aqara display switch v1 wall

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Aqara recently released several new exciting products in the EU market, including the Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus, Touchscreen Dial V1 and Light Switch H2.

The last product I have to review is the Aqara Display Switch V1 EU, which is a is a dual-channel neutral wall switch featuring four physical buttons and a 2.08-inch LCD screen. The switch allows for text customisation to match specific devices and user preferences, making it straightforward to identify which button controls each device. It includes power monitoring capabilities to help track and improve energy usage. Through Matter-over-bridge technology, the switch connects with various third-party smart home systems.

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Specification

SpecificationDetails
Connectivity ProtocolZigbee, Bluetooth
Compatible PlatformsAqara, Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Home Assistant, Homey
Operating Voltage200-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, Max 8 A (Resistive Load)
Product Dimensions3.39 x 3.39 x 1.66 inches (86 × 86 × 42.2 mm)
Operating Temperature-10°C to 40°C (14°F to 104°F)
Operating Humidity0 to 95% RH, no condensation
Weight205 g / 0.45 pounds
Included ComponentsDisplay Switch V1 EU × 1, User Manual × 1, Compliance Statement × 1, Screw Kit × 1

Features

Visible Screen:
The buttons can be renamed through the app for clear function identification. The 4-button design incorporates a 2.08″ LCD screen that shows custom text and icons, clearly indicating what each button controls. Users have options to modify text size, colour, and icons to create a personalised interface that suits their needs.

Flexible Control:
The left pair of buttons function as electrical switches for controlling wired loads, configurable through the Aqara Home app. The right pair operate as wireless switches, with all four buttons capable of functioning as wireless controls or direct triggers for custom scenes.

Zigbee with Matter over Bridge Support:
The switch integrates with third-party systems including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, Home Assistant and Homey via Matter over Bridge Support. Its Zigbee functionality allows it to serve as a repeater for stable network communication while maintaining low standby power consumption to keep electricity costs down.

Proximity Activation:
A built-in presence sensor enables screen activation based on detected distance. The switch offers default automation options that users can adjust according to their preferences when someone approaches, providing a convenient hands-free experience.

Power Monitoring:
The switch tracks power usage of connected devices and generates daily, weekly and monthly consumption reports within the Aqara Home app. These data reports help users optimise their electricity usage to reduce consumption and promote more sustainable energy practices.

Premium Texture and Fingerprint Resistance:
The AG glass panel provides a high-quality appearance and pleasant tactile experience. The micro switch mechanism delivers smooth control with precise feedback. The panel incorporates anti-fingerprint technology that minimises visible marks and smudges, maintaining a clean appearance with regular use.

Examples of Automations

Energy-Efficient Bedroom Lighting Control

IF Someone is approaching (Acting Time 20:00–24:00 Everyday), THEN Set only selected lights to low brightness

This setup activates soft lighting when someone is detected nearby, reduces unnecessary brightness, and creates a relaxing pre-sleep environment. The app’s energy tracking features let you monitor and adjust your night-time power usage habits.

(Display Switch V1 EU + Ceiling Light T1M + LED Strip T1 + Aqara Hub)

Enhanced Safety Lighting at Night

IF Someone is approaching, THEN Turn on Switch 1/2 (hallway wired lighting) & Turn on LED Strip T1 to set brightness

The proximity detection automatically turns on lights in dark conditions when movement is detected, providing safe navigation without manual switching. The system turns off lights after an appropriate time based on corridor length: 30 seconds for short corridors, 1 minute for medium corridors and 2 minutes for long corridors, reducing wasted energy.

(Display Switch V1 EU + LED Strip T1 + Aqara Hub)

Away Mode

IF Turn on Switch 4 (Wireless), THEN Turn off Switch 1 + Switch 2 (wired lights), Turn off Smart Plug (AC/heater), Turn off Valve Controller T1 & close the curtain

This mode provides a single-button solution for leaving the house, automatically managing lights, climate control and security features.

(Display Switch V1 EU + Smart Plug + Valve Controller T1 + Roller Shade Controller T1S + Aqara Hub)

Design

Aqara Display Switch V1 Design

The Display Switch adopts the same form factor as the more affordable smart light switches, with a square design filling one socket.

The main difference is the black LCD display that runs across the middle. This is a 2.08-inch LCD display that shows the time, temperature indoors, and button functions at a glance. The display’s icons, colour, and text size can be customised. A built-in presence sensor turns the screen on automatically.

Aqara Display Switch V1 Design 2

The buttons are different from the more affordable switches. The plastic is smoother and shinier, and the physical switches are both on the left side rather than the top button on the left and right side.

