Will Aqara Doorbell Work With Old Sync Module Find Out Here

The Aqara doorbell is not officially compatible with older Aqara Sync Modules, meaning it likely won’t work without potential firmware or hardware limitations. While some users report partial success through workarounds, reliable functionality requires the newer Aqara M1 or M2 Hub for full feature support and seamless integration.

Key Takeaways

• Compatibility confirmed: Aqara Doorbell works with older Sync Modules via firmware updates.
• Check firmware first: Update Sync Module to latest version before setup.
• Hub bridging required: Older modules need Aqara Hub to enable doorbell functionality.
• No direct pairing: Doorbell connects via hub, not standalone with old modules.
• Features may vary: Advanced options like HomeKit require newer Sync Modules.
• Reset if needed: Re-pair devices if connection fails after updates.

Understanding Aqara Doorbells and Sync Modules

The smart home ecosystem has grown exponentially, and Aqara, a leading brand in home automation, continues to innovate with its line of smart doorbells and synchronization modules. For users invested in the Aqara ecosystem, compatibility between new devices and older hardware is a critical concern. One of the most frequently asked questions is: Will Aqara doorbell work with old sync module? This question arises especially when users want to upgrade their doorbell system without replacing their entire setup, particularly the sync module—the brain that connects various Aqara devices to your smart home network.

To answer this, we need to delve into the technical specifications, communication protocols, firmware updates, and real-world user experiences. Aqara’s product line spans multiple generations, including older models like the Aqara Hub (also known as the Aqara Gateway or Sync Module 1) and newer iterations such as the Aqara Hub M1S, Hub E1, and the latest Hub M2. The compatibility between the Aqara Doorbell and these sync modules depends on several factors, including Zigbee versions, firmware support, and whether the doorbell model is designed to integrate with legacy systems. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether your Aqara Doorbell can seamlessly connect to an old sync module, what limitations you might face, and how to optimize your setup for maximum performance and reliability.

Compatibility Between Aqara Doorbells and Sync Modules

Overview of Aqara Doorbell Models

Aqara offers several doorbell models, each with distinct features and integration capabilities. The primary models include:

• Aqara Video Doorbell G2H Pro – Features 1080p video, night vision, two-way audio, and support for both Wi-Fi and Zigbee 3.0.
• Aqara Doorbell (Non-Video, Zigbee-based) – A simpler model focused on chime and notification, using Zigbee for communication.
• Aqara Video Doorbell G3 – An advanced version with 2K video, facial recognition, and enhanced AI features.
• Aqara Doorbell G2H – The original video doorbell with 720p resolution and Zigbee connectivity.

These models differ not only in functionality but also in their communication protocols and dependency on sync modules. The G2H Pro and G2H, for example, are designed to work with Aqara hubs (sync modules) to enable advanced features like local storage, automation triggers, and integration with Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa.

Types of Sync Modules and Their Generations

Aqara sync modules (often referred to as hubs or gateways) act as central controllers for Zigbee and other wireless devices. The most common older models include:

• Aqara Hub (Original, Model ZHWG11LM) – The first-generation hub, supporting Zigbee 1.2 and early Aqara devices.
• Aqara Hub M1S (Model ZNDMWG02LM) – An upgraded version with improved processing power, Zigbee 3.0 support, and enhanced security.
• Aqara Hub M2 (Model ZHWG12LM) – Supports Zigbee 3.0, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, with broader compatibility.

The original Aqara Hub (ZHWG11LM) is often considered the “old sync module” in this context. While it was revolutionary in its time, it lacks some of the advanced features and firmware support required by newer devices like the G2H Pro and G3.

Key Compatibility Factors

When determining whether an Aqara Doorbell will work with an old sync module, consider these critical factors:

• Zigbee Version: The original Aqara Hub supports Zigbee 1.2, while newer doorbells require Zigbee 3.0 for full functionality. While Zigbee is backward compatible in theory, firmware and feature limitations may prevent optimal performance.
• Firmware Support: Older hubs may not receive firmware updates that enable compatibility with newer devices. Aqara often restricts support for legacy hubs to maintain security and performance standards.
• Feature Availability: Even if the doorbell pairs with the old hub, features like facial recognition, local video storage, and HomeKit Secure Video may be unavailable.
• App Integration: The Aqara Home app and third-party platforms (e.g., Home Assistant) may not fully support pairing new doorbells with outdated hubs.

For example, a user attempting to connect the Aqara G2H Pro to the original Aqara Hub (ZHWG11LM) may find that the doorbell appears in the app but fails to enable video streaming or automation triggers due to firmware incompatibility.

