CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You might be looking for cmars smart plug alternatives if your current setup needs a different form factor or wiring option. The CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug offers reliable hub-based control with a compact 1.8-inch design. It connects via Zigbee to Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings, ensuring stable performance without crowding your Wi-Fi network. This makes it ideal for users who already have a compatible hub and want a simple, responsive outlet.
However, you may need a switch instead of a plug, or one that works without a neutral wire. Some buyers prefer Z-Wave connectivity or energy monitoring features not included in the original model. We selected these 6 alternatives because their specifications overlap with the CMARS unit. Each option shares the hub requirement and Zigbee or Z-Wave connectivity, ensuring they fit into similar smart home ecosystems. This list compares size, wiring needs, and supported platforms to help you find the best fit for your specific installation constraints.
Our top pick: CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug 2-Pack.
How these alternatives compare
SONOFF No-Neutral Zigbee Switch
The SONOFF ZBMINI Extreme fits into tighter spaces than the CMARS plug. It measures 1.25 by 0.72 inches, making it smaller than the 1.8 by 1.1 inch CMARS unit. This switch requires no neutral wire, whereas the CMARS plug plugs directly into a wall outlet. Both use Zigbee and need a hub for Alexa or Google Home. If you are replacing a wall switch in a tight box without neutral wiring, this SONOFF model is the better choice. It offers the same hub-based reliability but with a form factor designed for inside electrical boxes rather than on the wall.
SONOFF Zigbee Mini Smart Switch 2-Pack
The SONOFF ZBMINIR2 is a wall switch, not an outlet plug. It measures 1.3 by 1.56 inches and requires neutral wiring to operate. The CMARS plug does not need neutral wires because it draws power from the outlet itself. Both devices use Zigbee and work with SmartThings and Alexa. This SONOFF switch is ideal for controlling lights in standard wall boxes where you have neutral wires available. It expands your Zigbee mesh network like the CMARS plug does. Choose this if you want to automate a light fixture permanently installed in your wall rather than plugging a lamp into an outlet.
Youngzuth Zigbee Single Smart Light Switch
The Youngzuth switch is a large wall plate, measuring 3.3 by 5.06 inches. It is much bigger than the compact CMARS plug. This unit requires no neutral wire, similar to the CMARS plug in that regard, but it replaces a wall switch plate. It connects via Zigbee and supports Alexa and Google Home. The CMARS plug is better for portable devices on outlets. The Youngzuth is designed for fixed lighting control in older homes without neutral wiring. If you need to add smart control to a hardwired light that lacks neutral wires, this switch is the practical alternative to an outlet plug.
SONOFF Zigbee Smart Light Switch
The SONOFF ZBM5 is another neutral-free wall switch. It measures 2.91 by 4.72 inches, which is significantly larger than the CMARS plug. It connects via Zigbee and works with Alexa and Google Home. This model supports Home Assistant integration, offering broader platform compatibility than the CMARS plug. The CMARS plug is for outlets, while this switch is for wall-mounted lighting. If you have a light fixture without neutral wiring and want Hubitat or Home Assistant support, this SONOFF switch provides those features. It is the right choice for permanent lighting automation rather than plug-in device control.
Minoston 800 Series Z-Wave Dimmer Plug
The Minoston plug uses Z-Wave connectivity instead of Zigbee. It measures 1.18 by 2.52 inches, which is slimmer than the CMARS plug. This device requires a Z-Wave hub, not a Zigbee hub. It supports dimming capabilities for lamps, which the CMARS plug does not offer. The CMARS plug is for on/off control only. If you already use a Z-Wave hub and want to dim lights or extend a Z-Wave mesh network, this Minoston plug is the correct alternative. It sacrifices the Zigbee compatibility of the CMARS unit for Z-Wave integration and dimming functionality.
NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
The NOUS plug includes energy monitoring, a feature the CMARS plug lacks. It measures 2.2 by 2.17 inches, making it slightly larger than the CMARS unit. Both use Zigbee and require a hub for Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings. The NOUS model also supports Home Assistant. If you need to track electricity usage for a plugged-in device, the NOUS plug provides that data. The CMARS plug is simpler and smaller. Choose the NOUS plug if energy tracking is important to you. It offers the same hub-based reliability with added insight into power consumption.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug 2-Pack
Best for: Existing Zigbee hub users
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings
- Hub Requirement
- Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Zigbee
- Dimensions
- 1.8 × 1.8 × 1.1 inches
- Weight
- 3.53 ounces
View on Amazon: CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug 2-Pack Affiliate link
The CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug connects to your smart home via the Zigbee protocol, requiring a compatible hub like SmartThings, Hubitat, or an Echo device. It measures 1.8 by 1.1 by 1.8 inches and weighs 3.53 ounces. You get voice control through Alexa and Google Home. The unit uses fireproof PC material for safety. This compact plug suits users who want stable, low-latency control without adding to Wi-Fi congestion.
