Overview
This product is presented as the Aqara Smart Hub E1 for home automation. Also it requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi for connection. It supports Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT via connected Aqara child devices.
Key takeaways
This product is marketed as a compact smart home hub with Zigbee 3.0 support. Also it connects Aqara child devices to popular smart home platforms.
- Requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and uses single-band wireless.
- Supports Zigbee 3.0 and connects Aqara Zigbee devices only.
- Supports up to 128 Aqara devices when repeaters are used.
- Uses USB-A power through an integrated USB-A port.
- Acts as a Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz repeater for up to 2 devices.
What the product is designed to do
This item is characterized as a smart home hub that acts as a bridge for compatible Aqara devices. Also it exposes compatible Aqara devices to third-party platforms such as HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT.
The hub connects Aqara child devices across a home. For example it supports both classic and the latest Aqara devices. It supports up to 128 Aqara devices despite its compact size.
The hub uses Aqara Zigbee and supports Zigbee 3.0. However it does not support third-party Zigbee devices. The hub expands a Zigbee network and can also expand Wi-Fi coverage.
The product text highlights control through the Aqara Home app. In addition it highlights checking device status and getting notifications when away. For a direct path to the item, use Aqara Smart Hub E1.
Materials, dimensions, and technical details
This item is presented as a small-size hub with a flexible shaft. Also the shaft angle can change within 210 degrees.
The hub measures 4.25” x 1.18” x 0.3”. In addition it weighs 58 grams. The product text says it occupies less space and can be placed almost anywhere.
| Detail | Stated value |
|---|---|
| Model name | HE1-G01 |
| Wi-Fi requirement | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only |
| Wireless standard | 802.11n |
| Frequency band class | Single-band |
| Connectivity technology | Wi-Fi |
| Antenna type | Internal |
| Recommended use | Indoor |
| Color | White |
| Device capacity | Up to 128 Aqara devices (repeaters required) |
| Repeater support | Wi-Fi repeater supports 2 devices |
| Dimensions | 4.25” x 1.18” x 0.3” |
| Weight | 58 grams |
The housing integrates a regular USB-A port for power. Also it can draw power from USB-equipped devices such as a power bank, power strip, outlet, PC, or router.
Installation and placement notes
It is presented as a hub powered by an integrated USB-A port. Also it can plug into a range of USB power sources.
The product text highlights flexible placement. For example the shaft angle changes within 210 degrees. The text also calls the hub compact and easy to carry.
The hub only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. However some reviews describe setup steps as easy to follow. Some reviews also describe setup as tricky at first.
The hub can connect up to 128 Aqara devices. In addition the product text says repeaters are required for that capacity. The repeaters example includes the Aqara Smart Plug or Aqara Smart Wall Switch (With Neutral).
Performance characteristics described
It is characterized as a Zigbee 3.0 hub focused on stable and energy-efficient smart home technology. Also the product text uses the wording fastest, most stable, and energy-efficient.
The hub expands a Zigbee network. In addition it acts as a Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz repeater. The repeater function supports only 2 devices.
The product text says the repeater can make coverage of other Aqara hubs and other Wi-Fi devices more stable. However platform support may vary by device. The hub itself is not directly controllable via third-party apps.
The product text asks users to ensure the hub and an iOS device use the latest firmware. Next it clarifies the hub acts as a bridge to expose compatible Aqara devices. For quick reference, open USB-A powered hub.
Review patterns buyers commonly mention
It is labeled as easy to set up in many review summaries. Also common review themes include mixed connectivity and mixed functionality.
Several reviews describe connection issues and device setup problems. However other reviews describe setup as fairly easy. Some reviews describe the hub disconnecting at times.
Compatibility themes vary across reviews. For example some reviews describe it working with Google Home and Alexa. Some reviews also describe it not connecting to SmartThings.
Size and power come up often in reviews. In addition reviewers describe it as very small or compact. Reviews also discuss USB power and finding a USB power source.
Pros
It is specified as compact and easy to carry in the product text. Also reviews often echo a small size theme.
- Many reviews describe setup as easy to set up or fairly easy.
- Some reviews describe it working well with Google Home and Alexa.
- Reviews frequently mention the compact size and USB port placement.
- Some reviews describe using it for remote control of an Aqara smart lock.
Cons
It is intended for use on indoor networks that run 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. However reviews include mixed feedback on connectivity and functionality.
- Several reviews describe connection issues or disconnecting.
- Some reviews describe device setup problems during configuration.
- Some reviews describe needing to reboot by unplugging and replugging.
- Some reviews describe negative quality feedback, including calling it junk.
FAQ
This product is presented as a hub that requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. Also it uses Aqara Zigbee with Zigbee 3.0 support.
Does it support 5 GHz Wi-Fi?
The hub only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. However it can also act as a Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz repeater.
Can it connect to third-party Zigbee devices?
The product text says it does not support third-party Zigbee devices. Also it focuses on Aqara Zigbee child devices.
How many devices can it connect?
The product text says it can connect up to 128 Aqara devices. In addition it says repeaters are required for that capacity.
What powers the hub?
The hub uses an integrated USB-A port for power. Also it can draw power from USB-equipped devices such as a router or PC.
How does third-party platform control work?
The hub enables connected Aqara child devices to work with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. Also it acts as a bridge and is not directly controllable via third-party apps.
For more details, visit supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT.