Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the sound of your triggered security alarm and finding out it was just the neighbor’s cat. Now, do you get rid of the cat or the real reason behind the occurrence?
Well, all you need here is to install the best z wave hub controller in your home. A good z wave hub will provide you the total control of all the smart home devices allowing you to operate them anyhow you like. With a quality z wave hub, your security alarm will listen to you like a good puppy, so you will be able to sleep in peace. Let’s have a look at some of the top-notch options available.
Benefits of Z Wave Hub Controller
The main idea behind the z hub control was to provide reliable wireless connectivity to all smart home devices. It can connect devices such as door locks, lights, security cameras, thermostats, smart speakers, sensors, and other similar devices.
A quality z wave gateway will provide any home with a smart experience. So, how’s that possible?
Easy Installation
The installation process of the z wave hub is a no-brainer. So, you won’t have to hire an expert for that. Also, it has easy to use interface. Even your 90 years old grandma can control it like a pro.
Secure Wireless Connection
The device can provide your smart home with secure and reliable wireless connectivity. Well, it’s time to say goodbye to repeated connection interruptions.
The signal range is around 50-meters on the inside of your home and 100-meters outside. So, you can control it even while using the washroom or working in the backyard.
Reliable Security
Z wave hubs provide top-class security assurance. So, every data it takes from you is in safe hands – no more worries about data leaks.
Easy Synchronization
Almost all types of z wave devices around are inter-compatible. So, you don’t have to rely on any individual brands anymore. And that’s such great freedom, right?
Moreover, it will work like a mothership that controls all devices. And you are the captain of that ship. Command and control your smart home devices as you like.
A Quick look at Our Top Lists –
Table could not be displayed.7 Best Z Wave Hub Controller
Having lots of brands for a certain product can be great as it keeps the competition wheel on the run. However, too many options can confuse you in choosing a suitable one. So, we will introduce you to the 7 best z wave hubs available. Let’s dive in.
Editor’s Picks –
1. Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub
The topmost quality that defines a good smart home automation system is the stability of its connection to other devices.
And this home automation Hub system from Hubitat has done an excellent job there. It allows you to connect almost all kinds of devices such as smart locks, security cameras, internal radios, garage door openers, lights, water, etc., and whatnot.
Dealing with a laggy and slow device can be frustrating, but you can say goodbye to those ancient issues when you have this z wave hub system. For instance, when it comes to opening your door or turning on the lights, you will get an instant response when you touch the ‘on’ button.
Having total control of your data is relaxing; you no longer have to worry about your privacy and security. This hub gives you full access to all of your data in the cloud. As a result, you can control and monitor all cloud devices.
You can use your google assistant to easily control and monitor all the devices. Making all those commands just by using your voice is such a futuristic experience, isn’t it?
However, Hubitat could have done better with the user guide design. It doesn’t give the user a detailed process of the installation. Not a big deal as the installation process is pretty simple, even for a novice.
This smart device allows you to control the whole system using Android or iOS devices. You won’t always require the internet to function, so it enables an uninterrupted cloud service all the time.
Pros
- Supports tons of smart home devices
- Keeps your data well protected
- Easy to monitor all the cloud-connected devices
- Simple installation and operation procedure
Cons
- The user guide lacks detail
Verdict
When reliable connection and fast device response time is your topmost priority, the Hubitat Elevation is the way to go. Having such a smart device that keeps all your necessary device functions in the palm of your hand is such a luxury.
Overall:
2. Samsung SmartThings 3rd Generation
All the predecessors in the z wave hub industry arena seem underdogs compared to the Samsung SmartThings hub. You may ask, how? Well, isn’t it great to have an app device to turn on/off all the connections with ease?
That’s where this user-friendly z wave hub can help you out. Using the SmartThings app, you can even control the brightness of smart lights, monitor the security cameras, customize the alarm systems, and have remote access.
If your security cameras detect any unusual activities inside your house, this smart hub device will alert you momentarily on that app. Catching the thief has never been easier than this!
Its battery life is more than expected. The CR2 battery that comes with the device can keep it running for around 2-years. So, no more worries about the power outage.