Pros
- Uses Zigbee connectivity for stable, responsive switching
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings
- Compact physical dimensions of 1.8 inches wide
- Built with fireproof and thermo-resistant materials
Cons
- Requires a separate Zigbee hub to function
- Incompatible with SmartThings 1st generation and Tuya Hub
- No built-in energy monitoring specification listed
Good fit if
- You already own a compatible Zigbee hub
- You want to reduce Wi-Fi network congestion
- You need voice control via Alexa or Google Home
Skip if
- You do not have a Zigbee hub available
- You rely on SmartThings 1st generation hardware
- You need direct Wi-Fi connection without a bridge
Verdict: CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug offers a compact, hub-dependent solution for users with existing Zigbee ecosystems who prioritize network stability over direct Wi-Fi connectivity.
SONOFF No-Neutral Zigbee Switch
Best for: tight spaces and neutral-free wiring
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings
- Hub Requirement
- Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Zigbee 3.0
- Wiring Requirement
- No Neutral Required
- Circuit Type
- 2-Way
- Dimensions
- 1.55 × 1.25 × 0.72 inches
View on Amazon: SONOFF No-Neutral Zigbee Switch Affiliate link
This SONOFF ZBMINI Extreme is a tiny Zigbee 3.0 smart switch designed for tight spaces. It requires no neutral wire and works with external switches for two-way control. You need a Zigbee hub to connect it to Alexa, Google Home, or SmartThings. The compact size fits standard mounting boxes easily. It supports low-wattage lights without flickering. This switch suits you if you want reliable automation without complex wiring.
Pros
- Zigbee 3.0 connectivity for local control
- No neutral wire required for installation
- Supports two-way control with external switches
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings
Cons
- Requires a separate Zigbee hub to function
- Only supports basic on/off switching
- Does not include energy monitoring capabilities
Good fit if
- You need a switch for a tight electrical box
- You want to add smart control without neutral wire
- You already have a Zigbee hub for your home
Skip if
- You need a switch without a hub
- You want energy monitoring features
- You prefer Wi-Fi direct connectivity
Verdict: SONOFF ZBMINI Extreme Zigbee Switch is a compact solution for tight spaces. It fits best for users who need a neutral-free switch with reliable hub-based automation.
SONOFF Zigbee Mini Smart Switch 2-Pack
Best for: expanding Zigbee networks in existing wiring
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings
- Hub Requirement
- Zigbee 3.0 Gateway Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Zigbee 3.0
- Wiring Requirement
- Neutral Required
- Maximum Load
- 10A
- Dimensions
- 0.66 × 1.3 × 1.56 inches
View on Amazon: SONOFF Zigbee Mini Smart Switch 2-Pack Affiliate link
This SONOFF ZBMINIR2 is a compact Zigbee 3.0 smart switch designed for in-wall installation. It requires a neutral wire and a dedicated Zigbee hub to function. The unit supports up to 64 devices on your network and handles a 10A load. It works with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings. Its small size fits standard boxes, making it suitable for expanding your smart lighting or appliance control.
Pros
- Zigbee 3.0 protocol for stable mesh networking
- Supports up to 64 devices on one hub
- Compact 1.3-inch width fits standard boxes
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings
- V-0 PC housing for fire protection
Cons
- Requires a neutral wire for installation
- Needs a separate Zigbee gateway hub
- Single channel limits control to one circuit
Good fit if
- You have existing neutral wires in your switch boxes
- You want to expand your Zigbee network capacity
- You use SmartThings or Alexa for voice control
Skip if
- You do not have a neutral wire available
- You want a plug-in device instead of a switch
- You prefer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi without a hub
Verdict: SONOFF ZBMINIR2 Zigbee Mini Switch is a reliable option for users with neutral wires who need to expand their Zigbee network. It fits well in standard boxes for controlling lights or small appliances via a hub.
Youngzuth Zigbee Single Smart Light Switch
Best for: Basic light control in older homes
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Hub Requirement
- Zigbee Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Zigbee
- Wiring Requirement
- No Neutral Required
- Switch Function
- On/Off Switch
- Dimensions
- 5.06 × 3.3 × 1.28 inches
View on Amazon: Youngzuth Zigbee Single Smart Light Switch Affiliate link
The Youngzuth single smart switch uses Zigbee connectivity to integrate with your existing smart home hub. It requires no neutral wire, making it suitable for older homes where rewiring is not an option. You can control lights via voice commands through Alexa or Google Home. The device features a classic white design that fits standard wall plates. It provides reliable on/off control for daily lighting needs without complex setup.
