Smart Switch Modules

Discover the Best Switch Modules for Your Smart Home.

There are several ways to automate your home lighting. Some people like the simplicity of smart light bulbs, while others prefer replacing their wall switches entirely. A third option, which combines convenience with maintaining your home’s aesthetic, is installing switch modules inside the switchbox. This way, you keep your existing wall switch while enjoying the benefits of automating your home with Homey Flows.

Switch modules can automate lights and control many appliances throughout your home, making them incredibly versatile smart devices. This Best Buy Guide explores the best switch modules compatible with Homey, focusing on reliability, stability, current rating, and additional features.

How to Choose a Smart Switch Module

While switch modules are, at their core, straightforward devices, certain features can supercharge their abilities and open up a wider range of automation possibilities. Therefore, several factors should be considered when choosing a smart switch module.

Connectivity

Consider choosing a module that uses a reliable mesh networking protocol like Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread. Usually, switch modules that require a Neutral wire can act as network repeaters and solidify and extend your network.

Multi-switch Compatibility

If multiple switches control the same light fixture (for instance, two-way or three-way switches), verify that the switch module supports multi-way configurations.

Neutral Wire Requirement

Check if the switch module requires a neutral wire for installation. This can affect compatibility with older homes or specific wiring configurations. While many switch modules that don’t need a neutral wire are available, they are often less reliable and have a lower maximum current rating than those that do.

Load Capacity

Verify the switch module’s maximum load capacity to ensure it can handle the wattage of your light fixtures or appliances.

Additional Features

Consider the importance of additional features outlined in our article, such as power monitoring and detached relay mode. 

Price

Consider the cost of the switch module and ensure it fits within your budget while offering the desired features and functionality. Remember that expenses can quickly stack up if you plan to automate numerous lights or devices, especially if opting for higher-priced modules.

Brand	Model	Protocol	Max Current	Requires Neutral	Energy Metering	Price
Aeotec	Pico Switch	Zigbee	16 A			€44.99
Aqara	T2 Dual Module	Zigbee	10 A			€34.99
EVVR	Smart Relay	Zigbee	3 A			€49.99
Fibaro	Single Switch	Z-Wave	8 A			€54.95
Heltun	High Load Switch	Z-Wave	16 A			€95.95
Trust	ACM-3500-3	433 MHz	15 A			€29.95
Qubino	Flush 1 Relay	Z-Wave	10 A			€54.95
Schneider	Micromodule	Zigbee	10 A			€45.00
Shelly	1PM Mini Gen3	Wi-Fi	8 A			€13.50
Sonoff	Mini Extreme	Matter	10 A			€12.90
Sunricher	In-Wall Switch	Zigbee	16 A			€41.95
Zooz	ZEN52 Double Relay	Z-Wave	10 A			€35.95

The Aeotec Pico Switch is part of the company’s latest switch module line-up. It uses Zigbee as a communication method. This module requires a neutral wire for operation, which turns the device into a Zigbee router. It also has an external antenna to boost communication range and eliminate potential interference.

The Pico Switch is a high-quality one-gang switch module capable of handling loads of up to 16 A. If you need two output terminals to control two separate devices, the Pico Duo Switch model uses the same case and form factor and can handle two outputs of 8 A each. 

An internal temperature sensor keeps the Aeotec Pico in check and gives the module its overheat protection feature. Further, the Pico also has surge and overload protection mechanisms, protecting your home in the case of a power issue.

You can pair the Aeotec Pico with Homey Bridge or Homey Pro directly. This way, you can toggle the relay, create schedules, and monitor the energy consumption of your connected light or appliance.

You can use this model with all types of wall switches, whether you have a momentary, toggle, or multi-way switch. The push-and-release terminals of the Aeotec Pico models have a weaker grip on the wire compared to screw terminals, which is the only downside.

The recently released Aqara T2 Dual Relay Module is a highly versatile, feature-packed smart switch module. It pairs with your Homey Bridge or Homey Pro using Zigbee, enabling control over its dual gang output terminals.

You can connect two different light fixtures or appliances to the T2, which can handle a maximum load of 10 A. If you accidentally exceed this rating, the T2 will automatically cut power, as it is equipped with overheat and overload protection mechanisms. It’s important to note that while the T2 has a very accurate energy meter, the measurement is a total of both terminals — you won’t be able to measure the power consumption of the connected lights separately.

