Lutron Caseta vs. Maestro Wireless | Differences Explained

The Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless represent two remote-controlled lighting systems that offer a great degree of convenience and efficiency. For extensive smart-home integration and ease of remote control, the Caseta Wireless just can’t be beat. For a basic remote-controlled lighting system with a variety of coloring options, however, the Maestro Wireless is also worth looking into.

The better one of the two depends on what you’re looking for when considering your new lighting system. Let’s compare the Lutron Caseta vs. Maestro Wireless to help narrow down which product will work best for you.

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Lutron Caseta vs. Maestro Wireless — Easy Comparison Chart

	Caseta Wireless	Maestro Wireless
Remote Control with Pico	Yes	Yes
Remote Control via App	Yes	No
Single-pole installation	Yes	Yes
Multi-Location Installation	Only 3-Way	Up to 10 locations
Wireless Multi Location Installation	Up to 11 locations	Up to 10 locations
Motion Sensors Support	Yes	Yes
Color	5 color options	27 color options
Works with Lutron Smart Bridge	Yes	No
Amazon Alexa	Yes	No
Google Assistant	Yes	No
Apple HomeKit	Yes	No
Nest support	Yes	No
Ecobee support	Yes	No
Wink Hub	Yes	No
SmartThings Hub	Yes	No
Logitech Harmony	Yes	No
IFTTT	Yes	No

Last update on 2023-09-22 at 10:09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Lutron Caseta vs. Maestro Wireless — What’s Different?

1. Pico Remote Control – Both the Caseta and Maestro Wireless lights are designed to be controlled with a Pico remote control. This controller opens up a variety of useful scenarios and conveniences that make investing in a smart lighting system a worthwhile decision. Both systems function with a range of up to 100 feet, but they differ in the extent of their support for Pico remote control.

   The Lutron Pico remote is available in a variety of colors and button configurations, so there should be a model that will work well for your needs. Nightlight models ensure that you’ll be able to easily find the switch in the dark, and the 10 year battery life means that you’ll largely be able to “set it and forget it” after going through the simple installation. Add to that the multiple mounting options that let you stick the control on the wall, a table top, or even on your car’s sun visor, and it’s easy to see that the Lutron Pico is all about flexibility.

   The main difference between the Caseta and Maestro Wireless is that the former supports ten pico remotes while the latter only supports up to nine. This might not be a problem for many users, but for those who want to be able to control their dimmers from a multitude of different areas it could be a determining factor.

2. App Control – In addition to Pico control, you can also control Caseta wireless lighting by using the official Lutron app. In order to take advantage of this convenient perk, you’ll need to set yourself up with a Lutron Smart Bridge or Smart Bridge Pro as well as an internet connection.

   

   Lutron Caséta Smart Hub | L-BDG2-WH | White

   • Connects with more leading smart home brands (including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, the Google Assistant, Ring, Serena shades and Sonos) than any other smart home lighting control brand to manage lights, voice assistants, cameras, temperature, shades and music
   • Works with Alexa to support dimming or switching the lights on/off through voice control (Alexa device and Caséta dimmers/switches sold separately)
   • Easy to use and simple to set up; just connect to your router and follow app instructions
   • Clear Connect Technology does not interfere or compete with Wi-Fi connected devices
   • Supports up to 75 Caséta devices so you can personalize your home and expand at your pace

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   Last update on 2023-09-22 at 10:09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

   In most situations, Caseta lighting is packaged with a dedicated Smart Bridge that can be used to connect up to 50 devices — controlling them all remotely via the Lutron app. Perhaps most convenient about the Lutron app is the ability to control your lighting from anywhere you have an internet connection.

   Additionally, the Lutron app’s “Smart Away” feature allows you to make it look like you’re at home even when you’re not — adding some extra security to your home while you’re on vacation. The bridge will even randomly turn lights on and off during the evening as a preventative measure against thieves!

   Another advantage of using the Lutron Smart Bridge comes with its ability to interact with Apple HomeKit allowing you to use Siri to control your lighting.

   Unfortunately, the Maestro Wireless dimmers won’t work with the Lutron Smart Bridge, which means that you can’t control them via the Lutron app. Overall, the Maestro models are a little less capable considering that they don’t allow many options for truly remote control. So, for an advantage in both remote and app control, you’re much better off with the Caseta lighting.

