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.

Besides automating lights, switch modules can be used to control a wide array of appliances and devices throughout your home, making them an incredibly versatile smart device.

In this Best Buy Guide, we are exploring the best switch modules compatible with Homey, with a focus on reliability, stability, current rating and additional features.

How to choose a smart switch module

While switch modules are very simple devices at their core, certain features can supercharge their abilities and open up a wider range of automation possibilities. In this regard, there are several factors to consider 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 you have multiple switches controlling the same light fixture (e.g. 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, as this may impact compatibility with older homes or specific wiring setups. Even though switch modules that don’t require a neutral wire are common, they are known to be unreliable and with lower maximum current rating compared to switches that do use neutral.
• Load Capacity: Verify the maximum load capacity of the switch module 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 like 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. Keep in mind that if you plan to automate numerous lights or devices, expenses can quickly stack up, especially if opting for higher-priced modules.

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

The Aeotec Pico Switch is part of the company’s latest switch module line-up, using Zigbee as a communication method. This module requires a neutral wire for operation, which does turn the device into a Zigbee router. It’s also equipped with an external antenna, for boosting communication range and eliminating potential interference.

The Pico Switch is a high-quality one-gang switch module capable of handling loads of up to 16A. If you need two output terminals for controlling two separate devices, the Pico Duo Switch model uses the same case and form factor and can handle 2 separate outputs of 8A each. 

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

The Aeotec Pico can be paired to Homey Bridge or Homey Pro directly, from where you can toggle the relay, create schedules and monitor the energy consumption of your connected light or appliance.

This model can be used with all types of wall switches, no matter if you have a momentary, toggle or multi-way switches. The only downside of the Aeotec Pico models are the push-and-release terminals it uses, which are known to have a weaker grip of the wire compared to screw terminals.

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

You can connect two different light fixtures or appliances to the T2, which can handle a total maximum load of 10A. If you accidentally go over 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 is equipped with 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. This means the mains power is not relayed to the terminals when toggled; instead, they simply close the circuit and complete it. To use the relay in wet contacts mode, similar to other light-controlling modules, you need to attach the small jumper found inside the box.

The Aqara T2 can be used with momentary, toggle, or multi-way switches, as well as directly by wireless smart switches. In wet contacts mode, the T2 can also control outlets, electric floor heating, roller shade motors, or anything else within its maximum load rating. In dry contacts mode, the T2 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 easily installed inside a switch box, its thickness of 25mm makes it quite bulky and difficult to install behind your existing wall switch, especially if you are connecting two lights and have many wires.

If your home lacks a neutral wire inside wall switch boxes, you will need to either hire an electrician to rewire the switch boxes or opt for no-neutral switch modules. The latter can prove to be problematic, since switches that operate without a neutral are less stable and usually have lower current ratings compared to 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: the smart relay, which you install in your light fixture where the neutral wire is always present and 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 also maintaining the functionality of your existing wall switch. Smart, simple and very 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 is not equipped with an energy meter and can handle loads of only 3A. This is good enough for lights, but not much else. It can also be difficult to install, since you are essentially wiring two different devices in two different places.

The Fibaro Single Switch is a high-quality module with energy metering, compatible with Homey Bridge and Homey Pro. This module uses Z-Wave to communicate directly with your Homey, resulting in a stable and robust connection.

Measuring at just 42mm wide and 38mm tall, the Fibaro Switch can be easily installed inside a standard wall switch box. This model works with all types of switches, including momentary, toggle and multi-way switches. 

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

Even though Fibaro claims the Single Switch is suitable for outlets too, the 8A rating will not be enough to handle large appliances or heavy-duty equipment. Priced at over 50 EUR, It’s also among the pricier models on our Best Buy Guide list.

If you are looking for a heavy-duty switch module that you need to be certain won’t fail you, consider the Heltun High Load Switch. This device is rated for a maximum load of 16A and can handle electric boilers, radiators, underfloor heating systems or other large appliances with ease.

The Heltun High Load Switch is equipped with a very accurate energy meter, allowing the module to be kept in check by its overcurrent and surge protection mechanisms. 

What’s interesting about the Heltun High Load Switch is that it’s also designed to operate as a thermostat controller, capable of 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 for controlling lights, you can easily wire your existing wall switches, as 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, while also acting as a Z-Wave repeater, extending your network 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 in our list.

The Trust ACM-3500-3 is a 3-in-1 smart switch module designed to independently control three separate devices. Each of its channels can handle up to 5A, with a total load capacity of 15A 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 this module to be toggled 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!

