Smart Home Reference Designs Based on Seeed Studio XIAO Series
Discover how makers around the world are transforming their homes with Seeed Studio XIAO! From Zigbee-enabled air quality monitors and Wi-Fi smart plugs to AI-powered HVAC diagnostics and ambient lighting systems, this blog showcases a curated collection of smart home projects powered by the thumb-sized yet powerful XIAO Series. Whether you’re building with BLE, Wi-Fi, LoRa, or Zigbee, these community-driven reference designs — many fully compatible with Home Assistant — are the perfect starting point for your next automation innovation.
With their thumb-sized form factor, powerful performance, low power consumption, and robust IO capabilities, the Seeed Studio XIAO Series has become a go-to choice for developers and product designers building innovative smart home solutions. Designed with all SMD components on one side, these boards are not only ideal as standalone development boards but also highly modular building blocks for scalable systems.
In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of exceptional, community-driven smart home projects and a collection of gadgets and devices for smart home applications powered by the Seeed Studio XIAO Series. Whether you’re prototyping a DIY automation device or building a compact monitoring system, these reference designs will inspire your next build.
Creator: Pradeep
Powered by: XIAO RP2040
This LoRa®-enabled solar monitoring system collects photovoltaic data via sensors and wirelessly transmits it using the Wio-E5 module. XIAO RP2040 gathers data from a wattmeter, BH1750 light sensor, and Grove temperature/humidity sensor, while a Notecard uploads data to Qubitro cloud. Designed using Fusion PCBA, it’s a great example of clean energy tracking through IoT. Find the full project here.
Creator: Drmpf
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3
This project delivers a smart lighting system that automatically turns on at dusk and off at dawn without relying on internet, GPS, or time zone settings. It uses a BLE-based ambient light sensor placed outdoors and connects to BLE-controlled light switches through a BLE-to-BLE bridge. The system is demonstrated in two forms: a retrofit switch for hallway lights and a battery-powered relay for standard lamps, both featuring manual override and long battery life (4+ years). The tutorial includes schematics, setup instructions, and Arduino code, making it ideal for anyone seeking a reliable and low-maintenance home automation project. You can find the complete project details here.
Creator: Makestreme
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3
This project features a smart lamp designed to gently wake users based on their natural sleep cycles, using a simulated sunrise effect and personalized wake-up timing. Built with a XIAO ESP32C3, IR proximity sensor, and WS2813 addressable LEDs, it calculates an optimal alarm time by estimating when the user falls asleep, then triggering a gradual light transition to match sleep cycle completion. The lamp includes a clever foam board design with a faux wood finish, and reuses a laptop diffuser sheet for soft lighting. Full 3D print files, wiring diagrams, and Arduino code are provided for DIYers interested in health-focused automation and creative fabrication. Click here for full build.
Creator: Kutluhan Aktar
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C6
This advanced project builds a multi-model AIoT diagnostic system that identifies faults in water-based HVAC systems using both anomalous sound detection and thermal visual anomaly analysis. It combines a LattePanda Mu compute module, a custom CNC router to scan components, and sensors including the MLX90641 thermal camera and an I2S MEMS microphone, with models trained via Edge Impulse. The device can detect failing cooling fans and diagnose thermal irregularities in aluminum cooling blocks. A dedicated web dashboard handles data flow, model execution, and user notifications, creating a robust real-time AI-based monitoring solution for industrial-grade HVAC systems. You can find the full project details here.
Creator: Shiura
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C6
Hollow Clock V is a beautifully refined evolution of its predecessors, featuring a minimalist 7mm-thin ring, ratchet-assisted timekeeping, and crystal oscillator-based precision using an RP2040 or XIAO ESP32C6 microcontroller. This 3D-printed timepiece showcases build plate texturing, magnet-coupled hands, and a tool-free slide-off ring for manual time adjustment. It employs a worm and bevel gear system driven by a low-cost 28BYJ-48 stepper motor for compact elegance. The detailed tutorial provides 3D files, Arduino code (including precompiled binaries), and clear assembly instructions, making it a rewarding build for makers interested in creative mechanical design. Full build guide here.
Creator: Timothy Lovett
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3
Hive Helper is a custom PCB-based smart ePaper display designed to integrate seamlessly with Home Assistant, displaying environmental data and weather updates. It features a 2.9″ ePaper screen, multichannel gas and flame sensors, and I²C/UART Grove expansion ports. With components assembled into a clean 3D-printed enclosure, this device monitors temperature, humidity, and air quality, and provides real-time feedback via ESPHome. The project offers detailed setup instructions, including enclosure design, wiring, ESPHome YAML config, and Home Assistant integration—making it ideal for enhancing any smart home dashboard with reliable and elegant local sensor data. Check out the details here.
