OpenHAB Review | Features, Price, & Alternatives

As technology evolves, there is a growing need to connect and streamline devices and keep everything in one place. In order to meet this need, apartment automation software can connect many smart devices and integrate them into one management platform, making it easy to see what you have in one place. One such software is OpenHAB.

In this review, we break down what OpenHAB is, how it works, and if it’s worth investing in. We also provide some comparable alternatives.

This post covers:

• What is OpenHAB?
• How does OpenHAB work?
• Review of OpenHAB
• Pros and cons of OpenHAB
• Alternatives to OpenHAB

What is OpenHAB?

OpenHAB, which stands for Open Home Automation Bus, is an open-source software for apartment automation. Founded in 2011, the OpenHAB software is continually updating to reflect the newest smart home technologies available. As of this writing, it currently supports thousands of different kinds of technology.

Additionally, they pride themselves on their mission to empower the smart home concept and make it easier to automate smart home technology.

How does OpenHAB work?

OpenHAB integrates with various devices and systems, bringing them all into one streamlined solution. For example, OpenHAB can integrate with voice control technology such as Alexa, integrating different Alexa devices into a single solution.

Further, OpenHAB has a pluggable architecture and supports over 200 kinds of technologies, systems, and over a thousand devices. Additionally, it can support other apartment automation systems, smart devices, and technologies.

Review of OpenHAB

Features

• A powerful and flexible engine for rule design based on apartment automation requirements.
• Time and event-based triggers, actions, and notifications.
• Voice control.
• Compatibility with Linux, macOS, Windows, Raspberry Pi, Docker, and Synology.
• Ability to add custom widgets.
• Connectivity with other OpenHAB users.

Cost

OpenHAB is an open-source software that is free to download, set up, and use.

Pros and cons of OpenHAB

The pros and cons of OpenHAB vary from positive connectivity abilities to some challenges to property managers and staff. Below is a full list of the advantages and disadvantages of this software.

Pros

• Ability to add extensions and continually add to the apartment automation software.
• Accessibility via smartphone.
• Ability to run across multiple operating systems.
• Compatibility with a wide array of devices and systems.
• Reviewers note the simplicity of the DIY solution.
• Great for users’ familiarity with setting up and configuring open-source software.

Cons

• OpenHAB systems can take a long time to configure.
• Experience with open-source software is required to set up and operate.
• OpenHAB homekit may be more tricky to install and set up.
• For property managers and owners looking for an out-of-the-box solution for apartment automation, OpenHAB is likely not the right fit, as there will be work needed to integrate different technologies.

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Alternatives to OpenHAB

Some of the alternatives to OpenHAB include:

• iApartments is a dedicated smart platform designed for apartments, offering enterprise-level smart home solutions for residents, property managers, and property owners. Moreover, automation options in iApartments include self-guided tours, automated maintenance alerts, and more.
• Samsung SmartThings is an apartment automation software founded in 2011. It’s designed to make everyday operations more convenient for tenants and property managers. Using the SmartThings hub, users can control a network of devices, from lighting to security, and ensure cost-efficiency.

If you’re looking for a more comprehensive multifamily access solution, consider ButterflyMX. ButterflyMX’s mission is ‘access made simple’ and offers access control systems like intercoms and keypads. Further, residents, guests, and delivery personnel can enter the building through a swipe on their smartphone with the ButterflyMX mobile app.

Disclaimer: ButterflyMX provides these blog posts to help our customers and potential customers make the right business decisions for them. Our blog posts are based on the information we have available to us at the time of writing.