Besisglas Home Assistant Starter Kit Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This besisglas starter kit home assistant review covers the HA70, a compact device designed for local smart home control. It runs Home Assistant OS out of the box, meaning you plug it in and start using it immediately. The system relies on a quad-core Rockchip RK3528 processor and 4GB of RAM for smooth performance. It includes 32GB of eMMC storage for your data and automations. The kit also features a built-in Zigbee 3.0 hub, allowing you to connect compatible sensors and devices without extra hardware. This setup keeps your home data local and private.
What stands out
- Pre-installed Home Assistant OS requires only power and Ethernet to start
- Quad-core Rockchip RK3528 processor with 4GB RAM for fast response
- Built-in Zigbee 3.0 coordinator for local device management
- 32GB eMMC storage keeps all home data on-site
- Includes Zigbee temperature/humidity and door/window contact sensors
Who it fits
Good fit for
This kit suits users who want a simple, local-first smart home setup without complex configuration. It is ideal for those who value privacy and want their data stored on-premise rather than in the cloud. The pre-installed software and included Zigbee sensors make it perfect for beginners who want to start automating lights and monitoring conditions immediately. If you prefer a fanless, silent device that uses minimal power, this compact hub fits well into any home environment.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, as this device relies on Ethernet and Zigbee. It is not suitable for users who want a cloud-dependent ecosystem or do not wish to manage local hardware. If you require voice assistant integration natively without additional add-ons, this kit may not meet your needs directly. Users who prefer a touch screen display or remote control interface will find this hub lacks those features, focusing instead on headless operation via the web interface.
Verdict: This kit offers a straightforward entry into local smart home automation with solid specs and included sensors. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing privacy and ease of setup.
Key specs explained for you
Connectivity: Zigbee 3.0
Zigbee 3.0 is a wireless standard for smart devices. It creates a mesh network where devices relay signals to each other. This extends range and improves reliability compared to simple point-to-point connections. You benefit from stable communication between sensors and the hub. When shopping for controls, this protocol offers low power consumption and strong local control without relying on cloud servers for basic commands.
System Memory: 4GB
Four gigabytes of RAM allows the device to run multiple automations and integrations simultaneously. This capacity ensures smooth performance when processing data from various sensors and devices. You can expect faster response times for complex routines. When comparing smart home hubs, more RAM typically supports a larger ecosystem. This amount is sufficient for most residential setups running Home Assistant OS efficiently.
Storage Capacity: 32GB eMMC
Thirty-two gigabytes of eMMC storage holds the operating system, applications, and local data logs. This non-volatile memory retains your settings even when power is lost. You benefit from ample space for long-term data retention and adding custom integrations. When evaluating home controllers, check storage limits to ensure they accommodate your history logs and plugin requirements without needing external drives.
Smart Home Compatibility: Home Assistant
This device runs Home Assistant OS, a platform focused on local control and privacy. It supports a vast library of integrations for diverse smart home brands. You gain full autonomy over your devices without mandatory cloud subscriptions. When choosing a hub, this compatibility means you can mix and match devices from different manufacturers. It is ideal for users who prioritize open standards and detailed automation logic.
Design and Build Overview
The listing describes the HA70 as a compact, fanless unit with a black finish. Its physical dimensions are 4.41 inches in length, 4.41 inches in height, and 1.26 inches in width. The device weighs 15.8 ounces. This small footprint allows it to sit discreetly on a shelf or mount behind a television without drawing attention. The absence of a fan ensures silent operation, which is practical for living rooms or bedrooms where noise matters.
According to the listing, the build prioritizes energy efficiency. It consumes only a couple of watts of power, making it suitable for continuous operation without significant energy costs. The internal components include a quad-core Rockchip RK3528 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of eMMC storage. These specs support smooth performance for Home Assistant automations and dashboards. The storage capacity provides ample space for logs and local data retention.
Connectivity options include an Ethernet port and USB interfaces. The inclusion of a USB extension cable in the package suggests flexibility in positioning the Zigbee dongle away from interference sources. The overall design is utilitarian, focusing on function over form. You get a straightforward hardware solution that integrates directly into your existing network setup. The materials and construction appear durable enough for long-term use in a home environment.
Setup and Everyday Use
You start by connecting the included power supply and an Ethernet cable. The device arrives with Home Assistant OS pre-installed. This means you do not need to flash software or configure the operating system manually. You simply plug the unit into power and your network. The system is ready for use immediately.
The hub uses Zigbee 3.0 to communicate with compatible devices. You can connect sensors, lights, and switches directly to the HA70. The kit includes a Zigbee temperature and humidity sensor and a door or window contact sensor. These accessories allow you to test automations right away. You can also use the included USB dongle if you need additional connectivity options.
Daily operation relies on local control. Your data stays on the device. You can view, share, or export this information from your dashboard. The quad-core processor and 4GB of RAM handle automations smoothly. You will see fast response times when triggers activate. The fanless design ensures silent operation, which fits well in living spaces.
