Sonoff Zigbee USB Dongle Plus ZBDongle-E review powerful gateway for smart home setups

Description

Design and Build Quality

From the moment I unboxed the Sonoff Zigbee USB Dongle Plus-ZBDongle-E, I could tell it was built with care. The compact aluminum housing not only looks sleek but also serves a practical function by reducing signal interference from nearby devices. Measuring just 2.95 x 1 x 0.53 inches and weighing a mere 0.705 ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to carry around. The design feels sturdy, and the external SMA antenna interface is a nice touch for those who value extended range and reliability in their smart home setups.

While the aluminum casing is a fantastic addition to combat interference, I did notice that it can get slightly warm after extended use. It’s not alarming, but something worth noting if you’re running it in a tight space. Overall, the build quality feels premium, especially considering the category it belongs to.

Performance and Compatibility

The performance of this device genuinely impressed me. With its pre-installed Zigbee firmware based on EZNet 6.10.3, it was practically plug-and-play. I tested it with Home Assistant and Zigbee2MQTT, and the setup process was refreshingly straightforward. I didn’t run into any of the usual headaches of firmware updates or compatibility issues. The +20 dBm output gain ensured that my Zigbee devices stayed connected reliably, even in areas of my home where the Wi-Fi tends to drop off.

This dongle supports an impressive range of smart home platforms, including openHAB, making it incredibly versatile. I paired it with several Zigbee devices, like smart bulbs, temperature sensors, and motion detectors, and there wasn’t a single hiccup. The signal strength was consistent, and the response times were snappy. However, for larger setups, you might find that the range could still be slightly limited if physical obstructions are significant. That’s where the external SMA antenna comes in handy—it really boosts the connectivity in challenging environments.

Key Benefits

• Pre-flashed Zigbee Firmware: Eliminates the need for manual updates out of the box.
• High Output Gain: +20 dBm ensures better signal strength and broader coverage.
• Wide Compatibility: Works flawlessly with platforms like Home Assistant and Zigbee2MQTT.
• Durable Aluminum Housing: Reduces signal interference and gives a premium feel.

Areas for Improvement

• Slight Heat Generation: The device tends to get warm during prolonged usage.
• Limited Range Without Antenna: The base range might struggle with multiple walls or larger properties.

Ease of Use

I’m not someone who enjoys wrestling with tech, but this USB dongle made things simple. The plug-and-play nature of the product, thanks to its pre-installed firmware, was a lifesaver. I didn’t have to spend hours troubleshooting or diving deep into forums to make it work. Once I connected it to my Home Assistant setup, it automatically detected my devices with minimal input from me. The ease of use makes it perfect not just for tech enthusiasts but also for people new to smart home integrations.

The external antenna was straightforward to attach, and it significantly improved the range. I tested it in my basement, where connectivity is usually spotty, and the results were impressive. The signal was strong enough to communicate with a Zigbee device in my backyard!

Competing Brands

In comparison to other Zigbee USB dongles I’ve tried, this one stands out for its pre-installed firmware. Many competitors, like the ConBee II, require manual firmware updates, which can be intimidating for beginners. While the ConBee II offers similar compatibility with smart home platforms, I found the signal strength of this dongle to be superior, especially with the SMA antenna attached.

That said, the ConBee II does have a slight edge in terms of community support and available documentation, which might make it a better choice for those who like to tinker. However, for someone who wants reliability and minimal setup hassle, this product takes the cake. The aluminum casing is also a step up from the plastic designs seen in many alternatives, providing better durability and resistance to interference.

Worth Every Penny

When it comes to the value for money, this product delivers. The combination of plug-and-play functionality, high output gain, and broad compatibility makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone diving into smart home automation. While it might not be the cheapest option on the market, the feature set and performance justify the cost. I’d gladly pay a little extra for the ease of setup and consistent performance this device offers.

If you’re someone who values minimal hassle and reliable connectivity, this product is a no-brainer. While there are cheaper alternatives, the added benefits of the external antenna and pre-installed firmware make it a standout choice for me. My Zigbee devices have never been more reliable, and the process of integrating them into my smart home setup has never been easier.

Additional information