Description
The Shelly Wave 1 is a specialized smart switch that looks exactly like a standard Shelly 1, but with one massive internal difference: it doesn’t use Wi-Fi. Instead, it uses Z-Wave.
This device was created after Shelly acquired Qubino (a legendary Z-Wave manufacturer). It combines Shelly’s famous compact hardware design with Qubino’s rock-solid Z-Wave expertise.
What is Z-Wave and Why Use It?
Unlike the “Gen3” or “Gen4” models which primarily use Wi-Fi or Zigbee, the Wave 1 operates on a different frequency (sub-GHz).
- Reliability: It doesn’t compete with your Wi-Fi router or microwave for signal.
- Mesh Networking: Every Wave 1 acts as a repeater, strengthening your Z-Wave network.
- Security: It uses Z-Wave S2 (Security 2) encryption, which is often considered the gold standard for smart home security.
- Range: Because it uses lower frequencies, it penetrates walls much better than 2.4GHz Wi-Fi or Zigbee.
Key Features: Dry Contacts
Just like the “Classic” Shelly 1, the Wave 1 features y Contacts (Potential-free).
This means the power used to run the Shelly (e.g., 230V AC) is completely separated from the circuit it is switching.
This makes it the perfect Z-Wave choice for garage doors, gates, and irrigation valves where you need to bridge two wires without sending high voltage into the motor.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Shelly Wave 1 |
| Protocol | Z-Wave 800 Series (The latest, fastest version) |
| Relay Type | 1-Channel, Dry Contacts |
| Max Load | 16A AC / 10A DC |
| Power Supply | 110-240V AC / 24-48V DC / 12V DC (±10%) |
| Power Monitoring | No (The “Wave 1PM” has this instead) |
| Smart Start | Yes (Scan a QR code to add it to your hub) |
Important: You Need a Hub
Unlike the Shelly Gen3/Gen4 devices, you cannot connect the Wave 1 directly to your phone or the Shelly Smart Control app via Wi-Fi.
You must have a Z-Wave Gateway/Hub.
Common compatible hubs include Home Assistant (with a Z-Wave stick), Hubitat, SmartThings, or Homey.
Who is this for?
The Shelly Wave 1 is for the Advanced Smart Home user who:
- Wants to keep their smart home devices off their Wi-Fi network to prevent “network bloat.”
- Already has a Z-Wave ecosystem (like Home Assistant) established.
- Needs to control a garage door or low-voltage device with the reliability of a professional-grade mesh protocol.
Note: Whilst the Shelly configuration is mostly DIY, any electrical work must be done by a registered electrical contractor and we recommend Straton Electrical.
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