SONOFF Bridge Max Bridge-M

Bridge Zigbee, BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant Devices into Matter

What is the SONOFF Bridge Max?

The SONOFF Bridge Max Bridge-M is an all-in-one Matter Bridge and Zigbee gateway designed to connect devices from different smart-home ecosystems. It can bridge supported Zigbee, BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant devices into Matter-compatible platforms such as Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings.

Bridge Max supports up to 128 Zigbee devices for stable operation and includes a built-in local web interface, dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, Home Assistant integration through MQTT and a built-in security system with an alarm of up to 90 dB. It uses a dedicated EFR32MG21 radio alongside the SigmaStar SSD2351Q processor.

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Key Takeaways

• Matter Bridge for cross-platform smart-home integration
• Zigbee gateway for up to 128 devices
• Supports SONOFF and selected third-party Zigbee devices
• Bridges supported devices into Apple Home
• Works with Amazon Alexa through Matter
• Works with Google Home through Matter
• Works with SmartThings through Matter
• Home Assistant integration through MQTT
• Can bridge supported Home Assistant devices into Matter ecosystems
• BTHome device support
• eWeLink and eWeLink-Remote device support
• Built-in local web interface
• No cloud account required for local web Matter bridging
• 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
• RJ45 Ethernet connectivity
• Up to 90 dB built-in security siren
• USB Type-C power
• One-step migration from SONOFF ZBBridge-P
• Matter 1.4 certified

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One Bridge for Multiple Smart Home Ecosystems

The biggest advantage of the SONOFF Bridge Max is its ability to bring devices from several technologies into a Matter-compatible smart home.

Bridge Max can work with supported devices from:

• Zigbee
• BTHome
• eWeLink-Remote
• eWeLink
• Home Assistant

and expose supported devices to Matter ecosystems such as:

• Apple Home
• Amazon Alexa
• Google Home
• SmartThings

This allows devices that do not natively support those ecosystems to become accessible through the Bridge Max's Matter Bridge functionality, provided the particular device and function are supported.

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Why Choose the SONOFF Bridge Max?

Matter Bridge

The Matter Bridge is one of the Bridge-M's main features.

Instead of requiring every existing smart-home accessory to support Matter natively, Bridge Max can translate supported devices into Matter-compatible accessories.

For example, supported Zigbee devices connected to Bridge Max can be exposed to a compatible Matter platform. SONOFF also supports bridging selected BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant devices.

This is particularly useful if you already have a collection of SONOFF or other supported smart-home devices and want to bring them into a broader Matter ecosystem.

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Bring Zigbee Devices into Apple Home

Bridge Max can expose supported Zigbee devices to Apple Home through Matter.

This means selected devices that do not offer native Apple Home support can become available in Apple's smart-home ecosystem through the bridge.

Once synchronized, supported devices can be controlled through Apple devices and included in Apple Home automations alongside accessories from other brands.

A compatible Apple Matter controller is still required for the Apple Home side of the Matter setup.

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Amazon Alexa and Google Home Integration

Bridge Max can also expose supported devices to:

• Amazon Alexa
• Google Home

through Matter.

This allows compatible devices attached to Bridge Max to participate in supported voice commands, routines and automations within those ecosystems.

The exact controls exposed through Matter depend on the device type and the functions supported by both Bridge Max and the destination platform.

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Zigbee Gateway for Up to 128 Devices

The SONOFF Bridge Max functions as a dedicated Zigbee gateway.

SONOFF recommends up to 128 Zigbee devices for stable operation. The manufacturer notes that more devices may technically be added, but performance can be affected beyond its lab-tested recommendation.

Compatible Zigbee devices can include:

• Motion sensors
• Temperature and humidity sensors
• Door and window sensors
• Smart plugs
• Smart switches
• Buttons
• Lighting
• Security sensors
• Other supported Zigbee accessories

Bridge Max supports SONOFF Zigbee products and a selection of third-party Zigbee devices.

