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An introduction to SONOFF smart devices
Sonoff buyers guide
Choosing the right Sonoff smart device can feel a little overwhelming at first, especially because the range includes both Zigbee modules, Matter devices, smart sensors, water valves, cameras and USB dongles.
In this Sonoff Buyer’s Guide, we break down the main types of Sonoff smart home devices and explain where each type is best used. Whether you are upgrading lighting, adding smart sensors, controlling irrigation, building a Home Assistant setup or simply looking for an affordable way to start automating your home, this guide will help you choose the right Sonoff device for your application.
What is Sonoff?
Sonoff is an established, industry-leading smart home brand that has been developing innovative smart home products since 2016. With over 10 years of experience in smart switching, automation, sensors, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, Matter and connected home technology, Sonoff has become a well-known and trusted name in the global smart home market.
Until now, Sonoff has never been officially available in Australia.
SmartHome is proud to partner with Sonoff to bring their range of smart home devices to the Australian market, with a focus on products that meet local regulatory requirements, approvals and compliance standards.
The Sonoff range includes smart switches, relays, sensors, remotes, cameras, hubs, Zigbee devices, Matter-compatible products and more. Depending on the device, Sonoff products may use Wi-Fi, Zigbee or Matter, and can be used with platforms such as Home Assistant, Homey Pro, Zigbee2MQTT, Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa and other compatible smart home ecosystems.
Put simply, Sonoff products are designed to make smart home automation more affordable, practical and accessible – whether you are just starting with a few smart devices or building a more complete smart home system.
As always, if you are not sure which Sonoff device is right for your setup, please contact us — we are always happy to help.
Sonoff Zigbee devices
Sonoff Zigbee devices are a great option when you want a more reliable smart home network with lots of sensors, buttons and low-power devices.
Unlike Wi-Fi, Zigbee devices connect to a Zigbee hub or coordinator. This could be a Sonoff Zigbee bridge, a Home Assistant setup with a Sonoff Zigbee USB dongle, or another compatible Zigbee hub / system.
Zigbee is especially useful for battery-powered devices because it is designed for low-power communication. This makes it ideal for sensors, buttons and small control devices.
Why use Zigbee?
Zigbee is useful because many mains-powered Zigbee devices can help create a mesh network. This means some devices can pass Zigbee signals along to other devices, helping extend coverage through the home.
Zigbee is often best suited to:
- Motion sensors
- Door and window sensors
- Temperature and humidity sensors
- Wireless buttons
- Smart plugs
- In-wall modules
- Larger smart home systems
- Home Assistant builds
When should you choose Sonoff Zigbee?
Choose Sonoff Zigbee if you are building a larger smart home system, especially if you plan to use Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT or a dedicated Zigbee hub.
Zigbee is a particularly good choice for sensors because you generally do not want every small battery-powered sensor connecting directly to your Wi-Fi network. Sonoff mains powered devices also act as Zigbee repeaters, helping to create a strong and reliable Zigbee mesh network.
Sonoff Matter devices
Matter is one of the newer smart home standards, designed to make smart devices work more easily across different ecosystems.
In simple terms, Matter aims to reduce the “will this work with my system?” problem. A Matter-compatible device may be able to work with major smart home platforms such as Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa and SmartThings, depending on the device and your setup.
Sonoff has been expanding its Matter-compatible range, including Matter-over-Wi-Fi products. Sonoff’s official store currently lists Matter-over-Wi-Fi smart devices, including smart switch products.
Should I choose Matter?
Matter can be a good option if you want broader compatibility and a more future-friendly setup.
However, Matter does not automatically mean every advanced feature will work in every app. For example, basic on/off control may work very well, but some advanced settings or device-specific features may still need the manufacturer app.
So in short: Matter is great, but it is still worth checking exactly what you want the device to do before choosing a product.
Sonoff smart switch modules
Smart switches and relay modules are one of the most popular parts of the Sonoff range – and any smart home setup for that matter.
These devices are used to turn electrical loads on and off, such as lights, fans, pumps, garage doors and other appliances. Some models are designed for Zigbee and some support Matter (see sections above).
This is also where it can get confusing, because many products seem similar at first glance.
The key questions to ask are:
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- Do you want Zigbee or Matter verions?
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- Do you need one channel or two channels?
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- Do you need dry contact control (more 0n this later)?
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- Do you need dimming?
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- Do you have a neutral wire available at the wall switch?
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- What load are you controlling?
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- Will it be installed behind a wall switch or in another enclosure?
