ZOOZ Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This zooz z wave long range multirelay review covers the ZEN16, a specialized controller for automating high-power devices. It features three independent dry contact relays, allowing you to manage separate loads like garage doors or sprinklers from a single unit. The device supports Z-Wave and Z-Wave Long Range for reliable wireless communication. It requires a compatible Z-Wave hub for operation, as smart speakers cannot control it directly. The unit measures 4 by 2.5 by 1.5 inches and powers via USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC. This setup is designed for users who need precise, individual control over multiple electrical circuits without complex wiring.
What stands out
- Three independent dry contact relays for separate device control
- Z-Wave Long Range compatibility for extended wireless coverage
- S2 security and SmartStart technology for secure pairing
- Supports 1-240 V devices up to 20 A
- Remembers and restores on/off status after power failure
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this device if you need to automate multiple high-power appliances independently. It suits users with Hubitat, Home Assistant, or SmartThings hubs who want granular control over garage doors, sprinklers, or gas fireplaces. The Z-Wave Long Range support is ideal for larger homes where signal strength matters. If you require a simple, all-in-one solution for three separate circuits without buying individual relays, this controller fits your setup well. It is also good for DIY installers who prefer USB-C or low-voltage DC power sources.
Who should skip it
Skip this product if you plan to use a standard smart speaker like Amazon Alexa or Google Home as your primary controller, as it requires a dedicated Z-Wave hub. It is not suitable for users with Ring, Vivint, or Alarm.com panels if you need full individual relay control, as these systems only offer partial R1 control. You should also avoid this if you expect it to work with Wink, which lacks advanced feature support. Additionally, do not use this if you need to power the device with 110 V, as it requires 5V USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC input.
Verdict: The ZEN16 is a robust, spec-driven solution for automating multiple dry contact devices with independent control. Its Z-Wave Long Range support and S2 security make it a reliable choice for advanced smart home enthusiasts.
Key specs explained for ZEN16
Connectivity: Z-Wave, Z-Wave Long Range
This device uses Z-Wave mesh networking and supports Long Range for extended coverage. You benefit from reliable communication without needing Wi-Fi. Compare this to Wi-Fi devices that congest your network. Long Range helps if your hub is far away, ensuring commands reach your garage door or sprinklers without delay. It requires a compatible Z-Wave hub to function.
Power Source: 5V USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC
You can power the unit via a standard USB-C cable or a 12-24V AC/DC source. This flexibility suits various installations. Avoid using standard phone chargers, as the manual warns against them. Compare this to hardwired thermostats that draw power from HVAC lines. This option allows placement where standard outlets are unavailable, provided you have the correct power supply.
Relay Configuration: 3 Dry Contact Relays
The unit controls three separate loads independently using dry contacts. This means it switches circuits without providing voltage itself. You can manage three garage doors, sprinkler zones, or lights separately. Compare this to single-relay switches that control only one device. This setup offers greater automation granularity for complex home systems, allowing distinct control over multiple high-power appliances from one controller.
Smart Home Compatibility: Hubitat, Home Assistant, SmartThings
This device works best with open platforms like Hubitat, Home Assistant, or SmartThings with a custom driver. You benefit from advanced automation capabilities and local processing. Compare this to proprietary ecosystems that limit third-party integration. If you use alarm panels like Ring or Vivint, you may only get partial control. Ensure your hub supports Z-Wave S2 security for full functionality.
Design and build overview
According to the listing, the ZOOZ ZEN16 measures 4 inches by 2.5 inches by 1.5 inches. The housing is black and compact. This small footprint allows you to mount the unit in tight spaces behind walls or inside electrical boxes. The device is wall-mount ready, which simplifies installation in existing setups. You do not need a large enclosure or extra mounting hardware. The compact design keeps the unit unobtrusive while maintaining access to the terminals.
Power is delivered via a standard USB-C cable or a 12-24 V AC/DC source. The listing specifies that you must use a 5V power supply with the USB-C option. You should avoid standard USB chargers or Apple accessories for safety. The unit does not include the power adapter or jumper wires. This means you must source these components separately. The design prioritizes flexibility in power delivery rather than built-in battery backup.
The device is ETL certified and conforms with North American safety standards. This certification indicates the build meets specific safety requirements for electrical components. The black finish is practical for blending into most utility areas. The layout supports three independent dry contact relays within this small frame. You can control multiple high-power devices without needing separate controllers. The physical design supports reliable operation for garage doors, sprinklers, or fireplaces. The build focuses on functionality and safety compliance rather than aesthetic features.
Setup and everyday use guide
You need a Z-Wave hub to operate this device. The listing notes that your smart speaker is not a hub. You must connect the unit to power using a standard USB-C cable with a 5V power supply. Do not use Apple accessories or USB chargers for this. You can also use a 12 to 24 V AC or DC source. The device does not include the power adapter or jumper wires. You must supply these yourself.