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Third-Party Zigbee Device Support

The Bridge-M is not restricted exclusively to SONOFF-branded Zigbee accessories.

SONOFF states that Bridge Max supports its complete range of SONOFF Zigbee devices as well as various third-party Zigbee products.

However, Zigbee compatibility is device-specific.

A product using Zigbee does not automatically mean every function will be supported by Bridge Max or exposed through Matter. Compatibility should therefore be checked for the individual device before purchase.

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Local Web Interface

One of the standout upgrades on Bridge Max is its built-in local web interface.

Connect Bridge Max to your local network, open its web interface and configure Matter Bridge synchronization without requiring:

• An additional app
• A cloud account
• An internet connection

for the local Matter Bridge workflow.

This makes the bridge particularly attractive for users who prefer local configuration and want to reduce unnecessary cloud dependencies.

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Important Local Web Interface Limitation

The Bridge Max web interface is designed primarily for device setup and Matter Bridge synchronization.

It does not provide direct control of Zigbee sub-devices from the web dashboard.

For direct device control, SONOFF instructs users to use the eWeLink app or the Matter platform to which the devices have been bridged.

This distinction is important if you are purchasing Bridge Max specifically for its local web interface.

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Home Assistant Integration

The SONOFF Bridge Max provides two particularly useful options for Home Assistant users.

Zigbee Devices → Home Assistant

Zigbee devices connected to Bridge Max can be synchronized with Home Assistant by configuring an MQTT Broker.

Home Assistant → Matter

Supported Home Assistant devices can also be synchronized through Bridge Max's Matter Bridge into ecosystems such as:

• Apple Home
• Alexa
• Google Home

This allows Bridge Max to act as a connection point between Home Assistant and consumer Matter ecosystems.

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BTHome Support

Bridge Max also supports BTHome devices.

BTHome is commonly used by Bluetooth Low Energy smart-home sensors and accessories. Supported BTHome devices can be brought into Bridge Max and then exposed through its Matter Bridge functionality.

This extends Bridge Max beyond being only a Zigbee gateway.

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eWeLink and eWeLink-Remote Support

The Bridge-M integrates with SONOFF's wider eWeLink ecosystem.

Supported devices associated with an eWeLink account can be included in the Matter Bridge workflow. Bridge Max also supports eWeLink-Remote devices.

The local web and eWeLink app approaches can coexist. If you sign into your eWeLink account through the web interface, SONOFF states that Bridge Max can synchronize with the eWeLink app.

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Ethernet and Dual-Band Wi-Fi

Bridge Max provides two main ways to connect to your home network.

Ethernet

The built-in RJ45 port supports:

10/100 Mbps Ethernet

A wired connection can provide stable network connectivity for a permanently installed smart-home gateway.

Wi-Fi

Bridge Max also supports both:

• 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
• 5 GHz Wi-Fi

using IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax.

Ethernet is not mandatory. SONOFF confirms that Bridge Max can connect to your home network over Wi-Fi through the eWeLink app when an Ethernet cable is not connected.

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Smart Home Security Hub

The SONOFF Bridge Max can also act as a smart security hub.

Pair it with compatible Zigbee sensors and other supported security devices to detect events such as:

• Motion
• Doors opening
• Windows opening
• Other configured sensor events

Bridge Max includes an alarm capable of producing up to 90 dB and can send real-time mobile notifications through supported configurations.

This allows the same hub handling your Zigbee and Matter integrations to participate in home-security automations.

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Home, Away and Sleep Automations

Compatible Zigbee sensors can be combined into security routines for different situations.

For example:

Away Mode

Monitor selected door, window and motion sensors while nobody is home.

Home Mode

Monitor selected perimeter sensors while allowing normal movement inside.

Sleep Mode

Create nighttime security routines around selected doors, windows and other sensors.

When an configured security event occurs, Bridge Max can activate its local siren and support mobile alerts.

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Upgrade from SONOFF ZBBridge-P

Bridge Max includes a Bridge Replacement feature for users upgrading from the SONOFF Zigbee Bridge Pro, also known as ZBBridge-P.