Below is a table of the available Sonoff switch and relay modules…
| Sonoff Relay (On/Off) | Model | Technology | Channels | Neutral Req. | Load |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zigbee Switch | ZBMINIR2 | Zigbee | 1 | Yes | 10A |
| Zigbee Switch (no neutral) | ZBMINIL2 | Zigbee | 1 | No | 6A |
| Zigbee Double Switch | MINI-ZB2GS | Zigbee | 2 | Yes | 8A / Ch. |
| Zigbee Dimmer | MINI-ZBDIM | Zigbee | 1 | Yes | 200W |
| Zigbee USB Switch | ZBMicro | Zigbee | 1 | N/A | 36W |
| Matter Switch | MINIR4M | Matter | 1 | Yes | 10A |
| Matter Double Switch | MINI-2GS | Matter | 2 | Yes | 8A / Ch. |
| Matter Dimmer | MINI-DIM | Matter | 1 | Yes | 200W |
| Matter Dry Contact | MINI-D | Matter | 1 | Yes | AC / DC |
Sonoff switch modules...
Sonoff Matter over WiFi Smart Relay Switch
The SONOFF MINIR4M is a compact Matter-over-Wi-Fi smart switch module that adds reliable smart control to lights and other connected loads while keeping normal wall switch functionality. Ideal for retrofit smart home upgrades, it works across major Matter-compatible platforms for seamless app control, automations and voice control.
Sonoff Zigbee USB Smart Adaptor
The SONOFF ZBMicro is a compact Zigbee USB smart adaptor that adds wireless smart control to USB-powered devices such as LED lights, fans and small gadgets. It works with compatible Zigbee hubs including Home Assistant, Alexa and Google Home setups, making it an easy way to automate USB devices and add smart scheduling, automations, remote control or voice control.
Sonoff Zigbee Smart Relay Switch (No-Neutral)
The SONOFF ZBMINIL2 is a compact no-neutral Zigbee smart switch module designed to bring smart lighting (on/off) control to existing homes without needing neutral wiring at the switch (max. 6A load). Ideal for retrofit installations, it works with compatible Zigbee hubs and platforms including Home Assistant, Alexa and Google Home, while preserving normal wall switch operation.
Sonoff Zigbee 2-Gang Smart Relay Switch
The SONOFF MINI-ZB2GS is a compact Zigbee double smart switch module, designed to add reliable smart control to lights and other connected loads while keeping normal wall switch operation. Ideal for retrofit smart home upgrades, it works with compatible Zigbee hubs and platforms including Home Assistant, Alexa and Google Home for remote control, automations and power usage tracking.
Sonoff Matter over WiFi Dry Contact Relay Switch
The SONOFF MINI-D is a compact Matter-over-Wi-Fi smart switch module with dry contact support, designed for reliable smart control of gates, garage doors, boilers, access systems and other low-voltage or signal-based devices. Ideal for retrofit smart home and control system upgrades, it works across major Matter-compatible platforms for seamless app control, automations and voice control.
Sonoff Matter over WiFi 2-Gang Smart Relay Switch
The SONOFF MINI-2GS is a compact Matter-over-Wi-Fi 2-channel smart switch module with energy monitoring, designed to add reliable smart control to lights and other connected loads while keeping normal wall switch functionality. Ideal for retrofit smart home upgrades, it works across major Matter-compatible platforms for seamless app control, automations and power usage tracking.
Sonoff smart dimmer modules
Sonoff dimmers are designed for lighting control where you want more than simple on/off switching.
A smart dimmer lets you adjust brightness from an app, automation, switch input or compatible smart home system. This can be useful for living rooms, bedrooms, hallways and feature lighting.
When choosing a smart dimmer, the main things to check are:
- Is your lighting dimmable?
- Is the dimmer suitable for your load type?
- Does the switch location have a neutral wire?
- Will it work with your preferred platform?
Dimming can be more sensitive than basic on/off control, so it is worth checking compatibility carefully.
Sonoff smart sensors
Sonoff sensors are used to tell your smart home what is happening.
Instead of only controlling devices manually, sensors allow your smart home to react automatically. For example, a motion sensor can turn a light on, a temperature sensor can help control heating or cooling, and a door sensor can notify you when something has opened.
Sonoff’s range includes sensor-style products for temperature and humidity monitoring, motion detection, door/window detection and other smart home triggers. Sonoff’s official store highlights temperature and humidity monitoring as one of its product categories.
Common Sonoff sensor types
Sonoff sensor devices may include:
- Motion sensors
- Door and window sensors
- Temperature sensors
- Humidity sensors
- Water leak sensors
- Human presence or occupancy sensors
Sonoff sensors...
Sonoff Zigbee Smart Motion Sensor
The SONOFF SNZB-03P is a compact Zigbee motion sensor that detects movement in as little as half a seconds, making it ideal for smart lighting, security alerts and automation triggers throughout the home. Designed for compatible Zigbee hubs including Home Assistant, it offers reliable low-power operation, flexible placement and local smart scene support for faster, more dependable automation.
