Z-Wave On/Off Toggle Switch ZEN73 - Direct 3-Way, Fast Local Control

In this review of the ZEN73 Z-Wave on/off toggle switch the bottom line is clear: this is a practical upgrade for anyone who wants reliable, local Z-Wave control of ordinary lighting circuits without rewire headaches in multi-switch setups. The reviewer found the switch especially useful for homeowners using SmartThings, Hubitat, or Home Assistant hubs because it offers fast wireless and local control, small depth for tight boxes, and a patented direct 3-way approach that removes the need for an add-on companion switch.

Key Features

• Direct 3-way installation: The patented design lets the ZEN73 replace an existing 3-way switch and work with mechanical 3-way wiring as long as a neutral is present, avoiding extra add-on devices.
• 700 Series Z-Wave chip: Faster response time and improved wireless range combined with a slim 1.1 in depth make it fit crowded electrical boxes and respond quickly to hub commands.
• Local status reporting: The switch reports on/off state instantly to a Z-Wave gateway controller so scenes and automations stay accurate.
• Power-failure memory: Remembers and restores the last on/off status after a power outage, reducing manual resets after outages.
• Generous load ratings: Supports up to 150W LED or 600W incandescent, covering most residential lighting loads.

Who It's For

The ZEN73 is aimed at homeowners and installers who use a Z-Wave hub and want a straightforward wired replacement for single-pole and multi-location light circuits; it works well with SmartThings, Hubitat, Home Assistant (Z-Wave JS), Ring Alarm, and similar hubs. It is also a smart choice for anyone dealing with shallow or crowded switch boxes because the 1.1 in depth reduces fitting hassles.

Do not buy this if you lack a compatible Z-Wave gateway or if you plan to control ceiling fans, motors, or appliances, since the unit is not rated for those uses. Also avoid treating it as a direct drop-in for older ZOOZ models in multi-way setups without consulting the manual, as wiring differs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy to pair and configure with popular hubs, customers report reliable functionality and good value for money.
• Clear wiring diagrams and a neutral requirement that makes installation predictable when neutral is present.
• Slim 1.1 in depth and solid build quality make it suitable for tight electrical boxes.
• Restores state after power loss and offers instant status updates to the hub.

Cons

• Requires a compatible Z-Wave hub for remote or voice control; smart speakers are not Z-Wave controllers.
• Not suitable for ceiling fans or motor loads; limited to lighting and resistive loads within rated capacities.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ZEN73 is a practical, well-built Z-Wave on/off toggle switch for anyone with a compatible Z-Wave hub who needs reliable local control and an easier multi-way wiring option. Its compact depth, strong wireless performance, and state memory make it a solid value for typical residential lighting circuits when installed with the required neutral and the correct wiring diagram.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work with my smart speaker?
No. Smart speakers are not Z-Wave controllers; you need a compatible Z-Wave hub such as SmartThings, Hubitat, Fibaro, or a Home Assistant Z-Wave setup to control it by voice.

Can I use it in a 3-way without an add-on switch?
Yes. The ZEN73 uses a patented direct 3-way method and does not require an add-on switch, but a neutral wire must be present and the switch must replace an existing 3-way according to the manual.

Is it safe for fans or appliances?
No. Do not connect this switch to ceiling fans, motors, or home appliances; it is rated for lighting and resistive loads only.