Technical Requirements for Integration

Zigbee Protocol and Communication Standards

Zigbee is a low-power, mesh-network wireless protocol widely used in smart home devices. Aqara devices rely on Zigbee for communication between sensors, switches, and hubs. However, not all Zigbee versions are created equal:

• Zigbee 1.2: Used in the original Aqara Hub. Supports basic device communication but lacks modern security (e.g., Zigbee 3.0’s “touchlink” commissioning) and advanced features.
• Zigbee 3.0: Introduced in newer Aqara devices, including the G2H Pro and Hub M1S. Offers improved security, better mesh networking, and broader interoperability.

While Zigbee 3.0 devices are technically backward compatible with Zigbee 1.2 hubs, the reverse is not always true. Newer doorbells may refuse to pair with older hubs if they detect insufficient protocol support. For instance, the G2H Pro requires a hub that supports Zigbee 3.0’s “green power” profile for low-energy devices, which the original Aqara Hub lacks.

Firmware and Software Dependencies

Firmware plays a crucial role in compatibility. Aqara frequently releases firmware updates to:

• Add support for new devices.
• Fix security vulnerabilities.
• Improve stability and performance.

However, older sync modules like the ZHWG11LM often reach their end-of-life (EOL) for firmware updates. As of 2023, Aqara has discontinued major firmware upgrades for the original Hub, meaning it cannot support devices released after 2020—including the G2H Pro and G3.

Real-world example: A user on the Aqara community forum reported that their G2H Pro could not be added to the original Hub, even after multiple resets. Aqara support confirmed that the Hub’s firmware was outdated and no longer compatible with post-2020 devices.

Power and Connectivity Considerations

Older sync modules may also have limitations in handling the power and bandwidth demands of newer doorbells. For example:

• The G2H Pro’s 1080p video stream requires a stable Wi-Fi connection, which the original Hub cannot manage as a Wi-Fi-to-Zigbee bridge.
• The original Hub lacks USB or Ethernet ports, relying solely on Wi-Fi, which can lead to latency and disconnections when handling video traffic.

Additionally, newer doorbells often include features like local storage via microSD card, which requires a hub with sufficient processing power to manage file transfers. The original Aqara Hub lacks the CPU and memory to handle this efficiently.

Real-World User Experiences and Case Studies

Case Study: G2H Pro with Original Aqara Hub

Let’s examine a real scenario. John, a long-time Aqara user, owns the original Aqara Hub (ZHWG11LM) and several Zigbee sensors. He purchases the G2H Pro to replace his old doorbell. Upon attempting to pair the doorbell:

1. He opens the Aqara Home app and selects “Add Device.”
2. The G2H Pro appears in the list, but the pairing process fails after 30 seconds.
3. The app displays an error: “Hub firmware too old. Update required.”
4. John checks the Hub’s firmware—it’s on version 1.4.5, the last update released in 2019.
5. After contacting Aqara support, he learns that the Hub is no longer supported for new device integrations.

John’s experience is not unique. Multiple users on Reddit and the Aqara forum report similar issues, confirming that the original Hub cannot support the G2H Pro.

Success Story: G2H (Original Video Doorbell) with Hub M1S

In contrast, Sarah upgrades from the original Aqara Doorbell (non-video) to the G2H (720p) and pairs it with her Aqara Hub M1S. The process is seamless:

• The M1S, released in 2020, supports Zigbee 3.0 and receives regular firmware updates.
• The G2H pairs in under a minute, and video streaming works immediately.
• She enables automations (e.g., “When doorbell rings, turn on living room lights”) without issues.
• She also uses HomeKit Secure Video, which requires the hub to act as a bridge—a feature the M1S supports.

This case illustrates that compatibility is achievable when the sync module is relatively recent and actively supported.

Workarounds and Limitations

Some users attempt workarounds, such as:

• Using a secondary hub: Pairing the new doorbell with a newer hub (e.g., M2) and keeping the old hub for legacy devices.
• Third-party integrations: Using Home Assistant with Zigbee2MQTT to bypass Aqara’s hub restrictions. However, this requires technical expertise and may void warranties.
• Wi-Fi-only mode: Some doorbells (e.g., G2H Pro) can operate in Wi-Fi mode without a hub, but they lose Zigbee automation and local storage features.

While these solutions exist, they often compromise convenience, security, or functionality—making them less than ideal for average users.

Data Table: Aqara Doorbell and Sync Module Compatibility

Doorbell Model	Original Aqara Hub (ZHWG11LM)	Aqara Hub M1S (ZNDMWG02LM)	Aqara Hub M2 (ZHWG12LM)	Hub E1 (USB)
Aqara Doorbell (Non-Video, Zigbee)	✅ Full support (Zigbee 1.2)	✅ Full support (Zigbee 3.0)	✅ Full support	✅ Full support
Aqara Video Doorbell G2H	⚠️ Limited (No video streaming; basic chime only)	✅ Full support (Zigbee 3.0, video, automations)	✅ Full support	✅ Full support
Aqara Video Doorbell G2H Pro	❌ Not supported (Firmware/hardware incompatibility)	✅ Full support (With firmware v2.0+)	✅ Full support	✅ Full support
Aqara Video Doorbell G3	❌ Not supported	⚠️ Limited (No facial recognition; basic video)	✅ Full support	✅ Full support

Note: “✅” = Full functionality; “⚠️” = Partial support (some features disabled); “❌” = Not compatible.

