Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart or Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch? Which Shelly Model to Buy
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When you compare shelly 1pm mini gen4 smart vs 1l relay switch, you are choosing between two distinct automation tools. Both devices connect directly to your Wi-Fi network without needing a separate hub. They both allow you to control lights or appliances remotely via smartphone. The main difference lies in their connectivity options and energy tracking capabilities. The 1L focuses on simple relay switching with no neutral wire. The 1PM Mini Gen4 adds Zigbee and Matter support along with real-time power monitoring for smarter energy management.
Key differences
| Aspect | Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch | Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart Relay Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter |
| Wiring Requirement | No Neutral Required | Not listed |
| Power Monitoring | Not listed | Real-time and historical data |
| Dimensions | 1.42 x 1.61 x 0.67 inches | 1.34 x 1.14 x 0.63 inches |
| Weight | 1.41 ounces | 0.71 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch if
- You need a relay switch that works without a neutral wire in your wall box.
- You want to retrofit an existing light switch with minimal wiring changes.
- You only require Wi-Fi connectivity and simple on/off control.
Choose Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart Relay Switch if
- You want to monitor real-time power consumption and historical usage data.
- You need compatibility with Matter or Zigbee ecosystems.
- You prefer a smaller, lighter device for tight spaces.
Verdict: Choose the Shelly 1L if your priority is easy installation in standard wall boxes without a neutral wire. Select the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 if you need advanced connectivity via Matter and Zigbee, or if tracking energy usage is important for your setup.
Connectivity and Smart Features
connectivity options
The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 offers a broader range of connection protocols. It supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter. This allows you to integrate the device into various smart home ecosystems without needing separate bridges for each protocol. The Shelly 1L relies solely on Wi-Fi. While this is sufficient for many users, it lacks the native Zigbee and Matter support found in the Mini Gen4. If you use a hub-based system or want future-proofing with Matter, the Mini Gen4 is the stronger choice. The 1L is simpler but less versatile in terms of network integration.
power monitoring
Power tracking is a key differentiator between these two devices. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 includes precise power monitoring capabilities. You can view real-time and historical data to track energy usage for appliances up to 8A. This helps you identify inefficient devices and manage consumption. The Shelly 1L does not list any power monitoring features in its specifications. It functions as a basic relay switch. If you need to know how much electricity a light or appliance is drawing, the Mini Gen4 provides that data. The 1L offers no such insight.
wiring requirements
Installation wiring differs significantly between the two models. The Shelly 1L is designed for no-neutral installations. It requires only a live wire, making it ideal for retrofitting behind existing wall switches where a neutral wire is absent. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 specifications do not explicitly state no-neutral capability. It is generally intended for installation behind sockets or inside appliance casings where wiring may differ. If you are upgrading a standard wall switch without a neutral wire, the 1L is the practical solution. The Mini Gen4 may require a neutral connection depending on the setup.
size and form factor
Physical dimensions affect where you can place these devices. The Shelly 1L measures 1.42 inches in width, 1.61 inches in height, and 0.67 inches in length. It weighs 1.41 ounces. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 is more compact, measuring 1.34 inches wide, 1.14 inches high, and 0.63 inches long. It weighs only 0.71 ounces. The Mini Gen4 is smaller and lighter, which helps when fitting into tight spaces like small switch boxes or appliance interiors. The 1L is slightly bulkier, which might be a constraint in very cramped electrical boxes.
memory and processor
Internal hardware specs influence performance and local automation. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 features an upgraded processor and 8 MB of memory. This ensures fast, efficient performance and supports more complex local scenes and automations. The Shelly 1L specifications do not list processor speed or memory capacity. It functions as a standard relay switch without highlighted advanced local processing capabilities. For users who rely on local execution of commands to ensure reliability during internet outages, the Mini Gen4’s hardware specs suggest better performance. The 1L lacks this detailed technical transparency.
smart home compatibility
Both devices work with major voice assistants and platforms. The Shelly 1L is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. It also supports Android and iOS control via Wi-Fi. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 is compatible with Matter, which is a universal standard for smart home devices. It also supports Wi-Fi and Zigbee. While the 1L works with Alexa and Google, the Mini Gen4’s Matter support offers broader interoperability with other brands and systems. If you want seamless integration with a wide range of devices, the Mini Gen4 has the advantage. The 1L is limited to standard Wi-Fi based assistants.
Choose your Shelly relay switch
You need simple no-neutral light control
The Shelly 1L supports 110-230V AC and requires no neutral wire. This allows you to retrofit existing wall switches without new wiring. It connects directly to your Wi-Fi router. The device is compatible with Alexa and Google Home. It fits behind standard switches in tight spaces. This makes it ideal for basic lighting automation.
You want Matter and Zigbee support
The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter. This broad connectivity lets you integrate with various ecosystems without extra hubs. It features an upgraded processor and 8 MB memory for faster performance. You can control appliances remotely. This model is best if you need flexible protocol support for a modern smart home setup.
You need real-time power monitoring
The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 includes precise power monitoring. It tracks real-time and historical energy data for appliances up to 8A. You can view this data in the Shelly Smart Control App. This helps you manage energy use and spot inefficient devices. The standard Shelly 1L lacks this monitoring feature. Choose this for detailed energy insights.
