Loxone

What Loxone is

Loxone provides building automation software alongside the LOXONE Miniserver, which connects building components such as lighting, heating, multiroom audio, and security. Its software is designed to plan, control, and operate a building as one coordinated system. The free LOXONE App brings building functions and information together for control from supported devices. Loxone lists Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows platforms, and supports local control, Matter, and energy monitoring.

The system supports interfaces and standards including KNX, DALI, Modbus RTU/TCP, EnOcean, RS485/RS232, and DMX. Its software Library contains more than 700 templates for integrating third-party systems. Core building functions can operate without an internet connection, though email, online weather data, and push notifications are unavailable offline. Loxone says smart home data is stored and processed on the Miniserver and not collected or repurposed by the company; transfers of users, credentials, and access permissions between Miniservers use TLS encryption. Config and App software is free to use with no licensing required. Exosphere Pro starts at $70 a year per Miniserver, while Enterprise starts at $140 a year per Miniserver. Registering a Miniserver provides a three-month trial with Pro or Enterprise features.

Who it suits

Loxone suits homeowners looking to coordinate building systems, as well as system integrators, facility managers, and installers managing installations. Its local operation and broad set of interfaces may suit buildings with connected components that need to work as a coordinated system.

Limits

The Config and App software is free to use with no licensing required. Exosphere Pro starts at $70 per Miniserver per year and includes 100 MB backup storage per Miniserver, up to three years of historical data import, and 1 GB maximum data per Miniserver. Enterprise starts at $140 per Miniserver per year and adds advanced analytics and reporting; both plans include unlimited building blocks.

Getting started

1. Visit the Loxone website.
2. Use the LOXONE Miniserver to connect building components such as lighting, heating, multiroom audio, and security.
3. Install the free LOXONE App on a supported device to control building functions and view information.
4. Register a Miniserver to start the three-month Exosphere Pro or Enterprise trial.
5. Choose Exosphere Pro or Enterprise if you need a paid plan after the trial.

Verdict

Consider Loxone if you want building automation centered on a Miniserver, with local operation, a free control app, and support for multiple interfaces. Homeowners and installation professionals can also try Exosphere Pro or Enterprise for three months after registering a Miniserver; ongoing Exosphere plans start at $70 a year per Miniserver.