Best Zigbee Thermostats

9.4

KONOz Smart Hub Thermostat

Top PickSupports geofencing

View Price

9.2

Zen Thermostat

Runner UpBattery-powered thermostat with a nice display

View Price

9.0

Centralite Pearl Thermostat

Budget PickQuick installation

View Price

8.8

Stelpro KI Thermostat

Line Voltage PickHigh-voltage systems

View Price

Benefits of a Zigbee Thermostat

If you’ve got a Zigbee mesh, or a smart home hub like Samsung SmartThings that can connect to Zigbee, integrating your thermostat into the existing home network is a great idea. Once interconnected, your Zigbee thermostat can communicate with other smart home devices, making your entire home automation system more efficient and better tuned to your schedule. 

Once connected, you can control and monitor these thermostats using mobile apps, or through voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant.

Interconnected

These thermostats can also connect with additional sensors, either individually or through smart home hubs, to become more responsive. For example, multiple temperature sensors in different rooms can make climates more personalized. In addition, connecting with motion sensors can allow these thermostats to turn your HVAC components on when you enter, or just turn the display on so you know what the climate is in the room. No more time-consuming guesswork as you fiddle with the traditional remote control!

These thermostats also help minimize overall power consumption in your home by integrating your HVAC system with your daily routine.

Additionally, by pre-programming your customized settings, you extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment and also minimize your carbon footprint. 

9.4

Top Pick

1.

KONOz Smart Hub Thermostat

Supports geofencing

View Price
On Amazon.com

A highly competent smart thermostat that fits well into any décor.

Top Features

• Smooth integration with multiple smart home hubs through Zigbee 3.0.
• Available in a range of colors; fits well in any décor.
• Controllable via voice activation or smartphone app.

The KONOz Smart Hub Thermostat manufactured by Lux uses Zigbee 3.0 technology and easily connects to a wide range of smart home hubs. Thanks to the interchangeable Décor-Snap covers with fully paintable options, it allows businesses and domestic users full esthetic freedom. 

Battery-powered and easy to install, the KONOz smart thermostat supports 3 different modes – heating only, cooling only, or heating and cooling combined. 

Display & Interface

The display includes a front knob, which can be used to adjust the temperature, navigate through settings, and create your personalized heating and cooling schedules. 

In addition to the weekly scheduling options, the KONOz smart thermostat is compatible with conventional heating and cooling systems, residential heat pump systems, and electrical furnaces. 

Voice control

You can fully control it from anywhere by using voice-enabled devices supporting Amazon Alexa and/or Google Assistant, or through the free app available for both iOS and Android. It also supports geofencing, which makes it easy to adjust the temperature in your home based on your location. This means you will save energy while you’re away and reduce your overall utility costs. 

The KONOz thermostat is a Zigbee-compatible thermostat with  Google Home integration and a fairly good option that can be purchased at a reasonable price. 

9.2

Runner Up

2.

Zen Thermostat

Battery-powered thermostat with a nice display

View Price
On Amazon.com

Simple to use and stylish smart thermostat compatible with Zigbee.

Top Features

• The Zen HQ feature enables complex HVAC and lighting changes to be made via the cloud. Adjustments can be made every 15 minutes if needed.
• Energy Star certified to reduce energy consumption by 19%.
• Full voice activation via various virtual assistants.

The Zen Thermostat uses the Zigbee protocol to fully automate your HVAC system offering complete control within your home or business. It is compatible with Zigbee HA 1.2, SmartThings, SwannOne, and Securifi’s Almond+.  

Heating, cooling, and fan parameters can be easily adjusted via an ergonomic LED display. The display which is visible and large enough to view data fades to conserve battery power but can easily be woken up by touch.

Style & Finish 

The thermostat body is offered in a black or white finish, on a slimline, lightweight controller with a magnetic attachment to a wall mount. Zen offers its own dedicated HQ cloud, where numerous thermostat settings can be saved and easily controlled via the Android and iOS Zen applications.

With the online firmware updates, the system software can always stay up-to-date. 

9.0

Budget Pick

3.

Centralite Pearl Thermostat

Quick installation

View Price
On Amazon.com

An affordable option, with less than 15 minutes’ installation time.

Top Features

• Can easily be installed in less than 15 minutes.
• Compatible with multiple Zigbee HA 1.2 platforms.
• Easy to operate, the display includes soft controls.

The Centralite Pearl Thermostat comes in two colors (black and white), is easy to install, and has a simple interface, making it easy to use too.

This device includes a user-friendly touch-screen display. It allows you to define your own schedules and create different events, which can be paused or canceled through the Hold soft-touch button. 

If you want to control the thermostat remotely, you just need to connect it to your Zigbee HA 1.2-compatible smart home hub and you will be able to make any adjustments on the go.

Compatibility

Certified for Zigbee Home Automation 1.2, the Pearl thermostat is compatible with all Zigbee platforms as well as SmartThings, Spectrum, Cox, Time Warner Cable, and Vera. It also works with almost all residential HVAC systems and supports two stages of heating and two stages of cooling. 

The Pearl thermostat has an integrated temperature sensor that provides accurate temperature control. On top of this, you also have the option to add optional remote sensors such as humidity sensors, occupancy sensors, or simply more temperature sensors to cover different rooms.

8.8

Line Voltage Pick

4.

Stelpro KI Thermostat

High-voltage systems

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Stelpro KI Thermostat is simple yet smart, and can be integrated with a range of line voltage systems.

Top Features

• Designed to work with conductors, fan heaters, and electric baseboards.
• Can reduce energy use significantly.
• Features two modes for economic use or enhanced comfort.

Unlike the other thermostats listed, the Stelpro KI Thermostat is the only one designed to work with high-voltage systems up to 4000W.

Energy Saving

With up to 30% energy-saving capabilities, it will significantly reduce the overall costs of your normal utility bills. It has been developed to use four different levels of heating power to help you achieve this. 

Another noteworthy feature is that, unlike other thermostats, Stelpro uses pulses to turn the heat on. No need to worry about unequal and inconsistent heating. 

Zigbee

Designed specifically for smart home systems, it uses the Zigbee protocol so you can easily integrate it into your existing Zigbee network and control it from a distance by using your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

The installation is fast and easy and usually does not require professional assistance. Also, batteries are not required as it connects directly to the main power source. You can forget about replacing batteries!

Different Modes

This thermostat features two different modes and allows you to easily switch between them. It covers anyone’s needs – whether you opt for the economic mode to save energy or go for more comfort, it has it all. 

Moreover, it can be purchased at a reasonable price and comes with a 3-year warranty.

The Best Zigbee Thermostats Verdict!

Zigbee is the go-to connectivity protocol after Wi-Fi, for most smart home devices, and with so many available options on the market, finding the most suitable Zigbee-compatible thermostat for your smart home may seem difficult at first. But that’s where we step in – showing you the best products that are worth looking into. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can rest assured there is a variety of good options to choose from.

9.4

Top Pick

1.

KONOz Smart Hub Thermostat

Supports geofencing

View Price
On Amazon.com

A highly competent smart thermostat that fits well into any décor.