For daily use, you control three dry contact relays independently. You can connect an optional wall switch for manual on or off control. This input is dry contact only. There is no voltage on the input side. You cannot apply voltage to the switch terminals. The unit remembers its status after a power failure. It restores the last on or off state automatically.
If your hub supports advanced settings, you can use the built-in auto-on and auto-off timer. The device uses S2 security and SmartStart technology. It is ready for Z-Wave Long Range if your hub supports ZWLR. This provides fast signal and wide coverage.
Hub compatibility varies. It works best with the Z-Box Hub. It functions well with Hubitat and Home Assistant. SmartThings requires a custom edge driver from Zooz. Partial control is available with ADT Pulse, Vivint, Wink, and Ring. These systems allow you to control one relay or all at once, but not individually. They do not provide access to settings. The device is ETL certified for North American safety standards.
Before you buy ZEN16
You need a compatible Z-Wave hub to use this controller. The listing notes that smart speakers do not function as hubs. You must also secure a separate 5V power supply and USB-C cable, as these are not included. Verify your hub supports Z-Wave Long Range for optimal signal strength. If you plan to use SmartThings, you will need to install a custom edge driver from the Zooz support page. Standard hubs like Ring or Vivint offer only partial control, limiting you to basic on/off functions rather than individual relay management. This device is designed for high-power applications like garage doors or sprinklers. It fits well into a broader smart home ecosystem alongside climate controls, allowing you to automate peripheral devices based on temperature or schedule. Ensure your wiring handles the specified voltage limits to prevent damage.
Check before you buy
- Confirm you have a compatible Z-Wave hub, not just a smart speaker.
- Purchase a 5V power supply and USB-C cable separately.
- Check if your hub supports Z-Wave Long Range for better coverage.
- Verify hub compatibility for full individual relay control if needed.
The product at a glance
Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller
Best for: Automating multiple dry contact devices
- 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 MultiRelay designed to control three independent dry contact relays from a single unit. It supports Z-Wave Long Range for extended coverage and includes S2 security. You power it via USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC. This device suits users who need to automate multiple low-voltage appliances like garage doors or sprinklers. It requires a compatible Z-Wave hub for full individual relay control.
Pros
- Controls three dry contact relays independently
- Supports Z-Wave Long Range connectivity
- Uses S2 security and SmartStart
- Powered by USB-C or 12-24 V AC/DC
Cons
- Requires an open Z-Wave hub for full functionality
- Power adapter and jumper wires not included
- Limited individual control on some alarm panels
Good fit if
- You need to control multiple dry contact devices
- You have a Z-Wave hub with Long Range support
- You want to automate garage doors or sprinklers
Skip if
- You rely on a smart speaker as your primary hub
- You expect the unit to work with Ring or Vivint fully
- You need included power adapters or wiring
Verdict: The Zooz ZEN16 3-Relay Z-Wave Controller is a practical solution for automating multiple low-voltage devices. It fits users with compatible Z-Wave hubs who need independent control over three separate circuits.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Zooz Z-Wave MultiRelay 3 Dry Contact Controller |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Size | 4" x 2.5" x 1.5" |
| Color | Black |
| Model | ZEN16 |
Frequently asked questions
What types of devices can the Zooz ZEN16 control?
The Zooz ZEN16 is designed for automating multiple low-voltage devices with dry contact outputs. You can use it to manage separate circuits for applications like irrigation systems or air conditioners. The three independent relays allow you to control different loads without cross-interference. This makes it suitable for various home automation tasks requiring isolated switching.
Does this controller require a smart home hub?
Yes, this device requires a compatible Z-Wave hub to function. It does not connect directly to Wi-Fi or your phone. You must have a hub that supports Z-Wave Long Range for optimal performance. Without a hub, the unit cannot receive commands or report status changes to your smart home system.
What is the power source for the ZEN16?
The ZEN16 operates using a standard USB-C connection. You must provide a separate 5V power supply, which is not included with the unit. Ensure you use a reliable USB-C cable to maintain stable power delivery. This setup allows for flexible placement near existing power sources.
How large is the Zooz MultiRelay controller?
The unit measures 4 inches by 2.5 inches by 1.5 inches. Its compact black housing allows for discreet mounting in tight spaces. You can install it inside electrical boxes or behind walls where space is limited. The small footprint ensures it does not overwhelm your installation area.
Can I control different devices independently with this relay?
Yes, the ZEN16 features three independent dry contact relays. You can control each circuit separately through your Z-Wave hub. This independence is useful for managing distinct devices like sprinklers or garage doors without affecting other connected loads. Each relay operates on its own channel within the mesh network.
Is Z-Wave Long Range supported by this model?
Yes, the Zooz ZEN16 supports Z-Wave Long Range technology. This feature extends communication range beyond standard Z-Wave devices. You benefit from more reliable connectivity, especially in larger homes or areas with interference. It reduces the need for multiple repeaters to maintain a stable network.