News & Insights

How to Select the Right Control & Automation Platform (Crestron, Extron, etc.)

Written by BPAV | 10/21/25 11:25 AM

Choosing the right control platform determines how effectively your users interact with technology and how easily you can scale, support, and maintain systems.

Understand Your Project Goals

Before comparing brands, define what you need:

  • User experience: How simple should the interface be?

  • Scalability: Will this system expand across multiple rooms or sites?

  • Integration: Does it need to work with lighting, HVAC, or building management systems?

  • Budget and support: How available are local programmers and technical resources?

Platform Overview

Crestron:
Best for enterprise-scale or complex environments needing deep customisation. Offers extensive control logic, network integration, and cloud connectivity.

Extron:
Ideal for standardised deployments such as classrooms or meeting rooms. Easier to configure and maintain with reliable hardware and simplified software tools.

AMX:
Suited for projects requiring flexible integration between AV, IT, and environmental systems. Strong in open architecture and network-based control.

Making the Right Choice

  • Engage a vendor-neutral consultant to assess requirements.

  • Review lifecycle costs, not just initial hardware pricing.

  • Consider programmer availability and long-term serviceability.

  • Choose platforms that align with IT policies and security frameworks.

The best platform is the one that fits your operational needs not just the most powerful one. With a clear understanding of your space and users, you can select a system that delivers intuitive, efficient, and future-ready control.

Not sure which control platform suits your next project? Consult BPAV for independent guidance across Crestron, Extron, AMX, and more.