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Ecobee's smart light switch features built-in Alexa controls

For $99, this smart switch features clever sensor tech and the full capabilities of Amazon's virtual voice assistant, Alexa.

Ry Crist
Originally hailing from Troy, Ohio, Ry Crist is a writer, a text-based adventure connoisseur, a lover of terrible movies and an enthusiastic yet mediocre cook. A CNET editor since 2013, Ry's beats include smart home tech, lighting, appliances, broadband and home networking.
Ry Crist
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1 of 7 Chris Monroe/CNET

The Ecobee Switch Plus is a Wi-Fi-connected light switch from the makers of a popular line of smart thermostats. Along with nifty sensor tech, it features built-in Alexa voice controls, making it a bit like a teeny tiny Amazon Echo for your wall.

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2 of 7 Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET

App-assisted setup

Ecobee's app does a really nice job of walking you through the installation and setup process with illustrated, step-by-step instructions.

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3 of 7 Chris Monroe/CNET

Alexa controls

Once it's up and running, you'll be able to use it like an Echo device. Just say "Alexa" to wake it up, then give it a question or command. It can do just about anything an Amazon Echo can do, except for Alexa's calling and messaging features.

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4 of 7 Chris Monroe/CNET

Buttons, too

You can also activate Alexa by pressing that button on the right. Press the button on the left, and you'll mute Alexa's microphone.

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5 of 7 Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET

Ambient light detection

One nice feature of the Ecobee Switch Plus is that it can sense how bright it is in the room. That lets you activate a night light when it's dark out, or turn your lights on automatically in the evening.

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6 of 7 Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET

Motion detection

You can also use the built-in motion detector to turn the lights on automatically when someone enters the room, or turn them off automatically once the room is empty.

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7 of 7 Chris Monroe/CNET

Worth it?

The Ecobee Switch Plus is available now for $99, which makes it a costlier option than competing smart switches from the likes of Lutron and Belkin WeMo. Read our full review to see if we think the added Alexa and sensor smarts make for a worthwhile upgrade.

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