Pros
- No neutral wire required for installation
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Zigbee connection for stable performance
- Standard single-gang size fits most walls
Cons
- Requires a separate Zigbee hub
- Only supports basic on/off control
- No energy monitoring capability
Good fit if
- You have an older home with no neutral wire
- You already own a Zigbee hub
- You want simple voice control for lights
Skip if
- You need dimming or color changing
- You do not have a smart home hub
- You want to monitor energy usage
Verdict: The Youngzuth Zigbee Single Smart Switch is a practical option for basic lighting control in homes without neutral wires. It fits buyers who already use Alexa or Google Home and have a compatible hub.
SONOFF Zigbee Smart Light Switch
Best for: Neutral-free wall switches with Home Assistant support
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Hub Requirement
- Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Zigbee
- Wiring Requirement
- No Neutral or with Neutral
- Circuit Type
- Not mentioned
- Switch Function
- On/Off Switch
View on Amazon: SONOFF Zigbee Smart Light Switch Affiliate link
This SONOFF Zigbee wall switch controls lights via the eWeLink app and requires a dedicated Zigbee hub. It works with Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant. The unit supports wiring with or without a neutral wire, fitting most homes. It measures 4.72 inches long and 2.91 inches wide. You get basic on/off control and timer automation through the app.
Pros
- Compatible with no neutral wire installations
- Works with Home Assistant via Zigbee2MQTT
- Supports Alexa and Google Home voice control
- Offers scheduled on/off timers and scenes
Cons
- Requires a separate Zigbee hub to function
- Only provides on/off switching, no dimming
- Lacks built-in energy monitoring capabilities
Good fit if
- You need a switch that works without a neutral wire
- You already own a Zigbee hub for your smart home
- You want to integrate switches with Home Assistant
Skip if
- You want to control lights without a separate hub
- You need to dim your lights instead of just turning them on or off
- You prefer a plug-in outlet rather than a wall switch
Verdict: SONOFF Zigbee Smart Switch ZBM5 fits users who already have a Zigbee hub and need a neutral-free wall switch. It is a solid option for basic on/off control and Home Assistant integration.
Minoston 800 Series Z-Wave Dimmer Plug
Best for: Z-Wave users dimming lamps
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings
- Hub Requirement
- Z-Wave Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Z-Wave
- Wiring Requirement
- No wiring required
- Switch Function
- Dimmer
- Maximum Load
- 200W Incandescent, 100W CFL/LED
View on Amazon: Minoston 800 Series Z-Wave Dimmer Plug Affiliate link
This Z-Wave plug acts as a dimmer switch for lamps and dimmable LED lights. It supports 1-100% brightness control and includes a built-in repeater to extend your network range. The compact design allows two units per outlet. You need a Z-Wave hub to use it. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands and scheduling.
Pros
- Z-Wave 800 Series with S2 security
- 1-100% dimming control
- Built-in range extender
- Compact size fits two per outlet
Cons
- Requires a Z-Wave hub
- Limited to 200W incandescent or 100W LED
- No direct connection to Echo Plus
Good fit if
- You use a Z-Wave hub
- You want to dim lamps
- You need a range extender
Skip if
- You lack a Z-Wave hub
- You need energy monitoring
- You want direct Wi-Fi connection
Verdict: Minoston Z-Wave Dimmer Plug suits users with Z-Wave hubs who want to dim lights and extend their mesh network. It is not for those needing energy tracking or direct Wi-Fi pairing.
NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring
Best for: Zigbee hub users needing energy monitoring
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings
- Hub Requirement
- Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Zigbee 3.0
- Maximum Load
- 15A (1500W)
- Dimensions
- 2.17 × 2.2 × 1.97 inches
View on Amazon: NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring Affiliate link
The NOUS A9Z is a Zigbee 3.0 smart plug designed for homes using a central hub. It supports up to 15A loads and includes real-time energy monitoring. You can control it via the NOUS app, Alexa, or Google Home. The compact white design fits standard wall sockets without blocking adjacent outlets. This plug requires a Zigbee gateway to function, making it ideal for users already invested in a smart home ecosystem.