The newly added sensors perform excellently, most notably the water leak sensor. This smart z wave hub device is even capable of sensing drips as it has sensors on the top and bottom.
However, you will need to have the Android 6.0 version or iOS 11 to control the device using the SamartThings app. And it may not have the fastest processing power, but it gets the job done.
You would be surprised to know this smart home automation system works with Wi-Fi, as well. So, now you always have a fast and reliable connection to the device.
Pros
- Excellent battery backup
- Functional with 3 different homes automation devices
- Updated sensors perform much better than the older versions
- Operate all smart home devices using Cortana and Alexa voice control
Cons
- Response time is not super fast
Verdict
Overall, it’s a good choice if the budget isn’t a big issue for you. The app control feature is an experience worth having. If you need a smart home hub with a great user-friendly design, you can go for it without hesitation.
Any doubt? Check out the comments on Amazon!
3. Aeotec Smart Home Hub, Works as a SmartThings Hub, Z-Wave Zigbee Gateway
A smart home hub with a great range of user freedom is a dream come true. The Aeotec hub is here to turn that dream into a reality as it enables you to connect a variety of devices, giving you a complete smart home solution. So, no more hassle with device incompatibility.
Anything can be easier for you, even building a space shuttle when you know how to do it, right? What makes this smart home z wave device a top nominee is its easy-to-setup procedure. All you have to do is power up the device, download their app, update, and you are ready to go.
This hub system features most of the widely used protocols such as Z-wave, ZigBee and, Wi-Fi. So, no worries with network protocol support. You can connect almost any smart home device using this advanced controller.
Using the mobile app, you will control, customize and monitor all the connected devices. Therefore, you won’t have to get up from your cozy sofa anymore to turn on/off the lights, tv, air conditions, or any smart home devices.
Google Assistant or Alexa is there to listen and follow your voice command and control all the devices, even opening or locking the smart locks.
However, it doesn’t support Apple’s Siri or Microsoft Cortana yet. But Google home can take care of all those features.
Pros
- Supports 3 most popular network protocols
- Features water leaking alert
- Google Assistant and Alexa voice control operation
- Low energy consumption
Cons
- So far, no Apple Siri and MS Cortana support
Verdict
If you want a smart home z hub device experience closer to the Samsung SmartThings hub, it won’t disappoint you.
With one year of warranty support, voice control features, water leak detection, and a different array of network protocols, the Aeotech Smart Home Hub is a decent choice.
4. FIBARO Home Center Lite Z-Wave Smart Hub
You are not captivated by the only z-wave hubz system anymore. Fibaro has brought a compact smart hub device that enables you to connect Z-wave supported devices with some third-party ones.
Imagine having a smart home platform that doesn’t support all the connected devices in your home. Sounds frustrating, right?
The good news about this smart home hub is it has around 230 devices coverage so that you can customize your automation with tons of smart devices.
Another interesting feature of this smart home hub system is the magic scene creator. The “if and then” programmable feature allows you to set specific actions based on your activities. For example, if the light sensor detects any movement, it will automatically turn on the lights.
You can control all the connected networks to the system remotely using the mobile app or smart speaker using Google Home and Alexa. The interface is user-friendly, and we must say they have done a good job here.
Compared to all the amazing features FIBARO provides, they could improve their return policy system a bit.
Pros
- Compact design allows it to be fitted almost anywhere
- Huge range of z wave devices coverage
- Next-gen experience with the Magic Scene Creator feature
- Supports Google Home and Alexa
Cons
- Lacks quality warranty support
Verdict
If you are looking for a compact smart z wave modern hubs system that can fit in narrow spaces and work without interruption, FIBARO Home Center Lite won’t be a bad choice.
5. Securifi Almond+ Smart Home Hub & Router
Well, the name itself explains its unique feature. Yeah, the Alomnd+ Smart Home Hub setup procedure is like water under the bridge. It’s a lot easier compared to the other z wave hub system. So, you won’t need anyone’s help with installation.
Its super-fast operation lets you control all the smart devices in your home very comfortably and efficiently. With a powerful amplifier, this device’s Wi-Fi range is quite impressive. When any familiar device gets connected to the z wave hub network system, you will instantly receive a notification.
