Compare 5 Dongles and Find the One That Fits You Best
With the rapid growth of open-source platforms such as Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, and openHAB, more users are building local, private, and future-proof smart home systems. At the heart of these systems lies a critical component: the Zigbee/Thread Dongle.
Today, SONOFF offers a comprehensive Zigbee/Thread Dongle designed for different user levels and deployment scenarios — from beginner-friendly USB Dongle to high-performance, standalone Dongle with Ethernet and PoE support.
This guide will help you clearly understand the differences between SONOFF's Zigbee Dongles and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Comparison Overview
|
Product name |
Dongle Max (New!） |
Dongle Plus MG24 (New!） |
Dongle Lite MG21 (New!） |
||
|
Model |
Dongle-M |
Dongle-PMG24 |
Dongle-LMG21 |
ZBDongle-E |
ZBDongle-P |
|
Unique Features |
Ideal for users who need flexible installation, wireless access to open-source platforms, or want to explore more development possibilities. |
Pursue higher processing performance and stable local operation. |
The best choice for beginners. Stable experience with mainstream EZSP solution, easy to get started. |
Stable experience with mainstream EZSP solution, easy to get started. |
Stable experience with mainstream ZNP solution, easy to get started. |
|
Connection |
Ethernet/Wi-Fi/USB *Supports PoE |
USB |
USB |
USB |
USB |
|
Antenna Gain |
5dBi |
3dBi (Max 4.5dBi) |
2dBi (Max 3dBi) |
2dBi |
2dBi |
|
Number of Antennas |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Soc |
EFR32MG24+ESP32D0WD |
EFR32MG24 |
EFR32MG21 |
EFR32MG21 |
CC2652P |
|
Serial Interface Protocol |
EmberZNet (EZSP) |
EmberZNet (EZSP) |
EmberZNet (EZSP) |
EmberZNet (EZSP) |
Z-Stack (ZNP) |
|
Additional Capabilities |
|
× |
× |
× |
× |
|
Supported Firmwares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supported Platforms |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cable Included |
USB Type-C cable (1m) |
USB extension cable (1m) |
USB extension cable (0.5m) |
× |
× |
Still Unsure? Select Step by Step
If you're still unsure after reading the comparison above, don't worry.
You don't need to understand protocols or technical details — just follow the questions below and choose what fits your real needs.
Step 1: How do you want your Zigbee Dongle to connect?
A. Flexible placement
I want more flexibility. I prefer Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and hope it offers more placement options, allowing it to be easily positioned in locations such as warehouses, cabinets, or other spaces.
→ Choose: Dongle Max
B. Simply attached near the host
USB is fine for me. I'll connect it directly to my host device.
→ Go to Step 2
Step 2: What matters more to you?
A. Performance and future scalability
I want stronger processing power and better support for future features like MultiPAN.
→ Choose: Dongle-PMG24
B. Simplicity for daily usage
I just want something reliable that works well for daily use.
→ Go to Step 3
Step 3: What is your experience level with Zigbee?
A. Beginner
This is my first Zigbee dongle, or I'm new to Home Assistant.
→ Choose: Dongle-LMG21
B. Experienced user
I've used Zigbee dongles before and know what I want.
→ Go to Step 4
Step 4: Which Zigbee ecosystem do you prefer?
A. EmberZNet (EZSP)
→ Choose: ZBDongle-E
B. Z-Stack (ZNP)
→ Choose: ZBDongle-P
Product Highlights
Dongle Max (Dongle-M)
Flexible deployment · Standalone operation · Maximum capability
Dongle Max is the most powerful and flexible Zigbee Dongle in the SONOFF lineup.
It is not just a USB dongle—it's a standalone Zigbee / Thread Dongle
Key highlights:
- Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity
- PoE support for fixed installations
- Dual-chip architecture: EFR32MG24 + ESP32
- Built-in Web Console, Webhooks, AP Hotspot, WireGuard
- Ideal for advanced users and development scenarios
Best for:
Users who need flexible installation, wireless access to open-source platforms, or advanced development capabilities.
Dongle Plus MG24 (Dongle-PMG24)
High-performance Zigbee / Thread Dongle
Designed for users who want stronger performance while keeping a clean USB-based setup.
Key highlights:
- Powered by EFR32MG24 with larger Flash and RAM
- Stable Zigbee, Thread, and MultiPAN support
- Higher antenna gain for medium to large networks
- Clean, reliable local operation
Best for:
Users who pursue higher processing performance and stable operation.
Dongle Lite MG21 (Dongle-LMG21)
Lightweight, stable, and beginner-friendly
An ideal entry-level Zigbee Dongle for beginning users.
Key highlights:
- EFR32MG21 with EZSP
- Proven stability and ease of use
- Compact size and low power consumption
- Perfect for everyday Zigbee networks
Best for:
Beginners who want a stable and easy start.
ZBDongle-E
Classic EZSP solution
A long-standing favorite among Zigbee users.
Best for:
Users who want a mature, well-supported EZSP solution.
ZBDongle-P
Reliable Z-Stack solution
Based on TI CC2652P and ZNP.
Best for:
Users familiar with the Z-Stack ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you are on your smart home journey,
SONOFF offers a Zigbee Dongle that fits your needs—stable, open, and future-ready.
👉 Start with the right choice, and build a stronger Zigbee network from day one.
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