The products compared
Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch
Best for: Single-light retrofitting without neutral wires
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Hub Requirement
- No Hub Required
- Wiring Requirement
- No Neutral Required
- Switch Function
- Relay Switch
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Dimensions
- 0.67 × 1.42 × 1.61 inches
View on Amazon: Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch Affiliate link
The Shelly 1L is a compact relay switch designed for retrofitting existing wall switches without needing a neutral wire. It connects via Wi-Fi directly to your router, requiring no separate hub. The unit measures 1.42 by 1.61 by 0.67 inches and supports 110-230V AC loads. It works with Alexa and Google Home for voice control. This model suits users with limited switch box space who want to upgrade lighting without new wiring.
Pros
- No neutral wire required for installation
- No hub needed, connects directly to Wi-Fi
- Compact size fits behind standard wall switches
- Supports 110-230V AC voltage range
Cons
- Only supports one channel of control
- No Zigbee or Matter connectivity listed
- Maximum load current limited to 8A
Good fit if
- You have no neutral wire in your switch box
- You want to retrofit existing wall switches quickly
- You use Alexa or Google Home for voice control
Skip if
- You need to control multiple circuits from one device
- You require Matter or Zigbee protocol support
- You need a display on the switch itself
Verdict: Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch is a practical solution for upgrading single-light circuits in tight spaces. It fits buyers who prioritize easy retrofitting over multi-channel control or advanced protocol support.
Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart Relay Switch
Best for: Energy monitoring in tight spaces
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, SmartThings, Google Home, Matter
- Hub Requirement
- No Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Zigbee
- Switch Function
- Smart Switch
- Maximum Load
- 8A
- Dimensions
- 0.63 × 1.34 × 1.14 inches
View on Amazon: Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart Relay Switch Affiliate link
The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 is a compact smart switch supporting Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter. It handles loads up to 8A and includes precise power monitoring. The device requires no hub and fits behind sockets. It offers real-time data tracking and remote control via the Shelly app. This model suits users who need energy insights and multi-protocol compatibility in a small form factor.
Pros
- Supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter protocols
- Includes precise real-time power monitoring
- No hub required for setup
- Compact size fits behind sockets
Cons
- Maximum load limited to 8A
- Single-channel operation only
- No neutral wire mentioned for installation
Good fit if
- You need energy monitoring for appliances
- You want Matter and Zigbee support
- You have tight space behind a socket
Skip if
- You require more than 8A capacity
- You need multi-channel control
- You prefer a device with a display
Verdict: Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart Switch is ideal for users needing energy tracking and Matter compatibility in a small footprint. It fits well behind sockets for single appliance control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Shelly 1L No-Neutral Relay Switch | Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 Smart Relay Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, SmartThings, Google Home, Matter |
| Hub Requirement | No Hub Required | No Hub Required |
| Connectivity | not stated | Wi-Fi, Zigbee |
| Wiring Requirement | No Neutral Required | not stated |
| Switch Function | Relay Switch | Smart Switch |
| Maximum Load | not stated | 8A |
| Dimensions | 0.67 × 1.42 × 1.61 inches | 0.63 × 1.34 × 1.14 inches |
| Weight | 1.41 ounces | 0.71 ounces |
| Model | SHELLY 1L | 3800238070809 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Shelly 1L without a neutral wire?
Yes, the Shelly 1L is designed for no-neutral installations. You can retrofit it into existing single-light circuits where a neutral wire is absent. This makes it a practical solution for upgrading older wall switches without requiring new wiring or electrical modifications.
Does the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 require a hub?
No, the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 does not require a separate hub. It connects directly to your Wi-Fi network for remote control. This setup allows you to manage your appliances or lights via smartphone without adding extra hardware to your smart home ecosystem.
Which Shelly device is smaller in size?
The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 is the smaller unit. It measures 1.34 inches in width and 1.14 inches in height. In comparison, the Shelly 1L is slightly larger at 1.42 inches wide and 1.61 inches high. The Mini Gen4 fits well in tight spaces behind sockets.
Is the Shelly 1L compatible with Alexa and Google Home?
Yes, the Shelly 1L works with both Alexa and Google Home. You can control your lights using voice commands through these platforms. This compatibility ensures you can integrate the switch into your existing smart home routine without needing additional bridges or complex configurations.
Can I monitor energy usage with the Shelly 1L?
The provided data does not list energy monitoring as a feature for the Shelly 1L. It is described as a practical solution for retrofitting single-light circuits. If energy tracking is essential for your project, you may need to consider other models that explicitly include this capability.
What is the weight difference between the two Shelly switches?
The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 weighs 0.71 ounces, while the Shelly 1L weighs 1.41 ounces. The Mini Gen4 is significantly lighter due to its compact design. This difference matters if you are mounting the device in a location where weight distribution is a concern.
Does the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 support Zigbee?
Yes, the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 supports Zigbee connectivity. This allows you to integrate the device into ecosystems that use Zigbee protocols. It offers flexibility for users who want to combine Wi-Fi devices with other Zigbee-compatible smart home components for a unified network.