Smlight SLZB-06 vs Smlight SLZB-MR5U

The Smlight SLZB-MR5U edges ahead as the more capable of the two, mainly because it supports dual-network operation and uses the newer EFR32MG24 radio with a second external antenna. The Smlight SLZB-06 matches it on Ethernet, PoE, Wi-Fi, Thread border router and Bluetooth proxy, so it is the better value if you do not need to run two networks at once.

Dual-network support. The SLZB-MR5U can run two logical Zigbee networks simultaneously and ships with two +5dBi antennas on a Silicon Labs EFR32MG24 chip, while the SLZB-06 runs a single network on a Texas Instruments CC2652P with one antenna. Their connectivity and role support are otherwise nearly identical.

Yes. Both connect over Ethernet (with PoE), Wi-Fi or USB, so you can locate either one centrally in the home away from server interference rather than tethering it to a USB port. Neither supports Z-Wave; both act as a Zigbee router, Thread border router and Bluetooth proxy.

Buy the Smlight SLZB-MR5U if you want the newest hardware with a second antenna and the ability to run two Zigbee networks at once for a larger or segmented setup, all while keeping the flexible Ethernet, PoE and Wi-Fi placement.

Buy the Smlight SLZB-06 if you want a proven, well-reviewed network coordinator that already does Ethernet, PoE, Wi-Fi, Thread and Bluetooth proxy, and you do not need dual-network. It is the more economical way to place a Zigbee coordinator centrally in Home Assistant.