The z wave technology on this router enables you to use it as a range extender and primary hub. Turning your apartment into a smart home system is easy-peasy now by combining compatible sensors. You will even be notified if someone gets in your backyard when the front door is open.
And like the other smart hubs, it also supports smartphone controls, enabling you to manage all the devices with your phone. The most notable ones are Amazon Echo, Nest, and Philips Hue.
The setup process requires only 3 touches on the screen, so even if you are a novice in technology, you can get it done easily.
However, the manual that comes with the device lacks detail, so it could seem a bit confusing if you have never used such a device.
Pros
- Easy and fast setup process
- Control all smart devices using Android or iOS apps
- Multiple essential sensors improve security and comfort
- Wide range of Wi-Fi coverage
Cons
- The manual given lacks detail
Verdict
The Almond+ Smart Home Hub is an excellent option for beginners as the easy-to-setup facility makes things a lot more efficient and comfortable.
6. Wink Hub 2
Most of the previous generation z hub devices had connection loss issues. Well, Wink hub-2 has successfully overcome that problem as it comes with a fast response time and smart home protocols.
In your fast-paced life, you need things that can work faster. And that’s where the wink hub smart home z wave device comes into play. The response time is almost instant! You can turn lights, doors, locks, and even the smart washing machine within just 2-3 seconds.
Using Google assistant or Alexa, you can control all the smart devices with your voice command. With the Wink smartphone app, you’ll be able to control all the cloud-connected devices from anywhere.
You can operate multiple protocols starting from your local network, ZigBee, Z- wave, LCC, and even Bluetooth. No more dealings with unsupported network-type issues.
Pros
- Provide steady connection
- Fast response time
- User-friendly app control
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet cable support give you using freedom
Cons
- Customer service lacks speed
Verdict
If you need a smart home z wave hub with fast response and Wi-Fi features under the budget, then WinkHub 2 would be a suitable choice.
Read more: Z-Wave vs. Z-Wave Plus – What are the differences?
7. Vera Control- VeraPlus
Latency in devices is a common issue, and this brand also had it in their previous versions. However, on Vera Plus, you get a lightning-fast response time. So, all your connected device responds within milliseconds.
The interface of the device is a lot smoother than before, making it comfortable to use. According to a survey done by digital trend, VeraPlus has ranked in the top 6 z wave smart home hubs devices.
A great thing about this device is that you can run it by using the hub, so an internet connection is not always required.
Therefore, all of your home automation devices will still function normally if you ever get disconnected. The hub will work fine if it’s connected to the cloud.
The only thing you need to consider is the user interface. Yeah, it’s fast but not user-friendly enough. They might get it fixed with an update, though.
Pros
- No internet connection is required
- Performs excellent with Z-wave device
- Good customer support
- Regular driver updates ensure stable performance
Cons
- The software is not user-friendly enough
Verdict
If you are looking for a device with reliable cloud connectivity that can operate even without an internet connection, then VeraPlus is a suitable choice for you.
Honorable Mention: Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5
Disclaimer: if you are a non-technical person and don’t like to google when a problem comes up before asking for help, this device isn’t probably for you. It needs elbow grease to get the device started.
The USP (User Services Platform) of this device is that you can make your own Z-Wave gateway with this thing. Windows, Mac, and even Raspberry Pi can be used for this purpose. A piece of advice to the Raspberry users: stick to the instructions provided on the home assistant site for installation.
In terms of price, it’s the least expensive device on this list. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s bad. On the contrary, it offers ample value for the money. So, if you are looking for a low-cost way to get an entry into this world, this can be your go-to choice.
What’s really nice is that all the Z-Wave products are supported by this device. On top of that, it works with Z-Wave plus too.
Pros
- Enables you to build your own Z-Wave gateway.
- Really inexpensive.
- Compatible with Z-Wave plus.
Cons
- It isn’t very user-friendly
A tutorial for setting up the AEOTEC Z-stick:
Read more:
- 11 Best Z-Wave Thermostats You Should Consider!
- 10 Best Z-Wave Switches – A complete buying guide.
