SONOFF Dongle Max - Zigbee/Thread Gateway PoE with Web Console

General Overview

The SONOFF Dongle Max represents the ultimate evolution of Zigbee gateways for professional home automation installations and demanding enthusiasts. Powered by a dual-chip architecture combining the ESP32-D0WDR2 (for network connectivity) and the EFR32MG24 (for Zigbee/Thread protocols), this next-generation coordinator offers unprecedented performance, flexibility, and reliability in its class.

The distinctive feature of the Dongle Max lies in its integrated triple connectivity: Power over Ethernet (PoE 802.3af/at), Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, and USB Type-C. This unique versatility allows for optimal deployment in any setup, from rack-mounted server in IT cabinets to standalone wall installations, including NAS or mini-PC. PoE power eliminates the need for separate power cables and ensures maximum power stability, ideal for critical installations requiring high availability.

The Dongle Max integrates a complete web console accessible locally via browser, revolutionizing the management of Zigbee gateways. This intuitive interface allows real-time monitoring of network status, viewing system logs, remotely flashing or changing firmware without disassembly, configuring webhooks and VPN, and adjusting all advanced system settings. No more complex command lines: all configuration power is now accessible via a modern and responsive graphical interface.

Equipped with two external 5dBi omnidirectional antennas adjustable at 360°, the Dongle Max offers exceptional radio coverage reaching up to 200 meters in open field. Its compact anodized aluminum housing (110x62x26mm) ensures optimal heat dissipation and proven robustness (24-hour salt fog test). The sleek design includes customizable status LEDs, a multifunction button, and an integrated wall mounting system with open-source 3D files available for custom supports. Natively compatible with Home Assistant (auto-discovery), Zigbee2MQTT, openHAB, ioBroker, Domoticz, and eWeLink CUBE, the Dongle Max also supports advanced features like MQTT, automated webhooks, secure remote access via WireGuard VPN, and multi-dongle management from a single interface.

Key Features

• Total deployment freedom: Choose the connection suitable for each situation - PoE for integration in network cabinet, Wi-Fi for wall installation without cabling, USB for mobile use or existing server
• No command line required: Manage everything from your web browser - real-time network monitoring, firmware flashing, advanced configuration, log consultation - intuitive graphical interface for all levels
• Simplified professional installation: Power and data on a single Ethernet cable thanks to PoE, ideal for IT racks, false ceilings, or remote installations without nearby electrical outlet
• Maximum radio coverage: Dual high-performance antenna to eliminate dead zones, independently adjustable according to your architectural configuration and environmental obstacles
• Unlimited scalability: Change role in one click according to your needs - coordinator today, router tomorrow, or MultiPAN to manage Zigbee and Thread simultaneously without additional hardware investment
• Native Home Assistant integration: Automatic discovery via MQTT with instant creation of monitoring entities, zero manual configuration for complete real-time dashboard
• Guaranteed automated backups: Schedule webhooks for automatic daily backup of your Zigbee configuration, receive instant alerts in case of network issues
• Secure remote administration: Access your web console from anywhere via integrated WireGuard VPN, manage your dongles on the go without compromising security
• Simplified multi-site management: Administer multiple dongles from a single interface, switch between your installations in one click, centralized backup for professional management
• Instant visual monitoring: Programmable LEDs according to your color codes - identify the status of each dongle at a glance in your patch panel
• Centralized supervision: Automatic publication of all system metrics to your MQTT broker, integrate the dongle into your existing monitoring without development
• Industrial reliability: Aluminum housing for passive thermal dissipation, validated corrosion resistance, robust wall mounting - designed to operate 24/7 without maintenance
• Community and customization: Open-source 3D files to create your custom supports, active community for experience sharing and advanced use cases
• Compatible with all ecosystems: Works immediately with your preferred platform in TCP or USB, no vendor lock-in, easy migration between home automation solutions
• Automated maintenance: Enable auto-update to receive firmware improvements without intervention, or manually control each update according to your IT policy
• Professional troubleshooting: Exhaustive logs with advanced filtering and export, quickly diagnose any network or problematic device issue.
  
