Google Nest Hub Max vs SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator)

These hubs anchor different ecosystems: the Google Nest Hub Max runs Google Home, the SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator) runs Zigbee2MQTT / ZHA (DIY). The SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator) pairs more of this database directly — 5,405 devices against 1,824 for the Google Nest Hub Max — because of its radio coverage. Radio hardware differs: only the SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator) has a Zigbee radio. The SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator) runs automations locally without a cloud dependency; the other relies on cloud processing.

Google Nest Hub Max SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator)
Ecosystem Google Home Zigbee2MQTT / ZHA (DIY)
Matter controller Yes No
Thread border router No No
Zigbee radio none built-in
Z-Wave radio none none
Bridges its devices into Matter No No
Local (no-cloud) control No Yes
Subscription required for core features No No
Built-in voice assistant Google Assistant
Ethernet port No Yes
Wi-Fi Yes Yes
Release year 2019 2023

What each hub actually pairs

Frequently asked questions

Which pairs more devices, the Google Nest Hub Max or the SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator)?

The SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator): 5,405 devices in this database pair directly, versus 1,824 for the Google Nest Hub Max.

Can I run the Google Nest Hub Max and SMLIGHT SLZB-06 (Zigbee PoE coordinator) together?

Usually yes. Matter's multi-admin lets the same Matter device join several controllers at once, and Thread border routers from different vendors share one mesh. Zigbee and Z-Wave devices, though, pair to exactly one hub at a time.