Aqara’s H2 Dimmer Switches Arrive in the EU

Alongside the Camera Hub G5 Pro, Aqara has also launched their Dimmer Switch H2 EU, offering advanced smart lighting control with support for both Zigbee and Thread protocols. This flexibility, also offered by their recently released H2 wall switches for both the US and EU, allows users to choose between two connectivity modes, depending on their ecosystem preferences.

When operating in Zigbee mode, the switch integrates with Aqara hubs, enabling access to exclusive Aqara features and Matter compatibility. However, a compatible Aqara hub is required for this functionality. Alternatively, in Matter over Thread mode, the switch can connect directly with Matter-enabled smart home ecosystems, including Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and even Home Assistant. To utilise this mode, a Matter Controller and a Thread Border Router within the ecosystem are necessary. This does also include the Aqara ecosystem if you have the company’s M3 Hub.

FLEXIBLE WIRING

Designed to accommodate a variety of home electrical configurations, the Aqara Dimmer Switch H2 EU supports both neutral and no-neutral wiring setups. This makes installation straightforward, eliminating concerns about wiring compatibility. For homes with a neutral wire, the switch includes overload protection, enhancing safety. The required minimum mounting box depth is 40 mm, ensuring convenient installation. Note that when used with neutral the switches can also help extend the Zigbee network. This should also be the case with your Thread network.

INTUITIVE DIMMER CONTROL

The switch features a built-in wireless control dial that allows users to easily adjust lighting levels. With a dimming range from 1% to 100%, users can customise brightness to suit different moods and settings. The device also ensures smooth, flicker-free transitions. While this functionality is optimised for Zigbee mode, it provides an intuitive way to manage lighting in smart homes.

COMPATIBILITY

The Aqara Dimmer Switch H2 EU is designed to support a broad range of dimmable lighting fixtures. These include incandescent and halogen bulbs (up to 350W), as well as dimmable CFL, LED, and ELV lights (up to 200W). The minimum power requirement varies, with 4W needed when using Aqara Home via Matter and 9W via other methods. However, MLV lighting is not supported. Additionally, when wired with a neutral connection, the switch can control compatible smart bulbs, such as the Aqara LED Bulb T2, for simple on/off operation. Power monitoring is also available, but it is best utilised in Zigbee mode.

MODULAR DESIGN

The H2 EU is built with a modular design that fits into standard 55 mm switch systems. It is compatible with multi-gang frames from third-party brands, including Gira System 55 and Merten M, providing homeowners with greater flexibility when integrating the switch into existing setups.

The Aqara H2 Rotary Dimmer is available now on Amazon stores in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, as well as other locations.