The Flic Duo is a tiny but mighty addition to the world of smart home controllers. Measuring just 2 x 1.25 inches and roughly 1/3 of an inch thick, this device packs a punch with 22 trigger possibilities, far surpassing its predecessor's three. It's designed for versatility, offering both handheld use and wall mounting options, thanks to its magnetic back that can be paired with a metal backing plate or affixed directly to metal surfaces.
The Flic Duo introduces two buttons—labeled simply as 'Big Button' and 'Small Button'—each capable of being programmed with single-push, double-push, or push-and-hold triggers. What sets it apart are its new hold-and-swipe and hold-and-twist triggers, which aim to provide more intuitive control over smart home devices. These features, however, come with their own set of challenges, particularly in terms of usability.
- Dimensions: 2 x 1.25 inches (thickness: ~1/3 inch)
- Buttons: Two buttons ('Big Button' and 'Small Button') with multiple trigger options
- New Triggers: Hold-and-swipe, hold-and-twist
- Connectivity: Bluetooth-enabled, works with or without a Flic Hub (Hub Mini: $30; Hub LR: $90)
- Compatibility: Matter, Alexa, IFTTT, SmartThings, Philips Hue, LIFX, Ikea, Nanoleaf, Chromecast, Sonos, Google Home
- Pricing: Flic Duo: $59; Metal backing plate: $10; Stickers for labeling buttons: $10 (pack)
The Flic Duo's real-world performance is a mixed bag. On the one hand, its twist function works seamlessly, providing an intuitive way to control volume or light brightness. This feature is a notable improvement over the swipe function, which requires precise and often awkward movements that can be difficult to execute successfully. The device's compatibility with a wide range of smart home ecosystems is impressive, but setting up these integrations can be complex, even for those familiar with smart home systems.
Who should care? The Flic Duo is ideal for advanced smart home users who are comfortable navigating complex integration setups and are looking to expand their control options. Novices might find the device overwhelming due to its extensive feature set and the intricacies involved in setting up integrations. For those willing to invest time and patience, the Flic Duo offers a powerful tool to enhance smart home automation.
Availability: The Flic Duo is currently priced at $59. Additional accessories, such as the metal backing plate and sticker packs for labeling buttons, are available separately for $10 each.
