Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay or Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay? Which Shelly Model to Buy
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When you compare the shelly 2pm gen4 2 channel relay vs plus 1 ul relay, you are choosing between a dual-channel power meter and a single-channel dry-contact relay. Both devices connect via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without a hub. They support major voice assistants and smart home platforms. The main difference lies in their channel count and certification. The Gen4 model offers two channels with energy monitoring and Matter support. The Plus 1 UL provides one channel with UL certification and potential-free outputs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay | Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 channels | 1 channel |
| Certification | Non UL | UL certified |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Power Monitoring | Built-in power metering | Not listed |
| Output Type | Standard relay | Dry contacts (potential-free) |
| Max Load | 16A per channel | 15A |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay if
- You need to control two separate circuits with one device.
- You want to monitor energy consumption for each load.
- You require Zigbee or Matter connectivity for your smart home.
Choose Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay Switch if
- You need UL certification for safety compliance.
- You are controlling devices like garage doors or irrigation that require potential-free outputs.
- You only need to automate a single light or appliance circuit.
Verdict: Choose the Shelly 2PM Gen4 if you need dual-channel control, energy monitoring, or broader protocol support like Zigbee and Matter. Select the Shelly Plus 1 UL if you require UL certification or potential-free dry contacts for specialized loads like garage doors. Both devices offer reliable Wi-Fi control without a hub.
Shelly 2PM Gen4 vs Plus 1 UL
Channel count
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 offers two independent channels, allowing you to control two separate loads on a single phase with one device. You can monitor energy consumption for each channel individually. The Shelly Plus 1 UL provides only one channel. It is designed for single-load applications like a garage door or irrigation system. If you need to manage two circuits, the 2PM Gen4 consolidates them. For a single switch replacement, the Plus 1 UL is sufficient.
Certification
The Shelly Plus 1 UL carries UL certification, which indicates it meets specific safety standards for electrical devices in certain markets. The Shelly 2PM Gen4 is listed as Non UL in its specifications. If you are in a region requiring UL-listed equipment for wall switch replacements, the Plus 1 UL is the compliant choice. The 2PM Gen4 lacks this specific certification marking in the provided data. Safety standards vary by location, so verify local requirements before installation.
Power metering
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 includes built-in power metering for both channels. You can track energy consumption for each connected appliance separately through the Shelly Smart Control app. This helps you monitor efficiency and identify high-usage devices. The Shelly Plus 1 UL does not mention power metering capabilities in its features or specs. It functions as a standard relay switch without energy tracking. If monitoring electricity usage is important to your setup, the 2PM Gen4 provides this data.
Connectivity protocols
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Bluetooth. It also acts as a Bluetooth gateway. This allows you to connect Zigbee devices to your network without a separate hub. The Shelly Plus 1 UL supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, functioning as a Bluetooth gateway as well. It does not list Zigbee support. If you plan to integrate Zigbee sensors or devices into your smart home, the 2PM Gen4 offers broader protocol compatibility. Both connect directly to Wi-Fi without a hub.
Wiring flexibility
The Shelly Plus 1 UL features potential-free outputs, also known as dry contacts. This provides high flexibility in voltage support and allows it to control various appliances, including garage doors and doorbells, without sharing a common voltage reference. The Shelly 2PM Gen4 is described as a smart relay switch with standard relay functionality. It does not mention dry contacts. For specialized wiring scenarios requiring isolation, the Plus 1 UL offers this specific feature. Standard lighting control works with either device.
Choose the right Shelly relay for your needs
Users needing dual control and energy tracking
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 provides two independent channels, each handling up to 16A. You can monitor power consumption for each load separately. This device supports Matter, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi. It functions as a Bluetooth gateway. You get precise control over two circuits without needing a separate hub for basic Wi-Fi operations.
Users requiring certified safety and dry contacts
The Shelly Plus 1 UL is UL-certified, ensuring compliance with safety standards. It features potential-free dry contacts, offering flexibility for various voltage applications. This single-channel relay supports up to 15A. You benefit from enhanced security with MQTT and TLS support. The device operates via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without a hub.
Users automating garage doors or irrigation systems
The dry contacts on the Shelly Plus 1 UL allow you to control devices like garage doors and irrigation systems safely. The 15A load capacity handles standard electrical circuits. You can install this compact unit behind wall switches. It connects via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. You get remote control and automation scenes through the app.
The products compared
Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay
Best for: Dual-circuit control with energy monitoring
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit
- Hub Requirement
- No Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, Bluetooth
- Maximum Load
- 16A per channel
- Dimensions
- 0.63 × 1.65 × 1.46 inches
- Weight
- 0.92 ounces
View on Amazon: Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay Affiliate link
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 is a 2-channel smart relay switch with Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter support. It handles up to 16A per channel and includes built-in power metering for individual energy tracking. This device requires no hub and works with major smart home platforms. It suits users who need to control two separate circuits, such as lights or motorized curtains, while monitoring power usage remotely via the app.
