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Technology

October 20, 2026 · 5 min read

Savant or Control4 for a large new build

Both can run a large house well. Here is how they differ, and how to decide.

In short. Both Savant and Control4 can run a 10,000 square foot house well: lighting, shades, climate, music, video and more from one app. Control4 is the most widely installed platform, with a deep library of compatible devices. Savant is stronger on whole-home energy management and is adding a conversational assistant this year. For most large new builds, the integrator who designs and supports the system matters more than the brand.

A note on where we stand: we are a Savant Platinum Elite Dealer, and most of our homes run on Savant. We have tried to describe both fairly.

What they have in common

Both are professionally installed platforms sold only through dealers. Both control lighting, shading, climate, audio and video from touch panels, remotes and a phone app. Both work with Lutron lighting and shading, which we install in most large homes regardless of the control platform. And both depend on careful programming: the same equipment can feel simple or frustrating depending on who set it up.

Control4

Control4 has been owned by Resideo since its parent company, Snap One, was acquired in June 2024, and it is now sold through Resideo's ADI distribution business. It is the platform the most integrators install: in CEDIA's 2026 research, 63 percent of firms listed it among their top three whole-house control brands. That reach brings two practical advantages: a very large library of compatible devices, and many dealers able to service it. Voice control comes largely through its long partnership with Josh.ai.

Savant

Savant is known for the design of its app and for its work beyond entertainment. Savant Power can turn the electrical panel into part of the system: modules fit major panel brands, report energy use circuit by circuit, and decide where grid, solar, generator or battery power goes during an outage. Savant says the system scales to 800-amp services and up to 160 kWh of battery. GE Lighting is a Savant company, and Savant's Daylight mode shifts color temperature through the day; we used it with USAI fixtures at the Hamptons Wellness Residence in Sagaponack. Savant AI, a conversational assistant for lighting, climate, shades, energy and air quality, is arriving with SavantOS 12 as a subscription.

How to decide for a large new build

  • Energy and backup. If solar, batteries, a generator or EV charging are part of the plan, Savant's energy management is a meaningful advantage.
  • Lighting. Decide the lighting system first. With Lutron, either platform works; with Savant lighting and Daylight mode, Savant is the natural fit.
  • The interface. Use both before deciding. The app is what the household lives with every day.
  • Service. Ask who will look after the system in five years, how it is monitored remotely, and how quickly someone answers.
  • The integrator. Experience with houses of this size matters more than the logo. Ask to see homes like yours.

Can you switch later?

Usually, yes, though it is a project. Wiring, speakers and much of the lighting can often stay, while controllers, keypads and all of the programming are replaced. It is far easier to choose well at the start.

Building in Westchester, Fairfield County or the Hamptons? We would be glad to review the plans with your architect. See smart home control, or Savant for estates.

Sources

SavantControl4New ConstructionSmart Home

Questions

Questions we're often asked

Is Savant better than Control4?
Neither is better for every house. Control4 offers the broadest device compatibility and the largest dealer network. Savant leads on energy management and app design. For a large new build, the integrator matters most.
Do Savant and Control4 work with Lutron?
Yes. Both integrate with Lutron lighting and shading, which is why we often design the lighting first and choose the control platform second.
What does whole-home technology cost in a large new house?
Our typical whole-home system is about $175,000, excluding lighting control and shading. Projects range widely with the size of the home and what it includes.
Which platform does Elevated install?
Mostly Savant. We are a Savant Platinum Elite Dealer and a Lutron Platinum Provider.
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