Top Features

• Smooth integration with multiple smart home hubs through Zigbee 3.0.
• Available in a range of colors; fits well in any décor.
• Controllable via voice activation or smartphone app.

Sources

Pearl

The post Best Zigbee-Compatible Thermostats appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

In this article, I dive into the differences between Zigbee and Z-Wave to help you make the right decision for your home.

Zigbee vs Z-Wave

What are Zigbee and Z-Wave?

Zigbee and Z-Wave are the predominant smart home wireless communication protocols in the market. Both use a similar mesh network for communication and similar network hierarchies.

Zigbee standards are owned and maintained by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (formerly known as the Zigbee Alliance) and are part of the IEEE 802.15.4 protocols.

Z-Wave was acquired by Silicon Labs from Sigma Designs and is now maintained by the Z-Wave Alliance. Both of these alliances contain manufacturers and researchers that work to make these standards better.

Zigbee and Z-Wave devices differ in their frequencies, wireless ranges, data transfer capabilities, and power requirements. Additionally, since independent alliances maintain these standards, they also differ in interoperability and compatibility.

Zigbee and Z-Wave are not directly compatible with each other.

Comparison Table

Before I get into the full comparison of these technologies, here's a quick overview in tabular form.

Frequencies

Zigbee vs Z-Wave devices operate in different frequency ranges. Zigbee operates in the 2.4GHz range worldwide, with the option of communicating at 868 MHz in Europe and 915 MHz in the United States.

Z-Wave operates in various sub-GHz frequency ranges, such as 868 MHz in Europe and 908 MHz in North America, depending on the region.

This difference in operating frequencies is one of the main reasons why Zigbee and Z-Wave devices differ so much in other characteristics.

Zigbee devices are more prone to interruptions by Wi-Fi devices since they use the same frequency range. In contrast, Z-Wave devices are susceptible to disruption by wireless landline signals or baby monitors.

Range

Lower frequencies can penetrate other mediums more efficiently and can also travel a greater distance without deteriorating. Hence, Z-Wave devices generally have a better range than Zigbee devices.

Zigbee wireless signals can travel up to 80m without interruptions, but this range is significantly reduced inside homes due to walls, windows, and any other obstructions. Inside homes, Zigbee's range can drop to 10-20m.

Z-Wave wireless signals can travel up to 100m without interruptions, while inside a house, their range can still get up to 50-60m.

As both technologies utilize a mesh topology, the range of both Zigbee and Z-Wave can be improved using repeaters. Repeaters are devices that can relay data to the devices out of the central hub's wireless range.

Z-Wave Long Range

Z-Wave Long Range (Z-Wave LR) further extends the range and network capabilities of Z-Wave devices. Z-Wave LR enables communication up to several kilometers and can support up to 4,000 nodes on a single network.

As Z-Wave LR devices become more widely adopted, they will provide an even more robust and extensive coverage option for smart home users.

Speed

Zigbee wins in speed! Since Zigbee uses high frequencies, it can transmit more data. Zigbee can reach speeds of up to 250kpbs while Z-Wave usually reaches 100kbps (almost half).           

These speeds are significantly lower than Wi-Fi and Bluetooth because Zigbee and Z-Wave devices generally do not need high data transfer speeds.  That is because a lot of data being transmitted in smart home networks comes from sensors that only produce a small amount.

Interoperability

Interoperability is one of the most critical aspects of your smart home network. Appliances in a home are continuously being replaced,  while new devices are regularly introduced. It can be painfully tedious to go through a wide array of devices to find one that fits your network. That is why both Zigbee and Z-Wave standards are strictly maintained by their respective alliances, which also certify products.

Zigbee is an open-source standard, which means manufacturers are free to use it in their devices without permission from the alliance. The way Zigbee certifications are organized also makes it harder for customers to pick a device.

Manufacturers may certify their hardware with Zigbee but then use non-certified software. Such devices are tagged as “Zigbee-ready” and might not be compatible with your home network. To ensure compatibility, look for devices with the Zigbee 3.0 certification, which guarantees compliance with the latest Zigbee standard, offering better interoperability and compatibility with your home network.

On the other hand, Z-Wave is the property of Sigma Design, which also runs the Z-Wave Alliance. Since Z-Wave is proprietary, manufacturers have to go through stringent certification processes that ensure their devices comply with Z-Wave standards. This is why Z-Wave devices are far more interoperable and backward compatible.

Device Availability

There is a vast assortment of both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices on the market right now.  Zigbee standards vary depending on geographical location. For example, Zigbee's frequency range for the US is 2.4GHz, but in some parts of Europe, it might be 968MHz, which is a huge difference.

Z-Wave, on the other hand, has a pretty similar range for most of the world. This is also why you find more Zigbee devices overseas—because vendors in other countries do not have to live by strict alliance standards and have more room to flex their creative muscles.

Many smart home hubs, such as Samsung SmartThings, Homey Pro, and Hubitat, support both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices, so you don't have to choose between them.           

Matter Standard

Matter (previously known as Project CHIP) is an emerging open-source smart home standard backed by major tech companies, including Apple, Google, and Amazon.

Developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance, Matter aims to unify and streamline smart home device communication for better interoperability.

As Matter gains momentum, it is expected to impact the smart home market significantly and could influence the adoption of Zigbee and Z-Wave devices in the future.

As Zigbee is one of the key players supporting Matter, the development of this standard may significantly impact the future of Zigbee-based smart home ecosystems.

For more information on the Matter Standard, check out my article here.

Device Cost

Not much of a difference here, but if you want to get deep into the weeds, Z-Wave devices are a bit more expensive than Zigbee. This is more true for a cheaper device ($10-$500 range), while the price evens out as you get to the higher end of the spectrum.           

I believe this is due to how tightly controlled Z-Wave is. Since Zigbee is open-source, small-scale manufacturers do not need to go through corporate channels to use it in their devices, making these devices cheaper.

Z-Wave performs strict compliance tests to ensure that manufacturers using their technology comply completely with Z-Wave standards. In some cases, manufacturers might even get their silicon chips via the Z-Wave Alliance, making the raw products for their devices more expensive.

Latency

I've discussed speed, but what is more critical in a smart home setup is latency. In the context of a smart home, latency can refer to the delay between giving a command and the appliance reacting to it. For example, if you trigger a command to turn off a light switch, and it takes 3-4s for the light to turn off, then that is latency. Latency can be frustrating and will ruin the cozy smart home feeling you're looking for.

While Zigbee protocol is much faster, Zigbee devices do not necessarily exhibit less latency than Z-Wave. The difference will probably be in milliseconds and not noticeable. This is because latency is not only dependent on the speed of wireless communication but also on factors such as compatibility of devices, power consumption, and reliability of the network.

Zigbee networks may experience more delays due to interference from other devices like Wi-Fi.

Network Size & Design

Z-Wave devices can support up to 232 relaying devices (end nodes) only. This is because of the “four-hop rule” for Z-Wave, which means that instructions can only hop four times from device to device in a Z-Wave network.

