G-Controller

The Greenbank G-Controller is part of Greenbank’s Apple Home lighting range, alongside the G-Switch P1. Greenbank’s approach across the range is to work with the wiring houses already have, including switch boxes with no neutral conductor.

Why that approach matters

Smart lighting usually forces a choice. Smart bulbs are easy to fit but stop responding when somebody turns the wall switch off, which is the single most common complaint in any household that has tried them. Smart switches keep the wall working normally but traditionally need a neutral wire that older wiring does not provide.

Greenbank’s switches aim at the second option without the rewiring, which keeps ordinary bulbs, ordinary behaviour at the wall, and full control in the Home app.

What works in Apple Home

• Turn the connected lighting on and off from the Home app.
• Use it in scenes and automations, and control it with Siri.
• Keep manual control at the wall.

Before you buy

Check the model against your installation before ordering. Greenbank’s range differs by the number of gangs, by the load it will drive and by the wiring it expects, and the model names are close enough to confuse.

Dimming and load compatibility are worth confirming too, because LED lamps vary a great deal in how well they dim.

This is mains work. Have an electrician fit it unless you are qualified to do so.

As with any Apple Home accessory, remote access and automations need a home hub in the house: a HomePod or an Apple TV.