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The short answer
The Span Panel is the better choice for new construction or full panel replacement; the Lumin Smart Panel is the better choice for retrofitting onto an existing panel without a full swap.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Span Panel | Lumin Smart Panel |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Full panel replacement (200A) | Add-on subpanel (retrofit) |
| Circuit count | 32 spaces | Up to 24 managed circuits |
| Per-circuit monitoring | Yes (all circuits) | Yes (managed circuits only) |
| Native integrations | Tesla, Enphase, FranklinWH, Span Drive EV charger | Most systems via dry contacts |
| Typical installed cost | $4,500–$6,500 | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Best for | New construction, panel replacement | Retrofit onto existing panel |
Where Span wins
The Span Panel replaces your entire main panel with a smart 200A panel that monitors and controls every circuit. It has the deepest third-party integrations (native support for Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, FranklinWH, and Span Drive EV charger), the most polished app, and dynamic load management that allocates power between your EV charger and household loads in real time.
Where Lumin wins
The Lumin Smart Panel is roughly half the price of Span and doesn't require a full panel replacement. It installs as an add-on subpanel — your electrician moves the circuits you want smart control over (typically HVAC, water heater, EV charger, pool pump) into the Lumin subpanel, while your existing main panel stays untouched. Single-day install, no utility coordination required.
Decision framework
- Choose Span if: You're building new, your existing panel needs replacement anyway, or you want native Tesla/Enphase/FranklinWH integration.
- Choose Lumin if: Your existing panel is fine and you just want smart features on a few discretionary circuits, or you have a smaller budget.
See our full smart panel comparison for the third major option (Schneider Square D Energy Center) and deeper analysis.