What is Zigbee?
Zigbee is a low-power, wireless mesh networking protocol designed specifically for smart home and IoT devices. Operating on the 2.4GHz frequency (same as WiFi and Bluetooth), Zigbee creates a self-healing mesh network where devices can relay messages to extend range.
Unlike WiFi devices that connect directly to your router, Zigbee devices form their own network through a coordinator. This keeps your WiFi network uncrowded and allows battery-powered sensors to last years on a single coin cell.
Long Battery Life
Sensors can run for 2-5 years on a coin cell
Mesh Network
Each powered device extends your network range
Affordable Devices
Wide selection of budget-friendly sensors
Zigbee Coordinators
Every Zigbee network needs a coordinator - the central device that manages the network. For Home Assistant, you'll need a USB coordinator or built-in radio.
Our Recommendation: Home Assistant ZBT-2
The official Home Assistant Zigbee dongle. Features the powerful EFR32MG21 chip, supports Thread/Matter, and works flawlessly with both ZHA and Zigbee2MQTT.
- ✓ Excellent range with external antenna
- ✓ Multi-protocol: Zigbee + Thread support
- ✓ Officially supported by Home Assistant
- ✓ Compact design, easy USB extension
Other Popular Coordinators
⚠️ USB Extension Cable Required
Always use a USB 2.0 extension cable (1-2 meters) to move your Zigbee coordinator away from the computer. USB 3.0 ports and nearby electronics cause interference on the 2.4GHz band.
ZHA vs Zigbee2MQTT
In Home Assistant, there are two main ways to run a Zigbee network. Both are excellent choices with different trade-offs.
ZHA (Zigbee Home Automation)
- ✓Built into Home Assistant
- ✓No additional software needed
- ✓Simple setup for beginners
- ~Slightly slower device support updates
Best for: Beginners, simple setups
Zigbee2MQTT
- ✓Faster new device support
- ✓Runs independently of HA
- ✓More advanced configuration options
- ~Requires MQTT broker setup
Best for: Power users, large networks
💡 Our Recommendation
We recommend Zigbee2MQTT for the best device compatibility and fastest support for new devices. While it requires an MQTT broker (easy to set up as an add-on), the benefits are worth it - especially for larger installations. The web UI makes device management straightforward once configured.
Popular Zigbee Devices
Zigbee has the largest selection of affordable smart home sensors and switches. Here are some reliable picks:
Building a Reliable Zigbee Mesh
The strength of Zigbee comes from its mesh network. Follow these tips for a rock-solid network:
1. Add Router Devices
Mains-powered Zigbee devices (plugs, bulbs, switches) act as routers, relaying messages and extending range. Aim for a router every 10-15 meters. IKEA TRADFRI smart plugs are cheap and make excellent routers.
2. Central Coordinator Placement
Place your coordinator centrally in your home, away from metal objects and other electronics. Use a USB extension to position it optimally even if your server is in a corner.
3. Avoid WiFi Channel Overlap
Zigbee channel 11 overlaps with WiFi channel 1, and Zigbee channel 25-26 overlaps with WiFi channel 11. Try Zigbee channel 15 or 20 if you experience interference.
4. Let the Mesh Settle
After adding devices, give the network 24-48 hours to optimize routes. The mesh is self-healing and will find the best paths over time.
Need Help Setting Up Zigbee?
We design and install complete smart home systems with optimized Zigbee networks. From coordinator placement to mesh optimization, we ensure your network is reliable and future-proof.