A control center for everything
Switchbot Hub 3 is the new heart of the Switchbot ecosystem, but not only. It is designed to put order in the chaos of remote controls, apps and scattered controls between different devices. After trying it, we can confirm that the management immediately becomes more intuitive and centralized.
Once installed (a few minutes are enough, with a USB-C power and well-made configuration apps) Hub 3 connects to over 100,000 infrared devices, from TV to air conditioners, up to small appliances. It is also compatible with Apple TV, Fire TV and Android TV, allowing you to change the channel or adjust the volume with the same physical wheel of the device, called Dial Master.
A wheel, four buttons, many possibilities
The Ratella is the distinctive feature of the new Hub 3. During the test, it hit us to be precise: regulates the air conditioner temperature to the degree, lowers the volume of the TV or manages the light with small shots – just like an old remote control, but in a smart version. On the sides there are also four customizable physical buttons: we have set them to turn on the lights, close the curtains and lower the temperature.
Everything works without latency, thanks to a fluid communication via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. And, in the event of the absence of the network, the infrared commands still work locally: useful in the case of blackout or connection problems.
Sensors and automations: the house listening
Hub 3 integrates a movement sensor, an environmental light sensor and – in the power cord – also a thermo -sister. This allowed us to set really useful automated scenes: for example, turn on the dehumidifier when the humidity exceeds 60%, or open the curtains when the external light drops under a certain level.
Everything is customizable, also thanks to compatibility with devices such as the METER PRO. When connected to the Hub 3 switchbot, the METER PRO can view the temperature and humidity data, thus offering a more complete and useful integration for environmental monitoring. These data are shown directly on the Hub screen, together with weather forecast, internal/external temperature and notifications relating to the doors or linked locks.
Wide compatibility, but clear
One of the most appreciable advantages of the new Hub 3 is its compatibility with Matter, the standard that allows smart devices of different brands to dialogue with each other. In our test, the hub has managed several Switchbot devices connected to the net and has activated automated scenes on Apple Home with a few taps.
It should be emphasized that the hub does not directly integrate Matter devices of other brands, but can send commands to those already added to the Apple Home Network, making the experience more fluid even in mixed ecosystems.
Clean design, clear information
In addition to the wheel, Hub 3 has a clearly visible display that shows environmental information and the status of the devices. During our test days, it was useful to check the quality of the air at a glance, the temperature at home, if the entrance door was closed and even if it was raining out.
The sound notification function is also interesting, which is activated when someone enters the house – perfect if combined with a lock lock lock ultra and the keypad Keypad Vision. In this way, Hub 3 also works as an intelligent bell, without having to add other devices.
Switchbot Hub 3 is not just an update of the Hub Mini: it is a real level leap for those who want an intelligent accessible, physically and customizable controllable house. Integrate automations, sensors, multiplatform compatibility and intuitive controls in one device.
It can be purchased directly on the official Switchbot website or on Amazon.
It is not necessary to be experts to start, and once configured it will be difficult to go back.
