The Ultimate Guide to Zigbee Routers: Types, Reviews, and My Experience

The Ultimate Guide to Zigbee Routers: Types, Reviews, and My Experience

Understanding Zigbee Device Types

When building a Zigbee network, it’s important to understand the roles of the three main device types: coordinator, router, and end device. Each plays a critical role in maintaining connectivity and ensuring smooth communication between devices. Here’s a breakdown:


1. Coordinator (C)

A Zigbee network can only have one coordinator. This device handles essential tasks, including:

  • Starting the network and selecting the communication channel.
  • Managing security and overall network health.
  • Staying powered on continuously (it cannot sleep).

If you’re setting up a Zigbee network, you’ll need one coordinator. In a previous post I’ve recommended the ZBT-1 aka SkyConnect for this role.


2. Router (R)

Routers are vital for extending your Zigbee network’s range and ensuring smooth communication between devices. They:

  • Join existing networks and handle data routing between devices that are out of direct range.
  • Allow other devices (both routers and end devices) to join the network.
  • Buffer data for sleeping end devices.
  • Must stay powered on at all times (no sleep mode).

Many Zigbee smart plugs and wall switches with a neutral wire also serve as routers, but for optimal performance, dedicated routers are often necessary.


3. End Device (E)

End devices have more limited functionality compared to routers:

  • They can join networks and send/receive data but cannot route it for other devices.
  • Cannot allow other devices to join the network.
  • Use low-power modes to conserve energy, relying on a parent device (a router or coordinator) for connectivity.

You can have any number of end devices in a Zigbee network, but they need routers or a coordinator to function effectively.


The Importance of Routers

Routers are essential for medium-to-large homes. Without them, all devices would need to be within range of the coordinator, which is impractical. Strategically placing routers around your home ensures that end devices maintain a strong connection.

While smart plugs and switches can act as routers, sometimes you need dedicated devices solely for routing. Below, I share my personal journey with several popular Zigbee routers, including the Ikea TRÅDFRI, Tuya repeaters, and the Sonoff Zigbee Dongle E.


My Experience with Zigbee Routers

1. Ikea TRÅDFRI Signal Repeater

The Ikea TRÅDFRI Signal Repeater is a popular choice in smart home forums due to its:

  • Low cost
  • Good range
  • Reliable performance (under ideal conditions)

However, my experience with these devices was less than ideal. I initially purchased eight units and placed them throughout my home. At first, the coverage seemed adequate, but I quickly encountered a major issue:

  • Connectivity Drops: Each repeater disconnected from the network approximately once a month.
  • Manual Resets Required: They wouldn’t reconnect automatically, and I had to physically unplug and replug them to restore functionality.

This issue, which I experienced using ZHA on Home Assistant with a SkyConnect coordinator, was a significant nuisance. I found similar complaints online, and despite troubleshooting, I couldn’t resolve it.

Verdict: Due to these reliability issues, I cannot recommend the Ikea TRÅDFRI Signal Repeater. You can check it out here, but proceed with caution.


2. Tuya Zigbee Repeaters

After removing the Ikea repeaters, I turned to the Tuya Zigbee repeaters, which are:

  • Extremely affordable, especially when bought in bulk.
  • Reliable: I have never experienced a disconnection with any of the units.

However, they have a significant downside:

  • Limited Range: Connectivity weakens significantly beyond 2-3 meters. Devices placed just a few meters away often show medium to weak signal strength.

Verdict: While these repeaters are cheap and reliable, their limited range makes them unsuitable for large areas. You can find them here.


3. Sonoff Zigbee Dongle E (My Recommended Router)

After the disappointments with Ikea and Tuya, I opted for the Sonoff Zigbee Dongle E. This device is primarily designed as a coordinator but can be converted into a router with some tweaks.

  • Why It Stands Out:
    • Excellent range, even for devices several meters away.
    • Strong, reliable connectivity across my entire home.
    • Uses the newer EFR32MG21 processor, the same as the SkyConnect, offering better performance.

How to Convert the Sonoff Dongle E into a Router:

  1. Download the Firmware:
    Head over to this GitHub repository and download the latest GBL file.
  2. Flash the Firmware:
    • Visit this website.
    • Plug the dongle into a USB port on your computer.
    • Click Connect to recognize the device (I had to try 2 different computers and 3 different USB ports, so if this step doesn’t work for you, try other ports or other computers).
    • Upload the GBL file and follow the prompts. The process takes only a few seconds.
  3. Add the Device to Home Assistant:
    Once the firmware is updated, go to ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT (Z2M) in Home Assistant and search for new devices. The dongle will now function as a router.

Verdict: I wholeheartedly recommend the Sonoff Zigbee Dongle E as a router. It provides excellent range and reliability, making it well worth the investment. You can find it here.


A Note on the Sonoff Dongle P vs. E

If you’re considering other options, note that the Sonoff Dongle P uses an older processor. The Dongle E, with its EFR32MG21 processor, offers better performance and compatibility, which is why I chose it over the P version.


Final Thoughts

Building a strong Zigbee network requires careful consideration of your devices, especially routers. While the Ikea TRÅDFRI and Tuya repeaters have their pros and cons, the Sonoff Zigbee Dongle E stands out for its range, reliability, and performance. If you’re struggling with Zigbee coverage, investing in a quality router like the Sonoff Dongle E can make all the difference.


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