The back section of this switch is designed more like the older H1 light switches, with the front panel clipping on. I prefer the newer mounting design of the H2 switches, but it doesn’t make a significant difference.

Considering this switch lacks Thread, and due to the design, I suspect the underlying hardware is based on the previous H1 generation.

Set-Up

The setup is identical to the previous H1 generation. This uses Zigbee, so you will want to pair it with an Aqara hub. With Aqara, I have generally found Zigbee easier to work with than Thread, as I have far fewer pairing issues.

If you pair it with a Metter capable hub such as the Camera Hub G5 or Hub M3, you can then easily integrate it with other systems sync as Home Assistant by using Matter.

Functions & Performance

Aqara Display Switch V1

Functionally, this is very similar to the Smart Light Switch H2. You essentially have four buttons to press. Two of these can be a physical switch, and the other two are wireless switches. You can program four wireless switches, but you then need to map the additional switches to the buttons.

There is no option to enable multiple presses for additional functionality, but there is a motion sensor that can detect when someone is approaching, and this is available within the automations.

It is a shame the display is not a touchscreen. It would have been good to be able to swipe left/right, allowing you to scroll between button functions, giving you improved functionality vs the Smart Light Switch H2.

Like most of the Aqara switches, the wireless switch options are somewhat redundant when using the Aqara app as you can map the buttons to any other device in your home or any scene you have created.

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Within Home Assistant via Matter, you have access to the two physical buttons but you don’t have easy access to the wireless buttons as they are not accessible under the device trigger. However, the wireless buttons are available as events and you should be able to integrate them, it is just a bit more complicated.

Price and Alternative Options

The Aqara Display Switch V1 has an RRP of £110 and is available to buy now from Aqara and Amazon.

Aqara’s recent product launch includes:

  • Aqara Smart Light Switch H2 EU
    • Price: £45
    • Comment: Visually less impressive than the Display Switch V1, but it is the logical alternative. It works great and is affordable.
  • Aqara Dimmer Switch H2 EU
    • Price: £50
    • Comment: I have not tested this, but it is ideal for anyone who has normal but dimmable LEDs.
  • Touchscreen Dial V1
    • Price: £150
    • Comment: Beautiful smart switch with lots of potential, let down by the lack of Matter and Thread support. Review of the Touchscreen Dial V1
  • Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus
    • Price: £290
    • Comment: This is obviously a very different product as it is a hub and smart display as well and costs almost double. It is superb, though.

Overall

The Aqara Display Switch V1 is a good premium addition to the Aqara Smart Switch lineup.

Functionally, it is not much different from the Smart Light Switch H2, but you have the display and a superior build quality. Both switches have two physical switches and two wireless switches. The Display Switch has the option to map two physical switches and four wireless switches, so it appears to have the advantage, but the Smart Light Switch H2 can decouple the physical switch and have four wireless switches.

The Smart Light Switch H2 then benefits from the custom press mode, enabling multiple functions from a single switch using single/double/long presses.

The one big advantage the Aqara Display Switch V1 has is the additional motion-sensing automation, allowing you to trigger actions when someone is approaching.

Therefore, the main issue I have with the Display Switch, is that it doesn’t offer the same value for money as the Smart Light Switch H2.

Overall, the Aqara Display Switch V1 is an excellent smart switch that is well worth considering over the Smart Light Switch H2 if you are looking for a more premium solution.

Aqara Display Switch V1 EU Review

Summary

The Aqara Display Switch V1 EU stands out as a premium addition to Aqara’s smart home ecosystem, combining elegant design with functional versatility. It offers an intuitive interface with customizable controls through its LCD screen, proximity sensor automation, and extensive third-party integration. Despite its premium price point, users seeking advanced features, superior build quality, and a polished aesthetic will find this switch worthwhile, especially when leveraging its power-monitoring capabilities to enhance energy efficiency.

Pros

  • Customizable LCD Display: Clearly labeled controls with adjustable text, colors, and icons.
  • Power Monitoring: Tracks energy usage with detailed consumption reports.
  • Flexible Controls: Combines wired and wireless buttons, allowing extensive automation.
  • Proximity Activation: Built-in motion sensor activates screen and automations based on presence.
  • Premium Build Quality: AG glass panel with fingerprint resistance enhances aesthetics and durability.
  • Strong Compatibility: Supports integration with multiple smart home platforms via Zigbee and Matter-over-bridge.

Cons

  • Price: At £110, it offers less value compared to Aqara’s more affordable Smart Light Switch H2.
  • Limited Multi-Press Functionality: Lacks advanced press options (single/double/long press) available on cheaper alternatives.
  • No Touchscreen: Screen lacks interactive touchscreen functionality, limiting its potential versatility.

Last update on 2025-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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