Pros
- Zigbee 3.0 connectivity for reliable hub integration
- Built-in energy monitoring to track power usage
- 15A maximum load capacity for various appliances
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings
Cons
- Requires a separate Zigbee hub to operate
- No native Matter or Apple HomeKit support listed
- Limited to 1500W power capacity
Good fit if
- You already own a Zigbee hub like Home Assistant
- You want to monitor the energy consumption of plugged-in devices
- You use Alexa or Google Home for voice control
Skip if
- You need a plug that works without a separate hub
- You require Apple HomeKit or Matter compatibility
- You need to control devices via Wi-Fi only
Verdict: NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug A9Z is a solid choice for users with a Zigbee hub who need energy monitoring. It fits well into existing smart home setups that rely on central automation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | CMARS Zigbee Mini Smart Plug 2-Pack | SONOFF No-Neutral Zigbee Switch | SONOFF Zigbee Mini Smart Switch 2-Pack | Youngzuth Zigbee Single Smart Light Switch | SONOFF Zigbee Smart Light Switch | Minoston 800 Series Z-Wave Dimmer Plug | NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings | Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings | Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings | Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings |
| Hub Requirement | Hub Required | Hub Required | Zigbee 3.0 Gateway Hub Required | Zigbee Hub Required | Hub Required | Z-Wave Hub Required | Hub Required |
| Connectivity | Zigbee | Zigbee 3.0 | Zigbee 3.0 | Zigbee | Zigbee | Z-Wave | Zigbee 3.0 |
| Wiring Requirement | not specified | No Neutral Required | Neutral Required | No Neutral Required | No Neutral or with Neutral | No wiring required | not specified |
| Circuit Type | not specified | 2-Way | not specified | not specified | Not mentioned | not specified | not specified |
| Switch Function | not specified | not specified | not specified | On/Off Switch | On/Off Switch | Dimmer | not specified |
| Maximum Load | not specified | not specified | 10A | not specified | 120W | 200W Incandescent, 100W CFL/LED | 15A (1500W) |
| Dimensions | 1.8 × 1.8 × 1.1 inches | 1.55 × 1.25 × 0.72 inches | 0.66 × 1.3 × 1.56 inches | 5.06 × 3.3 × 1.28 inches | 4.72 × 2.91 × 1.55 inches | 2.52 × 1.18 × 1.46 inches | 2.17 × 2.2 × 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | not specified | not specified | 4 ounces | 1.1 pounds | 2.08 ounces | not specified |
| Color | white | White | not specified | white | White | White | White |
| Model | Makida | ZBMINIL2 | ZBMINIR2-2PACK | zigbee_SL01_WT | ZBM5-1C-120W | MP31ZD | A9Z |
| Size | not specified | ZBMINIL2 2-Pack | ef of 2 pk | zigbee_SL01_WT | not specified | 1Pack | not specified |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a hub for these CMARS alternatives?
Yes, every product in this list requires a hub. The CMARS Zigbee Mini, SONOFF switches, and NOUS plug all use Zigbee or Z-Wave protocols. They do not connect directly to Wi-Fi. You must have a compatible hub to control them through Alexa, Google Home, or SmartThings.
Which alternative is best for tight spaces?
The SONOFF ZBMINI Extreme is the most compact option. It measures 1.25 by 0.72 inches, which is smaller than the CMARS plug. This size makes it ideal for crowded electrical boxes. It also requires no neutral wire, offering more flexibility for installation in confined areas.
Can I use these without a neutral wire?
Several options support no-neutral wiring. The SONOFF ZBMINI Extreme and Youngzuth switch are designed for installations without a neutral wire. The standard SONOFF ZBMINIR2 requires a neutral wire. Check your wall box wiring before buying to ensure compatibility with your home’s electrical setup.
Do any of these support Z-Wave instead of Zigbee?
Yes, the Minoston 800 Series Dimmer Plug uses Z-Wave connectivity. All other listed products, including the CMARS and SONOFF models, use Zigbee. If you have a Z-Wave hub, the Minoston plug is the only choice here. It also includes dimming capabilities for lamps.
Is there an option with energy monitoring?
The NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug A9Z includes energy monitoring. This feature allows you to track power usage through your smart home app. The CMARS plug and most SONOFF switches do not list this capability in their specifications. Choose the NOUS plug if tracking consumption is a priority.
Which devices work with Home Assistant?
The SONOFF Zigbee Smart Switch ZBM5 and NOUS Zigbee Smart Plug both support Home Assistant. The Minoston Z-Wave plug also works with it. The CMARS plug and other SONOFF models list Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings but do not explicitly mention Home Assistant in their compatibility data.
How small is the SONOFF ZBMINIR2 compared to the CMARS plug?
The SONOFF ZBMINIR2 is 1.3 by 1.56 inches. The CMARS plug is 1.8 by 1.1 inches. The SONOFF unit is slightly narrower but taller. Both are designed to fit in standard outlets or wall boxes. The SONOFF model requires a neutral wire for operation.