Zigbee, on the other hand, can theoretically support up to 65,000 devices by continuously adding repeaters. If you are a smart home buyer, 232 nodes will be enough for you, but for users with much larger houses, Zigbee might be the better choice.

It is worth mentioning that Z-Wave Long Range has a much more extensive range and can support a lot more devices.

Power Requirement

For a long time, Zigbee devices used a lot less power than Z-Wave devices. However, this is changing. With the Z-Wave plus specification, Z-Wave devices' power consumption is now quite close to Zigbee’s. It is worth noting that Z-Wave has a more extensive range, which also adds to its power consumption. 

When it comes to power consumption in both standards, make sure you're comparing apples with apples. For example, if a Zigbee network has a lot more repeaters than Z-Wave, its overall power consumption will be higher. Similarly, if there is a lot of noise on your frequency channel, your devices will end up consuming more power to recognize the same messages.

Z-Wave Plus v2

Z-Wave Plus v2, also known as 700 Series or Gen7, is the latest iteration of Z-Wave technology, which further improves energy efficiency, range, and security.

Devices featuring Z-Wave Plus v2 offer enhanced features like longer battery life, faster communication, and increased range compared to earlier Z-Wave generations.

Additionally, Z-Wave Plus v2 devices support SmartStart, a feature that simplifies the device pairing process, making it easier for users to set up and manage their smart home networks.

As Z-Wave Plus v2 becomes more widely adopted, it will provide smart home users with a more seamless and efficient experience.

Zigbee Green Power

Zigbee Green Power is a feature within the Zigbee 3.0 standard that enables ultra-low-power devices, such as sensors and switches, to operate on energy harvesting or very low-power sources like coin-cell batteries.

By leveraging Zigbee Green Power, smart home devices can reduce their power consumption and extend their battery life, further enhancing energy efficiency in Zigbee-based networks.

Reliability

In general, Z-Wave is considered to be more reliable than Zigbee, primarily due to its lower operating frequency and more tightly controlled ecosystem.

Z-Wave operates in the 900 MHz frequency range, which experiences less interference from other devices and is better at penetrating walls and other obstacles compared to Zigbee, which operates in the 2.4 GHz range, where Wi-Fi and other devices can cause interference.

Additionally, Z-Wave devices are required to undergo a stringent certification process to ensure they comply with Z-Wave standards, resulting in greater interoperability and more consistent performance.

In contrast, while Zigbee is also maintained by an alliance that certifies products, its open-source nature allows for greater variation in device implementation, which can sometimes lead to compatibility and reliability issues.

This is not to say that a well-designed Zigbee network will still not be reliable, just that Z-Wave networks require less design to be more reliable.

Security

Both Zigbee and Z-Wave put a strong emphasis on security to ensure that smart home networks are protected from potential threats and unauthorized access.

Zigbee 3.0 implements AES-128 encryption, which is a widely used and secure encryption standard. It also includes features like secure key establishment and device authentication, ensuring that only authorized devices can join and communicate within the network.

Z-Wave Plus v2 (700 Series) introduces the Security 2 (S2) framework, which provides advanced encryption and device authentication. S2 offers three levels of security: S2 Unauthenticated, S2 Authenticated, and S2 Access Control. These levels provide varying degrees of security depending on the device's role in the network.

The S2 framework also implements Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH) secure key exchange to protect against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.

Ecosystems and Compatibility

In the past, Zigbee and Z-Wave devices would typically need a hub to be compatible with other popular smart home ecosystems, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.

Amazon has released a number of Echo speakers that have integrated Zigbee radios, allowing you to directly control these devices without needing a hub.

As of the time of writing, Google Home and Apple HomeKit have more limited support for Zigbee and Z-Wave devices, requiring additional hardware like a compatible hub (e.g., Hubitat, Aqara, Philips Hue) or a Homebridge setup to enable integration with HomeKit.

Ease of Setup and Management

Both Zigbee and Z-Wave networks are designed to be relatively easy to set up and manage, with user-friendly device pairing processes, network management, and troubleshooting options.

Zigbee devices typically offer touchlink commissioning, allowing users to pair devices by simply bringing them close to each other. This process simplifies device pairing and makes it easier for users to add new devices to their Zigbee network.

Z-Wave's SmartStart feature streamlines the process of adding devices to a Z-Wave network. Users can simply scan a QR code on the device to add it to their network, eliminating the need for manual pairing procedures.

Additionally, both Zigbee and Z-Wave networks can self-heal, meaning that they can automatically reconfigure their mesh topology if devices are added or removed, ensuring optimal performance.

When it comes to network management, both Zigbee and Z-Wave offer tools and features that make it easy to monitor and control devices, as well as troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

Can I Mix and Match Z-Wave & Zigbee Devices?

Yes, you can! Many modern smart home hubs, such as the Aeotec Samsung SmartThings Hub or Hubitat, are capable of communicating with both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices simultaneously. Keep in mind that while you are using both types of devices simultaneously, you still have two distinct networks.

Zigbee devices can only communicate with other Zigbee devices, and so is the case for Z-Wave. Zigbee repeaters can’t be used for a Z-Wave network or vice-versa. This means you will have both Zigbee and Z-Wave networks in your house and a single hub that will communicate with both of them.

It is pretty helpful to have both networks and then decide which device works well for which network. For example, since Z-Wave is more reliable, you can set up alarm systems and smart locks on it.

Conclusion

Both Zigbee and Z-Wave have their advantages and challenges. When making a decision, carefully evaluate your needs and then choose a technology accordingly. Don't forget, with a smart home hub like Hubitat or SmartThings you can mix and match protocols.

Sources

https://www.z-wave.com/

https://csa-iot.org/all-solutions/zigbee/

https://standards.ieee.org/

https://www.silabs.com/wireless/z-wave/global-regions

https://www.iotforall.com/

The post Zigbee vs Z-Wave: Comprehensive Comparison of Smart Home Protocols in 2024 appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

We've pulled together a guide covering options available for folks in North America or Europe, interested in Zigbee-enabled smart smoke detectors.

Best Zigbee Thermostats

9.5

1. Heiman Smart Smoke Sensor

Top USA PickZigbee 3.0 & Zigbee HA1.2 compatible

View Price

9.3

2. Ecolink Smart Listener

Runner UpKeep your existing detectors and have a Zigbee device listen out for the alarm

View Price

9.5

1. Frient Smart Smoke Alarm

Top EU PickAn ergonomic smart smoke detector

View Price

9.4

2. Leedarson Smoke Sensor

Runner UpOne of the longest-running smart smoke detectors on the market

View Price

Are Zigbee Smoke Detectors common?

Zigbee is expecting to sell around 4 billion chipsets by the year 2023, expanding its presence in over 37 countries globally. So, it's pretty safe to say that Zigbee-enabled devices are quite widely used. 

However, despite the protocol's popularity, there are still certain issues buyers need to be aware of before purchasing a Zigbee smart smoke detector. For instance, when it comes to smart smoke detectors, Zigbee is generally not the protocol of choice. Wi-Fi smoke detectors are much more common, like the Nest Protect.

