SmartThings > Z-Wave vs Zigbee

The SmartThings mobile app enables you to control your devices from anywhere, monitor and receive notifications about what’s happening at home, and automate lights, locks, thermostats, and more.

To help you get the most out of your smart home, Samsung are working to connect products and services from Samsung with the vast ecosystem of devices that work with SmartThings. 

Z-Wave and ZigBee are wireless radio frequency communication protocols designed for control, monitoring, and status-reading of connected devices. In other words, Z-Wave and ZigBee are the different “languages” yourSmartThings Hub and devices use to “talk” to one another.

How does the SmartThings Hub use Z-Wave and ZigBee?

The SmartThings Hub contains internal Z-Wave and ZigBee radio antennae to communicate wirelessly with Z-Wave and ZigBee devices.
The Hub acts as the primary controller for the Z-Wave and ZigBee networks.

How do smart devices use Z-Wave and ZigBee?

Samsung SmartThings devices (Outlets and Motion, Multipurpose, Arrival, and Water Leak Sensors) contain ZigBee chips to receive and provide information. Other devices compatible with SmartThings might have either a Z-Wave or ZigBee chip.

Can Z-Wave and ZigBee communicate with each other?

No.

For example: a device with a Z-Wave chip would not be able to talk to a controller with only a ZigBee antenna. Similarly, a ZigBee device will not affect a Z-Wave mesh network, and vice versa.

Please Note: 

The SmartThings Hub can support both ZigBee and Z-Wave, however the sensors and buttons being sold in New Zealand are only supported by Zigbee. 

Samsung NZ are not ranging any Z-Wave compatable devices for New Zealand SmartThings Accessories.

You can download the user manual from our Manuals & Downloads page. For all other queries or further technical assistance, please call Samsung Customer Care on 0800 726 786 or Live Chat with our Technical Team online, services are open 24 hours, 7 days.