Differences between Model and Zigbee Model

Question#

What is the difference between Model and Zigbee Model?

Answer#

These two fields represent different layers of device identity and serve distinct purposes in Zigbee2MQTT:

Zigbee Model#

• Definition: The identifier reported by the device during the Zigbee interview process.
• Example: TS0201
• Source: Comes directly from the device’s Zigbee firmware.
• Purpose: Used by Zigbee2MQTT to match the device to its internal support database.
• Notes: Multiple devices from different brands may share the same Zigbee Model if they use the same firmware or chipset.

Model#

• Definition: The manufacturer’s product model name.
• Example: IH-K009
• Source: Typically derived from Tuya or other vendor metadata.
• Purpose: Helps users identify the physical product they purchased.
• Notes: More specific to the device’s external design, packaging, or retail listing.

Analogy#

Think of it like this:

• Zigbee Model = the engine type (e.g., “V6 Turbo”)
• Model = the car’s make and model (e.g., “Toyota Camry 2021”)

Troubleshooting Tips#

• Zigbee2MQTT’s frontend pulls images from it’s device support database ↗, which organizes entries by Model, NOT Zigbee Model.
• Use the Model field to label your devices meaningfully in dashboards or logs.
• For Tuya devices, expect some overlap or ambiguity between these fields due to shared firmware across product lines.