Buyers in Europe may face challenges for entirely different reasons. Zigbee smoke detectors are more common in commercial properties. While the devices may utilize Zigbee for communications, they may not be compatible with your specific hub, so you’ll need to contact the manufacturer to confirm. 

You should look out for a Zigbee Home Automation Certificate that guarantees compliance with your system. 

Keeping all of the above in mind, we've pulled together the most popular Zigbee smoke detectors for your home. Leave a comment below if there are other devices you think should be listed.

For USA

9.5

Top USA Pick

1.

Heiman Smart Smoke Sensor

Zigbee 3.0 & Zigbee HA1.2 compatible

View Price
On Aliexpress

Heiman Tech has been making Zigbee and Z-Wave compatible solutions since 2005. And their smart smoke alarm is a mini-sized, plug-and-play device that offers remote monitoring and control through smartphone app notifications.

Top Features

• Remote monitoring and control via smartphone app.
• Audio and visual alarms for added protection.
• 360-degree exposure to smoke for faster detection.

There really are very few options for those in the US, with the Heiman the only device worth listing. Even then, it's not widely available in the US and listed here from Aliexpress. If you are not convinced, then it's worth checking out the Ecolink listener below which provides some redundancy.

Apart from that, the Heiman 60x49mm has benefits like long battery life, a visual alarm, and a whopping 85dB sound alarm in case of detection. Thankfully, there's also a ‘mute alarm' option that you can use to turn the sound off via the app. 

While this smart smoke alarm doesn't send out instant alerts for errors or low battery – it does have alarms to alert users of the impending problem.

9.3

Runner Up

2.

Ecolink Smart Listener

Keep your existing detectors and have a Zigbee device listen out for the alarm

View Price
On Amazon.com

Just because you're having trouble finding a smoke detector to integrate with your Zigbee protocol doesn't mean you have to forego your preference.

Top Features

• One audio detector can provide extensive area coverage.
• No wiring or complicated setup required for installation.
• Long-lasting lithium batteries.

Instead, you can rely on the Ecolink Zigbee Wireless Siren Audio Detector. This handy little device is not only compatible with Zigbee-enabled hubs, but it can also make your standard smoke detector a part of your smart home automation system without any hassle. 

The Ecolink Firefighter is an audio detector that keeps an ear out for any smoke or fire alarm system to go off and then transmits that event to your hub for real-time notification. It also comes equipped with advanced algorithms to reduce the chances of false alarms.

For Europe

9.5

Top EU Pick

1.

Frient Smart Smoke Alarm

An ergonomic smart smoke detector

View Price
On Leedarson.com

If you're looking for a compact smart smoke detector fit for use in Europe with a 360-degree range – say hello to the Frient Intelligent Smoke Alarm!

Top Features

• Easy to install and connect to Zigbee hubs.
• Offers smartphone alerts and an audio alarm for smoke detection warnings.
• 5-year battery life.

The product measures about 65x40mm and takes up very little room. But don't let its dimensions fool you because it has pretty much everything you'd want in a Zigbee-enabled smoke detector. To begin with, the alarm offers compatibility with Homey, Ok Google, and SmartThings. 

It's easy to install and offers the convenience of smartphone alerts when you're away from home. There's also an audio alarm with an 85dB output and a battery life of 5 years. In short, it's everything you'd want in a smart smoke alarm.

9.4

Runner Up

2.

Leedarson Smoke Sensor

One of the longest-running smart smoke detectors on the market

View Price
On Leedarson.com

The Leedarson Smoke Sensor is another suitable option for buyers in Europe looking for Zigbee-compatible smoke detectors. It comes with a built-in photoelectric sensor that's ideal for fast detection of slow, smoldering fires. Additionally, the sensor offers non-radioactive technology and is eco-friendly.

Top Features

• Fast-acting photoelectric sensor.
• 10-year battery life.
• Automatic alerts and audio alarm in case of detection.

The alarm is designed to send alerts to your Zigbee hub and sound the alarm as soon as smoke is detected. Moreover, it's incredibly energy-efficient with a battery life of ten years – meaning you won't have to worry about your sensor running out of power any time soon after installation. 

Added benefits include LED lights to signify operation and errors, insect-proof encasement, 85dB alarm, and an auto-reset feature once the smoke is clear.

9.3

3.

Gewiss Smoke Alarm

For users looking to reduce chances of false alarms.

View Price
On Gewiss.com

Gewiss inaugurated its tech hub in 1996 and got involved in smart home automation in the early 2000s. That's possibly why the GWA1512 Zigbee Smoke Sensor ticks all the right boxes as far as convenience, protection, and efficacy are concerned.

Top Features

• Smoke-, error-, and battery alerts via push notifications.
• Easy to install, with a mountable bracket.
• 85dB audio alarm.

The smart smoke alarm features a reliable photoelectric sensor for faultless detections and low chances of false alarms. Additionally, all Gewiss products undergo the strictest compliance procedures for quality control. 

There are also the advantages of push notifications, sensor, and battery alerts on your smartphone. The battery life offers a run-time of three years, and there's also an 85dB audible alarm.

9..2

4.

Adurolight Smoke Sensor (Dutch)

The smallest Zigbee Smart Smoke Detector

View Price
On Adurolight.eu

A Zigbee smoke detector that's so modest in size, you can set it up with a bit of 3M tape? The AduroSmart ERIA wireless smoke detector falls right under that description.

Top Features

• Zigbee-friendly with urgent smartphone notifications.
• Extremely compact size that doesn't take up too much space.
• LED Light and audible alarm in case of smoke detection.

This product measures a baffling 48x55mm in size but still manages to incorporate every feature a viable smart smoke alarm should have. The alarm sends an immediate signal to your home bridge as soon as any smoke is detected, which, in turn, activates an urgent push notification on your smartphone. There's also a visible LED light and an audible alarm to alert the occupants at home. 

Thanks to the Zigbee protocol, the alarm barely uses any power to function and has a run-time of 3 years. There's also a sound signal and a smartphone notification in case the battery is running low. 

Installation can be achieved in one of two ways: by using the included plugs and screws or with the help of double-sided tape.

8.9

5.

Develco Smoke Sensor

Monitors and reports room temperature periodically.

View Price
On Develcoproducts.com

The Smart Smoke Alarm by Develoco Products is another practical option for buyers in Europe looking for products that can integrate with their Zigbee mesh.

Top Features

• Instant smoke detection notifications and OTA updates.
• Constant monitoring and periodic room temperature reports.
• 5-year run-time for the battery.

The product features an IAS zone smoke sensor for optimal smoke- and temperature monitoring. As with all top-notch smoke alarms, the Develco Smoke Detector also offers users the benefit of instant alerts via a smartphone and an audible alarm for when at home. 

However, this alarm goes one step further. It reports the temperature and status of the related area to you periodically – meaning you probably never have to worry about fire hazards while you're away. The alarm is also configured for OTA updates for seamless functioning. 

8.7

6.