  

Technical Specifications

Hardware Specifications

• Model: Dongle-M (Dongle Max)
• Architecture: Dual-chip ESP32-D0WDR2 + EFR32MG24
• Network Chip: Espressif ESP32-D0WDR2 (Dual-core Xtensa 32-bit LX6)
• Zigbee/Thread Radio Chip: Silicon Labs EFR32MG24 (ARM Cortex-M33)
• Flash Memory MG24: 1536 KB
• RAM Memory MG24: 256 KB
• Flash Memory ESP32: 4 MB
• PSRAM Memory ESP32: Integrated

Power and Connectivity

• USB Type-C Power Supply: 5V⎓1A (5W)
• PoE Power Supply: 48V⎓0.25A (IEEE 802.3af/at)
• Nominal Consumption: ~5W under load
• Ethernet Connector: RJ45 Gigabit (10/100/1000 Mbps)
• PoE Standard: IEEE 802.3af (PoE) / 802.3at (PoE+)
• Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz
• Wi-Fi Range: Up to 100m in open field
• USB: Type-C (data + power)
• Provided USB Cable: Type-C to USB-A

Zigbee/Thread Radio Specifications

• RF Frequency: 2.4 GHz ISM band
• Supported Protocols: IEEE 802.15.4, Zigbee 3.0, Thread (OpenThread)
• Transmission Power: +20 dBm maximum
• Reception Sensitivity: -103 dBm typical
• Number of Antennas: 2 external antennas
• Antenna Type: 360° adjustable omnidirectional
• Antenna Gain: 5 dBi per antenna
• Antenna Connectors: RP-SMA female (x2)
• Zigbee Range: Up to 200m in open field
• Indoor Range: 40-60m depending on environment

Web Console and Features

• Console Access: Via web browser (HTTP/HTTPS)
• Default URL: http://dongle-m.local or IP address
• Authentication: Login/password protected
• Password Reset: Double-click physical button
• Real-time Monitoring: Uptime, CPU, RAM, network status, Zigbee connections
• Firmware Management: Flash, switch, and update from interface
• System Logs: Consultation, filtering, and log export
• Network Configuration: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB via graphical interface
• Webhooks: Custom hooks configuration (backup, alerts)
• MQTT: Broker configuration and metrics publication
• WireGuard VPN: Secure tunnel configuration for remote access
• Multi-dongle: Centralized management of multiple units
• Customizable LEDs: Color configuration by status
• Auto-update: Automatic firmware update available

Protocol Compatibility

• Zigbee 3.0: Coordinator (EmberZNet firmware pre-installed)
• Zigbee Router: Mesh network extension
• Thread: OpenThread RCP (Radio Co-Processor)
• Matter over Thread: Via OpenThread RCP firmware
• MultiPAN: Simultaneous Zigbee + Thread (dedicated firmware)
• Available Firmwares: Coordinator, Router, OpenThread RCP, MultiPAN RCP
• Firmware Change: From web console without disassembly

Platform Compatibility

• Home Assistant: ZHA (auto-discovery TCP/USB)
• Zigbee2MQTT: Full TCP and USB support
• openHAB: Compatible EmberZNet binding
• ioBroker: Compatible adapter
• Domoticz: Compatible plugin
• Jeedom: Zigbee plugin
• eWeLink CUBE: Native integration
• Connection Mode: TCP/IP (Ethernet/Wi-Fi) or USB
• Auto-discovery: Home Assistant (ZHA via MQTT)

Compatible Zigbee Devices

• SONOFF: All SONOFF Zigbee devices
• Aqara: Sensors, switches, modules, locks, thermostats
• Philips Hue: Bulbs, LED strips, spots, remotes
• IKEA Trådfri: Lighting, blinds, outlets, remotes
• Tuya: Wide range of Zigbee devices
• Xiaomi: Environmental sensors, switches
• Legrand: Switches, dimmers, outlets
• Other brands: Bosch, Osram, Ledvance, Innr, Schneider Electric
• Detailed Compatibility: zigbee.blakadder.com for full list