Creator: Pradeep
Powered by: XIAO ESP32S3 Sense
This project guides users through assigning a static IP address to the XIAO ESP32S3 Sense, enabling consistent access to hosted services or web interfaces on local networks. It details how to extract current network parameters and modify the Arduino sketch to configure static IP, gateway, subnet mask, and DNS settings. The tutorial includes code snippets and integration tips for web-based control, ESP32-CAM streaming, and Home Assistant, making it especially useful for DIY smart home or IoT developers who want a reliable network identity for their device. Full project build here.
Creator: Spence
Powered by: XIAO ESP32S3
This project uses the XIAO ESP32S3, Grove SEN54, and Wio-E5 LoRa module to monitor soil moisture, air quality, temperature, and humidity in a rooftop garden. It leverages LoRaWAN to transmit data wirelessly to The Things Network, where it’s then visualized on Datacake via webhook integration. The device architecture allows for modular sensor expansion using an I²C hub and supports AT command-based configuration for LoRa communication. Developed during a personal internship, it reflects a commitment to improving urban gardening through environmental data insights. You can find the complete project details here.
Creator: Jason
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C6
This project showcases a smart atmospheric pressure monitor that transmits real-time data to Home Assistant via Zigbee. Built using the XIAO ESP32C6 and a Grove BMP280 barometric sensor, the device features a custom UI on an OLED display and integrates seamlessly with Zigbee Home Automation. It allows for live readings and historical pressure trend visualization, making it a valuable addition to any smart home. The tutorial includes circuit diagrams, Arduino code, and Home Assistant configuration, and proposes future enhancements like automating appliances based on pressure thresholds. You can find the complete project details here.
Creator: Arnov Sharma
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3
This project turns a conventional room heater into a Wi-Fi-enabled smart device using the XIAO ESP32C3 and a custom AC relay driver board. Designed for year-round use, the Smart Plug can control heaters in winter and air conditioners in summer via a web-based interface accessible from any device. It includes a thermally durable 3D-printed enclosure, isolated 240V-to-5V power conversion, and is constructed around a compact XIAO Relay Board with an AO3400 MOSFET. Detailed assembly instructions cover everything from PCB design, surface-mount soldering, plug-socket integration, to antenna placement, making it a practical blueprint for DIY home automation. Click here for detailed project guide.
Creator: MJRoBot (Marcelo Rovai)
Powered by: XIAO ESP32S3 Sense
This project uses a TinyML LSTM model to predict future temperatures based on 14 years of historical weather data from Lo Barnechea, Chile. The data is preprocessed in Python, and the model is trained using TensorFlow, converted with TFLite, and deployed onto a XIAO ESP32S3 using the Edge Impulse Python SDK. It emphasizes sequence learning for time-series data, forecasting one-hour-ahead temperatures from a week of prior observations. The tutorial covers everything from data collection, preprocessing, and LSTM design to model optimization and deployment. It also discusses inference testing on embedded hardware and offers guidance for real-world sensor integration. You can find the complete project details here.
Creator: Gokul Kb
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3
This project builds a compact internet-connected clock that fetches real-time data from NTP servers over Wi-Fi using the XIAO ESP32C3 and a 0.91″ OLED display. Designed in Fusion 360 and enclosed in a custom 3D-printed case, the device features a minimal interface that updates time every second. The tutorial walks through steps including 3D modeling, printing, wiring, and Arduino code setup, with explanations on configuring Wi-Fi credentials, GMT offset, and display handling. It’s a beginner-friendly project perfect for introducing Wi-Fi-based timekeeping and embedded UI design. Full project build here.
Creator: David Yang
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C6
This open-source project transforms recycled containers and a custom PCB into a programmable ultrasonic mist maker using a XIAO ESP32C6 and a piezoelectric disc. Developed for the Open Hardware Summit 2025, it explains how mist is generated through high-frequency vibration, and demonstrates key subsystems like voltage amplification with a tapped inductor, PWM control, and safe battery or USB-powered operation. With detailed guidance on circuit design, prototyping, and custom Arduino libraries, the project makes mist a new medium for creative, artistic, and IoT applications. Click here for more details.
Creator: Dr. Tõnis Gadgets
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3
Inspired by the Vestaboard, this project features a Wi-Fi-connected mechanical flap display built using 3D-printed components, stepper motors, and wooden panels. The XIAO ESP32-C3 handles network connectivity and real-time updates, creating a unique smart display for home decor. Check out the full build here.
Creator: Arnov Sharma
Powered by: XIAO SAMD21
This custom PCB-based home automation board uses a single SPDT relay, an isolated power supply, and XIAO SAMD21 to control smart loads. It supports all XIAO variants, including ESP32C3 and ESP32S3, and is ideal for modular and scalable smart home setups. Explore the full project here.
