Thread Border Router Home Assistant USB Sonoff ZBDongle-E

• Already flashed with Thread firmware – ready to use in Home Assistant
• Works as a full-fledged Thread Border Router via OpenThread Integration
• Stable wireless connection thanks to external antenna with long range
• Based on EFR32MG21 chipset – identical to Home Assistant SkyConnect
• Thread channel freely selectable – ideal for strengthening existing thread networks
• Easy integration via USB – no additional hardware required
• Perfect for smart Matter devices on the Thread network

Thread Border Router with the Sonoff ZBDongle-E – specifically for Home Assistant

The Sonoff ZBDongle-E in the flashed Thread Border Router version is the perfect addition to your Home Assistant environment. Based on the powerful EFR32MG21 chipset—the same one used in the Home Assistant SkyConnect —this stick offers impressive wireless performance, thanks in particular to its external SMA antenna . Unlike the SkyConnect, which uses an internal antenna, the ZBDongle-E achieves significantly better range and signal stability—and at a more attractive price.

The better alternative to Home Assistant SkyConnect

While Home Assistant SkyConnect is officially supported but relies on an internal antenna, the ZBDongle-E's external antenna offers not only a greater range but also better signal transmission stability. Since both devices use the same chipset (EFR32MG21) , full compatibility with Home Assistant Thread and OpenThread is guaranteed. Therefore, if you're looking for maximum performance at a better price, the ZBDongle-E is the superior solution .

Thread channel freely adjustable – ideal for signal amplification

A standout feature of this stick is the ability to manually adjust the Thread channel . This allows the ZBDongle-E to be integrated into existing Thread networks to act as an additional signal booster , extending the network's range and reliability—ideal for large living spaces or multi-story buildings.

Ready to use – no configuration required

We'll pre-flash the stick with the appropriate OpenThread Border Router firmware . Simply plug it into the Home Assistant host, and the device will be recognized immediately. You can immediately integrate it into your infrastructure as a Thread Border Router – without any manual flashing or additional hardware.

Optimal integration into Home Assistant via OpenThread

Whether as a new network node or to expand an existing mesh, the ZBDongle-E integrates seamlessly into Home Assistant as a Thread Border Router and works with all Matter over Thread -enabled devices. Thread networks are characterized by high stability, low latency, and low power consumption—ideal for your future-proof smart home.

Installation steps in Home Assistant:

1. Install AddOn Open Thread
2. In the Open Thread AddOn, set the configuration as shown in the figure (select the stick and don't forget to click Save at the end)

Multi-protocol operation not recommended

Although the chipset offers multi-protocol capabilities, we strongly advise against running Zigbee and Thread simultaneously on a single device. For maximum stability, the ZBDongle-E should be used solely as a Thread border router .

FAQ – frequently asked questions about Thread Border Routers in Home Assistant

What is a Thread Border Router?

A Thread Border Router is a device that connects a Thread network to other networks, such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet. It enables communication between Thread devices and the outside world—such as cloud services or Home Assistant controls. It's the gateway to your Thread-based smart home.

How does Home Assistant Thread work?

Home Assistant Thread is based on the OpenThread project and integrates Thread Border Routers for reliable, local control of Matter-enabled devices. The Sonoff ZBDongle-E is directly supported and acts as a bridge between Thread devices and Home Assistant.

Buying a Thread Border Router – what to look for?

When purchasing a Thread Border Router, you should consider the chipset (such as the EFR32MG21), antenna performance, and compatibility with Home Assistant. The ZBDongle-E meets all of these criteria – and offers a real range advantage thanks to its external antenna.

Is there a Thread Border Router list for Home Assistant?

There is no official Thread Border Router List that provides a complete overview. However, the Sonoff ZBDongle-E is universally usable with Home Assistant and is one of the most powerful solutions on the market.

What is a Matter Border Router?

The term Matter Border Router is technically incorrect. Matter doesn't use its own routing protocol, but rather relies on existing ones like Thread. Therefore, the correct term is Thread Border Router . Matter devices communicate with the home network via this router.

Technical data