SONOFF or Shelly? Smart Home Controllers Compared in 2026
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You are comparing the SONOFF vs shelly smart home controller options to decide which fits your setup. Both brands support Home Assistant for local automation. The main difference lies in their form factor and connectivity. SONOFF offers a USB dongle that acts as a Zigbee and Thread coordinator. Shelly provides a Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Matter relay switch with built-in power metering. One is a network hub; the other is an endpoint device.
Key differences
| Aspect | SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle | Shelly 1PM Gen4 16A Smart Relay |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Zigbee 3.0, Thread | Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, Bluetooth |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, openHAB | Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant, SmartThings |
| Device Type | USB Dongle (Coordinator) | Smart Relay Switch (Endpoint) |
| Power Monitoring | Not listed | Real-time power consumption tracking |
| Weight | 0.67 ounces | 0.92 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle if
- You need a dedicated Zigbee and Thread coordinator for Home Assistant or openHAB.
- You want to use a USB dongle with a flexible antenna for better signal range.
- You prefer firmware that can switch between coordinator, router, or Thread RCP modes.
Choose Shelly 1PM Gen4 16A Smart Relay if
- You want to control appliances directly with power monitoring capabilities.
- You require Wi-Fi and Matter connectivity without needing a separate hub.
- You need voice control integration with Amazon Alexa or Google Home.
Verdict: Choose the SONOFF dongle if you are building a Zigbee or Thread network backbone for platforms like Home Assistant. Choose the Shelly relay if you need to control individual devices with energy monitoring and broad voice assistant support. They serve different roles in a smart home system.
SONOFF vs Shelly Controller Comparison
connectivity protocols
SONOFF provides a dedicated Zigbee 3.0 and Thread USB dongle. It relies on a single protocol stack managed via the EFR32MG24 chip. Shelly offers a broader mix of Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, and Bluetooth in one device. This allows Shelly to connect to various networks without extra hardware. If you need Thread support specifically, SONOFF includes it natively. Shelly covers more ground with Wi-Fi and Matter built in. You choose SONOFF for a focused Zigbee coordinator or Shelly for multi-protocol versatility.
smart home compatibility
Both brands support Home Assistant, which is key for local control. SONOFF explicitly lists Zigbee2MQTT and openHAB as compatible platforms. This gives you flexibility if you use open-source automation tools. Shelly works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings alongside Home Assistant. Shelly also mentions its own Shelly Smart Control app for remote management. If you rely on Alexa or Google Home, Shelly has a wider native ecosystem. SONOFF is better if you prefer openHAB or pure MQTT setups.
hardware function
SONOFF is a USB dongle. It acts as a gateway or router for Zigbee devices. It does not control appliances directly. You need other devices to send commands. Shelly is a smart relay switch. It controls 16A loads directly. You can install it behind wall switches or sockets. It also tracks power usage for appliances. Shelly performs actual switching and monitoring. SONOFF only manages the network. You need Shelly if you want to turn lights on or off. SONOFF only expands your network range.
firmware flexibility
SONOFF allows you to flash firmware easily. You can switch between Zigbee coordinator, router, or Thread RCP modes. This is useful for advanced users who want to repurpose the hardware. Shelly uses its own firmware ecosystem. It supports Matter and Bluetooth gateway functions out of the box. You do not need to flash custom code. Shelly is easier for most users. SONOFF is better if you want to experiment with different network roles on the same stick.
physical design
SONOFF is a compact USB stick. It weighs 0.67 ounces. It includes a USB extension cable to reduce interference. This helps with placement near routers or hubs. Shelly is a small relay module. It weighs 0.92 ounces. Its dimensions are 1.65 by 1.46 by 0.63 inches. It fits behind wall plates. SONOFF sits on a desk or in a rack. Shelly hides in your walls. You pick SONOFF for desktop use. You pick Shelly for permanent wall installation.
Choose the right controller for your needs
Users needing a dedicated Zigbee coordinator
You should pick the SONOFF dongle if you need a dedicated Zigbee 3.0 and Thread coordinator. It uses the EFR32MG24 chip for stable automation. The 4.5dBi antenna ensures strong signal coverage. You can flash it as a coordinator or router. It fits well with Home Assistant and Zigbee2MQTT setups without adding extra network protocols.
Users wanting built-in energy monitoring
Choose the Shelly 1PM Gen4 if you need to track power usage. This relay switch provides precise real-time energy monitoring for appliances. It connects via Wi-Fi and Matter, so you do not need a separate hub. You can control devices remotely and view consumption data directly in the app to manage efficiency.
Users seeking multi-protocol smart switches
The Shelly 1PM Gen4 supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, and Bluetooth. This versatility allows you to integrate it with Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant. It functions as a Bluetooth gateway and a smart switch. You get a compact device that fits behind wall switches and offers remote control without requiring a central hub.
