REVIEW: Control your Nanoleaf lights with a Smart Wireless Switch – techAU

In the ever-evolving landscape of smart home technology in Australia, where convenience meets innovation, Nanoleaf has once again pushed the envelope with the introduction of their Sense+ Smart Wireless Switch paired with the Nanoleaf Essentials A60 E27 Bulbs.
As Australians increasingly look to integrate smart solutions into their homes, these products promise not only to enhance the ambiance but also to streamline our interaction with our living spaces.
Here’s an in-depth look at how they perform Down Under.
Design
The Sense+ Smart Wireless Switch is a testament to modern minimalism. Encased in a high-quality plastic with a matte finish, it’s designed to be both functional and visually unobtrusive, making it an ideal addition to any Australian home, whether it’s a chic Sydney apartment or a sprawling Queenslander. Its compact size means it can be placed anywhere without disrupting the aesthetic of your space.
In comparison to previous Nanoleaf models, the Sense+ has evolved from a somewhat bulkier design to one that’s sleeker and more in tune with contemporary interior trends. When stacked against competitors like the Philips Hue’s offerings, it’s the simplicity that sets it apart; it’s less about being a statement piece and more about blending into the environment while still offering top-tier functionality.
Performance
From the moment you install the Sense+ Smart Wireless Switch in your Australian home, it’s clear that performance is at the forefront. The switch’s wireless nature eliminates the need for a remote, a common annoyance in smart home setups. With a responsive press, you can control your lighting with a level of immediacy that feels intuitive – a vital feature for those late-night adjustments or early morning routines.
The integration with the Nanoleaf Essentials bulbs is seamless, providing a lighting experience that’s both vibrant and versatile. Australian users will appreciate the bulbs’ capacity to produce vivid colors and adjust to various lighting needs, whether it’s for setting a relaxing mood or energizing a workspace.
The compatibility with both Alexa and Google Home means voice control is at your fingertips, making it a perfect fit for tech-savvy Aussies or those transitioning into a smarter home environment.


Features
Customizable Actions
With the Sense+ switch, you can assign up to three different functions to each press. This is particularly useful in larger Australian homes where you might need different lighting setups for different rooms or activities.
Scene Control
The switch allows you to cycle through pre-set or custom lighting scenes with ease, transforming your living room from a cozy movie setting to a vibrant party atmosphere in seconds.
Integration with Smart Home Ecosystems
Beyond just lighting, the switch can interface with other smart devices via IFTTT, making it a central node in your home automation network. This could mean starting your coffee machine or turning on your security system with the same press.
Color and White Tunability
The bulbs support over 16 million colors, which is great for setting the right mood for different times of the day or special events. The tunable white feature is perfect for Australian homes with diverse lighting needs, from soft warm whites for evening relaxation to cool whites for focused tasks.
Voice and App Control
Compatible with major voice assistants, the Nanoleaf system can be controlled via voice, which is especially handy in an open-plan Australian home where you might not always be near your switch. The app further allows for detailed customization of your lighting setup.
Energy Efficiency
Both the switch and bulbs are designed with energy efficiency in mind, which is a significant plus for environmentally and cost-conscious Aussies, helping to reduce electricity bills.
Issues and Opportunities
While the Sense+ Smart Wireless Switch and Essentials A60 E27 Bulbs are impressive, there are points where they could shine brighter:
Broader Platform Integration
Expanding compatibility with other smart home platforms popular in Australia would make the Sense+ an even more versatile choice for mixed smart home setups.
Battery Life
The switch uses replaceable batteries, and while this is better than a non-replaceable alternative, the longevity could be improved for less frequent replacements, considering the cost of batteries in Australia.
Setup Complexity
For those less familiar with smart tech, setting up both the bulbs and the switch might require a bit more patience. An easier setup process would make these products more accessible to all Australians.
Tactile Feedback
While the switch provides a satisfying click, enhancing the differentiation between quick and long presses could improve user experience, especially for those with sensory needs.
Price and Availability
In Australia, the Sense+ Smart Wireless Switch is priced at AUD $69.95, while the Nanoleaf Essentials A60 E27 Bulbs (3-pack) are available for AUD $79.95. These prices reflect the premium quality and functionality, positioning them as an investment in your home’s ambiance and convenience.
Both products can be found at major Australian retailers like JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, and online on platforms like Amazon AU and directly from Nanoleaf’s Australian website. Stock availability has been generally good, with occasional restocking needed during peak sales periods like Black Friday or EOFY sales.
Nanoleaf Australia Official Website
Amazon AU
JB Hi-Fi
Harvey Norman
Overall
The combination of the Nanoleaf Sense+ Smart Wireless Switch with the Nanoleaf Essentials A60 E27 Bulbs offers Australians a step into the future of home lighting control. The design is modern and unobtrusive, the performance is reliable with the kind of responsiveness that makes smart home technology truly feel ‘smart’, and the feature set is comprehensive enough to cater to both the tech enthusiast and the average homeowner looking for simplicity with sophistication.
Although there are areas where Nanoleaf could further refine their product – like extending battery life or simplifying setup – these do not overshadow the overall positive experience. For those looking to enhance their living space with lighting that’s not only functional but also an extension of personal style, this setup is highly recommended.
With the Australian market growing increasingly savvy to smart home solutions, the Nanoleaf system stands out as a bright choice for bringing light into the future of Australian homes.