Sonoff Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus

The Sonoff Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus is a universal Zigbee USB stick that can be used as a versatile, local smart home gateway in open-source platforms like Home Assistant or Zigbee2MQTT. It is widely available for purchase in South Africa from various online retailers.

Key Features:

• Open-Source Compatibility: Widely used with popular open-source platforms like Home Assistant (via ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT), openHAB, and ioBroker.
• Zigbee Coordinator/Router: Functions primarily as a powerful Zigbee Coordinator to manage your entire Zigbee network, but can be flashed with router firmware to act as a signal repeater.
• Broad Device Support: Capable of managing a large number of Zigbee sub-devices (typically up to 32 direct children, and more via a mesh network).
• Enhanced Signal & Range: Features an external antenna (usually 3dBi or 4.5dBi depending on the version) for strong signal penetration and an extended range (up to 200m in open areas for the MG24 version).
• Customizable Firmware: The dongle can be easily flashed with different firmware (e.g., from Zigbee2MQTT documentation) to support different use cases and update to the latest Zigbee protocols.
• Hardware (varies by version):
  • ZBDongle-P: Utilizes the TI CC2538 + CP2102(N) chip.
  • ZBDongle-E / MG24: Uses the more advanced Silicon Labs EFR32MG24 chipset, offering potential for Thread/Matter support with appropriate firmware.
• USB Extension Cable: Typically includes a 1.5-meter USB extension cable to help mitigate USB 3.0 signal interference by positioning the dongle away from the host machine.
• No Built-in Enclosure (on some versions): Some models are bare PCB, while newer ones have a more robust alloy housing.
• Reliable Local Control: Ensures all Zigbee automations run locally on your server (like Home Assistant), providing fast responses and continued functionality even without an internet connection