Best Zigbee Hubs and Controls for Smart Lighting: 2025 Expert Review
Oli at OR Electrics
Owner & Lead Electrician (18th Edition Qualified)
If you've ever tried to fit smart bulbs in a typical Leeds terrace, you've likely hit two problems: Wi-Fi dead spots caused by thick brick walls, and the infamous 'neutral wire' issue at the switch. Relying on standard Wi-Fi bulbs often results in a network that's clogged and unresponsive.
The professional solution is Zigbee. Unlike Wi-Fi, Zigbee creates a 'mesh' network where devices talk to each other, extending the signal range throughout the property. It uses less power, responds faster, and keeps your home broadband free for streaming and gaming.
In this review, I'm looking at three key pieces of kit for a robust Zigbee setup: a high-end hub for total local control, a versatile gateway for mixed devices, and the essential 'no-neutral' switch that makes the whole system viable in older UK properties.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Universal Compatibility"
"Marketing often claims a hub works with 'all smart devices'."
The reality is a bit messier. Zigbee has different 'dialects' (like Tuya vs Aqara). Unless you buy a Matter-compatible hub (like the M3), you often need to stick to one brand's ecosystem to guarantee full functionality.
The Spec: "Instant Response Time"
"Zigbee is instant because it's local."
It is faster than Wi-Fi, but in solid brick homes (common in Armley or Harehills), you need mains-powered devices (like switches) to act as 'repeaters'. Battery sensors alone won't build a strong mesh.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
MOES ZigBee Smart Wall Light Switch No Neutral Wire Required
MOES
Whilst strictly a switch rather than a hub, this device is the number one reason homeowners in Leeds start looking for a Zigbee hub. It solves the critical 'missing neutral' wire issue found in most UK light switches, making it the perfect budget starting point for your system.
The Good
- Does not require a neutral wire - perfect for older UK housing stock
- Retains physical button control (crucial for guests/family)
- Memory function restores status after power cuts
The Bad
- Requires a separate Tuya Zigbee Hub to function
- Plastic finish feels functional rather than premium
Installer Tip:
If you're fitting this in a standard 25mm back box, it's going to be tight. I always recommend using a 35mm box or a spacer if you can. Also, pair this with the WENGART hub (see below) for a seamless setup.
Priced at £16.92 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonAqara Smart Hub M3 for Home Automation, Matter Controller
Aqara
If you want a 'set it and forget it' system, the Aqara M3 is the gold standard. It supports the new Matter protocol, meaning it plays nicely with almost everything, and crucially, it processes automations locally on the device—keeping your data private and your lights fast.
The Good
- Local automation means lights work even if the internet goes down
- Matter support bridges the gap between Apple, Google, and Alexa
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) allows for a rock-solid hardwired connection
The Bad
- Significantly more expensive than standard gateways
- Some features are overkill for a simple one-room setup
Installer Tip:
I always advise clients to hardwire this hub using the PoE port. It eliminates Wi-Fi interference issues completely. If you are renovating, run a Cat6 cable to a central cupboard for this unit.
Priced at £99.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonWENGART ZigBee Bluetooth Gateway Hub BAB03
WENGART
This is the 'skeleton key' for budget smart homes. It connects both Zigbee and Bluetooth Mesh devices into the Tuya ecosystem. If you are using the MOES switch (above) and some cheap Bluetooth sensors, this hub ties them all together perfectly.
The Good
- Dual protocol (Zigbee + Bluetooth) offers great flexibility
- Compact and portable design
- Budget-friendly way to enable remote control for Tuya devices
The Bad
- USB powered but rarely comes with the actual plug adapter (check the box)
- Lacks the local processing power of the Aqara M3
Installer Tip:
Place this hub centrally in your home. It needs to 'see' your devices. If you live in a large stone-built house in Leeds, avoid hiding it in a metal Consumer Unit cupboard as it will block the signal.
Priced at £23.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Zigbee hub and a Wi-Fi bulb?
Do I need a neutral wire for smart switches?
Can I mix different brands of Zigbee devices?
Will these hubs work if my internet goes down?
Is smart lighting installation DIY friendly?
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