SONOFF Dongle Max – Zigbee & Thread PoE Gateway for Home Assistant

The Zigbee Gateway Without Compromises

Forget USB drives and extension cables. The SONOFF Dongle Max (Dongle-M) is SONOFF's most complete Zigbee coordinator – a full-fledged network gateway that connects to your Home Assistant server via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or USB . Thanks to Power over Ethernet (PoE, 48V/0.25A), a single network cable is sufficient for both power and data. No USB port required, no interference, no hassle.

Under the hood, a dual-chip combination operates: the Silicon Labs EFR32MG24 for Zigbee and Thread, and an ESP32-D0WDR2-V3 responsible for Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB communication. The built-in web dashboard lets you manage firmware, switch operating modes, and configure webhooks, MQTT, and VPN—all from your browser.

💡 Want to compare within the SONOFF dongle family? The Dongle Max is the top version for users who want a fixed network location or don't want to use a USB port. Looking for a compact USB drive? Then check out the Dongle Plus MG24 or the ZBDongle-E .

✅ Key Features & Benefits

• EFR32MG24 + ESP32 dual-chip – EFR32MG24 for Zigbee/Thread, ESP32 for network communication; 256 KB RAM and 1536 KB Flash
• 3 connection options – Ethernet (RJ45), WiFi 2.4GHz and USB Type-C
• Power over Ethernet (PoE) – One network cable for power and data (802.3af, 48V/0.25A)
• No USB 3.0 interference – Via Ethernet or WiFi the coordinator is completely isolated from the computer
• 200-meter range – Zigbee antenna with 5 dBi gain and +20 dBm transmit power
• Dual external SMA antennas – Separate antenna for WiFi and Zigbee, both included
• Web Dashboard – Configure firmware, operating mode, Webhooks, MQTT, and VPN via browser
• OTA firmware updates – Wireless updates via the web dashboard
• Plug-and-play with Home Assistant – Auto-discovery via Ethernet or WiFi; directly with ZHA and Zigbee2MQTT
• Thread Border Router – Flashed as OpenThread RCP connects Matter over Thread devices to Home Assistant
• Aluminum housing – Includes mounting bracket, double-sided tape and screws

🔀 Connection modes

🔌 Compatibility

📊 The Complete SONOFF Dongle Family

🏠 Practical Example: PoE Coordinator at Optimal Location

1. Connect the Dongle Max to your PoE switch using an RJ45 cable – one cable for power and data.
2. Home Assistant automatically detects the Dongle Max via the network.
3. Select Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA and set the TCP address – the coordinator will work immediately.
4. Using the web dashboard, you can check firmware, switch between Zigbee and Thread, and configure MQTT.
5. The Dongle Max sits at the heart of your home, completely free from USB 3.0 interference.

⚙️ Technical Specifications

⚠️ Points of attention

• Thread over Ethernet has limitations – the RCP protocol requires a direct hardware connection; Ethernet latency can cause Thread instability. For reliable Thread, use the Dongle Max over USB.
• No dual-SoC for simultaneous Zigbee + Thread – Choose between Zigbee or Thread; MultiPAN is technically possible but not recommended by the Home Assistant team
• PoE switch required for PoE power – Without a PoE switch, use USB-C (5V/1A) for power
• WiFi only 2.4GHz – 5GHz networks are not supported
• One coordinator per network – A Zigbee network always needs exactly one coordinator

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What makes the Dongle Max different from the Dongle Plus MG24?

The Dongle Plus MG24 is a classic USB dongle. The Dongle Max adds Ethernet, PoE, and Wi-Fi, allowing you to place it separately from your Home Assistant server, powered by a single network cable via PoE.

Do I need a PoE switch?

Not required. You can also power the Dongle Max via USB-C (5V/1A) and connect it via Wi-Fi or Ethernet without PoE. PoE is an optional extra for installations with a compatible network switch.

Can I run Zigbee and Thread simultaneously?

The Dongle Max has a single radio chip and cannot run both ZigBee and Thread simultaneously in a stable configuration. MultiPAN is technically possible but not recommended. For simultaneous ZigBee and Thread, use two separate devices.

Why is Thread over Ethernet less stable?

The Thread RCP protocol is designed for direct hardware connections. Timing delays over Ethernet can destabilize Thread connections. Thread is stable over USB.

Does the Dongle Max work completely locally with Home Assistant?

Yes. The Dongle Max connects directly to your local network and Home Assistant via Ethernet or WiFi. All Zigbee communication is done locally via ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT without a cloud.

What's in the box?

2x external SMA antenna, mounting bracket, double-sided tape, screw pack, 1 meter USB-C cable and a quick guide.

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