Samotech Zigbee Smoke Alarm

Effortless monitoring and shut-off

View Price
On Samotech.co.uk

One of the best things about the Samotech Zigbee-enabled smart smoke detector is that it can be paired with Samotech's Wi-Fi Gas Shut-off Valve. That means you can cut off your gas supply the minute smoke is detected and limit any impending damage.

Top Features

• Highly sensitive photoelectric sensor suitable for fast- and slow fire detection.
• Includes a test/silence button.
• Easy to install with included mounting bracket, screws, and plugs.

The product features a photoelectric sensor to identify slow and fast fires and reduce false alerts immediately. Apart from smartphone notifications, there's also an 85dB alarm to alert anyone at home and a silence button in case of false alarms.

The Verdict

There are numerous options for buyers interested in Zigbee smoke alarm / detectors to consider – no matter where they live. 

However, we recommend you to read up about the product you’re into to ensure 100% Zigbee compliance with your setup.

9.5

Top USA Pick

1.

Heiman Smart Smoke Sensor

Zigbee 3.0 & Zigbee HA1.2 compatible

View Price
On Aliexpress

Heiman Tech has been making Zigbee and Z-Wave compatible solutions since 2005. And their smart smoke alarm is a mini-sized, plug-and-play device that offers remote monitoring and control through smartphone app notifications.

Top Features

• Remote monitoring and control via smartphone app.
• Audio and visual alarms for added protection.
• 360-degree exposure to smoke for faster detection.

Sources

gewiss.com

The post Zigbee Smoke Detectors appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

To provide some inspiration, I dive into the 19 most popular Zigbee device types available.

What Is Zigbee?

Zigbee is a wireless communication protocol designed for smart home tech. It forms a mesh network for devices to communicate with each other. The Zigbee network serves as an alternative to Wi-Fi or Z-Wave networks operating on the 2.4 GHz band. 

The mesh network alleviates the need to connect multiple hubs to a router. It is spread out among wireless nodes to help them communicate with each other and connect different devices covering a larger space.

Best Zigbee Devices

Zigbee Smart Hub

If you want to connect the best ZigBee devices to your smart home system, the Aeotec Smart Home Hub is an example of what you need. One of the best ZigBee devices is a smart hub which acts as a central connection for all automations within your smart home.

The smart hub connects with the SmartThings app and allows you to connect to other devices from Apple iPhones and iPads, Android phones and tablets, as well as Alexa and Google Assistant voice controllers.

Zigbee Voice Assistant

If you want the best zigbee devices and smart home hub, the Echo 4^th Gen is a good choice. What makes the smart hub stand out is its premium sound and deep bass that adapt to any room.

The Alexa-compatible smart hub allows you to voice control your entertainment such as streaming apps whilst maintaining control of other household devices.

Zigbee Mesh Wi-Fi

The Eero 6 dual Band Mesh Wi-Fi system allows you to effortlessly connect over 75+ devices with a Wi-Fi connection. The hub even comes with two extra extenders to ensure adequate coverage across your property. 

In fact, the system is designed to cover over 5000 square feet of space with up to 500 Mbps Wi-Fi speed.

Zigbee Light Switch

For lighting needs, the Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Light Switch comes to the rescue. In fact, the smart switch works with different configurations including older-style switch boxes, multi-gang configurations, and other applications with limited space.

The light switch is perfect for all types of installed lights and fixtures, including LED, CFL, incandescent, halogen lights, fans, and pumps.

Zigbee Thermostat

If you want to seamlessly control the temperature of your heating and cooling system with the best ZigBee devices, the Zen Thermostat will do the job for you. The thermostat is compatible with forced air, electric, gas furnace and millivolt, and heat pump systems. It supports both 1 and 2-stage heating and cooling.

More info is available here

Zigbee Motion Sensor

The SONOFF Zigbee Motion Sensor automates your home lighting to automatically light up when you walk into any room you set up the detector. But this is not all the motion sensor does. 

You can add an extra layer of security to your home by linking a camera to the motion detector to accurately monitor what is going on.

Zigbee Thermometer & Hygrometer

The Aqara Smart Zigbee Temperature and Humidity Sensor provides your Zibee hub with critical environmental data which you can then tie into scenes/routines. For example, you can trigger your air conditioning or humidifier to maintain ideal conditions in any part of your home based on its readings. 

Zigbee Smart Plug

The INNR Zigbee Smart Plug is designed to primarily function as a range extender. The plug uses the system’s mesh network to extend the range of other Zigbee devices within the network. 

The smart plug is even Google and Alexa voice compatible when combined with a compatible hub.

Zigbee Smart Lock

The Kwikset 914 Zigbee Lock is a great way to improve your home access and boost security. The lock allows you to enter PIN codes via the keypad, use a physical key, or control the door using your Zigbee app. 

The Smart Lock works with the standard Zigbee hubs like SmartThings, Abode, and Amazon Echo Plus.

Zigbee Window & Door Sensor

The Aqara Door and Window sensor adds a layer of security around your home. Connected to the Zigbee system, the sensor instantaneously sends alert notifications when your door or window unexpectedly opens up.

The sensor works with any type of door or window—even fixtures around your cabinets and drawers.

Zigbee Scene Controller

The SONOFF Scene Controller allows you to set the conditions in your home the way you want them without moving an inch. The scene controller helps you manage everything from the lighting to your blinds. 

You can even pair it with a camera to always know what is going on in your home.

Zigbee Smoke Alarm Siren Detector

The Ecolink Zigbee Wireless Siren Audio detector adds sound alerts to your home’s smart fire system. The audio siren detector simply functions by listening for siren tones from a UL-listed smoke detector and sends a signal to your Zigbee Hub. 

The detector is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Samsung SmartThings.

Zigbee Outdoor Spotlights

The Innr Zigbee LED spotlights add a dash of color to outdoor areas such as your garage and parking space. The waterproof spotlights offer over a million color-changing options. It also comes with a power adapter and control box.

Zigbee Siren & Strobe Light

The Heiman Wireless Strobe Flashing Light acts as a perfect flash siren alarm to scare thieves away. Within the Zigbee network, when an alarm is triggered in your home, the siren issues a high-frequency sound and flashing alarm notifying you of what is going on.

Zigbee Water Leak Detector

If you live in a flood-prone area, the Ecolink Zigbee Wireless Flood Detection Sensor is a handy tool to have. The detection sensor features 4 gold-plated probes that detect water on the bottom of your electronic devices to a depth of about 1/64 inches.

Zigbee Smart Bulb

Sengled Smart Light bulbs allow for more versatility in your home. The smart bulbs allow you to enjoy numerous customizations including the color and temperatures. 

The bulbs also have a wake-up and sleep mode; self-adjusting throughout the day based on your needs. Additionally, the bulbs allow for scene customization and dimmable settings.

Zigbee Lightstrips

The Sylvania Smart Zigbee Flex Expansion Light strips add an extra layer of colorful lighting to your home. The lighting strips are extendable to a height of about 20 feet and offer a choice of 16 million colors with adjustable white color temperatures. 

In the package, you will get two 2-foot extendable strips with adhesive backing for easy installation.

