Choosing the KNX push button
Choosing the right KNX buttons can be quite a hassle given all the possibilities out there. You have to think about all the KNX devices you want to control with them, think about different scenarios on how you want to use your KNX smart home, assess what is still functional for you and of course what is matching the style of your home in general.
Most importantly you want to choose KNX buttons that match the design of your home and will be intuitive to use – not to check the manual when you want a specific action out of a button press. KNX push buttons also have a huge impact on the final price of a KNX smart home – as there will be a lot of them in the house – and the price can vary from 50€ to more than 2000€ (for KNX touch screens) per keypad.
Through this guide on the KNX switches we will take you through explaining different functionalities of the push-buttons, styles, control options and also provide the best pick for the price given all variables.
Let’s help you figure out exactly which KNX buttons are for you.
The point of KNX buttons is they can do whatever you want
Each area of the KNX push button can be programmed to trigger a specific action you want. You can be simply turning on the lights or increasing temperature but you can also be controlling the whole room, the whole house or custom scenarios.
For instance, a press of a button can even trigger your projector screen to drop, a projector to turn on, putting your sound system into a cinema mode and getting your Apple TV ready. The possibilities are limitless. This is why it is important to visualize how you want to use your KNX smart home once it is finished as KNX button control will be a big factor in its experience.
Normally, KNX switches have different areas of control on a single button. Each area can trigger a different action. But there is also a possibility to trigger actions by double or even triple clicking the knx buttons.
Next to that also a long or short press can send different signals – so there are a lot of different variables of control possible from each KNX switch. Make sure to let your imagination run wild but at the same time keep in mind you have to remember the controls.
For standard functions e.g. Lights on/off, blinds up/down, temperature and custom scenes, KNX keypads come with stickers or engraved icons to remember you about its functions. KNX keypads with capacitive touch or KNX touch-screens usually have these features displayed on an embedded screen.
While for short, long, double and triple press control, you simply have to remember what you have set up. Having a KNX button manual stored somewhere isn’t a bad idea at all.
Status of each device a KNX push button area can trigger is usually displayed with a LED back-light which will demonstrate whether a device is on or off.
Different types of KNX buttons
Cheapest option – KNX universal button interface – Use normal switches with KNX
KNX universal button interface gives you the ability to use any conventional switch as a KNX push button.
Flush-mounted binary inputs can be used in a deep device box behind a conventional switch/push button, for connection of zero-voltage contacts. The switching operations of zero-voltage contacts are converted into KNX telegrams. The inputs can be assigned various functions or blocked independently of each other in the process. The inputs can be parameterized as outputs (max. 2 mA).
KNX universal button interface is definitely the cheapest way to make your switches KNX compatible, prices start at approx. 40€.
Best KNX universal button interface
ABB UNIVERSAL INTERFACE FM 12-FOLD
The Universal Interface has 12 channels which can be parameterised as inputs or outputs, e.g. for connection of conventional push-buttons or LEDs. The LEDs are supplied by the device (1.5 mA), the series resistances are integrated.
Manufacturer: ABB
Country Of Manufacture: Germany
Type: Universal Interface
Medium: KNX TP
Installation: Flush Mounted
Channels: 12
Price: 230€
THEBEN TA 2 S KNX
TA 2 S Binary input/binary output sensor interfaces, Can be installed in flush-mounted sockets with conventional switches. Free allocation of functions: Switch/key, dimming, blinds, valuator, sequences, controlling LED.
Manufacturer: Theben
Country Of Manufacture: Germany
Type: Binary Actuator
Medium: KNX TP
Installation: Flush Mounted
Channels: 4
Price: 120€
GIRA KNX UNIVERSAL BUTTON INTERFACE, 4-GANG
Flush-mounted binary inputs, can be used in deep device box (60 mm deep) behind a conventional switch/push button, for connection of zero-voltage contacts. The switching operations of zero-voltage contacts are converted into KNX telegrams. The inputs can be assigned various functions or blocked independently of each other in the process. The inputs can be parameterised as outputs (max. 2 mA).
