
Shelly
Smarter Home. Simpler Life.
Smart relays and switches for advanced home automation with local control and open API.
About Shelly
Shelly is one of the fastest-growing IoT brands in the world, specializing in smart relays, switches, dimmers, and sensors that retrofit into existing electrical installations. Founded in 2004 as Allterco in Sofia, Bulgaria, Shelly Group has expanded to over 100 markets with devices that install behind standard wall switches and outlets.
Unlike most smart home brands, Shelly devices support local control without cloud dependency, have a fully open REST and MQTT API, and integrate natively with Home Assistant, openHAB, and other automation platforms. This makes Shelly the preferred choice for advanced smart home enthusiasts and professionals who demand reliability and customization.
Where Shelly Is Available
Region availabilityShelly products are generally available across most major regions. Availability can still vary by retailer and product line.
Key Features
- Local Control Without Cloud
- Open REST & MQTT API
- Retrofits Behind Existing Switches
- Energy Monitoring Built-In
- Home Assistant Native Integration
- Matter Protocol Support
- Compact Design Fits Electrical Boxes
- No Subscription Required
Why Choose Shelly?
Shelly devices offer what no other smart home brand provides: true local control with zero cloud dependency, a fully open REST and MQTT API, and the ability to retrofit behind existing switches without changing your wall plates.
Their compact relays fit inside standard electrical boxes, making any dumb switch smart without visible changes to your home. With native Home Assistant integration, Matter support on newer models, energy monitoring capabilities, and prices starting under $15, Shelly is the gold standard for anyone building a serious, customizable, and privacy-respecting smart home automation system.
Is Shelly Worth It?
Shelly is a budget-friendly option in the smart home space, best suited for value-conscious buyers. Key strengths include excellent value for money and broad smart home compatibility.
Best For
- first-time smart home buyers
- budget-friendly upgrades
- multi-ecosystem households
- DIY installers
Key Strengths
- excellent value for money
- broad smart home compatibility
- easy self-installation
- no mandatory subscription fees
Not Ideal For
- users needing advanced features
Limitations
Best Shelly Setups
Shelly for Beginners
Get started with essential smart home features
Shelly Full Setup
Complete your smart home with comprehensive coverage
Shelly for Power Users
Advanced features for automation enthusiasts
Common Shelly Problems and Fixes
Having issues with your Shelly device? Browse our most viewed troubleshooting guides.
Why Won't My Shelly Device Reconnect After a Power Outage?
Why Does My Shelly Smart Switch Keep Losing WiFi After a Power Outage
Why Is My Shelly Relay Overheating or Tripping the Circuit Breaker?
How Do I Back Up and Restore My Shelly Device Settings Before Performing a Factory Reset?
Why Does My Shelly Relay Keep Dropping WiFi or Going Offline
What Users Like and Dislike
Pros
- Local Control Without Cloud
- Open REST & MQTT API
- Retrofits Behind Existing Switches
- works with major smart home platforms
- easy to install without professional help
Cons
- product range may be limited
Compatible With
Connectivity
Additional Info
- Professional Installation Required
- DIY Friendly
- 2-year limited warranty on Shelly devices.