Aeotec Z-Stick 7 vs Smlight SLZB-MRW10

The Smlight SLZB-MRW10 is the far more capable device, covering Zigbee, Z-Wave and Thread with dual-network operation, a Bluetooth proxy, a stronger amplifier and Ethernet, PoE or Wi-Fi placement. The Aeotec Z-Stick 7 is more affordable and dependable, but it is Z-Wave 700 only, so the SLZB-MRW10 leads for anyone wanting more than basic Z-Wave.

Breadth. The Aeotec Z-Stick 7 does only Z-Wave 700 over USB. The Smlight SLZB-MRW10 covers Zigbee, Z-Wave 800 and Thread, runs dual networks, adds a Bluetooth proxy, and connects over Ethernet, PoE or Wi-Fi.

Yes, but at different generations. The Aeotec Z-Stick 7 uses the Z-Wave 700 series, while the Smlight SLZB-MRW10 uses the newer Z-Wave 800 series and also adds Zigbee and Thread. So the MRW10 does everything the Z-Stick 7 does on Z-Wave, plus much more.

The Smlight SLZB-MRW10, because it connects over Ethernet, PoE or Wi-Fi and can be placed centrally with its two external antennas. The Aeotec Z-Stick 7 plugs into the host's USB port, tying its location to the server.

Buy the Smlight SLZB-MRW10 if you want one coordinator covering Zigbee, Z-Wave and Thread with dual-network and Bluetooth proxy support, placed flexibly on your network for a Home Assistant setup.

Buy the Aeotec Z-Stick 7 if you only need a dependable, low-cost Z-Wave controller and do not want to pay for extra protocols. Plan to update its shipping firmware before adding devices.