Manufacturer: GIRA
Country Of Manufacture: Germany
Type: Universal Interface
Medium: KNX TP
Installation: Flush Mounted
Price: 230€
Universal interface CE2 (4 IN conf. / 2 OUT relais 5A)
KNX bus device functioning as 4-channel input for the connection of potential-free contacts (1 configurable for NTC temperature probe) and 2-channel output with 5A relays switching and control of loads.
Mounting in a wall box or on 35 mm rail (EN 60715) with the support EK-SMG-35 (to be ordered separately). Power supply via bus. Bus terminal block included in the delivery. To be used in KNX installations for home and building automation.
Manufacturer: Ekinex
Country Of Manufacture: Italy
Medium: KNX TP
Installation: Flush Mounted
Price: 170€
Universal interface CE2 (4 IN conf. / 2 OUT relais 5A)
PUSH-BUTTON INTERFACE, 4-GANG, JUNG, FLUSH-MOUNTED
The 2-channel (4-channel) push-button interface has 2 (4) independent channels which – depending on parameterization – can be used as inputs or alternatively as outputs. The push-button interface can therefore be used to poll its inputs for the switching state of up to 2 potential-free push-buttons/switches with a common reference potential and send the corresponding telegrams to the KNX.
These may be telegrams for switching or dimming, shutter/blind control or value transmitter applications (dimming value transmitter, light-scene extension, temperature or brightness value transmitter). Moreover, 2 switching event counters or 1 pulse counter (only channel 1) are available. Channels 1 and 2 can be used alternatively as independent outputs for controlling up to two LED’s.
Manufacturer: Jung
Country Of Manufacture: Germany
Medium: KNX TP
Installation: Flush Mounted
Price: 100€
PUSH-BUTTON INTERFACE, 4-GANG, JUNG, FLUSH-MOUNTED
KNX keypads
KNX keypads vary from simple switches to dedicated KNX smart home controls with elegant design.
They often come with a room temperature controller/temperature sensor embedded for easier temperature control. In this case there is usually also a display showcasing the temperature in the room. Sometimes OLED displays are embedded for highlighting KNX button features.
For easier understanding of the device status – there is usually a LED back-light showcasing status of the devices connected to each KNX button area. There is often an option to configure long, short, double or triple presses as different triggers.
The KNX keypads often come modular so you can decide whether to add temperature control, display, or to have a 2/3/4/5/6/8-fold keypad.
Example of 6-fold KNX keypad from Gira with temperature control
Prices vary heavily between different manufacturers and design options. The cheapest KNX keypad you can get is priced at around 60€ while the most expensive ones can retail for up to 800€.
Simple yet effective – KNX basic keypads
GIRA BASIC KNX KEYPAD
· KNX rocker in 1 or 2 gang
· Extensive range of finishes
· Can be installed in square UK or round European back boxes
· Can be used for blind control
Retail price 90.00 – 140.00€
JUNG LS990 LES COULEURS LE CORBUSIER
With colourful pushbutton covers, these knx buttons are meant to stand out in your home.
JUNG LS990 LES COULEURS LE CORBUSIER
· Covers for all F40 and F50 KNX push buttons and sensors
· Available in 63 colours
Retail price from 60€
The KNX classic – Dedicated KNX keypads
JUNG F40 KNX Room controller
JUNG has extended the F 40 push-button modules into a new high-end controller with the KNX room controller OLED. The room controller with integrated bus coupling unit in the CD and LS design ranges features a high-resolution OLED graphic display with brilliant colours. The operation of the OLED room controller is done by means of large buttons that can be laser-engraved or imprinted individually with symbols or text by means of the JUNG graphics tool. To add functionality, the unit may be combined with the pushbutton extension module.
Price: approx. 350€
Gira KNX push button sensor 3
The Push Button Sensor 3 Comfort consists of three control surfaces which can be configured as individual push buttons or as rockers and has extensive and practical software functions. These white glossy buttons have three-colour status LED in green, red and blue and a temperature sensor is also integrated.