Sonoff Zigbee Gen2 Door/Window Sensor
The SONOFF SNZB-04PR2 is a compact Zigbee door and window sensor designed for reliable open/close monitoring, tamper alerts and smart automation throughout the home. With a slim design, flexible mounting and long-life AAA battery power, it is ideal for security alerts, smart lighting triggers and energy-saving automations with compatible Zigbee hubs.
Sonoff Zigbee Smart Human Presence Sensor
The NEW SONOFF SNZB-06P24 Zigbee Human Presence Sensor is an advanced 24GHz mmWave presence sensor designed for accurate motion and stationary human detection. With 7 configurable detection zones, illuminance sensing, interference calibration and Zigbee 3.0 connectivity, it provides reliable occupancy detection for smart lighting, security and home automation systems.
Sonoff Zigbee LCD Temperature & Humidity Sensor
The SONOFF SNZB-02D is a compact Zigbee temperature and humidity sensor with a clear LCD display, designed for accurate real-time environmental monitoring and easy at-a-glance room readings. Ideal for use with compatible Zigbee hubs including Home Assistant, it is perfect for smart comfort control, automation triggers and tracking indoor climate conditions.
Sonoff Zigbee Temperature & Humidity Sensor
The SONOFF SNZB-02P is a compact Zigbee temperature and humidity sensor that delivers accurate real-time environmental monitoring for smarter comfort, automation and energy efficiency. Ideal for use with compatible Zigbee hubs including Home Assistant, it is perfect for tracking room conditions, triggering automations and improving climate control throughout the home.
Sonoff Zigbee LCD Smart Thermometer with Probe
The SONOFF SNZB-02LD is an IP65-rated Zigbee smart thermometer with a probe, designed for accurate temperature monitoring in liquids, pipes, tanks, fridges, freezers and other enclosed spaces. With a clear LCD display and support for compatible Zigbee hubs including Home Assistant, it is ideal for smart temperature alerts, automation and reliable environmental monitoring.
Sonoff Zigbee Smart Water Leak Sensor
The SONOFF SNZB-05P is a compact Zigbee water leak sensor designed to provide fast, reliable detection of drips, leaks and flooding in kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and other risk areas. Ideal for use with compatible Zigbee hubs including Home Assistant, it helps trigger alerts and automations to protect your home from water damage.
Best uses for sensors
Sensors are great for automations such as:
- Turning lights on when motion is detected
- Turning bathroom fans on when humidity rises
- Sending alerts if a door is opened
- Monitoring room temperature
- Detecting water leaks
- Automating hallways, laundries, bathrooms and garages
For most homes, sensors are where smart automation starts to feel genuinely useful.
Sonoff smart remotes
Wireless remotes and buttons are a simple but powerful part of a smart home.
They allow you to control lights, scenes or devices without needing to open an app. This is especially useful for bedside tables, desks, kitchens, garages and entry areas.
A wireless button might be used to:
- Turn off all lights
- Trigger a movie scene
- Open or close a garage door
- Start an irrigation zone
- Turn on outdoor lighting
- Control a fan
- Trigger a Home Assistant automation
Buttons are also useful when you want smart control in a location where running new wiring is not practical.
Sonoff buttons...
Sonoff Zigbee Smart Scene Button
The SONOFF SNZB-01P is a compact Zigbee wireless smart switch that lets you trigger scenes, devices and automations with single press, double press and long press actions. Ideal for convenient smart home control, it works with compatible Zigbee hubs and is perfect as a scene controller, bedside switch or portable smart button.
Best uses for sensors
Sensors are great for automations such as:
- Turning lights on when motion is detected
- Turning bathroom fans on when humidity rises
- Sending alerts if a door is opened
- Monitoring room temperature
- Detecting water leaks
- Automating hallways, laundries, bathrooms and garages
For most homes, sensors are where smart automation starts to feel genuinely useful.
Sonoff smart water valve
The Sonoff smart water valve is an interesting product for outdoor water and irrigation control.
Instead of only controlling lights and appliances, a smart water valve can help automate garden watering. This can be useful for lawns, garden beds, vegetable patches and simple hose-based irrigation setups.
A smart water valve can be used for:
- Scheduled watering
- App-based tap control
- Garden irrigation
- Drip irrigation
- Sprinklers
- Weather-based watering automations
- Home Assistant irrigation dashboards
This is a great example of how smart home control can move beyond lights and switches into practical everyday automation.
Sonoff water valve...
