KNX vs C-Bus – Which is Better for Smart Lighting in 2025?
KNX vs C-Bus – Which is Better for Smart Lighting in 2025?
Why It Matters in 2025
If you're building or upgrading a smart home or commercial space in 2025, one of the biggest questions is which lighting control system to use. For years, C-Bus by Schneider Electric dominated the Australian market. But over the past decade, KNX has gained serious ground — and for good reason.
So what’s the real difference between them? And if you’re retrofitting or specifying a new project, which one is the better long-term investment?
Let’s break it down.
What is KNX?
KNX is an open standard for building and lighting automation used worldwide. It supports over 500 manufacturers including ABB, Theben, Zennio, and Basalte — all interoperable under one protocol.
Key benefits:
- 💡 Lighting, HVAC, blinds, access, and energy in one system
- 🧠 Fully programmable logic and conditional control
- 🔌 No reliance on cloud or WiFi
- 🏢 Perfect for residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects
- 🌍 Used globally — future support guaranteed
What is C-Bus?
C-Bus is a proprietary lighting control system developed in Australia and now owned by Schneider Electric. It’s still widely used in homes and light commercial buildings installed in the 2000s–2010s.
Key benefits:
- 🟠 Stable and proven in residential automation
- 🛠 Lots of electricians are familiar with it
- 🔘 Good range of push-button wall switches (eDLT, Saturn, Reflection)
- 🤝 Can still be expanded or reprogrammed with the right tools
However, C-Bus is:
- Tied to a single manufacturer
- Slower to evolve (limited DALI/energy integration)
- Often harder to integrate with AV or third-party systems
Which Should You Use in 2025?
🏠 If you’re upgrading an older home:
- Already have C-Bus? You can still maintain or partially upgrade it.
- But if you’re rewiring or expanding, KNX gives better future flexibility.
🧱 If you’re building new:
- KNX is the clear winner. It integrates lighting, energy, climate, and AV — all with open hardware.
🏢 If you’re a builder or developer:
- KNX offers long-term support, global certification, and works with premium brands.
- C-Bus may be faster to install in basic jobs, but it’s not the scalable choice for high-end or multi-function builds.
🧠 Our Verdict
C-Bus still has its place — especially in existing systems that only need minor tweaks. But for any new build, serious upgrade, or commercial lighting project in 2025, KNX is the smarter, more future-proof solution.
As certified KNX integrators on the Gold Coast, we’ve worked on both systems — and we know how to make them work for your goals, whether you’re retrofitting a home or designing a 10-storey commercial fitout.
