.
Experience Of Users With The Product (Reviews + Rating)
People have praised the product for its easy installation, user-friendly design, and weatherproof feature. There have been a few complaints about the transformer not working with other light fixtures but overall, the feedback has been positive.
What to Consider Before Buying Best Wifi Landscape Lighting Controller
If you are interested in installing a wifi controlled landscape lighting system, there are several things you need to consider before making the purchase:
1. Number of lights
The first thing you have to consider is the number of lights that your existing lighting system requires. If you already know the total wattage for each fixture, multiply it by the number of fixtures, and you will get an estimate of how much power your system will need.
If you are still unsure about this, check with your local electrician to suggest the right system that will provide enough power for all your fixtures. You can check out our landscape lighting calculator to help you with this.
2. System voltage
This also depends on the number of lights you have installed. The lighting system voltage can be either 12v, 24v, or 120/240 volts, and the number of fixtures will determine this. For example, if you have 24 low voltage lights, they will require a 24v transformer.
Similarly, the voltage of 120/240 volts can accommodate up to 50 low voltage lights with an average wattage. You can also go for more powerful units capable of powering more lights.
3. Indoor or outdoor use
This will depend on the weather conditions of your location. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, consider that moisture can eventually damage the sensitive electrical components inside. Outdoor systems are more durable against extreme weather conditions.
An indoor system is less expensive, but it can be easily affected by dust which can also pave the way for corrosion. If you want to go for an outdoor system, make sure it is weatherproof and withstands harsh environmental conditions like heavy rainfall or even snowfall.
4. Wireless control or wired connections
This will depend on your preference, but both options can work very well when installed correctly. However, the wireless system is convenient since it allows you to control the lights remotely or smartphone.
The wired system is not as convenient, but it makes sure that all your lights are on one switch, saving you time, especially if you want to turn off some fixtures quickly.
5. Programmable timing
For convenience, consider a product with programmable timer settings so you can adjust your lights according to your schedule. This is also an excellent way to save energy and money, especially if you want the landscape lighting on during off-peak hours.
6. Power saving mode
If you don’t want your system to consume more power, opt for a product with a power-saving mode that enables it to dim the lights during designated hours.
7. Pricing
This depends on your budget, but the more expensive units are usually manufactured with high-quality components that can last for many years as a rule of thumb.
In general, you get what you pay for, so if you want something worth every penny, consider investing in a more expensive model from a trustworthy brand.
Benefits When The Use Of wifi Landscape Lighting Controller
When you buy a wifi landscape lighting controller, it has several benefits, including convenience and safety.
1. Putting the control of your system in your hands, you can schedule times when your lights will turn on or off. You can also choose to dim them according to your preference, saving energy and money.
2. You don’t have to worry about manually switching your lights on or off because the timer settings will do this for you.
This is also a convenient way of ensuring that you don’t come home to a dark house after work, especially if there are children at home.
3. Safety is another big issue for outdoor lighting fixtures and systems. With these controllers, you can ensure that your landscape lighting is turned off when there’s a lightning storm.
4. Since you are scheduling times for your lights to turn on or off, you can also do this even before arriving home, so it would be easier to find your house key.
5. If you have pets at home, you can also use your controller to create an outdoor lighting plan that will keep your furry friends from getting caught outside of the fence.
6. The wifi landscape lighting controller’s installation is effortless, and depending on the model, this can already come with a power adapter you need to plug into an electrical outlet.
Just make sure that there is no moisture or wetness to install the system. If you want something more permanent, you can hire an electrician to help you install it.
7. While the wifi landscape lighting controller is more expensive than other models, its convenience and safety features make it worth every penny.
Investing in this unit is considered an intelligent choice for something that will save time and energy and protect your house or property.
Just be sure to consider all the key factors that I have mentioned above so you can get the most value for your money.
8. When you buy a wifi landscape lighting controller, it means that you will have the convenience of programming the timer so you can switch on or off your fixtures according to your schedule. It will also dim the lights according to your preference, saving energy.
9. If you don’t want to worry about manually switching on/off the landscape lighting, then the wifi controller is perfect for you because it automatically does this for you.
This is also a convenient way of ensuring that you don’t come home to a dark house after work, especially if there are children at home.
Final Thoughts!
The wifi landscape lighting controller is handy, especially for always on the go, because it’s easy to control. It also helps save money by switching lights off during specific times, saving energy.
The best wifi landscape lighting controller, in my opinion, is Ring Smart Wireless Lighting Controller System with Outdoor wifi Socket because it has many functions such as wireless control and can connect up to 4 controllers.
It also has a long-range transmitter (up to 100m) which means that you can install lights to your outdoor lighting system in large areas such as your garden without having too much wiring.
If you want something simple to use, I recommend Sterno Home Outdoor Wireless Lighting Controller because it’s easy to set up and will be a good choice if you only have a few path lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cut down my energy bill with a wifi landscape lighting controller?
Yes, you can save money by using this because it can automatically turn on or off your lights depending on your preference.
You can also program the timer so the lights will turn on or off during scheduled times which means that energy is saved.
How does the wifi landscape lighting controller work?
This works through communication between your smartphone (controller) and the box (transmitter).
If you want to use this in your garden, for example, then you can choose to install an additional light source. You can also attach this to the front door of the house so when someone opens it, the doorbell will ring.
I have pets at home can I use this?
Yes, you can easily set up your landscape lighting system to keep your pets from getting caught outside of the fence by programming the lights to turn on or off during specific times.
How many lights can be controlled with 1 controller?
It’s dependent on the number of lights that you have and the model because different brands offer a different number of controllers.
To give you an idea, some wifi landscape lighting controller has up to 4 separate controllers which means you can control up to 16 separate fixtures.
Is this safe for my home?
Yes. The wifi landscape lighting controller is safe for your home because it automatically turns on/off lights depending on specific times.
What makes this better than the timer switch?
Timer switches are not convenient to use especially if you’re planning to go out of town for a few days or weeks.
You will need someone to turn on/off the path lights so you don’t come back to a dark house.
With a landscape lighting controller, all you need is your smartphone which you can access anywhere in the world as long as there is an Internet connection.
I am John Kouchek, the founder of Own The Smart Home. I am passionate about making homes smarter and more efficient. I have a degree in Robotics and Automation (MSc) and have worked in the home automation industry for over 10 years. Learn More!