Choosing the right Zooz controller starts with understanding how you plan to run your Z Wave network. While the Z Box Hub, ZST39 USB Stick, and ZAC93 GPIO Module all control Z Wave devices, they are built for very different environments and users. This guide breaks down the strengths and ideal use case for each so you can confidently select the right solution for your setup.
The Zooz Z-Box Hub is a complete, standalone smart home hub designed for users who want an all in one system. It includes a built in interface, local control, and does not require an external computer to operate. It is ideal for DIY homeowners and installers who want a straightforward deployment with minimal configuration and a full smart home experience out of the box.
The Zooz ZST39 USB Stick is a USB based Z Wave controller built for users running software platforms such as Home Assistant or Z Wave JS on their own hardware. It does not include a user interface on its own and requires a host system, making it best suited for advanced DIY users, integrators, and anyone building a custom smart home server. It supports both standard Z Wave mesh and Z Wave Long Range networks simultaneously.
The Zooz ZAC93 GPIO Module is designed for embedded applications and development projects. It connects directly to compatible hardware through GPIO and is intended for OEM integrations, custom builds, and professional development environments rather than typical residential smart home deployments.
Whether you need a turnkey hub, a flexible USB controller for a software driven system, or an embedded Z Wave module for custom hardware, this comparison will help you quickly identify which Zooz solution fits your project best.
| Z-Box Hub |
ZST39 ZWLR USB Stick |
ZAC93 ZWLR GPIO Module |
|
| Core Device Type | Standalone Hub | USB Controller | GPIO Module |
|
Requires External Host System |
❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
Includes Full Smart Home UI Out of the Box |
✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Third Party Software Required | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Series | 700 | 800 | 800 |
| User Experience Level |
Beginner Intermediate Expert |
Intermediate Expert |
Expert |
| Z-Wave Frequency |
US/CA/MX 908.42 MHz |
Manufactured in US/CA/MX (908.42 MHz) and EU/UK (868.42 MHz)
Frequency can be selected by 3rd party automation software |
Manufactured in US/CA/MX (908.42 MHz) and EU/UK (868.42 MHz)
Frequency can be selected by 3rd party automation software |
| Z-Wave Classic Mesh Support | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Max Mesh Nodes | 232 | 232 | 232 |
| ZWLR Support | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Max ZWLR Nodes | 4000 | 4000 | 4000 |
| SmartStart Support | ✅ |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
| Built-In UI | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Remote Access | ✅ |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
| OTA Support | ✅ |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
| Backup and Restore Capability | ✅ |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
Dependent on 3rd party automation software |
| Upgradable Firmware | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |