ZigBee and Z-Wave are two of the most popular smart home protocols. Both communication protocols are widely utilized in a wide range of smart home equipment, from smart light bulbs to thermostats and controller hubs. Sticking to a single smart home protocol is a fantastic way to ensure your smart home devices stay in sync with one another. But which smart home standard, ZigBee or Z-Wave, is best for you?

What’s the Difference Between Z-Wave and ZigBee?

ZigBee and Z-Wave are both low-bandwidth and low-energy mesh networks. Due to their low bandwidth, they can only transmit a limited quantity of data. They are referred to as “low energy” since they are relatively energy-efficient and require less energy to operate. Similarly, when we refer to “mesh networks,” we indicate that rather than depending on a central hub (such as a router) for communication, each device operates as a node and connects to others to form a web of interconnected devices. Every node or device in the network can function as a data endpoint or signal repeater, transmitting data to the following node.

Both communication techniques are often quicker and more dependable than Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Due to their limited bandwidth, though, you won’t find them in devices that transmit a great deal of data, such as HD surveillance cameras. They are more suitable for sensors, smart lighting, smart locks, and other devices that do not demand a great deal of substantial data transmission. Learn more about these smart home technologies by reviewing our Z-Wave protocol lesson and ZigBee protocol in-depth analysis. In conclusion, ZigBee and Z-Wave share numerous similarities. There are, however, certain unique features that make one of them preferable to the other. But what are these features exactly?

Overview of the Comparison

1. If speed is the most important factor, you should use Zigbee because Z Wave is substantially slower. Zigbee runs at a higher frequency, resulting in a quicker rate of data transfer. Higher speeds, on the other hand, necessitate more power, which may necessitate more frequent battery replacement. For home automation purposes, it may be prudent to go for the quicker option. For instance, shutting off the pump and opening the gate are brief tasks that demand a faster connection.
2. Z-Wave is significantly slower than Zigbee; thus, if speed is the most important factor, you should choose Zigbee. Zigbee runs at a higher frequency, which results in a quicker data transfer rate. However, faster speeds need more energy, so you may need to change the batteries more often. In terms of home automation, it could be prudent to opt for the faster option. For instance, shutting off the pump and opening the gate are tasks that must be accomplished swiftly and necessitate a faster connection.
3. Accessibility Z-Wave can support up to 232 devices, which is more than adequate for the majority of applications. However, four hops is the maximum distance between devices. In comparison, Zigbee is compatible with over 65,000 devices and an infinite number of hops.
4. Even though ZigBee is quicker and less expensive than Z-Wave, because it is not proprietary, its limited range is one of its disadvantages. Z-Wave can broadcast and receive up to 100 feet, whereas ZigBee has a range of 35 feet. This disadvantage is slightly reduced by the compatibility of both protocols. Multiple ZigBee or Z-Wave devices in close proximity will operate as repeaters or boosters, allowing the signal to go further.

Both methods for controlling smart home devices have advantages and downsides. No protocol appears to have earned the right to be called a standard. Z-Wave or ZigBee may triumph in the end, but there are many more protocols that have been established or are in development that may have more robust or appealing characteristics that may propel them to the top.