The SmartWise MINI ZB is a Zigbee version of the SmartWise brand's Sonoff-compatible relay module, designed to fit behind wall switches and sockets. This compact Zigbee 3.0 relay module is ideal for users who want to upgrade their home lighting or other electrical devices for smart control. With this module, the connected circuits can be integrated into a smart home system via Zigbee 3.0 communication protocol.
The retrofit MINI ZB module not only enables remote control but also adds smart functions to traditional switches after installation, offering both convenience and flexibility. Thanks to its compact design, it can be installed behind almost any type of switch, so replacing old switches may not be necessary. A Zigbee gateway, bridge, or coordinator is required for operation. Unlike the lower-capacity Sonoff ZBMINI R2, this model can handle up to 16A, making it suitable for installation behind power sockets as well.
What is Zigbee?
Zigbee is a smart home/IoT protocol designed for efficient and energy-saving communication between smart devices. Unlike Wi-Fi devices that connect directly to a router, Zigbee devices require a Zigbee-to-Wi-Fi gateway (or bridge) to communicate with the internet. The advantage of Zigbee solutions is that they reduce the load on the Wi-Fi network, as only one device — the Zigbee gateway — connects to the router, while all other devices communicate via the Zigbee protocol. This prevents your router from being overloaded with multiple IP addresses. Zigbee technology also supports mesh networks. With phase and neutral wiring, 230V-powered Zigbee devices (e.g., Sonoff ZBMini R2, Sonoff S26 Zigbee plug) can relay information between other Zigbee devices and the gateway, even if those devices are out of direct communication range with the gateway.
Another benefit of the Zigbee protocol is its low power consumption. Thanks to its minimal energy usage, Zigbee is particularly popular for battery-operated sensors, which can operate for several years on a single battery. While Zigbee handles smaller data volumes than Wi-Fi, this is generally not an issue since it is primarily used for control signals and status updates. Zigbee is an industry-standard protocol, and fully standardized Zigbee devices are theoretically compatible with other standard Zigbee devices from different manufacturers.
SmartWise Mini ZB is compatible with:
- Sonoff Zigbee gateways and coordinators on the eWeLink platform
- SmartThings hubs, with control available via the SmartThings app for iOS and Android
- Philips Hue hub
- Echo Plus 2nd Gen, Echo 4th Gen, and Echo Show 2nd Gen devices
SmartWise Mini ZB is a 230V relay module that connects to the power grid (phase and neutral) on the input side and can control a 230V load on the output side, allowing you to open or break the circuit. It can be installed behind power sockets or light switches, as its maximum output is 16A.
An external switch can be connected to its switch input, enabling control via wall switches (both push-button and standard rocker switches) when installed behind them. Of course, Zigbee app control and integration are also supported.
Using an internet-connected iOS (Apple) or Android smartphone with the SmartThings App (when paired with a SmartThings hub) or the eWeLink app (when paired with an eWeLink Zigbee Bridge), the relay switch can be controlled remotely.
Key eWeLink functions are available, including on/off state display, manual on/off switching, and timers (schedule, countdown timer, and cyclic control), but the inching (impulse switch) function is not supported with this model.
Product Features:
- Protocol: Zigbee 3.0, Zigbee2MQTT
- Smart Home Platforms: Compatible with most standard Zigbee 3.0 systems, including open-source platforms like Home Assistant
- Power Supply: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz
- Maximum Load: 16A (resistive load)
- Dimensions: 41mm x 41mm x 20mm
- App Support: eWeLink (via Zigbee gateway), SmartThings (via SmartThings hub)
- Protection Rating: ABS housing (flame-retardant)
- Installation Compatibility: Standard European mounting boxes
- Functions: Unlike its Wi-Fi counterpart, impulse switching (inching) and automatic shut-off are not available in the eWeLink app