Pros
- Dual channels handle up to 16A each
- Built-in power metering tracks energy use
- Supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter
- No hub required for setup
Cons
- Lacks UL certification for safety compliance
- Only includes one relay unit
- Physical dimensions are bulkier than single-channel models
Good fit if
- You need to control two separate circuits
- You want to monitor energy consumption per channel
- You use Matter or Zigbee smart home systems
Skip if
- You require UL-listed components for safety
- You only need to control a single switch
- You prefer a smaller footprint device
Verdict: Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay offers dual-channel control and power monitoring for complex setups. It fits users managing multiple loads who need Matter compatibility and do not require UL certification.
Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay Switch
Best for: Single-circuit automation with dry contact needs
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, SmartThings, Google Home
- Hub Requirement
- No Hub Required
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Switch Function
- Relay Switch
- Maximum Load
- 15A
- Dimensions
- 1.65 × 1.46 × 0.63 inches
View on Amazon: Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay Switch Affiliate link
The Shelly Plus 1 UL is a single-channel smart relay switch designed for straightforward automation tasks. It supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity without requiring a separate hub. The unit handles up to 15A of load and features potential-free dry contacts for flexible voltage support. It includes a Bluetooth gateway function and acts as a Wi-Fi repeater. This compact device fits behind standard wall switches for easy retrofitting.
Pros
- UL-certified safety rating for residential use
- Potential-free dry contacts for flexible wiring
- No hub required for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth operation
- Built-in Bluetooth gateway and Wi-Fi repeater capabilities
- Compact dimensions fit behind standard wall plates
Cons
- Only one channel, limiting multi-load control
- Lacks energy monitoring compared to dual-channel models
- No Zigbee or Matter support listed in specs
Good fit if
- You need a UL-certified relay for strict safety standards
- You want to automate a single circuit or appliance
- You require dry contacts for low-voltage switching
Skip if
- You need to control two independent loads simultaneously
- You require real-time energy usage tracking
- You rely exclusively on Zigbee or Matter ecosystems
Verdict: The Shelly Plus 1 UL 1-Channel Smart Relay is a safe, single-circuit solution for users prioritizing UL certification and dry contact flexibility. It suits those automating individual appliances rather than complex multi-zone setups.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Shelly 2PM Gen4 2-Channel Relay | Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit | Alexa, SmartThings, Google Home |
| Hub Requirement | No Hub Required | No Hub Required |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Switch Function | not stated | Relay Switch |
| Maximum Load | 16A per channel | 15A |
| Dimensions | 0.63 × 1.65 × 1.46 inches | 1.65 × 1.46 × 0.63 inches |
| Weight | 0.92 ounces | 0.96 ounces |
| Size | Non UL | 1 Pack |
| Color | Black | Blue |
| Model | 3800238070748 | 3800235265529 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Shelly 2PM Gen4 support Zigbee?
Yes, the Shelly 2PM Gen4 includes Zigbee connectivity. This allows you to integrate it into a mesh network alongside other Zigbee devices. You gain reliable local control and automation options without relying solely on Wi-Fi signals for every command.
Can I use the Shelly Plus 1 UL without a hub?
You can use the Shelly Plus 1 UL without a hub. It connects directly via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. This setup simplifies installation for single-circuit automation tasks, letting you control appliances individually without additional hardware requirements.
Which model is better for monitoring energy usage?
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 is better for energy monitoring. It provides power tracking for each of its two channels. You can view consumption data for separate loads on a single phase. The Plus 1 UL focuses on dry contact control and does not offer this specific metering feature.
Does the Shelly Plus 1 UL have UL certification?
Yes, the Shelly Plus 1 UL Relay Switch carries UL certification. This makes it a safe choice for users prioritizing safety standards in their electrical setups. It is designed for single-circuit automation where certified components are required for compliance.
What are the dimensions of the Shelly 2PM Gen4?
The Shelly 2PM Gen4 measures 1.65 inches in width, 1.46 inches in height, and 0.63 inches in length. It weighs 0.92 ounces. These compact dimensions allow it to fit into standard electrical boxes while housing two independent channels for load control.
Is the Shelly 2PM Gen4 UL certified?
No, the Shelly 2PM Gen4 is not UL certified. Its specifications list it as non-UL. You should choose this model if you prioritize dual-channel control and energy monitoring over formal UL certification. The Plus 1 UL is the alternative for certified installations.
Can the Shelly Plus 1 UL handle dry contact needs?
Yes, the Shelly Plus 1 UL is designed for dry contact flexibility. It suits users automating individual appliances that require this type of switching. This feature provides safe integration with various devices that need a simple open or closed circuit signal.