What’s interesting about the T2 is that its terminals default to dry contact mode. When toggled, the mains power is not relayed to the terminals; instead, they close the circuit and complete it. Similar to other light-controlling modules, you need to attach the small jumper found inside the box to use the relay in wet contact mode. You can find more information about this here.

The Aqara T2 can control momentary, toggle, or multi-way switches and wireless smart switches directly. In wet contacts mode, it can also control outlets, electric floor heating, roller shade motors, or anything else within its maximum load rating. In dry contacts mode, it becomes a highly versatile smart device capable of controlling garage gates, arm barriers, heating and cooling devices, or security and alarm systems.

While Aqara claims the T2 can be installed easily inside a switch box, its 25-millimeter thickness makes it quite bulky and difficult to install behind an existing wall switch, especially if you connect two lights and have many wires.

If your home lacks a neutral wire inside wall switch boxes, you must either hire an electrician to rewire them or opt for no-neutral switch modules. The latter can prove problematic since switches that operate without a neutral are less stable and usually have lower current ratings than neutral-based switches.  

This is where the EVVR In-Wall Relay shines. This device solves the neutral wire requirement in quite a genius way. The device actually consists of two parts. First, you have the smart relay, which you install in your light fixture where the neutral wire is always present. Second, you have the switch sub-assembly, which you install inside your wall switch box where the neutral is absent.

This split setup allows you to leverage the neutral wire without having to rewire your switch box while maintaining the functionality of your existing wall switch. It’s smart, simple, and functional.

Once you pair the EVVR In-Wall Relay to Homey Pro, you can simply toggle the device and use it as a trigger for creating Flows. EVVR offers both Z-Wave and Zigbee variants of their In-Wall relay.

It’s important to note that the EVVR has no energy meter and can handle loads of only 3 A. This is good enough for lights but not much else. It can also be challenging to install since you are essentially wiring two devices in two different places.

The Fibaro Single Switch is a high-quality energy metering module compatible with Homey Bridge and Homey Pro. It communicates directly with Homey using Z-Wave, creating a stable and robust connection.

The Fibaro Switch measures just 42 millimeters wide and 38 millimeters tall and can be easily installed inside a standard wall switch box. This model works with all switches, including momentary, toggle, and multi-way switches. 

The Single Switch has a maximum current rating of 8 A, although if you go overboard, the overcurrent protection mechanism kicks and turns off the device automatically. Fibaro also offers the Double Switch module, which can handle 6.5 A per channel if you need two output terminals.

Although Fibaro claims the Single Switch is suitable for outlets, its 8-ampere rating is insufficient to handle large appliances or heavy-duty equipment. At over 50 euros, it’s also among the pricier models in our Best Buy Guide.

If you are looking for a heavy-duty switch module that will not fail, consider the Heltun High Load Switch. This device is rated for a maximum load of 16 A and can easily handle electric boilers, radiators, underfloor heating systems, or other large appliances.

The Heltun High Load Switch has a very accurate energy meter, which, combined with its overcurrent and surge protection mechanisms, keeps the module in check. 

What’s interesting about the Heltun High Load Switch is that it can also operate as a thermostat controller, controlling any electric HVAC system. The module uses an external NTC probe to monitor the ambient or floor temperature and get a reading in Homey, allowing you to create Flows and automate your heating system.

If you decide to use the Heltun High Load Switch to control lights, you can easily wire your existing wall switches. It is compatible with both momentary and toggle switches.

The Heltun High Load Switch integrates very well with Homey Bridge and Homey Pro over Z-Wave and also acts as a Z-Wave repeater, extending your network’s range and improving its stability. 

The extensive feature set and heavy-duty rating of the Heltun High Load Switch come at a premium, making it the most expensive device on our list.

The Trust ACM-3500-3 is a 3-in-1 smart switch module that can independently control three separate devices. Each channel can handle up to 5 A, with a total load capacity of 15 A across all channels.

