Fact or Fallacy: Are Wireless Lighting Control Systems Really More Expensive Than Wired Ones?

As advanced lighting technologies become more widely available, real estate developers and property owners are increasingly seeking lighting control systems that offer more than just basic illumination. Smart lighting control plays a crucial role in creating attractive, high-performing spaces that boost well-being and productivity. However, when evaluating wired versus wireless solutions, a key question remains: Are wireless systems genuinely more expensive, or are we just looking at the wrong numbers? 

Join us as we explore what the leading LED suppliers in Singapore have to say and discuss why wireless luminaires—like those powered by Casambi—may be the smarter financial choice for your business.

Wireless Luminaires: More Than Just a Lighting Fixture

It’s true: a Casambi-enabled luminaire can cost up to 40% more upfront than a standard lighting fixture. But comparing just the unit cost leaves out the bigger picture.

To evaluate the true cost, we must consider:

• Installation and hardware requirements

• Planning and labour

• System flexibility and scalability

• Ongoing maintenance

• Energy efficiency and building value

When viewed holistically, wireless lighting systems often provide better value and a lower total cost of ownership, especially in complex commercial environments. Here’s how:

1: You can take full control with a wireless smart lighting ecosystem

Traditional wired lighting systems usually come with proprietary hardware, complex software, and a dependency on third-party technicians for maintenance or reconfigurations.

In contrast, Casambi’s open ecosystem:

• Works with a wide range of Casambi-ready products from various manufacturers (luminaires, sensors, and switches)

• Is controlled via the Casambi mobile app (iOS/Android)

• Requires no specialist software, licences, or proprietary controllers

Furthermore, you can also,

• Modify lighting and brightness to your liking and needs.

• Set timers

• Replace luminaires with a simple tap using the app.

No reprogramming, no technicians—just simple control at your fingertips!

2: Future-Proof Your Facilities

Technology is constantly evolving. The lighting system you install today must keep up with the needs of tomorrow.

With Casambi’s wireless system, all devices receive remote, over-the-air updates, ensuring your infrastructure remains current with the latest firmware updates. This software-driven approach enables continuous innovation and quick adaptation to market needs, without having to replace hardware.

LED lighting suppliers in Singapore offering Casambi-compatible products provide solutions that evolve with your building needs, supporting new features and technologies as they become available.

3: System Expansion and Flexibility Without the Headaches

Wired systems are bound by physical constraints—cables, connectors, power, and device capacities. Furthermore, existing controllers may not support new features, such as DALI tunable white luminaires. 

So, when you want to expand or reconfigure a space, wired systems might require:

• Rewiring

• New controllers

• Structural modifications

• Hiring new specialists

Casambi, on the other hand, offers true plug-and-play scalability, giving you the flexibility to:

• Add or remove luminaires anytime via the app.

• Expand from a single room to a whole building and even outdoors

• Integrate features like tunable white or smart sensors without extra hardware.

This flexibility is crucial in multi-use commercial or industrial spaces.

4: Smarter Insights for Smarter Buildings

Casambi uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)—no internet needed. But if you choose to add a gateway, your system can offer:

• Occupancy-based automation

• Data for HVAC or cleaning schedule optimisation.

• Predictive maintenance alerts

• Seamless integration with building management systems (BMS)

Your wireless lighting control system becomes a real-time data-driven asset. 

The Total Cost of Ownership: Why Wireless is More Cost-Effective

Less Planning Time and Labour

Planning Time = Money

Wired systems require extensive planning, technical drawings, and coordination, often leading to delays and mistakes. Casambi’s app-based setup simplifies this, reducing pre-installation work.

Reduced Hardware and Installation Costs

Wired systems need:

• Controllers

• BUS power supplies

• Timeclocks

• Electrical cabinets

• Control wiring

• Gateways

Casambi reduces this drastically:

• Minimises hardware needs—no controllers, gateways, or extra wiring.

• Speeds up installation—luminaires only require power, no additional cabling.

