Programming Humor

I do try to go with Matter/Thread as much as possible. I do have old, in-wall switches that are on Z-Wave.

I recommend using bulbs where you want the option of colors, and switches where you don't. To control the color bulbs from the wall, you need a scene controller, which is a bit expensive and I haven't found a good one yet. It's not as simple as a switch.

I did recently pick up a Matter/Thread Reolink doorbell for $100. It was pretty easy to install, and works well with Home Assistant. The TV controls are just a Chromecast, but of course the dedicated remote works better. Still nice for turning the TV off an on.

I also use an old phone as a wall panel, set up with Home Assistant app pinned and set to Kiosk mode. HA does often become unpinned, so it's not perfect.