What is the difference between Philips Hue Dimmer Switch version 1 and Version 2? In this article I will give you the answers to that question.
Philips Hue Dimmer Switch V1 vs V2
Installing the new Philips Hue Dimmer switch is very easy. It took me under 30 seconds to configure the new switch in the Philips Hue app and choose which light to control. It is just to follow the on-screen guide inside the app. I already had two first generation dimmer switches, but that is no problem. You can mix them with no problems. There is no need to go and replace the old switches in your house, if you already have them. To be honest it is not that big a deal with the new switch over the old one. Both the old and the new switch does the job, but on the other hand I do thing the new switch looks better and works better.
Version 1 Vs Version 2 of Hue Dimmer Switch
Overall, I like the new design of the switch. The rounded corners and matte plastic give it a more modern look. However, the mounting plate has become wider and that is a shame if you ask me. It thinks it takes up way too much space, in fact I would love if it was even smaller than on the old switch. The new switch is also a lighter than the old one (72g Vs 100g). Another thing that has changed in the design is that the magnets used to be in the mounting plates, but they are now moved to the switch itself. With that move you can place the switch on the fridge without the mounting plate if that make sense for you.
Back of the switch
Another thing that has changed on the new version of the switch is the back plane and the battery. With the old generation switch you would need a screwdriver to replace the battery. On the new generation switch you replace the battery without tools. Also, the battery type has changed in the new switch.
Battery Type:
Generation 1 (2015): CR2450
Generation 2 (2021): CR2032
What can the new Hue button do?
The most remarkable with the new version 2 switch is the Hue button. There are still 4 buttons, but instead of one button for power on and one for power off, it is now integrated in an on/off button. With the old switch the on button was also used to change between 5 different scenes. That function has now moved to the new Hue button. In my optic this make much more sense than in the first version.
Summary of the new Dimmer switch
To sum up, here is my highlights of the new Philips Hue Dimmer Switch:
- New more modern design (If you ask me)
- Magnets in the switch and not in the mounting plate
- No tools needed to replace battery
- Mounting plate is higher and wider
- The new generation is lighter than the old switch
What do you think about the new Philips Hue Dimmer switch?
If you have tried the new Dimmer Switch from Philips Hue, I would love to hear what you think. Please drop me a comment below.
Hello Thomas, the new V2 switch plate is bigger and wider because it fit in on europian standard size of a wall switch.
I like that wery much😉
Hi Thomas , do You know how to “clone” the new dimmer without having a “bridge”….
I’m running out of ideas..🤔😩
Hi Henrik
I have never had to clone a dimmer switch, but maybe this little video can help you: https://youtu.be/EcnDdcT2NTI
I’ve had the v1 for a few years and just got the v2 for my office. I don’t like that the philip hue v2 switch doesn’t have a screw to make it less likely for my kids to access the button battery (v1 has a screw which is better). Also the v1 plate is the same size as Australian standard switch so I could velco the plate on top to prevent the family using the physical switch.