Sonoff Zigbee Smart Water Tap Valve
The SONOFF SWV-BSP is a Zigbee smart water tap valve designed to automate garden irrigation with easy app control, scheduling and water usage tracking. With a BSP thread (British Standard Pipe used in Australia), battery-powered operation and IP55 weather resistance, it is an easy way to add smarter, more efficient watering to compatible Zigbee smart home systems.
Sonoff cameras
Sonoff also offers camera products for smart home monitoring.
Smart cameras can be used for general home awareness, checking entry areas, monitoring pets, viewing garages, or keeping an eye on indoor spaces.
When choosing a smart camera, consider:
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- Where it will be installed
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- Whether it is indoor or outdoor rated
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- Whether you need motion alerts
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- Whether you want local or cloud storage
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- Which app or platform you want to use
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- Whether privacy controls are important for the location
Cameras are useful, but they should be planned carefully – especially inside the home.
Sonoff cameras...
Sonoff Wi-Fi Smart PTZ Indoor HD Camera
The SONOFF CAM-PT2 is a smart indoor Wi-Fi security camera with 1080P HD video, 360° pan-tilt coverage, AI human detection and smart night vision for reliable home monitoring. Ideal for keeping an eye on pets, kids or key areas around the home, it offers convenient app-based viewing, alerts and two-way communication.
Sonoff dongles & hubs
Sonoff dongles and hubs are mainly used to connect and control other devices.
This is especially important for Zigbee & Matter.
For example, a Sonoff Zigbee USB dongle can be used with Home Assistant or Zigbee2MQTT to create a powerful Zigbee smart home network.
Sonoff dongles...
Sonoff Zigbee/Matter over Thread USB Dongle
The SONOFF Dongle-LMG21 is a compact Zigbee and Matter over Thread USB dongle that works as a reliable coordinator for Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, openHAB and other open smart home platforms. Powered by the EFR32MG21 chip and supporting local control, it is an easy way to build or expand a flexible Zigbee or Matter-over-Thread smart home setup.
Sonoff Zigbee/Matter over Thread Max Dongle
The SONOFF Dongle-M is a high-performance Zigbee or Matter over Thread PoE gateway designed to provide flexible, reliable smart home connectivity for Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT and other open platforms. With Ethernet, Wi-Fi and USB connection options, dual antennas and support for local control, it is ideal for expanding Zigbee coverage and building Matter-over-Thread capable systems.
Which Sonoff device should I choose?
Here is a simple way to think about it:
Choose Sonoff Zigbee if…
You are building a larger smart home with sensors, buttons and mesh networking.
Best for:
- Motion sensors
- Door/window sensors
- Temperature and humidity sensors
- Wireless buttons
- Home Assistant
- Zigbee2MQTT
- Larger smart homes
Choose Sonoff Matter if…
You want broader compatibility with major smart home platforms.
Best for:
- Apple Home users
- Google Home users
- Alexa users
- Mixed-platform households
- Future-focused smart home setups
Important safety note
Many Sonoff devices are designed to control mains power.
In Australia, any work involving 240V electrical wiring must be completed by a licensed electrician. This includes installing smart relays, smart switches, dimmers, modules and other in-wall or fixed-wiring devices.
Low-voltage and plug-in devices may be more DIY-friendly, but fixed electrical work should always be handled correctly and safely.
If you are not sure what is required, please speak with a licensed electrician before installing any device.
Final thoughts
Sonoff offers a wide range of smart home devices that can suit everything from simple app-controlled switching through to more advanced Home Assistant and Zigbee systems.
The key is choosing the right device for the job.
For a simple one-off control project, Matter switch may be the easiest choice. For a larger home with lots of sensors and automations, Zigbee may make more sense. For Home Assistant users, Sonoff Zigbee dongles and Zigbee devices can form a strong foundation for a flexible local smart home system.
Whether you are just getting started with smart home automation or planning a larger project, Sonoff gives you a practical and affordable way to add smart control throughout your home.
And if you are not sure where to start, feel free to contact us — we are always happy to help.
Hello , I have a Telstra 5G modem/router with 3 telstra WiFi extenders, attached are Apple TV, Apple home pod gen1, 2 x Apple homepod minis and an Aqara dongle. Then there are a number of plugs, sensors etc. (Aqara, Meross, Shelly, Nanoleaf) Mostly used with Siri or through their native app, none are 100% reliable.
If I add the Sonoff Zigbee hub and Sonoff devices will there be any conflicts?
Can I then control zigbee devices with Siri?
Do the Sonoff mini switches act as zigbee repeaters like the smart plugs?
Can the Sonoff Mini switches replace Shelly switches?
Any advice on what I could/should do would be appreciated
I am sorry to say we do not have a Sonoff Zigbee hub available in Australia. You are far better investing in something like Home Assistant or Homey Pro and then adding devices to one of these hubs.