In short
A practical comparison of wired DALI and wireless Casambi lighting controls for linear LED schemes in offices, hospitality and refurbishments.
Good controls make a linear scheme more comfortable, more efficient and more flexible. The two systems we specify most often are DALI and Casambi.
DALI
DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is a wired, open standard. Every driver is individually addressable over a two-core control cable, and DALI-2 adds certified sensors and switches from multiple manufacturers.
- Robust and well understood by M&E contractors
- Ideal for new builds and large Cat A / Cat B fit-outs
- Integrates with building management systems
Casambi
Casambi is a wireless Bluetooth mesh system. Luminaires talk to each other and are commissioned from a phone or tablet.
- No control wiring, which is ideal for refurbishments and listed buildings
- Fast to change scenes and groups after handover
- Well suited to hospitality, retail and residential
Side by side
| DALI | Casambi | |
|---|---|---|
| Wiring | Control cable | Wireless |
| Best for | New build, large offices | Refurbs, hospitality |
| BMS integration | Strong | Via gateway |
| Changes after handover | Needs commissioning | App-based |
We supply integrated emergency lighting and smart controls as part of complete lighting packages. Talk to our team.
Further reading at 299 Lighting
Next steps on linear-led.com
Specifying a linear scheme?
Send us your drawings or brief. We'll come back with a shortlist, photometrics and LG7 calculations.
Start a project →Frequently asked questions
Is DALI or Casambi better?
Neither is universally better. DALI suits large new-build schemes with BMS integration. Casambi suits refurbishments and spaces where wiring is difficult or scenes change often.
Can linear lighting be dimmed?
Yes. Linear LED luminaires can be supplied with DALI, Casambi or other dimmable drivers.
