Outcome
This companion comparison post compares LC-ESP | LC-ESP01-2R-5V to the top live alternatives found on April 10, 2026, including current Amazon and Alibaba checks.
Source Device
The LC-ESP | LC-ESP01-2R-5V is a dual-relay board built around an ESP-01 Wi-Fi module, designed for DIY relay control. It operates on 5V power, is ESPHome compatible, and integrates with Home Assistant for switching loads. It offers basic Wi-Fi connectivity for smart home automation.
Top Alternatives
- Sonoff Dual R3: The Sonoff Dual R3 is a popular consumer-grade smart switch offering dual relay functionality and Wi-Fi connectivity, similar to the source device. It supports Home Assistant integration, either through its native eWeLink cloud or by flashing custom firmware like Tasmota or ESPHome. It also includes power monitoring features, which is an upgrade from the source device.
- Shelly Plus 2PM: The Shelly Plus 2PM is a highly regarded dual-channel smart relay with Wi-Fi and power metering capabilities. It offers excellent native Home Assistant integration with local control, reducing cloud dependency. While the Plus 2PM model is officially discontinued, it is still widely available, and its successor, the Shelly 2PM Gen 4, offers similar functionality with updated features.
- AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome: This device is a direct competitor in the DIY-friendly, ESPHome-compatible relay board category, similar to the source device but with an upgraded ESP32 module. It offers dual-channel control, Wi-Fi, and explicit support for ESPHome and Home Assistant, making it ideal for users who prefer custom firmware and local control.
Comparison Matrix
| Category | LC-ESP | LC-ESP01-2R-5V | Sonoff Dual R3 | Shelly Plus 2PM | AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Source device | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Interoperability | Source device | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Setup Ease | Source device | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Cloud Dependency | Source device | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Vendor Trust | Source device | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Overall | Source device | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Pricing And Availability
| Device | Amazon Price | Alibaba Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sonoff Dual R3 | ₹ 1,529.00 | Prices vary, typically around US $10 – $20 |
| Shelly Plus 2PM | $29.99 | US $25 – $46 |
| AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome | N/A | US $7.53 – $20.98 (for similar ESP32 dual relay boards) |
Operator Notes
- The source device, LC-ESP01-2R-5V, is a basic dual-relay board with an ESP-01 Wi-Fi module, emphasizing DIY and ESPHome compatibility. It operates on 5V.
- Alternatives were chosen based on offering similar dual-relay Wi-Fi control, with a focus on Home Assistant and ESPHome integration, ranging from consumer-ready devices to more DIY-oriented boards.
- Pricing and availability are subject to change and reflect information found on April 10, 2026. Specific prices may vary by region and retailer.
Source URLs
Sonoff Dual R3 | Official: https://sonoff.tech/product/diy-smart-switch/dualr3/
Sonoff Dual R3 | Home Assistant: https://community.home-assistant.io/t/flashing-tasmota-on-a-sonoff-dual-r3-integrating-with-home-assistant/328389
Sonoff Dual R3 | Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/SONOFF-DUALR3-Retro-fit-Metering-Automation/dp/B09C13221N
Sonoff Dual R3 | Alibaba: https://www.alibaba.com/trade/search?fsb=y&IndexArea=product_en&keywords=Sonoff+Dual+R3
Shelly Plus 2PM | Official: https://www.shelly.com/products/shelly-plus-2pm-wifi-smart-relay-switch/
Shelly Plus 2PM | Home Assistant: https://www.home-assistant.io/integrations/shelly/
Shelly Plus 2PM | Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shelly-Plus-2PM-UL-Certified-Automation/dp/B0C233362Y
Shelly Plus 2PM | Alibaba: https://www.aliexpress.com/w/wholesale-shelly-plus-2pm.html
AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome | Official: https://athom.tech/blank-1/2ch-esp32-rf433-inching-self-lock-relay-for-esphome
AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome | Home Assistant: https://esphome.io/devices/index.html
AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome | Amazon: Unavailable
AthomTech 2CH ESP32 RF433 Inching/Self-lock Relay for ESPHome | Alibaba: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005005822602738.html