Zigbee Smart Lamp Dimmer

Enbrighten Zigbee Dimmer outlets are designed to allow for the brightness adjustability of different types of bulbs. You can set the lighting from 0 to 100 percent. 

Additionally, the dimmer functions as a range extender too. It allows you to repeat the signal from your hub or Zigbee device by up to 150 feet.

Zigbee Micro-Controller for Lights, Fans, and Humidifiers

With this Zigbee 2-Way Switch Module, you can control anything in your home from lights to fans and garage doors. The controller seamlessly connects to the Zigbee hub where you can then remotely control, time, share control, create smart scenes, and other functions through the app. Furthermore, the smart switch is compatible with Amazon Alexa.

How do I connect a Zigbee device to a Zigbee Hub?

To connect a Zigbee gadget to a Zigbee hub, first, make sure they're both turned on and close together. Next, on your hub, look for a “pair” or “find new device” option, usually on its app.

Now, get your Zigbee gadget ready to pair – this might mean pressing a button or doing something else mentioned in its instructions.

Once the hub spots the gadget, you'll see it pop up on the app. Confirm it, and you're all set.

Best Zigbee Devices – Wrap Up

With the best Zigbee devices, you can take your smart home system to a whole new level. Through the cost-effective and stable mesh network Zigbee offers, you should be able to find the right device for any household needs — both indoors and outdoors.

Sources

microchip.com

Smart Home Perfected

The post 2023’s Best Zigbee Devices for Your Smart Home appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

Note: We have excluded manufacturer specific Zigbee hubs (such as Sengled, Abode, Aqara, Tuya, Sonoff, and Linkind). We've also excluded the Philips Hue hub as it's not fully compatible with all Zigbee devices.

Best Zigbee Smart Home Hubs

9.4

Hubitat Elevation Zigbee Hub

Top PickA Zigbee hub that doesn’t rely on the cloud or internet

View Price

9.2

Aeotec Smart Home Hub (SmartThings)

Runner UpA smart home hub that can be controlled using the SmartThings app

View Price

9.1

Amazon Echo Show 10 with integrated Zigbee hub

Beginner PickSmart speaker or display with Zigbee tech

View Price

9.0

Rasberry Pi 4 Model B

Advanced PickHome assistant smart home software loaded onto a Raspberry Pi

View Price

Add-On

GoControl Zigbee Radio

View Price

Add-On

Home Assistant Software

View Price

9.0

Homey Smart Home Hub with Zigbee

Apple Homekit compatible

View Price

8.9

Vera Ezlo Secure Zigbee Smart Home Hub

4G FallbackLatest Vera version which includes cellular backup

View Price

8.9

Eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi with integrated Zigbee hub

Mesh Wi-Fi and smart hub combo

View Price

Zigbee Hub Comparison

9.4

Top Pick

1.

Hubitat Elevation Zigbee Hub

A Zigbee hub that doesn’t rely on the cloud or internet

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub is a comprehensive device that will help you keep everything in your house under control.

Top Features

• The Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Lutron.
• The device offers fast automation without relying on the cloud.
• Create dashboards with Hubitat and customize them to your liking to have full control of your house.

The Hubitat Elevation Zigbee Hub is an automation device that doesn’t rely on the cloud. You can access it remotely through the official mobile app, as well as using voice commands via Alexa or Google Home. The Hubitat works without internet connectivity, so you can use it even when your internet is out.

It also supports Z-Wave so you can mix and match devices.

Even though this home automation hub has many interesting features, it lacks Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in speaker, smart display, motion tracking, and streaming services. This device is not suitable for beginners, as it might be difficult to use at first. We recommend you purchase this device if you already have some experience with home automation. 

The device has no built-in battery backup or cellular backup either.

9.2

Runner Up

2.

Aeotec Smart Home Hub (SmartThings)

A smart home hub that can be controlled using the SmartThings app

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Aeotec Smart Home Hub is an automation device that is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Wi-Fi.

Top Features

• The device allows you to connect a number of smart devices in your home and wirelessly control them at your convenience.
• The device is compatible with voice assistants, lights and switches, speakers, cameras, sensors, and many other devices and appliances.
• Any device that you connect to the hub can be automated and managed remotely by you.

The Smart Home Hub by Aeotec allows you to connect to thousands of devices and turn your home into a smart home. With this hub, you can control and monitor your devices remotely using the SmartThings app, as well as using voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant. Keep track of all of your devices all the time from any place in the world.

Use the hub to create and automate routines for your whole family. Create a schedule for every device that fits with your plans for the day, week, or month. 

9.1

Beginner Pick

3.

Amazon Echo Show 10 with integrated Zigbee hub

Smart speaker or display with Zigbee tech

View Price
On Amazon.com

Add-On

Amazon Echo 4th Gen with integrated Zigbee hub

View Price

The Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) is a smart display with Amazon Alexa.

Top Features

• Set up compatible devices on the Echo Show 10. You don’t need a separate hub to keep all your devices in check.
• Take pictures or video call your friends with the in-built 13MP camera.
• The screen can move around with you, delivering you video calls, TV shows, recipes, and more.

The Echo Show 10 is a smart display with Alexa and motion sensors. The display will follow you around wherever you go. You can speak to the device using voice commands and control the appliances around the house. In the meantime, if you’re bored, you can watch TV and listen to music and podcasts using the monitor.

9.0

Advanced Pick

4.

Rasberry Pi 4 Model B

Home assistant smart home software loaded onto a Raspberry Pi

View Price
On Amazon.com

Add-On

GoControl Zigbee Radio

View Price

Add-On

Home Assistant Software

View Price

The CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 starter kit comes with a memory card and a premium black case.

Top Features

• The kit comes with a 64-bit quad core processor, a 32 GB Samsung EVO+ Micro SD Card, low noise bearing system fan, and more.
• The Raspberry Pi 4 features a black, stylish, plastic case designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi 3.
• The low noise fan that comes in the kit keeps the noise from the device under control at all times.

This CanaKit Raspberry Pi 4 is a great way to get you started. The kit features everything you need, short of a mouse, keyboard, and monitor. You’d probably spend just as much or even more buying all the parts separately. Buying a kit is great for beginners and those who do not have any special requests.

The little fan that comes in the kit is perfect for cooling the device. Don’t neglect the fan and definitely invest in one if you’re not happy with this one.

9.0

5.

Homey Smart Home Hub with Zigbee

Apple Homekit compatible

View Price
On Homey.app

The Athom Homey Pro allows you to consolidate all of your smart home activities into one singular device and app.

Top Features

• The Athom Homey Pro allows you to control and keep track of all the linked devices using just one app.
• The hub can be used and connected with multiple brands and devices.
• Control and maintain up to 25,000 different devices and appliances, and create scenes to match your schedule and lifestyle.

Delete all other apps off your smartphone, and control your devices with this base station and the Homeys Flow Editor app. Create scenes using the app and match the activities of your devices to your lifestyle. Turn down the thermostat when you’re not home or switch the lights on before you arrive.

8.9

4G Fallback

6.