3. Installation Control Types – Both systems offer Single Pole control type which provides control over one light source from one location and Wireless Multi-Location which provides control of one light source from multiple locations. For Wireless Multi-Location control, you need to install one RF dimmer or switch to which you can then connect Pico Wireless Remotes (9 remotes max. per one Maestro Wireless Switch/Dimmer and 10 remotes max. per one Caseta Wireless Switch/Dimmer).

   Besides Wireless Multi-Location control, there’s standard Multi Location installation where you use multiple dimmers and switches to control one light source. The Maestro Wireless easily supports the standard Multi-Location installation. All you need is one multi-location Maestro Wireless switch or dimmer to which you can connect up to 9 companion switches/dimmers to control one light source.

   

   Caseta Wireless on the other hand only offers 3-Way installations, which means you can control one light source from a maximum of two locations. And if you want to set up a multi-location installation for your Caseta Wireless system, then you’ll need to use Pico Wireless Remote Controls with wall mounting kits. This workaround works great for in-home installations. However, for out-of-home installations it might cause some problems, as a Pico Remote can be stolen from its wall plate and someone else will be able to control corresponding light sources when they are within the Lutron Clear Connect technology range.

   

   So, for out of home installations when you need to control one light source from three or more locations, the Maestro Wireless is your best bet. Otherwise, considering all the differences so far, Caseta Wireless is the superior choice.

4. Motion Sensors – Both the Maestro Wireless and Caseta Wireless dimmers offer support for motion sensors. Each system can be paired with the Radio Powr Savr Daylight Sensor, Occupancy Sensor, and Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor.

   However, it’s important to recognize that Lutron sensors will work with Caseta switches and dimmers in standalone applications only. With the Lutron Smart Bridge, you won’t be able to take advantage of these motion sensors. All this really means is that you won’t be able to control Lutron sensors via the app, since that requires the Smart Bridge in order to function correctly.

   Despite motion sensors not working with the Lutron Smart Bridge, you can use other 3rd party sensors in combination with your Lutron Caseta system in order to accomplish roughly the same goals. For example, by using an ecobee3 lite thermostat and Caseta Wireless dimmers both hooked up to Apple HomeKit, you can set the No products found. to trigger dimmers on or off when you enter or leave a room.

   The Maestro Wireless dimmers only work with Lutron sensors, and will not integrate with third party technology — an unfortunate disadvantage when compared to the Caseta line.

5. Colors – While the Caseta Wireless has the advantage when compared to the Maestro Wireless in most applications, the Maestro definitely pulls ahead when it comes to color options. With over 25 different color options, you’re sure to find an option that will fit in seamlessly with your home design. The Caseta Wireless’ 5 options just can’t compete.

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What do Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless Have in Common?

• Technology – Both the Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless use Lutron Clear Connect radio frequency in order to facilitate RF communication between all the different parts of the system. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that the two lighting systems will not work together despite sharing the same technological base. Each has their own dedicated ecosystem.

• Remote Control – One of the main conveniences you’ll enjoy with either lighting system is the ability to control pretty much any setting remotely. With the Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless alike, you can adjust lighting without moving an inch.

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  Lutron Caseta Deluxe Smart Dimmer Switch (2 Count) Kit with Caseta Smart Hub | Works with Alexa, Apple Home, Ring, Google Assistant | P-BDG-PKG2W-A | White

  • Includes: (2) white Caseta smart dimmer switches, (2) Pico wireless remotes, (2) wall plates, and (1) Lutron Caseta Smart Hub
  • PEACE OF MIND: Set lights to automatically adjust with changing seasons so your family always comes back to a well-lit home; you can also enable the Smart Away feature to randomly turn your lights on and off to look like you're home even if you're away.
  • MOST CONNECTED: Caseta connects with more leading smart home devices - including Alexa, Apple Home, the Google Assistant, Serena shades and Sonos - than any other smart lighting control brand
  • CONTROL YOUR WAY: Caseta puts the smarts in the switch so you can control your lights a variety of ways - via the free Lutron app, with your voice, or at the wall; create schedules to change lights at set times or activate scenes with one touch of button
  • RELIABLY SMART: The Caseta Smart Hub doesn't use Wi-Fi, so you get super-fast, ultra-reliable smart lighting that works right, without slowing your Wi-Fi down with more devices

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  Last update on 2023-09-22 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  Dim the lights when it’s time to tune in to your favorite show, and then make it brighter when you’d like to finish the next chapter in your book. When it’s time for bed, shut everything down when you’ve tucked yourself in rather than stumbling across the room in the dark. The systems have an impressive range as well, making it easy to turn off that light you forgot about once you’ve already gotten into the car.