The utility of the Trust’s ACM-3500-3 module can be further enhanced by installing the device inside their OWH-002 splash proof box, making it resistant to the elements. You can also pair it with a 433 MHz remote for toggling 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 and can only be operated wirelessly or locally by pressing one of its three buttons.

If you prefer installing 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 a large product portfolio, focusing almost exclusively on Z-Wave devices.

The Flush 1 Relay fits all types of mounting boxes worldwide and can be attached to flip, toggle and momentary switches. You can use this relay to control lights and devices that fit within its 10A maximum current limit.

Like the Heltun High Load Switch, this module is also equipped with a set of terminals for attaching an external temperature probe. The Qubino goes even further by offering 3 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 trigger the Qubino Flush 1 Relay automatically.

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

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

To top it all, 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 at just 41mm wide with a thickness of 15.4mm, making it rank among the top three smallest switch modules on our list.

Schneider Electric is a French multinational company that specializes in digital automation and energy management. The company’s large product portfolio is well known and trusted across the globe, distinguishing their smart home products under their Wiser platform.

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

The Schneider Switches are set apart by their ability to switch ohmic, inductive or capacitive loads. Meaning, they are suitable for controlling large appliances with motors, like fridges, freezers or heaters and boilers. You can also wire the module inside a standard switch box to control lights, while also attaching your existing momentary or toggle switch. To be on the safe side, the Schneider Micromodule is equipped with a 16A circuit breaker, cutting power if more than the max. current is drawn through the relay. 

The Schneider Micromodule boasts exceptional build quality, durability, and robustness, but 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 at 35x29x16mm (WxHxD), which is just tad taller than a 2 EURO coin! You will not have any trouble installing the 1PM Mini, in any switchbox.

Despite its miniscule size, the Shelly 1PM Mini comes with an impressive feature set. It can handle maximum loads of 8A and is equipped with overvoltage, overcurrent and overheat protection mechanisms. These safety features ensure the correct operating of the module and the well-being of your home.

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.

The relay inside the 1PM mini can be used in several operation modes, suitable for toggle, momentary and edge switches. But 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 flexibility of the Shelly 1PM Mini.

The Shelly 1PM Mini uses Wi-Fi to communicate to your home network and effortlessly pair to 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 39x33x17mm.

The MINIR4M can be used 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, the Sonoff MINIR4M can be used 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. This eliminates the need to use Wago blocks to split the neutral – you can just use the device itself! Neat and very handy, especially when installed inside a switch box.

It’s worth noting that the MINIR4M is not equipped with an energy meter, ultimately making the Shelly 1PM the more capable device. Sonoff claims an extensive testing process verifies the reliability of the MINIR4M under load, testing every possible component that can be short-circuited. These safety features are complemented with a flame-retardant shell used in the MINIR4M.

Sunricher In-Wall Switches are a series of modules designed for controlling lights, curtains, shutters, or other devices with basic switching functionality. These modules measure at 45x45x20mm and are designed to fit standard European wall switch boxes.

The product line-up consists of both Z-Wave and Zigbee models, with the latter equipped with an external antenna for improved reception and reduced interference. The heavy-duty 16A model requires a neutral wire and can handle loads of up to 3680W, 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 amps, 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 In-Wall modules can be found white-labeled and sold by Vesternet, Namron, and ROBB Smarrt.

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

Zooz is an American brand known for producing high-quality smart devices, with a focus on utilizing Z-Wave as its communication protocol. The company was founded by the team behind The Smartest House, one of the most popular Z-Wave device stores in the US.

The Zooz ZEN52 relay is a small, 2-gang smart module with a maximum load of 5A per channel or 10A 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.

The ZEN52 model can be wired to existing toggle, momentary, and multi-way switches. Toggle switches can also be configured to work with the ZEN52 with fixed actions: Up is always ON, Down is always OFF.

Zooz ZEN52 integrates with Homey Bridge or Homey Pro over Z-Wave, while also acting 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.

Instead of using terminals for wiring, the ZEN52 has pre-installed pigtail wires for, as Zooz claims, easier installation. Whether or not this setup truly offers an easier setup is debatable, since using pre-attached wires will result in the need of using terminal blocks. This can quickly become a tangled mess, especially in European switch boxes.

Summary

Besides their obvious use case in automating lights, switch modules are versatile smart devices that can control almost anything in your connected home.

The most important thing to be mindful of is the maximum current rating of the module. Exceeding it can lead to dangerous scenarios, such as potentially causing a fire. Some modules are equipped with protection mechanisms, but it's still crucial to respect the rating when making your selection.

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