The ACM-3500-3 uses 433 MHz to pair with your Homey Bridge or Homey Pro, offering a long-range connection ideal for installations in detached sheds or junction boxes. The 433 MHz radio frequency protocol allows you to toggle the module from ranges of up to 100 meters, making it a very suitable choice if you have a large home or yard. For example, you can use the ACM-3500-3 to control an outdoor lamp, patio heater, and pool pump – all from the same junction box!

You can further enhance the utility of the Trust’s ACM-3500-3 module by installing it inside their OWH-002 splashproof box, which makes it resistant to the elements. In addition, you can pair it with a 433 MHz remote to toggle the relays manually and from a distance.

Although the ACM-3500-3 is also suitable for installation inside circuit breaker boxes, it’s worth noting that the module is too large to fit behind a standard wall switch box. Additionally, it is incompatible with existing wall switches. You can only operate it wirelessly or locally by pressing one of its three buttons.

If you prefer to install Z-Wave devices in your smart home, the Qubino Flush 1 Relay is an excellent choice for controlling your lights and appliances. Qubino is a trusted Slovenian brand with an extensive product portfolio focusing almost exclusively on Z-Wave devices.

The Flush 1 Relay fits all types of mounting boxes worldwide and attaches to flip, toggle, and momentary switches. It can be used to control lights and devices within its 10-ampere maximum current limit.

Like the Heltun High Load Switch, this module has terminals for attaching an external temperature probe. The Qubino goes even further by offering three separate input terminals for connecting external switches, push buttons, or sensors. For example, a magnetic contact sensor can be attached to one of these terminals, whose state can automatically trigger the Qubino Flush 1 Relay.

The Qubino Flush 1 Relay integrates well with Homey Bridge or Homey Pro, enabling you to use the state of the individual inputs as triggers or actions in Flows. Additionally, it measures the power consumption of the connected light or appliance, giving you an overview of your Homey Energy dashboard. 

Every Qubino product undergoes thorough 100% testing and is assigned a unique serial number, guaranteeing traceability in case of concerns. This practice is integral to the company’s two-year warranty, ensuring that the product you acquire is consistently supported by Qubino.

To top it all off, the Qubino Flush 1 Relay acts as a Z-Wave repeater in your network, relaying traffic from adjacent devices back to your Homey. It measures just 41 millimeters wide and 15.4 millimeters thick, making it one of our list’s top three smallest switch modules.

Schneider Electric is a French multinational company specializing in digital automation and energy management. Its extensive product portfolio is well-known and trusted worldwide, and its smart home products are distinguished by its Wiser platform.

The Schneider Switch Micromodule is a simple, smart relay that uses Zigbee as a communication protocol. It can be paired directly to your Homey Bridge and Homey Pro, enabling basic toggle controls and use in Flows.

The Schneider Switches can switch ohmic, inductive, or capacitive loads. This means they are suitable for controlling large appliances with motors, like fridges, freezers, heaters, and boilers. You can also wire the module inside a standard switch box to control lights while attaching your existing momentary or toggle switch. To be on the safe side, the Schneider Micromodule has a 16-ampere circuit breaker that cuts off power if the relay draws more than the maximum current. 

The Schneider Micromodule boasts exceptional build quality, durability, and robustness. However, its utility is limited to these aspects since it lacks energy metering or any additional features typically found in comparable switch modules on our list.

The Shelly 1PM Mini (Gen3) is the smallest switch module ever made by any company. This device measures 35 x 29 x 16 millimeters, just a tad taller than a 2-euro coin! You will not have any trouble installing the 1PM Mini in any switch box.

Despite its minuscule size, the Shelly 1PM Mini has an impressive feature set. It can handle maximum loads of 8 A and has overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheat protection mechanisms. These safety features ensure the module’s correct operation and your home’s well-being.

Further, the PM stands for power monitoring, which means the device can accurately measure the energy consumption of the connected light or appliance. If you do not need power metering, Shelly also offers a switch-only device in the same case.

You can use the relay inside the 1PM mini in several operation modes, suitable for toggle, momentary, and edge switches. However, perhaps the most interesting mode is the detached switch, which separates the input from the output (relay). This mode opens up some interesting automation options and enhances the Shelly 1PM Mini’s flexibility.

