BroadLink RM5plus vs SwitchBot Hub 2 comparison

Updated July 2026

Data from Amazon and official BroadLink and SwitchBot sites.

2026 verdict

Three sensors and a Matter bridge decide this one: the SwitchBot Hub 2 wins on rating, protocols, integrations and sensors, pairing its learning IR blaster with Bluetooth, a Matter bridge, and built-in temperature, humidity and light sensors that reach Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings and Home Assistant. The BroadLink RM5plus stays cheaper and is the only one of the two with a lower price, but its own reviewers flag a difficult setup process and a factory lock that blocks local Home Assistant control, weaknesses the SwitchBot Hub 2 doesn't share. Both are IR blasters on 2.4GHz WiFi that learn commands from existing remotes and work with Alexa, Google Home and Home Assistant. For most buyers, the better-reviewed, sensor-equipped, more widely compatible SwitchBot Hub 2 is the stronger choice. The BroadLink RM5plus only wins on sticker price.

Feature	BroadLink RM5plus	SwitchBot Hub 2	Winner
Price	$30.99	$59.99	BroadLink RM5plus
Rating	3.4	4.3	SwitchBot Hub 2
Protocols	IR	Bluetooth, Matter Bridge, IR	SwitchBot Hub 2
Integrations	Google Home, Alexa, Home Assistant	Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Home Assistant	SwitchBot Hub 2
Sensors	None	Temperature, Humidity, Light	SwitchBot Hub 2
Connectivity	2.4 GHz WiFi	2.4 GHz WiFi	Tie
Univeral Remote Control	YES	YES	Tie
Smart Learning	YES	YES	Tie

BroadLink

BroadLink RM5plus

$30.99

Buy on Amazon USA

+ Price: $30.99
- Rating: 3.4 vs 4.3
- Protocols: IR vs Bluetooth, Matter Bridge, IR

Winner

SwitchBot

SwitchBot Hub 2

$59.99

Buy on Amazon USA

+ Rating: 4.3
+ Protocols: Bluetooth, Matter Bridge, IR
+ Integrations: Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Home Assistant
- Price: $59.99 vs $30.99

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better overall: the BroadLink RM5plus or the SwitchBot Hub 2?

The SwitchBot Hub 2 wins overall, rating higher and beating the BroadLink RM5plus on protocols, integrations and sensors. The BroadLink RM5plus only wins on price.

What is the biggest difference between them?

The SwitchBot Hub 2 adds built-in temperature, humidity and light sensors and a Matter bridge that reaches Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings and Home Assistant. The BroadLink RM5plus is a simpler IR-only blaster with no sensors and fewer integrations.

Does the BroadLink RM5plus work locally with Home Assistant?

Not reliably. It ships locked from the factory and does not support local LAN control, unlike the SwitchBot Hub 2, which bridges cleanly to Home Assistant along with several other platforms.

Does the SwitchBot Hub 2 support Apple HomeKit?

Yes, through its Matter bridge, and it's notably one of the few smart IR blasters compatible with HomeKit. The BroadLink RM5plus does not support Apple HomeKit.

Who should buy the SwitchBot Hub 2?

Buyers who want an IR blaster that also monitors room conditions and bridges into Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings or Home Assistant.

Who should buy the BroadLink RM5plus?

Only buyers prioritizing the lowest price who don't need sensors, Apple HomeKit, or local Home Assistant control, and are prepared for a harder setup process.

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