INSTEON vs. Z-Wave: A Detailed Comparison

This article provides a comparison between INSTEON and Z-Wave technologies, highlighting their key differences.

About Z-Wave

Z-Wave is a routed radio-based network owned by Sigma Designs, Inc. They acquired the technology from Zensys, the original developer of Z-Wave. It utilizes a Source Routing Algorithm (SRA) for message routing. This means the message source needs to know the other devices and their connectivity within the network.

Z-Wave is designed for networks with a limited number of nodes, typically around 232 maximum. Manufacturers often recommend keeping the node count between 30 and 50 for optimal performance.

Z-Wave messages have variable sizes, with a payload size of approximately 4 to 6 bytes. It operates on various frequency bands below 1GHz, depending on the country.

About INSTEON

INSTEON is a dual-mesh network, utilizing both radio and powerline communication for robust support. It doesn’t require a routing protocol for message transmission. Instead, it simulcasts messages in precise and synchronized time slots.

INSTEON vs. Z-Wave: Key Differences

The following table summarizes the differences between INSTEON and Z-Wave technologies:

SpecificationsINSTEONZ-Wave
Medium typeSupports powerline and radioSupports only radio
Device typesAll are peer devicesZ-Wave has network controllers and slaves
Network EnrollmentNo separate enrollment stepPart of installation procedure
Network topologyFull mesh, simulcasting repeatersRouted mesh, routing tables
Data rate38400 bps (instantaneous)9600 bps, 40kbps, and 100kbps
RF modulationFSM in ISM bandFSK (9.6 and 40 kbps), GFSK (100kbps)
Powerline supportYesNo
Addressing24-bit module ID (16777216 devices)32-bit HomeID, 8-bit NodeID (232 devices)
Message length15 or 33 bytesVariable in size
X10 standard compatibilityYesNo