  While these two systems both open up a world of convenience when it comes to lighting, they do differ in how they provide that feature — an aspect we discuss in more detail below.

• DIY Smart Lighting Solution – Getting a lighting system set up may seem like a complicated ordeal, but rest assured that the Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless alike are both easy to install, DIY smart lighting solutions. With either choice, you should be able to get things up and running without any additional wiring.

• Saves Energy – Both systems are excellent options when it comes to saving energy, and they can even save you a substantial amount of money, too! Part of the attraction of these smart lighting systems are their ability to adjust lighting both automatically and on command, and that includes dimming lights when full illumination isn’t needed. Dimming your lights by just 25% saves 20% on electricity costs and allows your bulbs to last for 3-6 years.

  Setting up your home with a Lutron Caseta or Maestro Wireless system also may allow you to take advantage of energy rebates and incentives, which may actually put cash right back into your pocket. Saving energy saves money and is better for the environment, and there are a number of programs that reward adopters of these smart systems for their smart choices.

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Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless in a Smart Home Environment

Smart home integration is an important part of having the perfect lighting setup, and the Lutron Caseta is designed to fit in seamlessly to a smart home ecosystem.

As mentioned above, the Caseta Wireless lighting is designed to be used with the Lutron Smart Bridge, and by connecting your system to the Bridge you open yourself up to a number of different smart home integrations. You’ll be able to control your lights with voice controllers such as the Amazon Echo and Google Assistant, as well as Siri through the Apple HomeKit and Apple Watch. Additionally, you can pair your Lutron Caseta with Nest products like the Nest Cam, Nest Thermostat, and Nest Smoke Detector. Ecobee and Honeywell thermostats can also be paired with the Caseta in order to combine lighting and temperature functions.

One of the biggest benefits to the Lutron Caseta’s flexibility is its compatibility with IFTTT, which allows you to create custom setups for your lights and other smart home products. These features can range from turning down the heat and lowering the lights while away from home in order to save on energy, to turning the lights on automatically if the Nest Protect smoke alarm goes off.

The Sonos family of audio products also works well with Lutron, allowing you to dim the lights and put on some mood music for a romantic dinner date. Geo-fencing allows you to automatically start your favorite tunes when you get home from work, and the Lutron Pico Audio Remote delivers seamless music control.

Last update on 2023-09-22 at 09:31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also, if you’re using the Wink Hub 2, then you can skip on Lutron Smart Bridge for Caseta Wireless altogether. Just pair the Lutron Caseta Wireless dimmers and switches with your Wink hub for remote control via Wink app.

So, If you’re looking for smart home integration, you’re best off passing on the Maestro Wireless, as it can’t work with the Lutron Smart Bridge; the only way you can control the system is through the Pico Remotes.

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How to Make Lutron Caseta and Maestro Wireless Even Better?

Regardless of whether you invest in a Lutron Caseta or Maestro Wireless system, you’ll need some pico remotes in order to control the lighting remotely. The best way to get these remotes are through the Maestro Wireless Multi-Location Dimmer Kit, or the Caseta Wireless Dimmer Kit, depending on your preference.

For either choice, you can purchase accessories that make mounting easier, such as a pedestal or car clip.

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Which Would We Choose for Our Home?

If you’re looking for truly smart lighting that integrates well with other smart home products, you’re definitely going to want to invest in the Caseta Wireless system. If your only concerns are remote lighting control with remotes and multi-location installation, the Maestro Wireless is also a viable option — and the variety of colors make it more flexible aesthetically.

If you do decide to go with the Maestro Wireless system, however, just keep in mind that it can’t be extended into any other Lutron smart system. So ensure that you’re not interested in integrating your lighting into a larger smart home environment at any point in the future before investing in Maestro Wireless products.

Last update on 2023-09-22 at 10:09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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