
A smart light switch is practical and is one of the absolute must-haves in the smart home. The new Aqara light switch H2 EU scores with versatile connectivity, easy handling and practical voice control. Find out more in our review.
Technical data
The product | Light switch H2 EU |
Protocols | Matter, Threads, Zigbee; Bluetooth |
Compatibility | |
Operating voltage | 200-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, Max 8 A (resistive load), µ |
Operating temperature | 0°C – 40°C |
Dimensions | 86 mm x 86 mm x 45 mm |
Price | € 41.99 * |
Aqara light switch H2 EU Review: quick and easy to install
- Available in two versions
- Can also be used without a neutral conductor
- Fits in all standard frames (55 mm)
The brand new Aqara light switch H2 EU is available in two versions and comes with either four buttons and two channels or two buttons and one channel. Depending on which version you need.
In the handy scope of delivery you will also find the light switch, which is very easy to install. If you’ve never done this before, we recommend taking a look at our guide:
To make the smart light switch intelligent in the first place, however, you need a suitable smart home hub such as the Aqara Hub M3, which communicates via Matter and Thread.
The Aqara light switch H2 EU can then be connected with or without a neutral conductor. However, if you want to monitor the energy and use the overload protection, a connection with the neutral conductor is necessary. The neutral conductor is labeled “N Opt” on the back of the switch, which indicates its optional use.
Thanks to broad support for all 55mmm frames (the standard size), the smart light switch can replace all normal switches. Frames from third-party suppliers, including Gira System 55, Schneider Atlas Design and Merten M, are also supported. The light switch is then screwed in place with a total of four Phillips screws.
Once you have connected the cables, the Light Switch H2 EU, which is available in white, is ready for use.
What the Aqara Light Switch H2 EU can do
As already mentioned, the range of functions of the Aqara Light Switch H2 EU depends on whether you want to use the neutral conductor or not. The smart light switch not only has Thread and Zigbee support, but also supports the Matter smart home standard.
Thread mode, which is selected by default, is particularly recommended if you want to integrate the light switch directly into third-party systems. Whereas the Zigbee mode offers more features and is aimed at owners of the Aqara Hub.
However, the Aqara Hub is also required for Thread mode. This means: If you want to use the switch and possibly integrate it into other smart home systems, a hub from the manufacturer is mandatory. Accordingly, the smart light switch is directly and automatically integrated into all third-party ecosystems via Zigbee in conjunction with the hub.
In both modes, the Aqara H2 EU light switch supports a wireless switch function, use as a wired on/off switch and energy consumption monitoring. When used via Zigbee, however, the following functions are added:
- MARS Tech
- Relay Lock
- Indicator light
- and an additional wireless switch mode
MARS Tech is very interesting. Because while the power supply is normally interrupted when you switch off smart switches, MARS Tech ensures that the light remains online and ready at all times. This means you can use your smart home products again more quickly.
In Zigbee mode, you are free to decide how you want to use the Aqara light switch H2 EU. For example, the top button of the light switch can be removed from the light switch using the Aqara Home app. This is very practical in conjunction with smart lights to switch them off without interrupting the energy circuit.
Voice control, app and energy monitoring
In general, the top button (or buttons) is used to control the light, while the bottom button or buttons can be configured as wireless switches that can control all smart home devices. For example, the front door, curtains, security systems and much more.
Several alternative automations can even be configured for the lower button(s) for single and double presses or press and hold, making the possibilities of the Aqara light switch H2 EU almost endless.
Another advantage of the smart light switch is of course the voice control that is offered when used with an Aqara hub. Using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri, the light switch can also be easily operated by voice command. This naturally makes the entire operation and convenience of use much easier.
We also find the energy monitoring to be extremely practical if you use the neutral conductor. In the clear Aqara Home app, you can then see how much power your lights are consuming and get a detailed insight into consumption. This allows you to find out where the power guzzlers are, which opens up the potential to save energy.
Of course, the smart switch can also be easily integrated into all home automation systems and supports remote control, schedules and integration with other smart home devices, making it a real all-rounder.
The hub is currently not yet listed in ZHA and MQTT, meaning it is not compatible with Home Assistant at the moment unless you handle the programming yourself. I would assume here that compatibility will follow. After all, Aqara products are usually found in Home Assistant.
Aqara light switch H2 EU Review: Conclusion
The new Aqara light switch H2 EU is so much more than just a smart light switch, although it does an excellent job of this too. Depending on the model, you not only have one or two light switches at your disposal, but also one or two additional switches, which you can configure completely freely to control your entire smart home.
It works perfectly with all common smart home standards, with Zigbee and in combination with a hub from the manufacturer significantly expanding the range of functions even further.
Another very practical feature is that the light switch can be connected both with and without a neutral conductor, making it an excellent choice for older buildings. In combination with the attractive price, this results in an all-round coherent overall package that makes the Aqara light switch H2 EU a convincing all-rounder in the smart home segment.
- All smart home standards
- Quick installation
- Versatile functions
- Only one color
- Many functions only with hub
Aqara light switch H2 EU
Design & Workmanship
Hardware
Equipment
Value For Money
91/100
Incredibly versatile smart light switch that can control all smart home devices, comes with voice control and is quick to install.