The ConBee III is a versatile USB Zigbee coordinator developed by Dresden Elektronik. It serves as a bridge between Zigbee smart devices and a local control system, enabling robust and private automation networks without relying on cloud infrastructure. Below, we detail its core functionality, platform compatibility, and supported device ecosystems.
How It Works
The ConBee III acts as a Zigbee coordinator, the central hub in a Zigbee network. It connects to a host system via USB (e.g., a Raspberry Pi, mini PC, or NAS), and communicates with Zigbee devices (such as lights, switches, sensors) over the 2.4GHz band.
The ConBee III leverages open-source middleware, most commonly deCONZ or integrations like Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA (Zigbee Home Automation) in Home Assistant. It handles Zigbee network creation, device pairing, message routing, and communication between Zigbee devices and the host's automation logic.
Local-Only Operation (No Cloud Required)
One of the key advantages of the ConBee III is its 100% local operation. It does not require any internet connection or external cloud service to function. This makes it ideal for users prioritizing:
Data privacy
Low latency
High reliability during internet outages
The entire automation stack — from Zigbee communication to automation processing — happens within the local network.
Platform Compatibility
The ConBee III supports a wide range of operating systems and home automation platforms:
✅ Compatible Platforms:
Home Assistant (ZHA or via deCONZ integration)
openHAB
Domoticz
ioBroker
Jeedom
deCONZ App on Windows/Linux/macOS
Zigbee2MQTT (via flashing custom firmware, optional)
These integrations allow users to visualize their Zigbee mesh, configure devices, and define automations with ease.
❌ Not Compatible With:
eWeLink cloud platform
Tuya Smart / Smart Life cloud platform
or any cloud-only platforms that do not allow user-supplied coordinators
The ConBee III is designed for self-hosted, local smart home ecosystems. If you're using an app that requires pairing with a branded Zigbee hub (like Tuya or eWeLink), ConBee III won't work with those systems.
Compatible Zigbee Devices
The ConBee III supports a wide range of Zigbee 3.0 and legacy Zigbee HA devices across various categories:
Lights & LED controllers (e.g., IKEA TRÅDFRI, Philips Hue, GLEDOPTO)
Smart plugs and switches (e.g., SONOFF, BlitzWolf, IKEA, third-party Zigbee switches)
Sensors (motion, door/window, temperature/humidity – Aqara, Sonoff, Xiaomi, etc.)
Thermostats and HVAC controllers
Buttons, remotes, and scene controllers
While it supports a broad array of devices, compatibility may vary slightly depending on the integration (deCONZ vs. Zigbee2MQTT vs. ZHA). It's advisable to check the official device compatibility list or community-maintained databases when planning a deployment.
According to tests, most Zigbee 3.0 devices (included those of Sonoff and SmartWise, as well as Aqara) are compatible with the Conbee III Zigbee coordinator.
Summary
Feature | Details |
Product Name | ConBee III |
Type | USB Zigbee Coordinator |
Operation | Local (no cloud required) |
Platform Support | Home Assistant, deCONZ, openHAB, etc. |
Not Supported | Tuya, eWeLink, or other cloud-only platforms |
Device Support | Wide range of Zigbee lights, sensors, plugs |
Protocol | Zigbee 3.0 and legacy Zigbee HA |
Connection | USB 2.0 |