Aqara has once again delivered a product that many of us here in Europe have been waiting for. They have introduced the Shutter Switch H2 EU, a smart switch specifically designed for the European market to control roller shutters and other tubular motor-powered blinds. But this is more than just a simple switch—it’s packed with features that make it stand out from the crowd.
Dual Protocol: The Choice is Yours
Similar to other members of the Aqara H2 EU series, the biggest feature here is its dual-protocol support. The switch works with:
- Zigbee 3.0 Protocol: It can be integrated into your system using an Aqara hub (like the M3). This solution offers the most customization options, such as fine-tuning within the Aqara Home app. Of course, it can also be added to other Zigbee 3.0 compatible hubs.
- Matter over Thread Protocol: This is the future. If you have a Thread Border Router at home (like a newer Apple TV, Google Nest Hub, or Amazon Echo), the switch can be connected directly to major smart home platforms (Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, Home Assistant, Homey, etc.) without needing an Aqara hub.
This flexibility is a huge advantage, as it allows us to decide which ecosystem we want to use the device in and how.
More Than a Shutter Switch
The Shutter Switch H2 EU doesn’t stop at just moving shutters up and down. Alongside the classic rocker switch (which controls the up/down direction), it features two additional, freely programmable buttons.
Why is this brilliant? Because these buttons can control anything in your smart home. You can trigger scenes (e.g., “Movie Night,” which lowers the shutters and turns off the lights), control other devices, or even launch various automations with a single, double, or long press. Essentially, you get a shutter switch and a smart button in a single device.
European Standards and Smart Features
Aqara also paid attention to the practical details:
- 55mm Format: The switch fits perfectly into standard European wall boxes and 55x55mm frame systems (like Gira, Jung, Schneider, Elko, etc.), making it easy to combine with products from other manufacturers.
- “Smart Calibration”: In Thread/Matter mode, the switch automatically detects the shutter’s endpoints, so no manual calibration is needed. In Zigbee mode, you can fine-tune the positions via the app—for instance, if you want the shutter to stop just above the plants on your windowsill.
- Hub as a Matter Bridge: Even if you use it in Zigbee mode, an Aqara hub (like the M3) can function as a Matter Bridge, making your Zigbee devices available to Matter platforms.
Overall, the Aqara Shutter Switch H2 EU is an extremely well-thought-out and versatile device that perfectly meets European needs. The dual-protocol support, extra programmable buttons, and easy installation make it a very attractive package.