SONOFF states that supported migration can transfer:

• Zigbee devices
• Scenes
• Security settings

from the ZBBridge-P to Bridge Max without requiring the entire Zigbee network to be paired again.

Currently, SONOFF specifies this replacement feature for the ZBBridge-P. It does not currently support equivalent migration from other gateways such as ZBBridge-U or iHost.

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Bridge Max vs Zigbee Bridge Ultra

The SONOFF Bridge Max and SONOFF Zigbee Bridge Ultra are related products, but they are not the same device.

Bridge Max is particularly focused on flexible Matter bridging, including support for Zigbee, BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant sources. It also adds a local web Matter Bridge workflow and supports up to 128 recommended Zigbee devices.

The Zigbee Bridge Ultra has different hardware capabilities and a different supported-device capacity.

Make sure you select Bridge-M if you specifically want the SONOFF Bridge Max described on this page.

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Technical Specifications

SONOFF's official product specifications confirm the SigmaStar SSD2351Q + EFR32MG21 hardware combination, dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-C power and 128-device recommended Zigbee capacity. The Connectivity Standards Alliance lists Bridge Max as Matter 1.4 certified.

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Compatibility

Compatibility of individual bridged functions can vary by device and destination Matter platform.

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Is Bridge Max a Matter Controller?

Bridge Max is primarily a Matter Bridge, not a replacement for the Matter controller in your destination ecosystem.

Its role is to expose supported non-Matter or differently connected devices to Matter ecosystems. The target platform still needs the appropriate Matter controller functionality.

For example, when bridging supported devices into Apple Home, you still need a compatible Apple Matter controller for the Apple Home ecosystem.

This distinction is important because Matter Bridge and Matter Controller describe different roles.

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Is Bridge Max a Thread Border Router?

No. The Bridge Max specifications do not list Thread or Thread Border Router functionality.

It should therefore not be purchased as a Thread Border Router for Matter-over-Thread accessories. Its main smart-home bridging technologies are Zigbee, BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant to Matter.

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How to Set Up the SONOFF Bridge Max

Step 1: Connect Bridge Max

Power Bridge Max through USB Type-C and connect it to your network using Ethernet.

You can alternatively configure Wi-Fi through the eWeLink app.

Step 2: Add Your Devices

Pair supported Zigbee devices or configure the other supported integrations you want to expose through Bridge Max.

Step 3: Connect Your Matter Ecosystem

Use the Matter Bridge workflow to synchronize supported devices with your preferred Matter-compatible ecosystem, such as Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home or SmartThings.

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Using Bridge Max Without the eWeLink App

For its local web Matter Bridge workflow, Bridge Max can be used without downloading an app or creating a cloud account.

The basic process is:

1. Connect Bridge Max to Ethernet.
2. Access its local web interface.
3. Add supported devices.
4. Configure Matter Bridge synchronization.
5. Add the bridge to your Matter ecosystem.

SONOFF specifically states that this workflow can operate locally without requiring cloud services or internet access.

The eWeLink app remains available when you want its additional device-control and ecosystem functions.

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Smart Automation Ideas

Motion-Activated Night Lighting

Pair a compatible Zigbee motion sensor with smart lighting so lights automatically activate when movement is detected at night.

Temperature-Controlled Fan

Use a Zigbee temperature sensor with a compatible switch or plug to automatically activate a fan when the room becomes too warm.

Door Security Alert

Pair a Zigbee contact sensor with Bridge Max and create an alert when a monitored door opens while your security routine is active.

Apple Home Automations

Bridge supported Zigbee devices into Apple Home and combine them with other Matter and Apple Home accessories.

Home Assistant to Matter

Use Bridge Max to expose supported Home Assistant devices to Matter ecosystems, allowing selected Home Assistant entities to become available in consumer smart-home platforms.

