Sonoff ZBMINIR2 Extreme ZigBee relay module

The SONOFF ZBMINI R2 is the Zigbee version of the popular Sonoff compact relay switch, which can be installed in wall-mounted switch boxes. Released at the end of 2024, this small, compact smart relay module communicates via the Zigbee 3.0 protocol and can be installed behind a wall-mounted switch. It is the ideal choice for anyone looking to upgrade lighting in the home or to enable remote switching of other household devices. With this module, every electrical circuit can become part of a smart home that supports Zigbee 3.0 communication. The Zigbee MINI Extreme not only allows remote control, but also the addition of smart functions to traditional switches, providing greater flexibility and convenience. Its compact design makes it compatible with most types of switches, so replacing existing switches is not necessary. For remote control and integration into a smart home, the ZBMINI R2 requires a Zigbee-compatible gateway, router or coordinator.

What is Zigbee?

Zigbee is a protocol specifically designed for smart home/IoT devices to communicate efficiently between them. Unlike Wi-Fi devices, which connect directly to a router, Zigbee devices require a Zigbee-WiFi gateway (also called a bridge or coordinator) to remotely access and connect to the internet. One of the advantages of Zigbee solutions is that they offload the Wi-Fi network, as only one Wi-Fi module (the Zigbee gateway) connects to the router and the other devices communicate over the Zigbee network, freeing up IP addresses on the router.

Zigbee technology also supports mesh networks, where 230V-powered Zigbee devices (such as the Sonoff ZBMINI and Sonoff Basic ZBR3) can transmit data from other Zigbee devices to the gateway, even if they are out of direct range, thus extending the reach of the network.

An additional advantage of the Zigbee protocol is the low power consumption, which is significantly lower than Wi-Fi, which allows long battery life of Zigbee sensors - often several years on a single battery. Zigbee processes small amounts of data, which is sufficient for most tasks such as on/off commands or status updates. As it is a standardised protocol, fully standard Zigbee devices are theoretically compatible with devices from different manufacturers.

Technical specifications

ZBMINI R2 is a 230V relay switch that connects to the mains (phase and neutral conductors) and at the output controls a 230V consumer - opening and closing the circuit. It can be installed behind sockets or switches (maximum load: 10A). An external switch can be connected to the input, allowing simultaneous control via wall switch and application. When connected to the internet, the relay can be controlled with a smartphone via the SmartThings app (iOS/Android) or via the Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Pro gateway with the eWeLink app.

Compatibility and integration

The ZBMINI R2 is compatible with several Sonoff Zigbee-WiFi gateways, including Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Pro, Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Ultra and NSPanel Pro. When connected to one of these gateways, it can be controlled by the familiar eWeLink platform and app. The usual eWeLink functions include the display of the current status (on/off), the manual ON/OFF switch and timers (timer, countdown timer, cyclic switching), while the short-time inching function is not available. It is also compatible with Sonoff iHost and SmartThings hub, where it can be controlled via the SmartThings app for iOS and Android. In the app, features such as remote on/off and schedules are available.

The ZBMINI R2 also works with the Amazon Alexa platform (compatible with devices such as the ZE39KL Echo Plus, Echo Studio, DW84JL 2nd Gen Echo Show and L9D29R 2nd Gen Echo Plus) and provides voice control with the command "Alexa, find device."

• Sonoff Zigbee gateways: Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Pro, NSPanel Pro - can be connected to ZBMINI R2 and managed via the eWeLink app.
• Also compatible with SmartWise Zigbee Bridge Pro, which provides an Ethernet connection and uses the eWeLink app.
• Compatible with Sonoff Dongle Plus E Zigbee coordinator and other standard Zigbee coordinators (e.g. Conbee II, Conbee III).
• Compatible with Sonoff iHost, which allows local management without the cloud and acts as a Zigbee gateway.
• When used with Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Ultra is compatible with systems compliant with Matter, including Apple HomeKit.
• Compatible with SmartThings hubwhere it can be controlled via the SmartThings app (iOS/Android) - enabling on/off, schedules and other features.
• Compatible with Philips Hue unit.
• Echo Plus 2nd gen, Echo 4th gen and Echo Show 2nd gen.

ZBMINI R2 is therefore a 230V switching relay, which connects to the mains (phase and zero) at the input and controls the 230V consumer by opening/closing the circuit at the output. It can also be installed behind switches and sockets (maximum output load: 10A).

An external switch can be connected to the input, so it can be installed behind wall switches (pushbuttons or toggle switches), while Zigbee control and integration is also possible.

With an internet connection and a smartphone (iOS or Android) with the app SmartThings (for SmartThings hub) or via a connection to Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Pro you can control the switch using the app eWeLink.

The usual eWeLink functions include the current ON/OFF status display, manual on/off switching and timers (timer, countdown timer, cycle timer), while the pulse inching function is not available.

Product features:

• Protocol: Zigbee 3.0, MQTT
• Smart home platforms: Compatible with most systems that support the standard 3.0 protocol, including open source solutions such as Home Assistant
• Power supply100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
• Maximum power: 10A/2200W (for resistive consumers)
• Dimensions: 42.6mm x 42.6mm x 20mm
• Operating temperature-10°C to 40°C
• Voice control: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings
• Supported application: eWeLink (when connected to eWeLink Zigbee gateway)
• Degree of protection: ABS housing (fireproof)
• Installation compatibility: standard EU wall-mounted docking stations
• Input for switch: it can be decoupled from the relay output.