Creator: Rupert Hirst
Powered by: XIAO SAMD21
Built with the round display for XIAO and a capacitive touch controller, this stylish PC hardware monitor fits neatly into a 3D-printed enclosure. It’s an elegant way to visualize real-time system stats on your desk. Find the full project here.
Creator: Rupert Hirst
Powered by: XIAO SAMD21
PhatStats is a smart monitor for GPU stats. It pulls data via serial from a PC and displays it on an ILI9341 TFT display. It’s ideal for DIYers wanting custom dashboards on dedicated microcontroller displays. Check out the detailed project here.
Creator: Technolab creation
Powered by: XIAO RP2040
This compact safety device leverages an MQ-02 gas sensor and the XIAO RP2040 to detect leaks and trigger alarms. It offers real-time monitoring in a small footprint, ideal for kitchens, garages, or workshops. Check out the full build here.
Creator: Hamid
Powered by: XIAO nRF52840
Never lose your keys again with this sleek Bluetooth Low Energy key finder, powered by the XIAO NRF52840 module. With the help of a buzzer and LED, it syncs to your smartphone via the NRF Connect app, guiding you to your keys with sound and light. Designed with a custom PCB and programmed through the Arduino IDE, it offers intuitive control, efficient power management, and potential for future enhancements—making everyday convenience a reality. Click here for more details.
Creator: Arnov Sharma
Powered by: XIAO SAMD21
A room temperature and humidity meter that measures current room temperature and humidity and displays the readings on an SSD1306 OLED Screen. AHT10 is being used here to get the Temperature and humidity data, and the whole setup is driven by an XIAO SAMD21. This whole meter is powered through the onboard 18650 lithium Cell through a power management IC Setup that boosts the 3.7V of the lithium Cell to 5V for the MCU, display, and sensor to work. Check out the full project here.
Creator: Gokul KB
Powered by: XIAO SAMD21
Designed as a cost-effective thermal camera alternative, this monitor uses NTC thermistors and an OLED to display temperatures from six different points—perfect for labs or experimental setups. Find the full build guide here.
Creator: Gokul KB
Powered by: XIAO SAMD21
This micro power meter uses the INA219 sensor to measure current and voltage over I2C. The XIAO’s size and simplicity make it ideal for embedding in low-power, high-accuracy monitoring setups. Check out the full project here.
Creator: Keliang Zhang
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C6
Add seamless Zigbee lighting control to your smart home with this sleek setup powered by the XIAO ESP32C6. Paired with a Grove relay and integrated into Home Assistant, it lets you wirelessly toggle an LED strip from your browser. Housed in a custom 3D-printed enclosure and optimized for low power consumption, this compact build blends smart functionality with modern DIY design. Find the full build here.
Creator: Jason
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C6
Monitor your indoor air like a pro with this DIY Zigbee Smart Air Monitor powered by the XIAO ESP32C6. Packed into a stylish robot-inspired shell, it tracks CO₂ and TVOC levels using the Grove SGP30 sensor and seamlessly integrates with Home Assistant for real-time and historical data display. With low power consumption, sleek OLED readouts, and a custom PCB, it’s an ideal project for smart home enthusiasts who value both function and aesthetics. Click here for more details.
Creator: Arnov Sharma
Powered by: XIAO ESP32C3 or XIAO ESP32S3
Control your home appliances like a pro with this dual-relay automation shield built for the Seeed XIAO ESP32 C3/S3. Featuring onboard AC-to-DC power conversion, Wi-Fi connectivity, and an intuitive web interface, it allows you to toggle two AC or DC devices straight from your browser. With custom PCBs, a compact 3D-printed stand, and support for both SMD and THT components, it’s a robust DIY solution for smart living. Check out the full project here.
Featured Products for Smart Home Projects
Looking to build faster? These Seeed Studio products are tailor-made for smart home automation and work out of the box with Home Assistant:
Start Building Your Own Smart Home Solutions
Whether you’re designing for energy efficiency, safety, or interactive displays, the Seeed Studio XIAO Series has the performance, modularity, and flexibility to power your next smart home idea. With microcontroller options ranging from BLE-ready nRF52840 to AI-capable ESP32S3, the XIAO platform empowers makers and professionals alike to rapidly prototype, iterate, and deploy.
Explore More
Have a project idea or question? Reach out to us at [email protected]—we’re always excited to hear from makers and developers like you!
Other Reference Designs for Seeed Studio XIAO
Last but not least, for makers and developers who are looking for project inspirations, we’ve curated several similar project collections based on the applications. Feel free to check out to get inspired for your next builds.
Notes at the end.
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Can I use XIAO nRF52840 for other applications?
Yes, XIAO nRF52840 is suitable for wearables, you could check this blog: https://www.seeedstudio.com/blog/2023/02/13/xiao-in-healthcare-solutions-for-fog-issues-heartbeat-monitoring-and-blood-oxygen-heart-rate-measurement/