There are many smart systems out in the market today. In this post, we will compare Insteon and Iris. Insteon has been selling intelligent systems since 2012 and has been popular among the others, whereas the Iris is owned by a younger brand named, Lowe’s which has bought up its trademark. Let’s go and compare them.
Our Verdict
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When it comes to the verdict, there is only one clear winner. But do remember that Lowe has discontinued its Iris smart line platform as of March 2019. So, from this, we have no other option other than the Insteon smart system. However, we will compare both the products for a clear picture and to know more about their features.
Insteon Vs Iris: Comparison Chart
| Specifications | Insteon | Iris |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Insteon | Iris |
| Technology | Insteon | Z-Wave |
| Radio Frequency | Yes | Yes |
| Powerline | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Control | Yes | Yes |
| Control Drapes | Yes | No |
| LED Bulbs | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Water, Smoke and CO Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Cameras | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | No |
| Windows App Phone | Yes | No |
| Multi-devices | Yes | No |
| Amazon Echo | Yes | Yes |
| Cortana | Yes | No |
| Nest | Yes | No |
| Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Differences
1. Windows App
In the Lowe’s Iris, it does not support the Windows Phone App. You can download the Iris App from the App Store and Google Play. But the Insteon smart system app can be downloaded from the App Store, Google Play, and Windows Store.
2. Drapery Control
With the help of Insteon, you can control your curtains, drapes using remotes. For this, you need a Somfy RF Drape Control Kit. But the Iris does not support any features like this. Although this feature is not essential, it is nice to have an automatic drape control.
3. Adjustable Ramp Rates
The Insteon lets you control and adjusts ramp rates for dimmers. It enables you to choose the speed at which you want to control the lights. For example, you have been working all day, and you want the light to fade at the end of the day. This is possible with Insteon. It helps you create a smooth transition using the lights for the perfect mood. But the Iris does not have any features like this.
Similarities
1. Amazon Echo
Another similarity between the two is that you can control the system using the Amazon Echo. All you have to do is give voice commands, and you are ready to use it for more easy access.
2. Water Leak, Smoke And CO Sensor
Another critical feature in both the devices is the Water leak sensor, smoke detector, and CO Sensor. In case of any leakages in your home, it can detect using the water sensor. It is also capable of detecting fire in your house utilizing the smoke detectors. Since we know CO is one of the harmful gases, it also has a CO sensor when it crosses certain limits.
3. Motion Sensor
Both the smart system can detect the presence using the motion sensor. This feature is useful, as it also gives a safety side for the customers.
Features And Technical Specifications of Insteon
- Color: White color
- 120-277VAC
- Dimensions: 5” x 3.75” x 3.75”
- Weight: 147g
- Operating temperature: 32° – 104°F
- Compatibility: Amazon Echo
- No monthly fees
Features And Technical Specifications of Iris
- Connectivity: Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Ethernet
- Colors: Available in black and white
- External Cloud Server
- Remote Controlled
- Power Cable, Proprietary Battery
- Dimensions: 7 x 9.6 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 1000g
What’s In The Box?
Insteon
- One Insteon Hub
- One Power Cable
- One Ethernet Cable
- Quick Start Guide
Iris
- A Smart Hub
- One Power supply
- One Ethernet cable
Overview of Insteon
Insteon is also one of the popular smart home systems in the market now. It provides additional functions like controlling your drapes, curtains, and other window materials. It can also manage your lights and slowly fade away the lights giving you the perfect mood at the end of a busy day or when you are watching a movie. The app also lets you detect water leakages, smoke and fire, and even carbon monoxide. You can control your LED bulbs. The devices can be controlled in many apps, and they are supported in iOS, Windows, and Android. Other than this, the system is compatible with Cortana, Sonos, and Nest Products.- Supports Windows Phone App
- Has a drape control feature
- Can adjust the ramp rates of lights
- Available only in one color
Overview Of Iris
Iris is another company in the field of smart systems. Although it does not have additional features like drape control and light adjustments, it has the essential functions of a smart system. Like the Insteon, it has water detectors, smoke sensors, and CO sensors. The device is available in black and white colors. Other than this, you can control features from the app that is supported by the Android and iOS platforms. It is also compatible with Amazon Echo, GE, First Alert, Utilitech, and Radio Thermostat.
- Available in 2 colors
- Supports First Alert, Utilitech and Radio Thermostat
- Does not have a Drape control feature
- No feature for dimming lights
- Does not support Windows Phone
FAQs
1. Does Iris Smart Hub have an IFTTT Channel?
No, as of now, it does not have an IFTTT Channel.
2. Does Insteon Hub support Windows?
Yes, you can download the app in the Windows phone app.
3. Does Insteon Hub have water sensors?
Yes, it does have water sensors.
Bottom Line
So finally, when we compare both the products, we feel that Insteon is a better product than the Iris. There are mainly two reasons for this. Firstly, Iris is now discontinued from Lowe.
So currently, we have no products from Iris. Secondly, even if the product existed, Insteon had more additional features like drape and light control features. It also supports significant brands like Nest and Cortana. Now if you want a product better than Iris you can go for Wemo, Check out How Wemo is different from Insteon.
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