USB Zigbee/Thread dongle Sonoff Dongle Max (MPN Dongle-M) for Home Assistant and Zigbee2MQTT

SONOFF Dongle Max is a USB Zigbee and Thread radio gateway (model Dongle-M) designed to integrate Zigbee and Thread devices with Home Assistant and Zigbee2MQTT. It works as a Zigbee coordinator and supports Thread RCP, providing a stable connection for sensors, switches and smart lights. The dongle can connect via Ethernet with PoE, Wi‑Fi or USB-C, allowing flexible placement in home or office installations.

Advantages

The device combines two proven chipsets — EFR32MG24 for Zigbee/Thread and ESP32 for Wi‑Fi — to ensure reliable performance, efficient power use and fast data transfer. Multiple connection options (PoE Ethernet, Wi‑Fi or USB‑C) and a local web console simplify setup and management without additional software. The gateway supports acting as coordinator, router or Thread RCP and offers remote firmware switching, webhook notifications and control of LED indicators.

Suitable for

• Integrating Zigbee devices with Home Assistant
• Using Zigbee2MQTT-based smart home setups
• Adding Thread support to a home automation hub
• Deployments requiring flexible placement (PoE, Wi‑Fi or USB)

Key specifications

• Manufacturer: Sonoff
• Model: Dongle Max (Dongle-M)
• Input voltage: 5V⎓1A via USB‑C or 48V⎓0.25A via PoE
• Wireless: Zigbee 3.0, Wi‑Fi IEEE 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz
• Operating temperature: -10°C to 60°C
• Housing: Aluminum, PC + ABS
• USB connector: Type‑C
• Network connector: RJ45
• Color: Gray

How to use

Connect the Dongle Max to your system using USB‑C, Wi‑Fi or Ethernet with PoE power. For Home Assistant or Zigbee2MQTT, insert the dongle into the host and follow the platform’s integration steps; the device supports auto‑detection to speed up configuration. Use the local web console to view status, update firmware, change settings or configure webhooks. Select the appropriate firmware mode for coordinator, router or Thread RCP depending on your network requirements.

Recommendations

Place the dongle centrally within the area of your Zigbee network and avoid metal obstructions for best radio coverage. Use PoE where power outlets are limited and keep firmware up to date to maintain compatibility with Home Assistant and Zigbee2MQTT.