Shelly is a well-known brand in the smart home automation space, offering a range of devices designed to make everyday living more efficient and convenient. With their various series and models, it can be overwhelming to determine which device best fits your needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the Shelly Plus, Pro, and Mini series, along with popular Shelly models like Shelly 1, 2, 2PM, 1PM, Dimmer, EM, and the new Gen 3 range.
Shelly Series: Plus, Pro, and Mini
Shelly Plus Series
The Shelly Plus Series offers enhanced performance, security, and functionality compared to earlier models. This series includes devices such as switches and relays that are Wi-Fi enabled, with Bluetooth support for easier setup. Key features include:
- Faster processor: The Plus series uses an improved processor, which provides quicker response times and smoother operation.
- Increased safety: Built-in over-temperature and overload protection to enhance the longevity of your devices.
- Local and cloud control: You can control your Shelly Plus devices locally without the cloud, while also benefiting from cloud integration if desired.
- MQTT and REST API support: This allows for more flexibility in connecting with various smart home ecosystems, including Home Assistant.
Shelly Pro Series
The Shelly Pro Series is designed for advanced users and professional installations. This series offers all the benefits of the Plus Series with additional features aimed at commercial or large-scale residential projects:
- DIN rail mountable: Devices in the Pro series are intended for installation in electrical cabinets, making them ideal for larger projects.
- LAN connectivity: While other Shelly devices rely primarily on Wi-Fi, the Pro series also includes Ethernet ports for a more stable connection.
- Higher load capacity: The Pro series devices often support higher power loads, making them suitable for more demanding applications.
- Enhanced security and control: Devices are designed with the ability to integrate more securely and seamlessly with complex automation systems.
Shelly Mini Series
The Shelly Mini Series is compact and designed for users who need a smaller form factor to fit into tighter spaces, like behind light switches. These devices generally offer lower power handling capabilities and are ideal for retrofitting into existing homes where space might be limited.
Popular Shelly Models: Shelly 1, 2, 2PM, 1PM, Dimmer, EM
Shelly 1
- Single relay switch: Shelly 1 is a compact, versatile Wi-Fi relay switch that allows you to control a single circuit.
- Wide compatibility: It works with a range of smart home systems, including Home Assistant and Google Home, and supports both dry and wet contact switching.
Shelly 2.5
- Dual relay switch: Shelly 2.5 allows for control of two independent circuits. It’s more compact than the Shelly 1 and also includes power monitoring.
- Advanced features: Like Shelly 1, it supports automation and remote control through various smart home platforms.
Shelly 2PM
- Dual relay with power monitoring: Shelly 2PM is similar to Shelly 2.5 but includes power monitoring on both circuits, allowing you to track energy consumption for each independently.
Shelly 1PM
- Single relay with power monitoring: Shelly 1PM offers the same functionality as Shelly 1, with the added benefit of real-time power consumption monitoring, making it ideal for energy-conscious users.
Shelly Dimmer
- Smart dimmer: Shelly Dimmer is a Wi-Fi-enabled dimmer that can control the brightness of lights in your home. It supports both incandescent and LED lights, and can operate without a neutral wire, making it suitable for older homes.
Shelly EM
- Energy monitoring device: Shelly EM is used for real-time monitoring of electricity consumption. It supports two independent channels and can handle up to 120A per phase, making it ideal for monitoring appliances, solar panels, or entire circuits in the home.
Introducing Shelly Gen 3 Range
The new Shelly Gen 3 devices come with significant upgrades in performance, security, and integration capabilities. Some of the key enhancements include:
- Improved connectivity: Gen 3 devices will feature better Wi-Fi range and more reliable connections.
- Support for new protocols: Enhanced integration with newer smart home ecosystems like Matter, allowing for easier interoperability between devices from different manufacturers.
- Edge Computing: These devices will have edge processing capabilities, enabling faster local automation and reducing the reliance on cloud servers.
- Enhanced power management: Gen 3 devices offer more advanced energy management features, helping users track and optimize their power consumption.
- Modular design: Many devices in the Gen 3 lineup will have modular components, making them easier to upgrade or customize for specific needs.
Shelly's Roadmap for the Future
Shelly’s roadmap includes several exciting developments:
- Expanding Matter integration: Shelly is committed to supporting Matter, the emerging smart home standard, in future releases.
- More powerful devices: Shelly is working on devices with higher load capabilities and more robust power management to meet the needs of industrial users.
- Advanced energy monitoring solutions: Expect more devices with built-in power and energy monitoring as energy efficiency continues to be a key focus.
- Focus on sustainability: Shelly plans to release more energy-efficient devices, helping users reduce their carbon footprint through smarter energy use.
- Greater security features: Future devices will feature even more robust encryption and local control capabilities to ensure data privacy.
Conclusion
Shelly offers a diverse range of products to suit various smart home setups, from compact devices like the Shelly Mini to advanced options in the Pro series. With the introduction of the Gen 3 range, Shelly is continuing to innovate and expand its offerings, providing users with faster, more secure, and more efficient devices. Whether you’re looking for basic automation with a Shelly 1 or advanced energy monitoring with Shelly EM, there’s a Shelly device for every use case.
By keeping an eye on Shelly's roadmap, you can expect even more exciting features and integrations in the future, particularly around energy management, security, and smart home compatibility.