Network Capabilities

• Direct Nodes: Up to 200+ depending on firmware
• Total Network Nodes: Unlimited via routers
• Topology: Self-healing mesh
• Zigbee Channels: 11-26 (2.4 GHz)
• Channel Selection: Automatic or manual
• Multi-dongle Coexistence: Yes with separate channels
• Network QoS: Automatic traffic prioritization

Physical Characteristics

• Dimensions: 110 x 62 x 26 mm (case only)
• Dimensions with Antennas: ~180mm height (vertical antennas)
• Weight: Approximately 120g with antennas
• Case: Anodized aluminum + PC+ABS
• Color: Anthracite gray
• Status LEDs: Programmable multicolor RGB
• Button: Multifunction (reset, pairing mode, password reset)
• Wall Mounting: Integrated with screws (included)
• 3D Files: Available on MakerWorld for custom supports
• Thermal Dissipation: Passive via aluminum case
• Resistance: 24-hour salt fog test validated

Interfaces and Ports

• Ethernet Port: RJ45 Gigabit (PoE capable)
• USB Port: Type-C (data + 5V power)
• RF Antennas: 2x RP-SMA female
• LED Indicators: RGB status indicators
• Physical Button: Front panel access

Environmental Conditions

• Operating Temperature: -10°C to +60°C
• Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing)
• Storage Temperature: -20°C to +70°C
• Maximum Altitude: 2000 meters
• Usage Location: Indoor only
• IP Protection: IP20 (dry indoor use)

Advanced Features

• Automated Backup: Scheduled backup configuration via webhooks
• Network Alerts: Instant disconnection notification via webhooks
• MQTT Monitoring: System metrics publication to broker
• Home Assistant Dashboard: Automatic entities (uptime, CPU, RAM, network)
• Remote VPN Access: WireGuard tunnel for off-network management
• Centralized Multi-dongle: Manage multiple units from a single interface
• Customizable LEDs: Configurable colors by system state
• Exportable Logs: Download logs for external analysis
• REST API: Programmatic control via HTTP API
• mDNS/Bonjour: Automatic network discovery (dongle-m.local)

Certifications and Standards

• CE Compliance: RED Directive 2014/53/EU
• FCC Compliance: Part 15 Class B
• RoHS: Compliant with Directive 2011/65/EU
• EMC: EN 301 489
• RF: EN 300 328
• Electrical Safety: EN 62368-1
• PoE: Compliant with IEEE 802.3af/at

Accessories and Documentation

• Antennas: 2x 5dBi RP-SMA antennas (mounted)
• USB Cable: Type-C to USB-A 1.5m
• Wall Mount Kit: Screws and anchors included
• Quick Start Guide: QR code to online documentation
• Dedicated Site: dongle.sonoff.tech (complete tutorials)
• Community: Active SONOFF Reddit
• 3D Files: MakerWorld SONOFF Dongle collection
• Firmware: Downloadable via web console

Advantages vs Dongle Plus MG24

• Connectivity: Triple (PoE/Wi-Fi/USB) vs USB only
• Power Supply: PoE 802.3af/at for professional installations
• Management: Complete web console vs external configuration
• Architecture: Dual-chip ESP32+MG24 vs MG24 only
• Antennas: Dual 5dBi vs single 3dBi
• Casing: Large aluminum vs compact plastic
• Features: Integrated webhooks, VPN, MQTT, multi-dongle
• Auto-discovery: Native Home Assistant via MQTT
• Mounting: Integrated wall + available 3D files
• Usage: Professional installation vs domestic use

Recommended Use Cases

• Professional Installations: SMEs, offices, stores
• Smart Buildings: Connected multi-dwelling buildings
• Rack Servers: Network cabinet integration via PoE
• Remote Installations: Console access via Wi-Fi or VPN
• Multi-sites: Centralized management of multiple dongles
• High Availability: MQTT monitoring + webhook alerts
• Multi-story Homes: Extended coverage dual 5dBi antenna
• Critical Systems: Automated backup + comprehensive logs

Package Contents

• 1x SONOFF Dongle Max Gateway (Dongle-M)
• 2x 5dBi RP-SMA Antennas (pre-mounted)
• 1x USB Type-C to USB-A Cable (1.5m)
• 1x Wall Mount Kit (screws + anchors)
• 1x Quick Start Guide with QR codes