Is the SLZB Ultima the Ultimate Home Assistant ESP32-S3 Based Powerhouse?

<p><strong>Today we’re taking a look at a brand new device from SMLIGHT called the SLZB-Ultima.</strong> This is an incredibly ambitious piece of hardware, packed with radios and features that make it one of the most versatile smart home hubs I’ve seen.</p> <p>Although the software is still in an early stage, the hardware itself is already extremely impressive. I’ve been able to get the Zigbee hub running, connect Zigbee devices, and share them via MQTT into Home Assistant without issues.</p> <p>In terms of hardware, the SLZB-Ultima includes multiple radios: a dedicated Z-Wave module via an add-on board, dual Zigbee or Thread radios, and optional LTE connectivity through a cellular add-on. In addition to Ethernet and USB-C power, the device also supports PoE via an expansion module.</p> <p>The hub features four status LEDs, three physical buttons, a built-in buzzer, optional microphone input, RGB ambient lighting, an infrared receiver and transmitter, USB-A and USB-C ports, and a USB host. Internally, it runs on a combination of CC26xx and EFR32 radio chips, with Bluetooth support via the ESP32-S3.</p> <p>The infrared receiver allows the SLZB-Ultima to receive remote control commands and forward them to Home Assistant or other systems via MQTT or HTTP. The infrared transmitter can be used to control devices such as air conditioners. The built-in buzzer and LEDs can provide visual and audible feedback, notifications, or status indicators.</p> <p>The case opens easily once the antennas are removed, revealing a modular internal design. Key components such as the cellular modem, PoE module, and Z-Wave module are removable, allowing the device to be expanded or customized. Additional connectors and pins suggest further expansion options in the future.</p> <p>From the web interface, it’s possible to configure radio modes, network settings, Zigbee hub operation, MQTT integration, IPv6, VPN access via WireGuard, ambient LED effects, security settings, firmware updates, logs, and scripting capabilities.</p> <p>I’ve connected Zigbee devices to the SLZB-Ultima and successfully passed their data into Home Assistant over MQTT. While not all features are fully implemented yet, the core functionality already works reliably.</p> <p><strong>Overall, this is a remarkably powerful piece of hardware.</strong> The SLZB-Ultima feels like a foundation for a future-proof smart home platform. I’m very excited to see how SMLIGHT continues to develop the software and documentation, because the potential here is enormous.</p> <p>Thanks for watching. I’m very interested to hear your thoughts on what this device could become and how you would use it in your own smart home setup.</p>