Vera Ezlo Secure Zigbee Smart Home Hub

Latest Vera version which includes cellular backup

View Price
On Getvera.com

The Ezlo Secure by Vera allows you to control all the connected devices in your home at all times, even when the internet or power goes out.

Top Features

• The Ezlo Secure from Vera is faster and more powerful than many popular hubs on the market.
• Control and keep track of your door locks, thermostats, sensors, cameras, lights, and other devices and appliances from different brands.
• Pair the device with your Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and use voice commands to keep your whole house in check.

 The device features an in-built siren that will protect your home from intruders. For easier control, create groups of devices you’d like to control together. Add new devices with ease.

8.9

7.

Eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi with integrated Zigbee hub

Mesh Wi-Fi and smart hub combo

View Price
On Amazon.com

The eero smart home hub is very easy to set up. Check the app for step-by-step instructions.

Top Features

• The eero smart home hub from Amazon features whole-house Wi-Fi coverage, which covers up to 5,000 sq. ft.
• The device allows you to stream Netflix, play video games, browse the internet, and so much more, all at the same time.
• The eero supports over 75 different devices and uses Wi-Fi connectivity to boost your home network.

 With eero, you have access to free customer support 7 days a week. If you’re using the services of Alexa, you can connect your eero device to it too. Add the necessary devices to the eero hub as you go.

Zigbee Smart Home Hub Decision-Making Factors

Mobile App

Most smart home automation hubs, and all hubs mentioned in this article, have a smartphone app. Using the app, you can control all the devices connected to the hub remotely, via your phone. Check to make sure the doors are locked and the lights are off when you’re not home.

Voice Assistant Support

If you’re using a voice assistant, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, you should definitely look into purchasing a smart hub that supports your voice assistant. Pay attention to the one you choose, as not all support all voice assistants. Through connecting the two, you can control your devices with voice commands. 

Works Without the Internet

Some smart home hubs work without the internet, which is hugely important. If your hub works even when the internet is out, you can continue to control your devices. Not all hubs support this feature, so pay attention to that!

Built-in Backup Battery

Though this feature is rare, you will come across it with some smart home automation hubs. If your hub has an in-built backup battery, the device will survive even when the power goes out. When the backup battery goes into effect, you can continue to control your devices via the hub.

Built-in Speaker

A built-in speaker is a great feature, as it enables the hub to play audio and video. You can also communicate with your hub using voice commands. If you’re looking for a hub that will keep you company in any room, play movies and music, and essentially talk to you, opt for one with a speaker. 

Best Zigbee Hubs: The Verdict

A Zigbee smart home hub will connect all of your devices and allow you to operate all of them from a singular place. If that sounds appealing, you should explore the ones mentioned in this article! A smart home hub will automate your home and make devices easier to control.

9.4

Top Pick

1. Hubitat Elevation Zigbee Hub

A Zigbee hub that doesn’t rely on the cloud or internet

View Price
On Amazon.com

The Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub is a comprehensive device that will help you keep everything in your house under control.

Top Features

• The Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Lutron.
• The device offers fast automation without relying on the cloud.
• Create dashboards with Hubitat and customize them to your liking to have full control of your house.

Sources

Homey.app

The post 2024’s Top 5 Best Zigbee Hubs: Essential Guide for Seamless Smart Home Integration appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

While this market share may soon be under threat, with the evolution of Matter, I don't think Zigbee is going anywhere. It is currently one of the best choices of smart home protocols with over 4,000 certified Zigbee devices available.

There are also constant improvements to the standard, such as the recent release of Zigbee Direct which incorporates Bluetooth Low Energy for device onboarding and control.

Large swathes of this website are dedicated to Zigbee devices so in this article, I’ll give you a full rundown of what the technology is and how it works.

What Is Zigbee?

Zigbee is a wireless communication technology that is commonly used in Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home devices. It is a complete system with its own application layer and network layer. 

The protocol is ideal for low-power, low-data-rate devices and operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. It also uses mesh networking to allow devices to communicate with each other.

How Does Zigbee Work?

Zigbee works by creating a mesh network of interconnected devices, enabling low-power and short-range wireless communication among them. Each device in the network, also known as a node, can act as a sender, receiver, or repeater, which helps to increase the overall coverage and reliability of the network. 

When a device wants to send data to another device within the network, it can transmit the data directly if it is within range or relies on other devices to relay the information until it reaches the destination device. 

This mesh topology enables the network to self-heal and adapts to changing conditions, making it more resilient to interference and device failures.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Zigbee as a Smart Home Protocol

Zigbee has a number of advantages and disadvantages compared to other smart home protocols like Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, and Thread.

Advantages of Zigbee

1. Low power consumption: Zigbee's low power requirements make it ideal for battery-operated devices, allowing them to last longer between charges or battery replacements.
2. Mesh networking: Zigbee's mesh networking capability enables devices to relay data through other devices in the network, increasing overall coverage and reliability. This also allows the network to self-heal and adapt to changing conditions.
3. Scalability: Zigbee networks can accommodate a large number of devices, making them suitable for applications ranging from small home automation systems to large-scale industrial monitoring and control.
4. Interoperability: The Connectivity Standards Alliance, which oversees the development of the Zigbee standard, ensures that products from different manufacturers can work together seamlessly, making it easier for consumers to build and expand their smart home or automation systems.
5. Cost-effective: Zigbee devices tend to be more affordable compared to other wireless communication technologies, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers and businesses.
6. Security: Zigbee incorporates a security framework that provides protection against eavesdropping and unauthorized access, ensuring the safe transmission of data across the network.

Disadvantages of Zigbee

1. Limited data rate: Zigbee's low data rate, typically around 250 kbps, makes it unsuitable for applications that require high-bandwidth data transmissions, such as video streaming. So you won’t find many Zigbee cameras for example.
2. Short range: Zigbee devices have a relatively short communication range, usually around 10-100 meters, depending on factors like environmental conditions and device power output. While mesh networking can help extend the overall network coverage, it may not be suitable for all applications or environments.
3. Network latency: Due to the multi-hop nature of Zigbee's mesh networking, data transmission may experience latency as it is relayed through multiple devices before reaching its destination. This could be an issue in time-sensitive applications.
4. Compatibility: While Zigbee is designed for interoperability, not all Zigbee devices are compatible with every Zigbee-enabled product or system. Consumers must ensure that the devices they purchase are compatible with their existing Zigbee network.
5. Potential for interference: Zigbee primarily operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, which is shared by other wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This can lead to potential interference issues, affecting the performance of the Zigbee network.

If you’d like to learn more about how Zigbee compares to other protocols, check out our comparison articles for Thread, Bluetooth, and Z-Wave.

What is a Zigbee Hub / Gateway?

A Zigbee hub, also known as a gateway, is a central device that connects and manages Zigbee-enabled devices within a smart home or automation system. It plays a crucial role in forming the network, assigning unique addresses to each device, and controlling the overall network operation.

It serves as the primary point of communication between the Zigbee network and other networks or systems, such as a Wi-Fi network or a user's smartphone. 

The hub facilitates the transmission of commands and data between the Zigbee devices and the user's control interface, which can be a mobile app, a web interface, or a voice assistant.  

