The Aeotec Z-Stick series has been a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts looking to set up a Z-Wave network. The Aeotec Z-Stick series refers to a line of Z-Wave USB adapters manufactured by Aeotec. These devices are used in your home automation systems to enable communication between Z-Wave enabled smart devices (such as lights, thermostats, door locks, etc.) and a central hub or controller.
With the release of the Z-Stick 7 and the Gen5+, many are wondering how these new additions stack up against the tried-and-true Gen5. So, in this article you can get an idea about Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5.
What is Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5?
The Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 is a versatile Z-Wave USB dongle. When connected to a host processor, it transforms into a Z-Wave communication device, capable of controlling up to 232 Z-Wave devices.
It's designed to simplify Z-Wave network installation and is compatible with various computer platforms, including Raspberry Pi 4. The Gen5 offers you a wireless range of up to 150 meters and supports AES-128-bit encrypted communication. You can even combine it with the best Aeotec smart hubs!
Features
- Control and monitor any Z-Wave device from a PC or other gateway device.
- Direct compatibility with Raspberry Pi 4.
- Supports all Z-Wave compatible devices and networks.
- Built-in push-button and battery for remote network creation.
- USB (2.0) powered (also recharges battery).
- Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows7 systems.
- Z-Wave Plus Certified.
- Wireless range up to 150 meters (about 492.13 ft).
- 250% more communication bandwidth.
- Powers over-the-air firmware updates for Z-Wave devices.
- AES-128-bit encrypted communication and security.
- Designed to bring Z-Wave to every computer platform, including Raspberry Pi 4 and select NAS systems.
- Inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery, working for up to 15 days (about 2 weeks) during power outages.
| Pros | Cons |
| Versatile | Lacks the SmartStart feature and S2 security found in newer models |
| Compatible with various computer platforms | |
| Secure AES-128-bit encrypted communication |
Aeotec Z-Stick 7
The Aeotec Z-Stick 7 is the latest addition to the Z-Stick series, designed to be compatible with the latest Z-Wave protocols. It boasts a built-in backup and recovery function, ensuring your smart home setup remains intact even in unexpected situations.
Features
- Control and monitor any Z-Wave device from a PC or other gateway device.
- Supports all Z-Wave compatible devices and networks.
- Built-in push-button and battery for remote network creation.
- USB (2.0) powered (also recharges battery).
- S2 Security and SmartStart for enhanced security.
- Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows7 systems.
- Z-Wave Plus Certified.
- Wireless range up to 150 meters (about 492.13 ft).
- 250% more communication bandwidth.
- Powers over-the-air firmware updates for Z-Wave devices.
- AES-128-bit encrypted communication and security.
- Works with open source and pro software (e.g., Home Assistant, openHAB, Domoticz, Homeseer, Axial, Indigo).
- Inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery, working for up to 15 days (about 2 weeks) during power outages.
| Pros | Cons |
| Latest Z-Wave protocols | Slightly more expensive than the other options |
| Built-in backup and recovery | |
| Easy setup with SmartStart | |
| Enhanced security with S2 |
Z-Stick Gen5+
The Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5+ is an enhanced version of the Gen5. It is designed to work with different computer platforms and provides a reliable connection.
Features
- Control and monitor any Z-Wave device from a PC or other gateway device.
- Direct compatibility with Raspberry Pi 4.
- Supports all Z-Wave compatible devices and networks.
- Built-in push-button and battery for remote network creation.
- USB (2.0) powered (also recharges battery).
- S2 Security and SmartStart for enhanced security.
- Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows7 systems.
- Z-Wave Plus Certified.
- Wireless range up to 150 meters / 492 feet.
- 250% more communication bandwidth.
- Powers over-the-air firmware updates for Z-Wave devices.
- AES-128-bit encrypted communication and security.
- Designed to bring Z-Wave to every computer platform, including Raspberry Pi 4 and select NAS systems.
- Inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery, working for up to 15 days during power outages.
| Pros | Cons |
| Enhanced features compared to Gen5 Enhanced features compared to Gen5 | Slightly more expensive than Gen5 |
| S2 security | |
| SmartStart for easy setup | |
| Dependable connection with inbuilt battery |
Not only Aeotec Z-Stick series, if you like to use Aeotec Smart Home Hubs and Aeotec Smart Sensor now you can smarten up your home with these products.
Conclusion
As I mentioned earlier, I love the Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5. Because it is easy to use. If you're on a budget and need a reliable Z-Wave USB dongle, the Gen5 will serve you well. However, if you're looking for the latest features and enhanced security, the Z-Stick 7 is a great choice and the go-to for use cases. Make sure to consider other factors that will affect the decision about your purchase as well!
FAQs
What is the range of Aeotec Z-stick Gen5?- Z-Stick Gen5 can communicate with other Z-Wave devices up to 150 metres / 492 feet away.
Does Aeotec work with Z-Wave?
- Z-Wave compatible products from Aeotec, boast compatibility with the widest range of gateways. Not only backward compatible with all generations of Z-Wave but also immune to the wireless interface issues that are common in other standards.