Homey

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Overview

Homey is a smart home platform offering local control via Homey Pro hardware hubs and cloud-based access through Homey Cloud. It supports device integration across protocols like Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter, and Wi-Fi, enabling users to create automations using a visual Flow editor. Targeted at smart home enthusiasts, it emphasizes local processing for privacy and offline functionality, with features for energy monitoring, dashboards, and multi-user access.

Key Features

  • Flow Automations - Visual editor for creating simple rules or complex automations with conditions and custom scripting.
  • Energy Monitoring - Real-time tracking of device energy usage with insights and automated savings flows.
  • Dashboards - Customizable widgets for controls, data visualization, and moods on mobile or web.
  • Local Processing - Runs automations and device control locally on Homey Pro without internet dependency.
  • Multi-Protocol Support - Integrates Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter, Thread, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and infrared devices.
  • Insights - Historical data and analytics on device usage and system performance.
  • Moods - Pre-set scenes for lighting and device states.
  • Local Users - Passwordless local network access for family members via web app.

Pricing

PlanPriceIncludes
Homey Cloud FreeFreeBasic cloud access, limited apps and flows.
Homey Cloud Premium$4.99/mo or equivalentUnlimited apps, advanced flows, energy insights, dashboards.
Homey Pro (Early 2023+)One-time hardware purchase (~$300+)Local processing, unlimited apps/flows, no subscription required.
Homey Pro (2016-2019)Hardware owned + optional app feesLocal processing with beta access to new features like dashboards for one-time fee.

Platforms & Requirements

Homey Pro runs on dedicated Linux-based hardware with no minimum specs beyond the device itself. Mobile apps available on iOS and Android for control and dashboards. Web app accessible locally via IP or through cloud; older Homey Pro models (2016-2019) have limited access to some beta features.

Integrations & Ecosystem

  • Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter, Thread
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Infrared devices
  • Google Nest, LG ThinQ, EcoFlow, Govee
  • Energy monitoring APIs
  • Homey app store for 3rd-party integrations
  • Local LAN device support
  • HomeyScripts for custom JavaScript

Alternatives

AppDifference
Home AssistantOpen-source software self-hosted on user hardware, more customizable but requires technical setup unlike Homey's plug-and-play hub.
HubitatLocal-only hub focused on reliability, lacks Homey's cloud sync and advanced mobile dashboards.
Samsung SmartThingsCloud-dependent with broad device support, less emphasis on local privacy compared to Homey Pro.
Apple HomeKitEcosystem-locked to Apple devices, limited automation depth versus Homey's cross-protocol Flows.

Reputation

Homey is praised for its intuitive Flow automation editor, broad device compatibility, and local-first approach on Pro models, appealing to users seeking privacy and offline reliability. Criticisms include occasional Z-Wave issues on early hardware, dependency on community apps, and separate ecosystems for Cloud vs. Pro. Active community and regular updates maintain positive perception among European smart home users.

Sources (10)
  1. https://www.homeyapp.net/manual/
  2. https://www.michaelsleen.com/homey-pro/
  3. https://homey.app/en-us/news/introducing-local-users-for-homey-pro/
  4. https://homey.app/en-us/
  5. https://homey.app/en-us/features/dashboards/
  6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoX_VRSnu_g
  7. https://www.homeyapp.net/homey-privacy-policy/
  8. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2T874I8qlk
  9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TesFfnTCFhs
  10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qHve5ngtu8