Why I chose Zigbee

« Best Buy Tips overview

On the market, there are different types of protocols to create a smart home network. Like Zigbee, Thread, WiFi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave and Matter. All with their pros and cons. You can use different protocols next to each other. I chose one protocol: Zigbee.

This is why I chose Zigbee:

• There is a wide range of sensor and actuator types available;
• Every Zigbee device works in your network, regardless of manufacturer;
• The prices are low;
• It works locally, no internet is required;
• You can even link buttons directly to (a group of) lamps without the need of a hub;
• Not dependent on the manufacturer’s app, cloud or other software. When a manufacturer goes bankrupt, you can still use your devices.
• It works as a mesh network, you can reach devices far away from the coordinator as long as there are enough active hops in between;
• The standard is an open protocol, you don’t pay license fees (for Z-Wave you do) to use it;
• No compatibility issues between older and newer Zigbee versions;
• Zigbee2MQTT is actively developed, and every release adds support for new Zigbee devices;

A reason not to choose Zigbee? I don’t know :)

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← Best Buy TipsOverview of all layers and hardware

Contact sensorDetect open and closed doors, windows and drawers. Temperature sensorTemperature and humidity for every room. Motion sensorTrigger lights and alerts when someone moves. Presence detection sensorDetect people, even when they sit still. Pressure sensorDetect weight on a chair, bed or mat. Air quality sensorMeasure CO2, VOC and other air quality values.

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