SONOFF Orb-ZBW1 – Single-circuit, phase+neutral mini relay module with switch, Zigbee, white

The SONOFF Orb-ZBW1 (ZBMINIR2-E) is part of the Orb Fusion switch series from the popular Sonoff brand, based on the well-known ZBMINIR2 relay module designed for installation behind wall switches or sockets.

The ZBMINIR2 is a compact smart relay module that communicates via the Zigbee 3.0 protocol and is typically installed inside wall back boxes behind switches or outlets. It is an ideal solution for those looking to modernize their home lighting or make other electrical devices remotely switchable. With this module and switch combination, the connected circuits can be integrated into a smart home system via Zigbee 3.0 communication.

The SONOFF Orb-ZBW1 (ZBMINIR2-E) not only enables remote control but also upgrades traditional switches with smart functionality after installation, offering both convenience and flexibility. Its design ensures compatibility with standard mounting boxes. For remote access, a Zigbee gateway, bridge, or coordinator is required, but once installed, it operates immediately like a conventional switch.

What is Zigbee?

Zigbee is a communication protocol specifically developed for smart home and IoT applications, designed for efficient and low-power communication between smart devices. Unlike Wi-Fi devices that connect directly to a router, Zigbee devices require a Zigbee-to-Wi-Fi gateway (bridge or coordinator) to enable remote control and internet connectivity.

One of the key advantages of Zigbee is that it reduces the load on your Wi-Fi network, as only the gateway connects to the router, while other devices communicate over Zigbee. This prevents unnecessary IP address usage on your network.

Zigbee also supports mesh networking. Devices connected to mains power (phase + neutral), such as the Sonoff ZBMINIR2 or Zigbee smart plugs, can act as signal repeaters, extending the network range by forwarding data between devices and the gateway.

Another major advantage of Zigbee is its low power consumption compared to Wi-Fi. This makes it especially suitable for battery-powered sensors, which can operate for years on a single battery. Although it handles smaller data volumes, this is typically sufficient for control and status communication. Zigbee is an industry-standard protocol, meaning compliant devices are generally compatible across different manufacturers.

The SONOFF Orb-ZBW1 (ZBMINIR2-E) is compatible with:

- Sonoff Zigbee gateways such as Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Pro and NSPanel Pro, controllable via the eWeLink platform and app
- SmartWise Zigbee Bridge Pro (also supports Ethernet connection)
- Zigbee coordinators such as Sonoff Dongle Plus E, Conbee II, Conbee III
- Sonoff iHost for local, cloud-independent control
- Matter-compatible systems when used with Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Ultra (including Apple Home)
- Samsung SmartThings hub (via SmartThings app on iOS and Android)
- Philips Hue bridge
- Amazon Echo devices with built-in Zigbee (Echo Plus 2nd Gen, Echo 4th Gen, Echo Show 2nd Gen)

It also supports Amazon Alexa voice control (e.g., “Alexa, find device”).

The SONOFF Orb-ZBW1 is a 230V relay switch connected to the mains (phase and neutral) on the input side, and used to control a 230V load (e.g., lighting) on the output side by opening or closing the circuit.

Using a smartphone with internet connection, the relay can be controlled remotely via the eWeLink app (with Sonoff Zigbee Bridge Pro) or via the SmartThings app (with SmartThings hub). Standard features include ON/OFF status, manual switching, and scheduling (timers, countdown, cycle control). The inching (momentary switch) function is not supported.

The switch input can be detached from the relay output, allowing flexible control configurations.

Product features

- Protocol: Zigbee 3.0, MQTT
- Smart home compatibility: Works with most Zigbee 3.0 systems, including open-source platforms such as Home Assistant
- Power supply: 100–240V AC, 50/60 Hz
- Max. load: 10A / 2200W (resistive load)
- Dimensions: 42.6 × 42.6 × 20 mm
- Operating temperature: -10°C to +40°C
- Voice control: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings
- App support: eWeLink (via Zigbee gateway)
- Housing: Flame-retardant ABS
- Installation: Standard EU wall boxes
- Functions: Unlike its Wi-Fi counterpart, inching (auto-off) is NOT supported in the eWeLink app
- Switch input: Can be detached from relay output