I owe you an apology. In a past article, I endorsed the Gledopto GL-C-008 LED strip controller as an affordable Philips Hue Lightstrips alternative. Regrettably, I was unaware of significant flaws in the non-Pro models of Gledopto's products at that time.
Thankfully, Gledopto has rectified these issues in the recently launched Zigbee 3.0 LED Controller Pro and other Pro series models. But the question remains, should you trust them now?
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The Flaw: Previous Gledopto Zigbee Products Didn't Route Traffic
The most critical issue with earlier Gledopto LED controllers was their inability to function as routers. Zigbee's effectiveness largely hinges on mains-powered devices acting as routers to enhance network coverage through meshing capabilities. This means that even if an endpoint is out of the hub's reach, it can still communicate within the Zigbee network.
Ideally, all mains-powered devices, like those from Gledopto, would serve as routers. Their potential to expand network coverage is significant, especially considering the likelihood of having multiple LED strips. This routing issue was widely reported by users, with evidence on platforms like GitHub and Reddit.
The Lack of Public OTA Updates from Gledopto
The routing problem could have potentially been resolved with an update. However, Gledopto has been unable to offer OTA updates at this time, citing the absence of their proprietary hub. This situation is somewhat understandable, as seen with IKEA TRÅDFRI bulbs, which also require their hub for updates. Despite their relatively lower cost, I believe Gledopto should seek a resolution, possibly by providing firmware updates compatible with platforms like Zigbee2MQTT, ZHA, and SmartThings.
Do Gledopto Updates Exist?
While unconfirmed by me, some Reddit users assert that Gledopto does release firmware updates. They claim to have received updated versions of products. If true, Gledopto should ideally make these updates publicly available.
Introducing the Gledopto Zigbee 3.0 LED Controller Pro
The 'Pro' in its name suggests this model is an advanced version. It's easily distinguishable by its black colour, contrasting the white of its predecessors. Gledopto lists several enhancements for the Zigbee 3.0 LED Controller Pro:
- Increased range (up to 30 meters) and the ability to act as a router, thus extending your Zigbee mesh network.
- Reduced standby power (10 mA) and faster startup time.
- Finer control over the lowest brightness settings and more accurate colours at these levels.
- Smoother transitions between CCT and RGB modes, as well as during dimming and colour changes.
- The previous TI CC2530 controller chip is replaced with a Silicon Labs EFR32MG21A010F768IM32, updated for Zigbee 3.0 compatibility.
These upgrades seem plausible, given the new chip's capabilities. However, it's advisable to await thorough testing and reviews before purchasing.
| Product | CC2530 | EFR32MG21 |
|---|---|---|
| Output Power | Up to 4.5 dBm | Up to 10 dBm |
| RAM | 8 kB | 64 kB |
| SoC | 8051 Microcontroller Core | ARM Cortex-M33 |
| Flash storage | Up to 256 kB | 768 kB |
Certification Status
Like its predecessors, the Gledopto Zigbee 3.0 LED Controller Pro isn't certified by the Zigbee Alliance. While it might meet the necessary standards, official certification would provide assurance of its performance and compatibility.
Potential Flickering Issue
There are limited reviews available, but one Amazon review mentions flickering at low brightness with the new controller. While this wasn't an issue with previous models, the lower minimum brightness of the Pro version could potentially introduce this problem.
Should You Buy the Gledopto Zigbee 3.0 LED Controller Pro?
Currently, I advise against purchasing this product until more reviews and reports emerge. The Gledopto Zigbee 3.0 LED Controller Pro has the potential to be what its predecessor should have been, but Gledopto still needs to address certain areas, particularly OTA updates.
Mind the difference between Gledopto 1ID and 2ID RGBCCT controllers.
1ID works like the color bulbs, either you have RGB leds or CW/WW, but not both at the same time. With 2ID you can have The RGB and the CCT LEDs on at the same time, which gives way much more flexibility in terms of saturation.
As far as I recall, the Pro controllers are only available in 1ID.
I can confirm that the Pro is only available in 1ID (I have purchased one). I don’t mind as I never mixed the white and RGB LEDs in my previous setup.
Very good writting, I second every word you said.
What a pitty that GLEDOPTO is not providing firmware updates that we could apply with ZHA/Zigbee2MQTT. They could do it for free and have happier customers.
Totally agree.
Is this a bug or a feature?
When I send (through z2m on HomeAssistant) rgb_color:[0,0,0] to a GLEDOPTO (I happen to have quite a few of them, the Pro ones) the LED strip lights up in blue while I expected it to black-out. Anyone can let me know if that is an expected behavior and why – please lemme know by email.
Thank you in advance.
With you not recommending these, which ones do you recommend for RGBCCT?