ZOOZ Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller vs ZOOZ Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry: Spec Comparison
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When comparing the zooz battery powered z wave scene controller vs z wave multirelay 3, you are looking at two distinct Z-Wave devices. Both use the 800 series chip for reliable connectivity. The main difference lies in their function. One is a battery-powered remote for triggering scenes. The other is a wired controller for managing high-power loads like garage doors. Choose based on whether you need wireless input or heavy-duty output.
Key differences
| Aspect | Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller | Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Battery | 5V USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC |
| Primary Function | Remote scene control | 3 dry contact relays |
| Installation | Wire-free, magnetic base | Wall-mount, requires wiring |
| Hub Compatibility | Z-Box, HomeSeer, Hubitat, Home Assistant | Z-Box, Hubitat, Home Assistant, SmartThings (custom driver) |
| Device Model | ZEN34 800LR | ZEN16 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller if
- You want a wireless switch for easy placement
- You need to trigger scenes from a distance
- You prefer a battery-powered device with no wiring
Choose Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller if
- You need to control garage doors or sprinklers
- You want to manage multiple high-power loads
- You require a wired solution with power backup
Verdict: The ZEN34 suits you if you need flexible, wire-free control for lighting or scenes. The ZEN16 is the right choice for automating heavy-duty appliances like garage doors or irrigation. Your decision depends on whether you need an input remote or a heavy-duty output controller.
Zooz Scene Controller vs MultiRelay Specs
Power Source
The Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller runs on batteries, allowing you to place it anywhere without wiring. It features a magnetic base for flexible installation on any flat surface or in a standard switch box. In contrast, the Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 requires continuous power. You must connect it to a 5V USB-C source or a 12-24 V AC/DC power supply. This wired requirement limits its placement to areas near a power outlet or hardwired source. The battery option offers greater flexibility for remote control locations, while the MultiRelay needs a stable power connection to function.
Primary Function
The Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller acts as a remote control. You use its paddles to trigger scenes or turn other smart home devices on and off. It does not switch high-power loads directly. The Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 is a controller with three independent dry contact relays. You can use it to automate devices like garage doors, sprinklers, or gas fireplaces. It handles higher loads, up to 20 A at 1-240 V. The MultiRelay executes actions on heavy-duty equipment, while the Scene Controller sends commands to other devices.
Smart Home Compatibility
Both devices require an open Z-Wave hub and do not work with basic systems. The Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller is explicitly supported by Z-Box Hub, HomeSeer, Hubitat, and Home Assistant. The guide warns that buying this for unsupported hubs will result in incorrect recognition. The Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 works best with the Z-Box Hub, Hubitat, and Home Assistant. It requires a custom edge driver for SmartThings. Partial control is available on Ring, Vivint, and Wink, but you lose individual relay settings. The Scene Controller has a clearer list of fully compatible platforms.
Connectivity Range
Both devices feature the latest 800 series Z-Wave chip and support Z-Wave Long Range. This technology provides faster communication and S2 authenticated security. If your hub supports Z-Wave Long Range, you can achieve reliable connectivity up to 1300 feet. This extended range benefits both the remote controller and the relay module equally. Neither device has a specified advantage in wireless technology or security protocols. They both offer ultra-fast signal performance and excellent wireless coverage when paired with a compatible hub.
Installation Requirements
The Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller requires no electrician. You can stick it to a flat surface or install it in a regular switch box using its magnetic base. The Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 requires more effort. You must connect jumper wires (not included) to its terminals. You must also provide a separate 5V power adapter or USB cable, which are not included. The MultiRelay is wall-mount ready but needs hardwiring for power and load connections. The Scene Controller is the simpler option for quick, wire-free setup.
Certification
The Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 is ETL certified and conforms with North American safety standards. This certification applies to its electrical components and relay functions. The data for the Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller does not mention specific safety certifications like ETL. Both devices are manufactured by Zooz and use Z-Wave technology. However, only the MultiRelay explicitly lists its safety compliance in the provided specifications. This makes the MultiRelay the clearer choice if verified safety certification is a priority for your installation.
Choose Your Zooz Device
Users needing remote control placement
The ZEN34 is battery-powered and features a magnetic base. You can mount it on any flat surface or in a standard switch box without wiring. This flexibility allows you to place the controller exactly where you need it, acting as a wireless remote for scenes and devices.
Users automating high-power appliances
The ZEN16 MultiRelay controls three independent dry contact relays. It handles devices up to 20 A and 240 V, such as garage doors, sprinklers, or gas fireplaces. You can power it via USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC. It requires a Z-Wave hub for automation and manual switch integration.
Users wanting manual override capability
The ZEN16 supports an optional wall switch for manual on/off control. This dry contact input lets you operate connected devices physically. The ZEN34 lacks this feature, relying solely on its paddle buttons for input. Choose the MultiRelay if you need a physical backup for automation.