The Shelly 1PM Mini uses Wi-Fi to communicate with your home network and effortlessly pairs with your Homey. The Gen3 mark brings another interesting promise to the table, though, since all Shelly Gen 3 devices are set to receive Matter support in the near future.

It’s worth noting that because of its tiny size, the Shelly 1PM can generate heat when it operates under load in a confined switch box.

The Sonoff Mini Extreme, often labeled as MINIR4M, is a Matter-enabled switch module with size and features comparable to the Shelly 1PM Mini. This model is also very small and easy to work with, measuring just 39 x 33 x 17 millimeters.

You can use the MINIR4M with Matter on Homey Pro, resulting in a straightforward onboarding process free from proprietary apps and other obstacles. Once added to Homey, you can toggle the device and create Flows to automate your home.

Like the Shelly, you can use the Sonoff MINIR4M with toggle, flip, and momentary switches. The detached relay mode, which separates the input from the output, is also a feature of the MINIR4M, improving its utility and application scenarios.

One thing that sets the MINIR4M apart from the Shelly is the double neutral wire terminals. These terminals eliminate the need to use Wago blocks to split the neutral — you can just use the device itself! This is neat and handy, especially when installed inside a switch box.

It’s worth noting that the MINIR4M does not have an energy meter, ultimately making the Shelly 1PM the more capable device. Sonoff claims an extensive testing process verifies the MINIR4M’s reliability under load, testing every possible component that can be short-circuited. The MINIR4M’s flame-retardant shell complements these safety features.

Sunricher In-Wall Switches are a series of modules that control lights, curtains, shutters, or other devices with basic switching functionality. These modules measure 45 x 45 x 20 millimeters and fit standard European wall switch boxes.

The product line-up includes Z-Wave and Zigbee models, the latter equipped with an external antenna for improved reception and reduced interference. The heavy-duty 16-ampere model requires a neutral wire and can handle loads of up to 3680 watts, making it suitable for large appliances like fridges, heaters, fans, and ACs. Sunricher also produces a no-neutral in-wall relay switch with a maximum rating of 4.8 A, suitable for controlling lighting.

Sunricher modules integrate seamlessly with Homey through dedicated apps from each reseller. Users can toggle devices, check their status, and monitor energy consumption. Sunricher white-labels and sells its in-wall modules through Vesternet, Namron, and ROBB Smarrt.

Sunricher In-Wall Switches are renowned for their reliability, durability, and functionality. However, their slightly bulkier design and thick antenna may pose a challenge during installation, especially behind existing wall switches.

Zooz is an American brand that is popular for producing high-quality smart devices. They focus on utilizing Z-Wave as its communication protocol. The team behind The Smartest House, one of the US’s most popular Z-Wave device stores, founded the company.

The Zooz ZEN52 relay is a small, two-gang smart module with a maximum load of 5 A per channel or 10 A total. It can control lights, fans, smart bulbs, or other devices within its maximum load rating. Besides the US, this model is also available in EU and UK variants, with features adapted to suit these markets.

You can wire the ZEN52 model to existing toggle, momentary, and multi-way switches. Additionally, you can configure toggle switches with fixed actions to work with the ZEN52. Up is always ON, and down is always OFF.

Zooz ZEN52 integrates with Homey Bridge or Homey Pro over Z-Wave and also acts as a signal repeater. Users can toggle the switch per gang, start flows based on its actions, or use the device in detached relay mode, independent from the wall switch input.

The ZEN52 has pre-installed pigtail wires instead of terminals for wiring, which Zooz claims makes installation easier. However, whether this installation offers a more straightforward setup is debatable since pre-attached wires require terminal blocks. This can quickly become a tangled mess, especially in European switch boxes.

Summary

Switch modules are versatile smart devices that can control almost anything in a connected home besides their prominent use in automating lights.

The most important thing to remember is the module’s maximum current rating. Exceeding it can lead to dangerous scenarios, such as potentially causing a fire. Some modules have protection mechanisms, but respecting the rating when selecting is still crucial.

Any additional features, such as the ability to operate in detached mode, are nice bonuses for the switch module. This feature allows users to trigger Advanced Flows based on the input state, independent from the output. With Homey, this is a handy feature that can supercharge your smart home.