The products compared
SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle
Best for: Home Assistant users needing Thread and Zigbee
- Connectivity
- Zigbee 3.0, Thread
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, openHAB
- Network Interface
- USB
- Weight
- 0.67 ounces
View on Amazon: SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Affiliate link
This USB stick uses the EFR32MG24 chip for stable Zigbee 3.0 and Thread coordination. It features an optimized 4.5dBi antenna for wider coverage and connects to Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, and openHAB. The compact design includes a USB extension cable to reduce interference. You get flexible firmware modes for coordinator, router, or Thread RCP. It suits users building a robust smart home network with diverse devices.
Pros
- Powered by the EFR32MG24 chip for faster automation processing
- Supports Zigbee 3.0 and Thread protocols
- Compatible with Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, and openHAB
- Optimized 4.5dBi antenna gain for stronger signal strength
Cons
- Requires separate software like Home Assistant for full functionality
- Firmware flashing requires additional tools or add-ons
- No built-in display or status indicators mentioned
Good fit if
- You use Home Assistant or openHAB as your hub
- You need Thread support alongside Zigbee
- You want to minimize electromagnetic interference with a USB extension
Skip if
- You need a plug-and-play solution without extra software
- You require native app control without a hub
- You prefer a device with a physical display
Verdict: SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus MG24 fits users who build custom smart home hubs using Home Assistant or openHAB and need reliable Thread integration. It is ideal for those prioritizing signal stability and flexible firmware modes over plug-and-play simplicity.
Shelly 1PM Gen4 16A Smart Relay
Best for: Energy monitoring and Matter retrofitting
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, Bluetooth
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant
- Dimensions
- 0.63 × 1.65 × 1.46 inches
- Weight
- 0.92 ounces
View on Amazon: Shelly 1PM Gen4 16A Smart Relay Affiliate link
The Shelly 1PM Gen4 is a 1-channel 16A smart relay switch with Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, and Bluetooth connectivity. It offers real-time power monitoring for appliances and works with Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant. The compact unit fits behind most wall switches. This 2-pack provides remote control and automation without a hub. It suits users retrofitting existing wiring for energy tracking and smart control.
Pros
- Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Real-time power monitoring for energy tracking
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant
- Compact size fits behind wall switches
Cons
- Non-UL certified version listed in data
- No physical remote included
- Requires wiring behind switch or socket
Good fit if
- You want to monitor appliance energy usage
- You need Matter and Zigbee support
- You are retrofitting existing wall switches
Skip if
- You require UL certification
- You need a physical remote control
- You prefer a hub-based system only
Verdict: Shelly 1PM Gen4 Smart Relay is a versatile retrofit switch for users needing Matter and Zigbee support. It fits best in homes where you want to track energy use and control devices via existing wiring.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle | Shelly 1PM Gen4 16A Smart Relay |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Zigbee 3.0, Thread | Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, Bluetooth |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, openHAB | Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant |
| Network Interface | USB | not stated |
| Weight | 0.67 ounces | 0.92 ounces |
| Dimensions | not stated | 0.63 × 1.65 × 1.46 inches |
| Model | Dongle-PMG24 | 3800238070717 |
| Size | not stated | Non UL |
Frequently asked questions
Does SONOFF support Thread for smart home automation?
Yes, the SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus MG24 supports Thread integration. It is designed for users who build custom hubs using Home Assistant or openHAB. The device provides reliable Thread connectivity for your smart home network. This makes it suitable for those prioritizing signal stability and flexible firmware options over simple plug-and-play setups.
Can Shelly devices monitor energy usage?
Yes, the Shelly 1PM Gen4 Smart Relay includes energy monitoring capabilities. It allows you to track power consumption for connected devices. This feature is useful for homes where you want detailed usage data alongside standard control. The device supports Matter and Zigbee, making it a versatile retrofit switch for existing wiring.
Which brand is better for Home Assistant users?
SONOFF is ideal for Home Assistant users needing a dedicated coordinator. The Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus MG24 fits users building custom hubs. It offers reliable Thread integration and stable signal coverage. If you prioritize local automation with specific protocol management, this dongle is a strong choice for your Home Assistant setup.
Does Shelly support Matter protocol?
Yes, the Shelly 1PM Gen4 Smart Relay supports the Matter protocol. It also includes Zigbee and Wi-Fi connectivity. This combination allows for versatile control via existing wiring. The device is designed for retrofitting, making it suitable for users who want modern smart home standards without replacing their entire infrastructure.
What is the difference between the SONOFF dongle and Shelly relay?
The SONOFF product is a USB dongle acting as a Zigbee coordinator. It focuses on protocol management for custom hubs. The Shelly product is a smart relay switch for retrofitting. It combines control with energy monitoring. One is a network component, while the other is a device controller with broader connectivity options like Matter and Bluetooth.
Is the SONOFF dongle compatible with openHAB?
Yes, the SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus MG24 is compatible with openHAB. It is designed for users building custom smart home hubs. The device supports Thread integration and offers flexible firmware modes. It is ideal for those who need reliable signal stability and do not require a plug-and-play solution.
What connectivity options does the Shelly 1PM Gen4 have?
The Shelly 1PM Gen4 supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, and Bluetooth. This mix allows for versatile integration into various smart home ecosystems. It functions as a retrofit switch that tracks energy use. The device fits homes where you want to control devices via existing wiring while maintaining modern protocol support.