“I want Lutron lighting” is a useful starting point, but RA2 Select, RadioRA 3 and HomeWorks solve different design problems. The right choice depends on your rooms, wiring, lighting loads, keypad choices, shading plans and the changes you may want later.
The three systems at a glance
| System | Usually suits | Design approach |
|---|---|---|
| RA2 Select | A simpler wireless retrofit or an existing installation that still meets the brief. | App-based setup, compatible in-line controls, Pico remotes and supported shades. |
| RadioRA 3 | A professionally designed wireless installation needing more customisation, keypads and room-by-room growth. | Installer programming, wireless controls and a planned processor/network location. |
| HomeWorks | A larger or highly tailored house where wired and wireless control, detailed scenes, premium keypads and integration matter. | Engineered lighting and shading design with panel, wiring, programming and handover scope. |
This follows Lutron's UK residential-system comparison. Lutron lists RA2 Select, RadioRA 3 and HomeWorks as progressively more capable choices; the correct specification still depends on the property.
When RA2 Select makes sense
RA2 Select is a useful route where the installation is relatively straightforward and the existing layout suits wireless controls. If you already have RA2 Select, there is no reason to replace a working system simply because RadioRA 3 exists. First decide what problem the current system cannot solve. Read our RA2 Select explainer or ask about support for the existing system.
When RadioRA 3 is the stronger fit
RadioRA 3 is a UK-available, professionally installed wireless system. It can suit a renovation where running new control cable everywhere is unattractive, but the project needs more tailored keypads, programming or shading than a simpler RA2 Select brief. Wireless does not mean “no design”: load compatibility, device location, radio coverage, suitable power and network provision still need checking. See our RadioRA 3 installation route.
When HomeWorks earns its place
HomeWorks becomes more compelling when the design calls for extensive lighting and shading coordination, centralised equipment, distinctive keypad families or deeper integrations. It needs a detailed circuit and equipment schedule. Our HomeWorks installation service and HomeWorks brief builder are the starting points for that route.
Do not assume an upgrade is a processor swap
RA2 Select and RadioRA 2 are different systems despite the similar names. Some earlier devices may be reusable with RadioRA 3, others may not be, and UK model numbers and the actual installation must be checked. A HomeWorks upgrade is a separate design exercise. If you already own RA2 equipment, use our RA2-to-RadioRA 3 assessment guide before budgeting for replacement.
What about price?
RA2 Select is generally the simpler price tier, RadioRA 3 sits between it and bespoke HomeWorks, and a complete installed quotation depends on equipment, labour and programming. Our Lutron cost guide shows checked RadioRA 3 component examples and clearly separated HomeWorks equipment examples. Neither is a promise of an installed-system price.
Send us your plans or describe the current system. We can then recommend a scope to quote rather than guessing from the system name alone.