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Pros

• Matter Bridge functionality
• Supports up to 128 Zigbee devices for recommended stable operation
• EFR32MG21 Zigbee radio
• Supports SONOFF Zigbee devices
• Supports selected third-party Zigbee devices
• BTHome support
• eWeLink-Remote support
• Home Assistant integration through MQTT
• Can bridge supported Home Assistant devices into Matter
• Apple Home integration through Matter
• Alexa integration through Matter
• Google Home integration through Matter
• SmartThings integration through Matter
• Built-in local web interface
• Local Matter bridging without mandatory cloud access
• Ethernet connectivity
• Dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
• Up to 90 dB security siren
• One-step migration from ZBBridge-P
• Compact 82 × 82 × 28 mm design
• Matter 1.4 certified

Cons

• Local web interface does not directly control Zigbee sub-devices
• Not designed as a direct ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT coordinator
• Does not function as a Thread Border Router
• Separate Matter controller is required in the destination ecosystem
• Third-party Zigbee compatibility and bridged functions vary by device

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Who Should Buy the SONOFF Bridge Max?

The SONOFF Bridge Max Bridge-M is particularly suitable for users who:

• Own SONOFF Zigbee devices
• Want to bring Zigbee devices into Matter
• Use Apple Home
• Use Alexa
• Use Google Home
• Use SmartThings
• Use Home Assistant
• Want MQTT integration
• Own supported BTHome devices
• Want Ethernet connectivity
• Prefer a local web-based Matter Bridge setup
• Need a Zigbee network supporting up to 128 recommended devices
• Want to upgrade from a SONOFF ZBBridge-P
• Want one bridge connecting several smart-home ecosystems

For users whose main goal is to operate Zigbee directly through ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT, a dedicated compatible Zigbee coordinator is generally the more appropriate product type.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SONOFF Bridge Max?

The SONOFF Bridge Max Bridge-M is a Matter Bridge and Zigbee gateway that can connect supported Zigbee, BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant devices with Matter-compatible platforms such as Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings.

Who should buy the SONOFF Bridge Max?

Bridge Max is suitable for users who want to connect supported Zigbee and other smart-home devices to Matter ecosystems, particularly those using SONOFF, eWeLink, Home Assistant, Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home or SmartThings.

How does the SONOFF Bridge Max work?

Bridge Max manages supported Zigbee and other compatible devices and uses its Matter Bridge functionality to expose them to supported Matter ecosystems. It can connect to your network through Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi.

How many Zigbee devices can SONOFF Bridge Max support?

SONOFF recommends up to 128 Zigbee devices for stable operation. The manufacturer notes that additional devices may be added, but performance can be affected beyond this lab-tested recommendation.

Does SONOFF Bridge Max work with Apple Home?

Yes. Bridge Max can expose supported devices to Apple Home through Matter Bridge. A compatible Apple Matter controller is required on the Apple Home side.

Does SONOFF Bridge Max work with Home Assistant?

Yes. Zigbee devices connected to Bridge Max can be synchronized with Home Assistant through MQTT. Bridge Max can also bridge supported Home Assistant devices into Matter ecosystems such as Apple Home, Alexa and Google Home.

Does SONOFF Bridge Max require Ethernet?

No. Bridge Max supports both Ethernet and Wi-Fi. Without Ethernet, it can be connected to your home network over Wi-Fi through the eWeLink app.

Can SONOFF Bridge Max work without the cloud?

Its local web Matter Bridge workflow can operate over the LAN without requiring an app, cloud account or internet connection. Some eWeLink and remote services still require their respective online connectivity.

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Why Buy the SONOFF Bridge Max?

The SONOFF Bridge Max Bridge-M is designed for smart homes that have outgrown a simple single-protocol gateway.

It combines a Zigbee gateway supporting up to 128 recommended devices with Matter bridging, BTHome support, eWeLink integration, Home Assistant MQTT connectivity, Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi and a local web interface.

Its most useful feature is its ability to connect existing smart-home devices with newer Matter ecosystems. Supported Zigbee, BTHome, eWeLink and Home Assistant devices can be exposed to platforms such as Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings without requiring every individual accessory to support Matter natively.