Leviton VRS05-1LZ

The Leviton VRS05-1LZ is a 5 amp Z-Wave in-wall light switch for incandescent lights. The switch cannot be used with compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs. But it can support 3-way and other multi-pole lighting configurations when paired with other devices from the Leviton Vizia RF+ Series. The in-wall switch can be readily paired with a Z-Wave controller. It can be paired with both classic Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus controllers, but its wireless range is not as long as a Z-Wave Plus switch when used with a Z-Wave Plus controller. Overall, this is a relatively limited in-wall switch, so we only give the Leviton VRS05-1LZ a 3-Star rating.

There are positive aspects regarding the Leviton VRS05-1LZ. For one, it provides smart control for the connected hardwired lights. The in-wall switch can be used with virtually any Z-Wave or Z-Wave Plus controller or hub, which makes it quite versatile. By adding other devices from the Vizia RF+ Series, you can use it in a 3-way or other multiple setup.

But there are also many drawbacks to the Leviton VRS05-1LZ. The in-wall switch is only standard Z-Wave, not Z-Wave Plus. If you have a Z-Wave Plus controller, you will want to strongly consider getting a Z-Wave Plus switch instead. Its maximum supported lighting load of 5 amps (600 watts) is quite paltry, and there are many in-wall switches available that are more robust. The fact that a neutral wire is required is also a letdown, as many newer switches do not have this requirement. We are also disappointed that the Leviton VRS05-1LZ cannot support CFL light bulbs. While the multi-pole setup possibilities are nice, it is important to note that a traveler wire is required for such a configuration. Due to these limitations, the Leviton VRS05-1LZ only gets 3 Stars from Alarm Grid.

Good: Smart Control, Versatile, Multi-Pole Possibilities

Bad: Standard Z-Wave, Small Maximum Load, Neutral Wire Required, No CFL Light Support, Traveler Wire Needed for Multi-Pole

Bottom Line: 3 Stars