Aqara Introducing Horizontal Switches to Asian Markets
In North America, switches (both smart and regular) are typically installed vertically, with the switches arranged in portrait orientation. However, some countries that use the same style of switches prefer to mount them horizontally, as is common in Taiwan, for example. To accommodate these markets, Aqara is preparing to launch a modified version of its H2 series switches. This updated design will feature buttons, LEDs, and branding all aligned for horizontal – or landscape – installation.
These switches are essentially identical to the H2 variants designed for North America, offering dual connection methods – Matter over Thread or Zigbee, depending on your preference – as well as the option to install them with or without a neutral wire. As you may already know, the wireless button on the single and triple relay models can be programmed to control other devices in Apple Home (and other Matter-compatible platforms) just like a standard wireless button, with single, double, and long press actions available.
In addition, the relays connected to the switches can also be configured to act as wireless buttons, although these are limited to single press actions or being read in their on or off state only.
While I mention that they’re ‘essentially’ the same, the wall plates are ever so slightly different in their dimensions compared to the US models. From my own experience, however, the US versions do fit Taiwan’s standard switch boxes without any issue. Whether these new models will fit US back boxes remains uncertain, but it’s unlikely they’ll be sold in the US or Canada without the necessary certification. So, if you happen to have horizontally mounted switches in your home, you’ll probably have to make do with those available in your own region.
These new variants are available for preorder via Jarvis, one of Aqara’s representatives in Taiwan, priced at NT$2000, NT$2,200, and NT$2,400 for the single, double, and triple relay models respectively.
