I want to use the Sonoff Switchman (Zigbee version) in two way switch configuration. Will I destroy it if I did that? I have the 86 version.
And how about the Sonoff ultimate switches?
Using any smart switch in an electrical configuration it was not designed for always carries a risk of malfunction or even permanent damage. And even if nothing burns, it will definitely not behave like a traditional two‑way (staircase) switch.
This is especially important with the Sonoff M5 Zigbee, because it can operate without a neutral wire. In “no‑neutral mode” the device powers itself by letting a very small current flow through the load (the lamp).
If you physically connect two M5 Zigbee switches together in a traditional two‑way wiring, then both devices will try to power their electronics through the lamp at the same time. This creates unstable voltage conditions, ghost currents, flickering, and in the worst case can damage the internal power supply or relay.
So: do NOT wire two M5 Zigbee switches together in a physical two‑way circuit - especially without neutral.
The correct way to achieve two‑way control is the logical (smart) method, not physical wiring:
- One M5 Zigbee controls the actual relay and the lamp.
- The second M5 Zigbee only sends Zigbee events.
- Your hub handles the logic.
If you use the eWeLink cloud, you can easily create a Scene that works exactly like a two‑way switch:
- “When Switch #2 is pressed → toggle Switch #1.”
This is safe, reliable, and fully supported by the platform. No special wiring required - just automation.
