KNX vs Lutron
When looking at Smart Building Automation there is a never ending selection of systems and products to choose from however when all things are considered the options quickly narrow down. Technologies such as Zigabee, Casambi, Z-Wave and Bluetooth can in most cases work well for upgrading a traditional home with a few devices but quickly cause complications on a larger scale. This core fact is the reason wired systems continue to dominate the automation market in both residential and commercial sector.
Both KNX and Lutron use a hard wired approach and focus on the transmission of data packets which over the past 20 years has become the undisputed solution in smart home technology worldwide.
Let’s compare the two protocols:
| KNX | Lutron (Homeworks) |
|---|---|
| International Standard for Smart Automation | Recognised for Dimming Capabilities |
| Not brand specific (Open Source) | Brand Specific (limited Device options) |
| Proven & Trusted | Proven & Trusted |
| Star Topology with Standardised Bus Cable | Daisy Chain per device type |
| Requires an Integrator to install | Requires an Integrator to install |
| Unlimited Devices & Possibilities | Limited Devices & Function (Light & Blinds) |
| Several Central Control Options | Limited to one Central Control Option |
| Multi Discipline (Lights, Shades, HVAC, etc…) | Limited to Lights & Shades |
| Central PSU Powers Devices | Heavily relies on Aux Power Supplies |
| Regarded as Cheaper than Lutron | Regarded as more expensive than KNX |
In conclusion, since Lutron is a single manufacturer you are limited to the devices they manufacture meaning both functionality and aesthetics may be an issue. On the contrary KNX has thousands of products from hundreds of manufacturers worldwide meaning functionality and design don’t suffer.
Lutron does not cater for same level of functionality as KNX which often means one project can have 3-4 separate control systems/apps to accomplish the multiple functions of a modern project (Lighting, Shades, HVAC, Security, etc…).
For us, the answer is abundantly clear – KNX stands out as the clear winner!
Looking to compare Lutron RA2 (Wireless) and KNX RF? Read this article.