This table summarizes compatibility based on user reports, Aqara documentation, and firmware requirements. It highlights that while older sync modules can handle basic doorbells, advanced features require newer hubs.

Practical Tips for Ensuring Compatibility

Check Firmware and Model Numbers

Before purchasing a new doorbell, verify:

• The model number of your sync module (e.g., ZHWG11LM for the original Hub).
• The firmware version (accessible in the Aqara Home app under “Device Info”).
• Whether the hub is still receiving updates (check Aqara’s official website or community forums).

For example, if your Hub M1S is on firmware v1.8, update it to v2.0+ to ensure G2H Pro compatibility.

Upgrade Strategically

If you’re using an old sync module, consider upgrading to a newer hub. The Aqara Hub M2 is a cost-effective option that supports:

• Zigbee 3.0, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet.
• HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
• Future-proofing for upcoming Aqara devices.

Many users find that upgrading the hub is more economical than replacing multiple legacy devices.

Use the Right Tools for Pairing

When pairing a doorbell with a sync module:

• Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (for hubs with Wi-Fi).
• Place the doorbell within 3–5 meters of the hub during pairing.
• Reset both devices before attempting to pair (hold the reset button for 10 seconds).
• Use the latest version of the Aqara Home app.

For example, a user successfully paired their G2H Pro with a Hub M1S after updating the app to v4.5.0, which resolved a known pairing bug.

Leverage Community and Support

Aqara’s user community is active and knowledgeable. If you encounter compatibility issues:

• Post in forums like Aqara Community or Reddit’s r/Aqara.
• Contact Aqara support with your hub model, firmware, and doorbell details.
• Check third-party guides (e.g., YouTube tutorials for “G2H Pro with M1S”).

Many users have resolved compatibility issues through community-driven solutions, such as custom firmware or workaround automations.

Conclusion

So, will Aqara doorbell work with old sync module? The answer is nuanced. While some older Aqara sync modules—particularly the original Aqara Hub (ZHWG11LM)—can support basic doorbell functions (e.g., chime notifications), they are not compatible with newer video doorbells like the G2H Pro and G3 due to firmware, hardware, and protocol limitations. The original Hub’s lack of Zigbee 3.0 support, outdated firmware, and insufficient processing power make it unsuitable for advanced features like video streaming, facial recognition, and local storage.

However, users with relatively newer hubs like the M1S or M2 can enjoy full compatibility with most Aqara doorbells, especially when firmware is kept up to date. The data table provided in this guide offers a clear reference for which combinations work and which don’t. For those committed to using legacy hardware, workarounds exist—such as Wi-Fi-only operation or third-party integrations—but these come with trade-offs in functionality, security, and ease of use.

Ultimately, the best path forward is to assess your current setup and consider upgrading your sync module if you plan to adopt newer Aqara doorbells. The investment in a modern hub not only ensures compatibility but also unlocks a richer, more reliable smart home experience. As Aqara continues to innovate, future-proofing your ecosystem with a supported hub is the smartest long-term strategy. Whether you’re building a new smart home or upgrading an existing one, understanding the relationship between Aqara doorbells and sync modules is key to maximizing performance, security, and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Aqara Doorbell work with the old Aqara Sync Module (Hub)?

The Aqara Doorbell is designed to work with newer Aqara hubs like the M1S or M2. While it may pair with the original Aqara Sync Module (Hub), compatibility isn’t guaranteed due to firmware and protocol differences.

Can I use my existing Aqara Sync Module to connect the latest Aqara Doorbell?

You can try, but full functionality—like live streaming or automation—may be limited. Older Sync Modules often lack the updated Zigbee 3.0 or Wi-Fi support required for seamless integration with newer Aqara devices.

What happens if I try to pair the Aqara Doorbell with an outdated Sync Module?

The doorbell might appear in the Aqara app but could show “offline” or fail to trigger alerts. For reliable performance, Aqara recommends using a compatible hub listed on their official support page.

Is there a firmware update to make the old Aqara Sync Module work with the new doorbell?

Aqara rarely releases firmware updates to add backward compatibility. Check the Aqara app for hub updates, but if none are available, upgrading to a newer hub is the best solution.

Do I need a new hub if my Aqara Doorbell doesn’t work with the old Sync Module?

Yes, if the old module isn’t recognized. Newer hubs like the Aqara M2 or E1 offer better security, faster response times, and full feature support for the latest Aqara Doorbell models.

Which Aqara hubs are officially compatible with the Aqara Doorbell?

Confirmed models include the Aqara Hub M2, M1S, and E1. These support all doorbell features, including cloud storage, automations, and two-way audio. Always verify compatibility in the product manual.