In addition to controlling and managing Zigbee devices, the hub can also support various automation scenarios, such as creating routines, and schedules, or triggering actions based on specific events or conditions. 

Some Zigbee hubs, like SmartThings or Hubitat, are designed to be compatible with multiple communication protocols, allowing them to integrate Zigbee devices with devices that use other technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave, providing users with a more versatile and unified smart home experience.

Types of Zigbee Devices within a Network

Zigbee devices can be categorized into different types based on their roles and functionalities within the network. The primary types of Zigbee devices are below.

If you are interested in examples of Zigbee devices, then check out my article here.

Coordinator

The coordinator is a critical component of a Zigbee network, responsible for initiating and managing the network. There is only one coordinator per network, and it assigns unique addresses to each device, maintains routing tables, and controls overall network operation. Typically, a Zigbee hub or gateway acts as the coordinator in a Zigbee network.

As there can only be one coordinator in a network, it is a potential single point of failure (Unlike Thread which can share the “Leader” role among routers).

Router

Routers are Zigbee devices that can relay data between other devices in the network. They have the ability to extend the range of the network by acting as intermediaries between devices that are not within direct communication range of each other. 

Routers can also directly connect and control end devices. Common examples of Zigbee routers include smart plugs, smart switches, and some smart lighting products.

Routers are generally AC or DC powered.

End devices

End devices can send and receive data but do not have the capability to route data for other devices. 

End devices typically have lower power requirements and often operate on batteries. 

Examples of end devices include sensors (motion, temperature, humidity, etc.), smart door locks, and smart buttons.

Sleepy end devices

Sleepy end devices are a subset of end devices that spend most of their time in a low-power sleep mode to conserve energy. 

They periodically wake up to communicate with the network, typically when they need to transmit data or check for updates. 

Sleepy end devices are commonly found in battery-powered devices where power conservation is essential, such as wireless door and window sensors or smoke detectors.

These types of Zigbee devices work together within a mesh network to enable seamless communication and control of various smart devices.

What Is Zigbee 3.0?

Zigbee 3.0 is an enhanced version of the Zigbee wireless communication protocol, designed to unify and improve upon the various Zigbee profiles that existed in previous iterations. 

This reduces fragmentation within the Zigbee ecosystem and ensures better compatibility among devices from different manufacturers.

Zigbee 3.0 strengthens security measures to protect against potential cyber threats, offering an upgraded security framework with features like secure boot, “touchlink” commissioning, and default support for encryption.

It also offers improved network management capabilities, making it easier for devices to join networks, maintain connectivity, and recover from network failures.

What is Zigbee Direct?

Zigbee Direct adds Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to the specification, allowing your phone to directly connect to a specific device and then negotiate a connection to the rest of the Zigbee network. This makes the setup process similar to Matter, providing more options for controlling devices without connecting to a dedicated hub.

How this would work

1. A Zigbee device with Zigbee Direct (and therefore BLE) is added to the network.
2. Your smartphone, with BLE support, connects directly to the Zigbee device (as opposed to a Zigbee hub).
3. The smartphone negotiates a connection with the rest of the Zigbee mesh network.
4. From this point on, the smartphone can control any device on the Zigbee network.

This could enable a more seamless transition to the Matter standard, potentially saving users thousands of dollars in unnecessary upgrades.

Brian from “Automate your Life” has a great video on how this could impact your smart home. Check it out below!

Are All Zigbee Devices Repeaters?

Not all Zigbee devices are repeaters. In a Zigbee network, as discussed above, only coordinators and routers act as repeaters. 

These devices have the capability to extend the range of the network by routing data between other devices that are not within direct communication range of each other. 

On the other hand, end devices and sleepy end devices do not function as repeaters, as they are designed primarily for data transmission and power conservation rather than routing data for other devices in the network.

How Secure Is Zigbee?

Zigbee incorporates a robust security framework to ensure the safe transmission of data across the network. 

It employs features such as AES-128 encryption, secure key establishment, and frame counter-based replay protection to safeguard against eavesdropping, unauthorized access, and other potential cyber threats. 

Unlike Thread which has mandatory commissioning, Zigbee has an optional commissioning process. So if a manufacturer opted for a simpler, less secure commissioning method, it could potentially expose the network to security risks.

That being said, Zigbee is generally considered more secure than Z-Wave, but less so then Thread. As with all networks, it is essential to follow best practices, such as regularly updating firmware and using strong, unique passwords.

What Frequencies Does Zigbee Operate On?

Zigbee operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, which is a globally recognized and license-free band for short-range wireless communication. 

Additionally, Zigbee can also operate on lower frequency bands such as 915 MHz in North America and 868 MHz in Europe, though these lower frequencies are less common and have some regional restrictions.

Also, a network can only operate on one frequency band so you can not mix a 2.4GHz device with a 868MHz one.

What is the Range of Zigbee?

The transmission range of Zigbee devices typically varies between 10-100 meters, depending on factors such as the device's power output, environmental conditions, and potential obstacles. 

However, the mesh networking capability of Zigbee allows data to be relayed much further, through multiple devices. By strategically placing Zigbee routers or repeaters throughout the network, the range and reliability of the Zigbee network can be significantly improved.

Also, the regional frequencies do offer a greater transmission range as lower frequencies generally have better penetration capabilities and can transmit signals over longer distances compared to higher frequencies.

It is important to note that the mesh networking capability of Zigbee can effectively extend the overall network coverage beyond the direct communication range of individual devices, regardless of the frequency being used. 

How Do I Extend My Zigbee Network?

To extend a Zigbee network, you can add Zigbee routers or repeaters, such as smart plugs or smart switches, to the network. These devices help to increase the overall coverage by relaying data between other devices in the network, allowing communication between devices that are not within direct range of each other. 

Placing routers strategically throughout the network can significantly improve its range and reliability.

Are Zigbee Routers and Repeaters the Same Thing?

Within the context of a Zigbee network, routers, and repeaters are essentially the same, both serving to extend the network's coverage and relay data between devices.

You’ll often find the terms “router” and “repeater” are often used interchangeably when discussing Zigbee.

It’s important to note that unlike a Wi-Fi repeater, which only serves the purpose of amplifying and retransmits signals, a Zigbee router/repeater is actually a part of the mesh network and also serves its own purpose. (Such as a Zigbee light switch or a Zigbee smart plug)

How Does Zigbee work with Matter?

Matter, is an open-source, royalty-free standard for smart home devices developed by industry leaders like Apple, Google, Amazon, and the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) (Formerly the Zigbee Alliance) 

Matter aims to improve interoperability among smart home devices across different ecosystems. 

There are two ways Zigbee devices can work with Matter. The first is by pushing a firmware update to devices so they also implement the Matter protocol. The second is by utilizing a bridge between the Zigbee network and Wi-Fi and Thread networks.

Related Articles

If you're interested in Zigbee, check out our other related articles.

Citations

CSA Zigbee

CSA 3.8 Billion Device Forecast

Matter Protocol

Zigbee Direct

The post The Definitive Zigbee Guide appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.