SwitchBot has released a new version of the SwitchBot Hub, the SwitchBot Hub 3. This new version of the SwitchBot Hub is equipped with a color screen, rotary knob, IR blaster, sensor for temperature, humidity and can control 30 Matter devices.
In recent weeks we have tested the SwitchBot Hub 3 in practice; You can read our findings below.
SwitchBot Hub 3
The SwitchBot Hub 3 features a 2.4-inch color display with multiple physical buttons, a rotary knob and four capacitive shortcut keys. The hub is equipped with temperature, humidity and light sensors. In addition, the Hub 3 can also display CO₂ values ​​from the SwitchBot Meter Pro.
With the dial you can, for example, adjust the brightness of a device, set the temperature of the air conditioner or change the volume of speakers. The hub supports Apple TV and Chromecast as standard.
The SwitchBot Hub 3 can control up to 30 Matter devices. The hub acts as a Matter Bridge for SwitchBot devices. But it can also control Matter devices from other manufacturers, such as the Matter products from Hue, IKEA and Nanoleaf.
The SwitchBot Hub 3 fits perfectly into any interior with its sleek, minimalist display. You can place the hub on a table or cabinet using the included stand. You also have the option to hang it on the wall.
Overview of the SwitchBot Hub 3 packaging
The new SwitchBot Hub 3 includes a USB-C cable with a temperature and humidity sensor a few inches from the base. The cable is 2 meters long, which is more than enough for any installation. Furthermore, in the box you will find a power adapter, table stand, a set of screws for wall mounting and a user manual.
The Hub 3 has a glossy glass front that gives the device a sleek and minimalist design. The display shows deep black tones that flow smoothly into the glass, which provides a seamless and stylish appearance. The table stand has a slot to hide the power cable and ensure that the hub lies flat and stable.
The device has 5 physical buttons and a rotary knob with a clickable center button. Four touch buttons appear above the illuminated physical buttons when switched on, allowing you to quickly activate scenes or control devices. For example, if you connect the new Lock Ultra to the Hub 3, you can operate the smart lock and view its status.
On the back there are two USB-C connections: one for powering the device and connecting the cable sensor. The other can be used to power an additional peripheral with an output of 5 V/500 mA.
Adding the Hub 3 to the SwitchBot App
You can easily add the Hub 3 to the SwitchBot app. The app automatically detects the device and you can add it immediately. The installation wizard in the app guides you step by step and consists of just a few steps.
If you scroll through the menu, you will immediately see that the Hub 3 has much more functionality than its predecessors. For connected SwitchBot products, you can set up and configure almost any feature. With added Matter devices, functionality is limited to the standard options.
The Hub 3 is equipped with the following functions as standard:
Wake on approach: The SwitchBot Hub 3 automatically wakes up the screen when you’re nearby, thanks to a built-in mmWave radar. You adjust the sensitivity of this radar via the app. In the lowest sensitivity setting, the screen activates at a distance of approximately 50 cm.
Standby display: You can choose to show either the home page with devices or a clock on the display in standby mode. In addition, it is possible to automatically adjust this view based on a time schedule.
Built-in alarm clock: The Hub 3 also functions as an alarm clock. You can place it next to your bedside table and set it as your morning alarm clock. The hub will play soft and pleasant melodies to wake you up.
Do not disturb function: Do not disturb mode turns off the sound, backlit buttons and screen for a predetermined period of time. This is useful when the Hub is on your bedside table, for example.
Weather information: The screen shows temperature and humidity data that can come from another SwitchBot device, for example from the SwitchBot outdoor thermometer.
Custom keyboard shortcuts: In the app it is possible to configure the 4 touch buttons on the screen per device. This means that you set 4 different actions for each device that you perform when you swipe through the devices. For example, 20%, 40%, 80%, and 100% for the SwitchBot Blinds.
These extensive features make the SwitchBot Hub 3 a versatile and easy-to-use central device within the SwitchBot ecosystem, with intuitive controls and smart automations.
Infrared function
The infrared function of the SwitchBot Hub 3 makes it possible to smartly control traditional infrared devices, such as your TV, air conditioning or audio system.
You can easily teach the SwitchBot Hub 3 the signals from your existing remote control via the SwitchBot app. You can then control these devices via HomeKit and the Home app on your iPhone or another Apple device. This way, the learned devices are added to HomeKit as Matter devices. To do this, the Hub 3 must first be added to HomeKit.
The hub supports the creation of routines in which devices automatically respond to, for example, temperature, light or time. Thanks to the built-in sensors, the hub can automatically switch on connected devices based on set conditions.
Conclusion: Switchbot Hub 3
REVIEW SCORE
The new SwitchBot Hub 3 is an improvement over the previous Hub 2 in several areas and is clearly designed to play a more central and visible role in your smart home. The hub has a sleek design, with a clear screen and intuitive operation via the rotary knob.
The Hub 3 can control up to 30 Matter devices, and they don’t necessarily have to be SwitchBot devices. In addition, the Hub 3 offers standard support for various third-party devices, such as Apple TV, Chromecast, Hue, IKEA and Nanoleaf.
Whether you should switch from a Hub 2 to the new Hub 3 mainly depends on your personal wishes. If you are already using one of the older hubs, I see little reason to upgrade. But if you purchase a new device, such as the new SwitchBot Lock Ultra, you will probably choose the Hub 3.
Purchase SwitchBot Hub 3
You can purchase the SwitchBot Hub 3 in the webshops below.
