Aeotec Z-stick 7 vs Gen5 vs Gen5+

The Aeotec Z-Stick series has been a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts looking to set up a Z-Wave network. With the release of the Z-Stick 7 and the Gen5+, many are wondering how these new additions stack up against the tried-and-true Gen5. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each to help you make an informed decision.

Table of contents

What is Aeotec Z-Stick 7?

The Aeotec Z-Stick 7 is the latest addition to the Z-Stick series, designed to be compatible with the latest Z-Wave protocols. It boasts a built-in backup and recovery function, ensuring your smart home setup remains intact even in unexpected situations. With its SmartStart feature, setting up your Z-Wave network has never been easier. The Z-Stick 7 also supports S2 security, ensuring a secure and reliable connection for your devices.

Aeotec Z-Stick 7 Features:

Control and monitor any Z-Wave device from a PC or other gateway device.
Supports all Z-Wave compatible devices and networks.
Built-in push-button and battery for remote network creation.
USB (2.0) powered (also recharges battery).
S2 Security and SmartStart for enhanced security.
Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows7 systems.
Z-Wave Plus Certified.
Wireless range up to 150 meters / 492 feet.
250% more communication bandwidth.
Powers over-the-air firmware updates for Z-Wave devices.
AES-128 bit encrypted communication and security.
Works with open source and pro software (e.g., Home Assistant, openHAB, Domoticz, Homeseer, Axial, Indigo).
Inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery, working for up to 15 days during power outages.

What is Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5?

The Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 is a versatile Z-Wave USB dongle. When connected to a host processor, it transforms into a Z-Wave communication device, capable of controlling up to 232 Z-Wave devices. It's designed to simplify Z-Wave network installation and is compatible with various computer platforms, including Raspberry Pi 4. The Gen5 offers a wireless range of up to 150 meters and supports AES-128 bit encrypted communication.

Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 Features:

Control and monitor any Z-Wave device from a PC or other gateway device.
Direct compatibility with Raspberry Pi 4.
Supports all Z-Wave compatible devices and networks.
Built-in push-button and battery for remote network creation.
USB (2.0) powered (also recharges battery).
Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows7 systems.
Z-Wave Plus Certified.
Wireless range up to 150 meters / 492 feet.
250% more communication bandwidth.
Powers over-the-air firmware updates for Z-Wave devices.
AES-128 bit encrypted communication and security.
Designed to bring Z-Wave to every computer platform, including Raspberry Pi 4 and select NAS systems.
Inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery, working for up to 15 days during power outages.

What is Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5+?

The Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5+ is an enhanced version of the Gen5. Like its predecessor, it can control up to 232 Z-Wave devices. The Gen5+ stands out with its S2 security and SmartStart features, ensuring a secure and straightforward setup. It's designed to work with various computer platforms and offers a dependable connection, thanks to its inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery.

Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5+ Features:

Control and monitor any Z-Wave device from a PC or other gateway device.
Direct compatibility with Raspberry Pi 4.
Supports all Z-Wave compatible devices and networks.
Built-in push-button and battery for remote network creation.
USB (2.0) powered (also recharges battery).
S2 Security and SmartStart for enhanced security.
Compatible with Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows7 systems.
Z-Wave Plus Certified.
Wireless range up to 150 meters / 492 feet.
250% more communication bandwidth.
Powers over-the-air firmware updates for Z-Wave devices.
AES-128 bit encrypted communication and security.
Designed to bring Z-Wave to every computer platform, including Raspberry Pi 4 and select NAS systems.
Inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery, working for up to 15 days during power outages.

Key Differences:

Z-Stick 7: Latest Z-Wave protocols, built-in backup and recovery, SmartStart feature, S2 security.

Gen5: Controls up to 232 Z-Wave devices, compatible with multiple computer platforms, AES-128 bit encrypted communication.

Gen5+: Enhanced version of Gen5, S2 security, SmartStart feature, inbuilt 100 mAh rechargeable lithium battery.

Pros and Cons of Aeotec Z-Stick 7:

Pros: Latest Z-Wave protocols, built-in backup and recovery, easy setup with SmartStart, enhanced security with S2.

Cons: Slightly more expensive than the other options.

Pros and Cons of Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5:

Pros: Versatile, compatible with various computer platforms, secure AES-128 bit encrypted communication.

Cons: Lacks the SmartStart feature and S2 security found in newer models.

Pros and Cons of Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5+:

Pros: Enhanced features compared to Gen5, S2 security, SmartStart for easy setup, dependable connection with inbuilt battery.

Cons: Slightly more expensive than Gen5.

Full Spec comparison table:

Feature/Specification	Z-Stick 7	Gen5	Gen5+
Z-Wave Protocol	Z-Wave Plus Certified	Z-Wave Plus Certified	Z-Wave Plus Certified
Security	S2 Security and SmartStart	AES-128 bit encrypted communication	S2 Security, SmartStart, AES-128 bit encryption
Compatibility	Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, Windows7	Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, Windows7, Raspberry Pi 4	Linux, Mac, Windows XP, Vista, Windows7, Raspberry Pi 4
Wireless Range	Up to 150 meters / 492 feet	Up to 150 meters / 492 feet	Up to 150 meters / 492 feet
Communication Bandwidth	250% more	250% more	250% more
Firmware Updates	Over-the-air	Over-the-air	Over-the-air
Battery	100 mAh rechargeable lithium (up to 15 days)	USB Powered	100 mAh rechargeable lithium (up to 15 days)
Built-in Push Button & Battery	Yes (for remote network creation)	Yes (for remote network creation)	Yes (for remote network creation)
USB Powered	USB 2.0 (also recharges battery)	USB 2.0 (also recharges battery)	USB 2.0 (also recharges battery)
Software Compatibility	Home Assistant, openHAB, Domoticz, Homeseer, Axial, Indigo	Home Assistant, openHAB, Domoticz, Homeseer, Axial, Indigo	Home Assistant, openHAB, Domoticz, Homeseer, Axial, Indigo

Conclusion:

Choosing between the Aeotec Z-Stick 7, Gen5, and Gen5+ boils down to your specific needs. If you're looking for the latest features and enhanced security, the Z-Stick 7 is a great choice and the go-to for use cases. However, if you're on a budget and need a reliable Z-Wave USB dongle, the Gen5 will serve you well. For those wanting a balance between the two, the Gen5+ offers enhanced features at a slightly higher price point.