If You're Already Familiar with Classic Wi-Fi Shelly Devices, the Z-Wave Versions Will Feel Familiar—But Different
The key thing to understand is that Shelly Z-Wave devices do not use the Shelly Cloud. Instead, they operate using a completely different protocol: Z-Wave — a standardized wireless smart home communication system with its own advantages and characteristics.
Why Choose Z-Wave?
One of Z-Wave’s biggest strengths is that it’s a locally-operated, reliable, and secure system that does not depend on an internet connection. All Z-Wave devices can communicate with each other in a mesh network, which means:
The more Z-Wave devices you have, the more stable your system becomes, as each device can relay signals to the next.
What Do You Need to Get Started?
First of all, you’ll need a Z-Wave controller — also known as a hub or coordinator. This could be a standalone device (e.g. Aeotec Smart Hub), or you might opt for a software-based setup, such as Home Assistant with a USB Z-Wave stick.
Important: Shelly Z-Wave devices do not work on their own.
They cannot connect to the internet by themselves, and do not have their own cloud service. You must have a central hub that “speaks” the Z-Wave language.
Installation Experience
Physically, Shelly Z-Wave devices look and work the same as their Wi-Fi counterparts. They are retrofit-style devices that can be installed behind switches or outlets to control lights, relays, shutters, etc.
But after installation, you won’t launch the Shelly app — instead, you’ll use your Z-Wave hub to recognize and add the device to your smart home network.
Pairing Is Different from Wi-Fi Shellys
There’s no QR code scanning or Wi-Fi setup here.
Instead, you need to:
Put the device into “inclusion mode” (usually by pressing a button).
Use your Z-Wave controller to discover and pair the device.
Once added, the device becomes part of your Z-Wave network and can be controlled and automated just like any other Z-Wave device.
No Dedicated App – It's All Up to Your Smart Home Platform
Since Shelly Z-Wave devices don’t have their own app, all control and automation depends on the smart home platform you're using.
For example, if you’re using Home Assistant, you’ll create all automations, triggers, schedules, and logic flows within that platform.
This gives you much more freedom and flexibility than what the classic Shelly Wi-Fi app allows — but also requires a bit more learning, especially at the beginning.
Who Are Shelly Z-Wave Devices For?
Shelly Z-Wave products are ideal for:
Users who are building or expanding a Z-Wave-based smart home system
Those who prefer not to rely on the cloud for home automation
Power users who want full local control and customization
Z-Wave is also better suited for larger homes or buildings, as its signal range is superior, especially when multiple devices are installed throughout the property.
Summary
Shelly Z-Wave devices offer the same reliable hardware you're familiar with, but integrate into an entirely different smart home ecosystem — one without cloud, without its own app, just you and your controller.
If you like having full control over your system and want something robust, scalable, and entirely local, you're on the right track.