Price: approx. 250€
ABB MILLENIUM PUSH BUTTON
The ABB Millenium push button allows simple user control through innovative colour concept (yellow=lighting, blue=blind, orange=RTC, magenta=scene and white=neutral/no function assigned) or standard illumination red/green. The accompanying symbol can be replaced by the symbols for lighting, blinds, room thermostat, scene and FanCoil. Push switch function: switching / dimming / blind / sending values / scenes etc. Incl. 10 logic channels (light scene actuator, sequence actuator, logic gates, etc.).
Price: approx. 180€
MDT GLASS PUSH BUTTONS II SMART
MDT GLASS PUSH BUTTONS II SMART
The MDT Glass Push Button II Smart releases KNX telegrams after touching the sensor areas on top, 1 or 2 Button operation can be adjusted. The device provides extensive functions like switching of lighting, operation of blinds and shutters, contact type and block communication objects for each channel. The Glass Push Button has 4 integrated logical modules.
The Glass Push Button II Smart has a large, coloured active display to indicate function and status. Up to 12 functions on 2 or 3 levels (2×6 or 3×4 functions)can be parameterised.
The Glass Push Button II Smart can be also used as 6-fold push button without function levels.(From Hardware Revision 2.0)
Price: approx. 140€
LITHOSS KNX KEYPADS
This contemporary Lithoss Select keypad in matt white RAL9010 has 4 buttons with a RGB status LED, along with a temperature sensor integrated in the metal frame ensuring it stays in every way discrete.
Price: approx. 350€
High end control – KNX keypads with capacitive touch
KNX keypads with capacitive touch are a more digital approach to a KNX keypad. They often offer more customisation options as they come with a configurable display which you can set for different control options and knx pushbutton sensors. The design of the keypads is usually very sleek and the most common ones come with 2/4/6/8-fold control options.
Some of the KNX keypads with capacitive touch also come with the temperature controller/temperature sensor.
The price starts at 150€ and can go up to 800€.
Best KNX keypads with capacitive touch
Basalte Deseo electronics – KNX/EIB
Deseo is designed to control all the different functions in one single room in a very simple and intuitive way, through the integrated 1.7″ oled display. With one single touch, it is possible to operate any lighting circuit, control different scenes, operate the central controller system, music, control the sunscreens, or operate the heating, air conditioning and ventilation using the built-in thermostat. The innovative tactile technology, typical for Basalte products, allows all these functions with extreme ease of use in a sleek and refined design.
Price: Approx. 800€
Basalte Sentido – KNX/EIB
The Sentido Bus Coupler for KNX is a four way touch sensor. By touching each of the four touch sensitive areas you can use KNX to execute a range of system components functions including switching, dimming, operating blinds, activating scenes, etc.
Touching a touch sensitive area will give a visual feedback by means of lighting up the central RGB LED which can also be controlled by KNX or other home systems to provide a visual feedback of statuses. It can also be used to illuminate the switch in the dark. The Sentido switch uses the patented Multitouch technology, touching more than one area at the same time activates an additional function.
Price: Approx. 400€
Zennio – SQUARE TMD-DISPLAY
Square TMD-Display is a capacitive room controller with 5 multifunction buttons and 1.8” backlighted frame, totally customizable to cause the desired aesthetic impression in any ambience. Everyone can create unique compositions, which could include images, icons, texts or logos. This customization is printed on a high-strength tempered glass with an PC-ABS frame to finish off the author’s work. Square TMD-Display allows selecting the function for each of its buttons and indicators shown in the display. TMD also includes thermostat function, internal temperature probe and two analog/digital inputs.
Price: Approx. 220€
BX KNX KRISTAL Glass Push Button
Kristal offers all the safety and durability advantages of a capacitive keyboard, since there is no mechanical wear of any kind, and ease of use is improved with the introduction of luminous and acoustic feedback. Kristal offers the complete KNX command set needed to control any type of device for your building control: On/Off commands, light dimming, window actions and transmission of scenarios.