Power consumption is low. The unit uses only a couple of watts. This makes it efficient for continuous running. You can build complex routines, such as dimming lights during movies or adjusting heat when you leave home. The 32GB eMMC storage holds logs and configurations. You manage everything through the Home Assistant interface, keeping full control over your smart home ecosystem.
Before you buy this kit
You should verify your network setup before purchasing. This device requires a wired Ethernet connection for stable operation. It does not include Wi-Fi connectivity. You must ensure your router supports the necessary ports and local IP assignment. The kit includes Zigbee sensors, but you may need additional devices for full home coverage. Check if your existing smart bulbs or switches use Zigbee 3.0. If they use Z-Wave or Wi-Fi, they will not connect directly to this hub. You will need separate bridges for those protocols. The system keeps data local, which is ideal for privacy. However, you must manage updates and automations yourself. This is not a set-and-forget solution. It suits users who want full control. If you prefer simple, app-only management, this kit may be too complex. It fits well alongside other smart home controls for those willing to configure integrations. You benefit from local processing speed. But you trade convenience for customization. Consider your technical comfort level. This hardware is powerful but demands attention. It is best for enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with their home environment.
Check before you buy
- Verify your router supports wired Ethernet connections.
- Check if your devices use Zigbee 3.0.
- Confirm you are comfortable managing local updates.
- Ensure you have space for the hub.
- Decide if you want full local control.
The product at a glance
Besisglas Home Assistant Starter Kit with Zigbee Hub
Best for: plug-and-play local Zigbee home automation setups
- Connectivity
- Zigbee 3.0
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Home Assistant
- Network Interface
- Ethernet
- System Memory
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 32GB eMMC
- Dimensions
- 4.41 × 1.26 × 4.41 inches
View on Amazon: Besisglas Home Assistant Starter Kit with Zigbee Hub Affiliate link
This kit gives you a dedicated smart home hub running pre-installed Home Assistant OS. It includes a quad-core processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of eMMC storage in a silent, fanless enclosure. You connect via Ethernet and use the bundled Zigbee 3.0 dongle with two included sensors. It suits you if you want local home automation without manual software installation.
Pros
- Pre-installed official Home Assistant OS
- Includes Zigbee 3.0 dongle, temperature/humidity sensor, and contact sensor
- Fanless, silent hardware with 4GB RAM and quad-core processor
- Wired Ethernet port and low power draw
Cons
- Internal storage is limited to 32GB eMMC
- Network interface relies on Ethernet with no Wi-Fi support listed
Good fit if
- You want a ready-to-run hub with Home Assistant OS already installed.
- You plan to run local Zigbee automations over a wired network connection.
Skip if
- You need wireless Wi-Fi connectivity for hub placement.
- You require more than 32GB of built-in storage for your setup.
Verdict: Besisglas Home Assistant Zigbee Starter Kit provides an out-of-the-box local automation hub complete with sensors and pre-loaded software. It suits home managers who prioritize local data control and wired stability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Besisglas Home Assistant Starter Kit with Zigbee Hub |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Zigbee 3.0 |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Home Assistant |
| Network Interface | Ethernet |
| System Memory | 4GB |
| Storage Capacity | 32GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 4.41 × 1.26 × 4.41 inches |
| Weight | 15.8 ounces |
| Color | Black |
| Model | HA70_RK3528 |
Frequently asked questions
Is this kit good for beginners?
Yes, it fits users who want a quiet, local smart home hub with pre-installed software and included sensors. You do not need to flash software or configure the operating system manually. The system relies on a quad-core Rockchip processor, providing a stable foundation for local automation without complex initial setup steps.
Does it support Wi-Fi?
No, this device requires a wired Ethernet connection for stable operation. It does not include Wi-Fi connectivity. You must ensure your router supports the necessary ports and local IP assignment to connect it properly to your network. This limitation ensures consistent communication for your Zigbee devices.
What smart home platform does it use?
It is built for Home Assistant compatibility. The device runs Home Assistant OS out of the box, meaning you plug it in and start using it immediately. This allows you to control various smart devices through a single, local interface without relying on cloud services for basic automation tasks.
How big is the hub?
The HA70 is a compact unit with a black finish. Its physical dimensions are 4.41 inches in length, 4.41 inches in height, and 1.26 inches in width. The device weighs 15.8 ounces. This small footprint allows it to fit discreetly in most home environments without taking up significant space.
Is it fanless?
Yes, the listing describes the HA70 as a compact, fanless unit. This design contributes to its quiet operation, which is ideal for bedrooms or living areas. The lack of moving parts also means there is no fan noise to disturb you while you are using your smart home controls.
What wireless protocol does it use?
It uses Zigbee 3.0 for device connectivity. This standard creates a mesh network where devices relay signals to each other, extending range and improving reliability compared to simple point-to-point connections. You benefit from stable communication with your compatible sensors and switches without needing additional repeaters for short distances.
Does it come with sensors?
Yes, the kit includes included sensors for immediate use. This allows you to start automating your home right away without purchasing separate components. The pre-installed software manages these sensors locally, ensuring your automation rules trigger quickly and remain functional even if your internet connection goes down.