Note: Logitech discontinued the Harmony line in 2021, but the hardware still functions for existing users. This content is written for those currently using the system or buying it second-hand. Introduction The Logitech Harmony Hub was a pioneer in universal remote control, allowing users to control IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi devices from a single app. However, it had a major limitation: it could not natively speak Zigbee or Z-Wave —the two most common smart home mesh protocols.
| Current Solution | Better Alternative | | :--- | :--- | | Harmony Hub + Extender | Home Assistant + Zigbee/Z-Wave USB stick | | Locked device whitelist | Fully open compatibility (ZHA, Zigbee2MQTT, Z-Wave JS) | | No sensor automation outside Harmony | Full local automation engine | logitech harmony hub extender for zigbee and z-wave devices
If you already own a Harmony Hub, refuse to upgrade your smart home system, and only need to control a legacy Yale Z-Wave lock or Philips Hue bulbs without their bridges, the extender works reliably for basic tasks. Final Verdict The Logitech Harmony Hub Extender was a clever idea that arrived too early and was abandoned too soon. It offered a glimpse of a unified smart home remote, but its closed device support made it obsolete. For new setups, skip the extender and use a dedicated smart home hub (Hubitat, Homey, or Home Assistant) that speaks both Zigbee and Z-Wave natively, then integrate Harmony via API. Pro Tip: If you find a cheap used extender for under $20, it’s a fun experiment. But don’t build your home automation around it. Call to Action (for your blog/video): “Do you still use a Harmony Hub? Share your experience with Zigbee/Z-Wave in the comments below!” Note: Logitech discontinued the Harmony line in 2021,