The products compared
Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller
Best for: controlling multiple dry contact devices independently
- Connectivity
- Z-Wave, Z-Wave Long Range
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Hubitat, Home Assistant, SmartThings
- Power Source
- 5V USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC
- Hub Requirement
- Hub Required
- Application
- Irrigation, Air Conditioners
- Voltage
- 24V
View on Amazon: Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller Affiliate link
The Zooz ZEN16 is a Z-Wave Long Range relay module designed for controlling dry contact devices like garage doors or sprinklers. It features three independent relays and supports S2 security with SmartStart. You need a compatible hub for full automation. It connects via USB-C or 12-24V AC/DC power. This device suits users who need precise, independent control of multiple low-voltage loads through a Z-Wave network.
Pros
- Three independent dry contact relays for separate control
- Z-Wave Long Range support for extended coverage
- S2 security and SmartStart technology for secure pairing
- Remembers status after power failure
Cons
- Requires a compatible Z-Wave hub for operation
- No direct smart speaker control without a hub
- Partial functionality with some alarm panels like Ring or Vivint
Good fit if
- You need to control three separate dry contact devices
- You have a Z-Wave hub that supports Long Range
- You want to automate garage doors or irrigation systems
Skip if
- You do not have a Z-Wave hub
- You need direct voice control without a hub
- You require full individual relay control on Ring or Vivint
Verdict: Zooz ZEN16 MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact is a robust solution for users who need independent control of multiple dry contact loads via Z-Wave Long Range. It fits those with compatible hubs who want to automate garage doors or sprinklers with precise, secure management.
Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller
Best for: Wire-free scene control with Z-Wave Long Range
- Connectivity
- Z-Wave, Z-Wave Long Range
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Z-Box, HomeSeer, Hubitat, Home Assistant
- Power Source
- Battery
- Hub Requirement
- Hub Required
View on Amazon: Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller Affiliate link
This is a battery-powered Z-Wave scene controller with Z-Wave Long Range support. It uses a magnetic base for wire-free installation on any flat surface or in a standard switch box. You need a compatible hub like Z-Box, HomeSeer, Hubitat, or Home Assistant to program scenes. The 800 series chip provides S2 security and SmartStart pairing. It suits users who want flexible placement without wiring.
Pros
- Battery powered for wire-free mounting
- Z-Wave Long Range connectivity up to 1300 feet
- Magnetic base for flexible installation
- S2 authenticated security
Cons
- Requires a specific Z-Wave hub, not a smart speaker
- Limited hub compatibility excludes many basic systems
- No display or physical status indicators mentioned
Good fit if
- You need a switch without wiring
- You use Home Assistant or Hubitat
- You want Z-Wave Long Range coverage
Skip if
- You only have a basic Z-Wave hub
- You want a smart speaker as a hub
- You need hardwired power
Verdict: Zooz ZEN34 Battery Scene Controller fits users who need flexible, battery-powered control with long-range Z-Wave connectivity and use compatible hubs like Home Assistant or Hubitat.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller | Zooz Battery-Powered Z-Wave Scene Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Z-Wave, Z-Wave Long Range | Z-Wave, Z-Wave Long Range |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Hubitat, Home Assistant, SmartThings | Z-Box, HomeSeer, Hubitat, Home Assistant |
| Power Source | 5V USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC | Battery |
| Hub Requirement | Hub Required | Hub Required |
| Application | Irrigation, Air Conditioners | not stated |
| Voltage | 24V | not stated |
| Size | 4" x 2.5" x 1.5" | not stated |
| Color | Black | White |
| Model | ZEN16 | ZEN34 800LR |
Frequently asked questions
Can the ZOOZ MultiRelay 3 control sprinklers?
Yes, the ZOOZ ZEN16 MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller is suitable for irrigation systems. Its attributes list irrigation as a primary application. It handles 24V loads, making it a practical choice for managing multiple sprinkler zones independently via your Z-Wave hub.
Does the ZOOZ scene controller need wiring?
No, the ZOOZ ZEN34 Battery Scene Controller operates without hardwiring. It runs on batteries, allowing you to place it anywhere without connecting to power lines. This battery-powered design supports flexible installation for remote control needs in your smart home setup.
What is the size of the ZOOZ MultiRelay?
The ZOOZ ZEN16 MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller measures 4 inches by 2.5 inches by 1.5 inches. This compact form factor helps it fit into standard electrical boxes or panels. The black color helps it blend into most installation environments discreetly.
Is a hub required for both ZOOZ devices?
Yes, both devices require a compatible Z-Wave hub to function. The ZEN16 MultiRelay and the ZEN34 Scene Controller both list hub requirement as mandatory. You cannot use these devices directly with a phone; a central controller is needed to manage their Z-Wave signals.
Can I use the scene controller for air conditioning?
The ZOOZ ZEN34 is a scene controller, not a load controller. It does not directly switch power to appliances like air conditioners. The ZEN16 MultiRelay is the device listed for air conditioner applications, as it handles the 24V dry contact loads required for such systems.
What model number identifies the battery scene controller?
The battery-powered unit is the ZOOZ ZEN34 800LR. This model number identifies the specific Z-Wave Scene Controller that runs on batteries. It features Z-Wave Long Range connectivity, distinguishing it from older standard Z-Wave devices in the ZOOZ lineup for your smart home.