- Honeywell Z-wave Thermostat – Which one should you buy?
What to Look for Before You Buy?
There’s an old saying, “know before you go.” To find the best z wave hubs first, you need to have a detailed look at the different features they offer. Then you can decide which one will fulfill your requirements.
So, in this section, we’ll explain all the features of z wave hub devices that you need to consider before purchasing:
Compatibility
It would be disappointing to find out some of your smart devices don’t work with the z wave hub you have just bought, right? To avoid such occurrences, you need to ensure your wireless protocols support the hub system.
We would suggest you go for the highest z wave compatible hub. So, if you ever choose to change the protocol, you won’t have to change the hub.
Customization
Before purchasing the hub, make sure it has a good customization option. A hub with an independent customization option will allow you to schedule commands according to your need. The configuration process is also essential here. It will make your daily life a lot easier.
User-Friendliness
You may not have a tech expert at home, so you need a device with an easy operating system. Also, you can easily get frustrated when you find the UI confusing.
So, before you go for a z wave controller, make sure it has an easy-to-operate user interface. Getting a hub that has rechargeable battery backup would be wonderful.
Supported Devices
Get a hub that offers a wide range of device supports. If you can find a hub device that supports custom device drivers, that would be great.
It will allow you to customize the drivers as you like. So, you can make it support a specific device even if it doesn’t by default. Nowadays, many devices are compatible with the Z wave system so ensure your hub supports the z wave system properly.
Keep in mind that often hubs are designed to support a specific communication protocol such as ZigBee or Z-Wave.
However, controllers such as SmartThings and Wink 2 are compatible with several wireless protocols.
So, make sure you check if the hub supports the installed smart devices at home before you buy a product.
Further Read: How you can turn your old fan into a Z-Wave Smart Fan!
Our Suggestion for beginners | Samsung SmartThings Hub 3rd Generation
To be honest, I was torn between SmartThings and HomeSeer controller S2.
But what eventually pushed me towards SmartThings is its extensive product range and competitive price. Though the HomeSeer controller is by no means overpriced, it’s certainly a bit expensive.
Now, the SmartThings hub comes with plenty of perks.
It works equally well with ZigBee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi.
Moreover, being compatible with Alexa, and Cortana makes the hub a complete package.
So, if you ask my opinion, I’d say that that’s the option you should go for.
Don’t belive us?
Checkout the user’s feedback- No products found.
Final Words
A smart hub controller is a crying need if you want a wonderful experience of home automation network technology. In today’s world, “time is money.” And when it comes to saving your time, the best z wave hub controller is what you need.
If you have never used an advanced smart home controller or had a bad experience using it, it’s expected that you will have confusion. But let us ensure you that a quality hub device will provide your life with a quick boost.
It will cost a few bucks, but it won’t be an expense; instead, an investment for the betterment of your life.
Z-Wave Hub’s FAQs
1. What does a Smart Hub do?
As your central nervous system controls the activities in your body, a smart hub controls the smart devices in your home. It enables all the devices to connect and manage them according to your command.
2. What does a Z-wave hub do?
With a z-wave hub, you can remotely control the z wave network using your laptops, pc, or smartphones. An internet connection is required to make it work.
3. How do z-wave function?
The z-wave networks work relying on a wireless web network. It allows you to control and monitor smart devices using a web interface.
4. Is it worth having a Z-wave hub?
It A Z wave device network in your home will give you complete control over all the smart devices. You can even command them using Google assistant. Having such luxury is undoubtedly worth your hard-earned bucks.
5. Can I wirelessly connect my electronic devices to the hub?
Sure, you can. However, your z-wave network needs to have Wi-Fi to support this feature.
6. How many devices can Z-Wave support?
You can control up to 232 devices from one Z-wave controller in your home, z wave is a very scaleable technology. More than 3000 products are available in the market.
7. Is Z-Wave secure?
Yes, it’s secure. Not that it can’t be hacked, but its encryption system is as safe as it gets.
8. What frequency is Z Wave?
In North America, Z-Wave operates at 908.42 MHz. However, in Europe, it works at 868.42 MHz.