So, what is the difference between the Wink Hub vs. Wink Hub 2? Both hubs are great at connecting all your smart home appliances together in one app. But there are a number of differences that set the newer model ahead of the older one.
Now, when we first saw the Wink Hub 2, our first impression was that it just looked sleeker and slimmer. But there’s more to it than that; so let’s go over whether or not the upgrade is worth the price!
Wink Hub vs. Wink Hub 2 — Differences
-
Difference #1: Device support – The Wink Hub 2 supports more smart home technologies than the original Wink Hub. Both hubs support Kidde, Lutron Clear Connect, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, and ZigBee technology. In addition to that, the Wink Hub 2 also supports an improved Bluetooth LE radio and a Thread-capable radio. These two technologies are designed for future support of new smart appliances.
-
Difference #2: Ethernet port – The Wink Hub 2 comes with an Ethernet port to connect it to a home router. The Ethernet connection to a router allows for improved connectivity, thus flawless smart appliances control.
-
Difference #3: Improved WiFi radio – The Wink Hub 2 offers a more powerful radio. It is designed for better range and throughput. Both the original Wink Hub and Wink Hub 2 support 2.4 Ghz networks, and now 5 GHz networks are also supported, but only by the Wink Hub 2.
-
Difference #4: Memory – The original Wink Hub only comes with 64 Mb of memory. The upgraded version has twice as much, and not only does the Wink Hub 2 offer 128 Mb of memory, but it’s processing speed is increased.
-
Difference #5: Security – The Internet of Things and smart home products in particular have always been under scrutiny due to their potential for security exploits. And, since Wink is bringing your whole smart home together, the Wink Hub should have high encryption cred. The Wink Hub 2 comes with hardware for cryptographic verification. The new hardware mechanisms prevent tampering from all kinds of attacks. The upgraded hardware on the Wink Hub 2 also ensures that the hub only runs on trusted software.
-
Difference #6: Set-up – After you plug in the original Wink Hub, you’ll need to “discover” it manually; whereas, the Wink Hub 2 offers auto-discovery and a guided setup. All you have to do is load up the wink app and it’ll automatically discover your hub.
-
Difference #7: Design – The second-generation Wink Hub is actually 25% slimmer compared to the original design. No need to hide it aesthetically, the Wink Hub 2 will seamlessly blend in with your home’s interior.
Wink Hub vs. Wink Hub 2 — Comparison Chart
| Wink Hub | Wink Hub 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Support | Kidde, Clear Connect, Z-Wave, ZigBee |
Bluetooth LE, Kidde, Clear Connect, Z-Wave, ZigBee |
| Setup | Manual Discovery | Auto-discovery + guided setup |
| Local Control | Basic | Enhanced |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz (Wi-Fi) | 2.4GHz (Wi-Fi), 5GHz (Wi-Fi), Ethernet Port |
| Memory | 64 MB | 512 MB |
| Dimensions | 8″ x 8″ x 3″ | 7.25″ x 7.25″ x 1.25″ |
| Included | Hub, Power Supply | Hub, Power Supply, Ethernet Cable |
Wink Hub vs. Wink Hub 2 — Our Thoughts
Wink brings all your smart home products together, no matter which version you choose. But, if you are choosing between Wink Hub vs Wink Hub 2 — go with the second generation, the Wink Hub 2. It costs just a bit more, but offers way more compatibility options and just an overall better performance.
If you already have the standard Wink Hub and are happy with it, upgrading is completely up to you. By upgrading from Wink Hub to Wink Hub 2, you’re getting faster performance, higher security, and wider device support. We can’t really say if you need an upgrade (because each specific case varies), however, you should know that if you do decide to upgrade — the transition is super smooth. You can transfer all of your smart products and personal settings from Wink Hub to your new Wink Hub 2 in just seconds.
Last update on 2024-04-24 at 10:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Visitor Rating: 5 Stars
Visitor Rating: 5 Stars
Visitor Rating: 3 Stars
Visitor Rating: 5 Stars
It’s a fantastic article. Thanks!