Price: Approx. 170€
Vivaldi Domotica KNX
– Capacitive touch keypad 4 programmable RGB LEDs
– 8 aluminum commands ETS configurable
– Accurate digital temperature sensor with all the thermostat functions
– Fits European (d=60mm) and Italian (503) standard wall mount box
– Dimensions: (LxHxD) 120x80x8 mm
– Power supply through KNX bus (d=0,8mm)
– 8 x aluminum keys
Price: Not specified online
KNX touch screens – the ultimate control
KNX touch screens are a fully digital approach to a KNX keypad. Enhanced digital signage solutions with dedicated KNX control apps, usually also come with a Power over Ethernet possibility of charging.
Since these keypads are displayed they offer many different control possibilities and usually you can control a whole KNX smart home from a single display. Through multiple screens you can control different device types, rooms and you can usually configure a “favourites” screen where you can control preset scenarios.
Most of the KNX systems displays come with a temperature control option and some of them can even integrate with KNX intercoms so you can see the video from your front door camera and open the door for your guests.
The price of KNX touch screens vary from 300€ to up to 2000€.
Best KNX touch screens
GIRA G1 KNX ROOM CONTROLLER
The G1 is a ground breaking stylish all in one touch screen for control of core KNX building functions and Door Communication. The user interface is very intuitive and iOS like in its use and will be instantly familiar to anyone with a smart phone.
Price: 1000€
Zennio Z41 Pro
Z41 Pro is a touch panel with up to 96 control functions. Minimalist aesthetics, dominated by simple forms, lead to a timeless design that facilitates integration within working and living environments. Its 4.1” color display (3:4) in portrait or landscape, makes your management and enjoyment easier. Up to 96 controls to enable distributed communication within the intelligent home. Z41 includes an internal clock with battery and USB port for program updates. Includes IP port for remote control from smartphones or tablets through free mobile apps. It also includes 2 analog-digital inputs of great functionality.
Price: 570€
JUNG SMART CONTROL 5’’
JUNG SMART CONTROL 5’’
The elegant Smart Control 5 presents itself as the latest extension to the Smart Control series. Thanks to a slim, compact design, it fits into a standard flush wall box together with other KNX products. With the high-resolution touch display, the functions can be conveniently operated.
Price: 680€
ABB BUSCH-SMARTTOUCH 7″
Free Programmable KNX touch display as a control, notification and operation center for the entire house. Works as a video indoor station with the ABB-Welcome Door Entry System.
Price: 1100€
MDT VISUCONTROL, TOUCHPANEL, SIZE 7“
MDT VISUCONTROL, TOUCHPANEL, SIZE 7“
Conclusion on KNX keypadsTouchpanel VisuControl, Size 7“ / 17,7cm.
– Touchpanel to visualize current building status and to control building functions.
– Capacitive glass touch display with LED backlight.
– User interface individually adjustable.
– Switching and dimming, shutter/blind control.
– Remote Access via PC, iPad, iPhone, Android. VisuControl for KNX app available for free in the App store.
– Alarm indication.
– Displaying trends.
– Forwarding of information via email.
– VisuControl lite software and demo projects included.
– 24VDC power supply required (eg. STV-0024.01).
– Integrated bus coupling unit.
Price: 1100€
There are tons of different options available. You have to really think about how you are gonna use the smart home to better understand what you need. Matching the style of your home should be important as well.
If you need any help during the planning and installation of your smart home feel free to book a free consultation call with us. We have talked to over 1000 smart home owners and over 500 system integrators. We know the industry inside out.
Now that you have your knx buttons figured out, you might want to add Apple HomeKit to easily reprogram them? We are the right address, see what we offer: 1home.io
Hope you have enjoyed the read – if you think we left out some really good KNX keypads, feel free to remind us in the comments below.
Happy smart homing,
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