• According to a study by the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA), the incremental cost of installing Smart Luminaire Level Lighting Controls (LLLC) has dropped by 44% between 2017 and 2022, with an average added cost of just $60 per fixture. The cost gap between different system types has also narrowed significantly, largely due to the shift toward free software apps that eliminate subscription and configuration fees.

• Reduces labour costs—setup is app-based, no electrical modifications required.

Reduced Ongoing Maintenance Costs

Even minor changes in wired systems mean calling in specialists. But with Casambi, you can look forward to:

• Remote diagnostics enabled off-site troubleshooting

• Firmware updates that happen over the air

• Tap on the “replace device” option in the app for hassle-free replacements.

Increased Sustainability and Long-Term Value

If you are seeking a sustainable option that offers long-term value, it doesn’t get better than Casambi-enabled wireless lighting.

• Less material = lower embodied carbon

• Reduced wiring = fewer fire hazards

• Energy optimisation = lower operational carbon

• Smart buildings = higher asset value

Many LED high bay light suppliers and commercial lighting brands now prioritise sustainability, and Casambi supports those efforts by making lighting more efficient and intelligent.

Wireless Lighting: The Strategic Choice for Retrofits and Modern Builds

If you’re managing a retrofit or refurbishment project, a heritage building, or a dynamic commercial facility, then going wireless is the smart thing to do.   With Casambi, you require no structural changes and no ceiling work—just smart lighting installed quickly and efficiently.

The Verdict: Wireless Lighting is a Smart Investment

Although wireless luminaires may have a higher initial cost, the total cost of ownership presents a different perspective. From lower installation and maintenance expenses to better energy performance and building flexibility, the return on investment is clear.

In particular, wireless systems are ideal for:

• Heritage buildings (where rewiring is complex)

• Office renovations

• Industrial upgrades (with a trusted LED high bay light supplier)

• Commercial retrofits

If you are looking for a cost-effective lighting solution with a long-term ROI, consider Casambi.

Ready to Make the Switch?

With our team of experts having 15 years of specialised experience in lighting projects, we understand the value of smart, wireless, and cost-effective lighting solutions. Whether you are looking to future-proof your space with technology that works as hard as you do or preserve the value and aesthetics of a heritage building, we can offer the perfect wireless lighting solution for you.

As a reliable LED lighting supplier in Singapore offering Casambi-enabled solutions, you can trust us to illuminate your space without hassle. Contact us today to learn how Casambi’s wireless lighting solutions can transform your property—efficiently and sustainably.

Key Takeaways

• While Casambi-enabled wireless luminaires may cost more upfront, total project costs are lower due to reduced hardware, wiring, and installation labour.

• Wireless lighting systems offer greater flexibility and scalability, allowing effortless expansion or reconfiguration without rewiring or new controllers.

• Ongoing expenses are significantly reduced with over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics, and easy device replacement via the app—no specialist needed.

• With added benefits like energy optimisation, sustainability, and smart-building insights, wireless lighting  from leading LED lighting suppliers in Singapore, such as us at Lumenex Asia, delivers a stronger long-term ROI than traditional wired systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are wireless lighting systems really more expensive than wired ones?

Not necessarily—while wireless luminaires cost more upfront, the lower installation, labour, and maintenance costs make them a cost-effective lighting solution in the long run.

How do Casambi-enabled wireless lighting systems reduce project costs?

They eliminate the need for controllers, control wiring, and complex setup, allowing faster installation and easier configuration through the app.

Are wireless luminaires suitable for commercial or industrial spaces?

Yes—many LED high bay light suppliers now offer Casambi-ready products, making wireless lighting ideal for offices, warehouses, and retrofits.

Is wireless lighting reliable for long-term use?

Casambi’s over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics ensure the system stays current, reducing downtime and avoiding expensive hardware changes.

Where can I get smart lighting solutions for my project?

A trusted LED lighting supplier in Singapore, like LumeAsia can recommend the right smart lighting products and wireless luminaires tailored to your building’s needs.