DocumentationB-hyve Gen 1 vs Gen 2 Hose Timers
B-hyve Gen 1 vs Gen 2 hose timers: they use different hubs. Gen 2 adds longer range, a built-in flow meter and a Gen 2 hub that also works with XD.
The main difference between B-hyve Gen 1 and Gen 2 hose timers is the hub. Gen 1 timers (21005, kit 21004) pair with the Gen 1 hub (21006). Gen 2 timers (21205 and 90205Z) pair with the Gen 2 hub (21027), the same hub used by XD timers and flood sensors. The hubs are not interchangeable.
This is an independent B-hyve resource. B-hyve is made by Orbit. Gen 2 can mean different things in other product categories, so this page covers single-outlet hose timers only.
What is a Gen 1 hose timer?
The original B-hyve hose timer is model 21005, and Orbit's manual library also lists 04138 in the same group. The 21004 is a kit that includes the Gen 1 hub. Both the timer and hub require matching generations. The Gen 1 hub requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
What is a Gen 2 hose timer?
The Gen 2 timer is a 1-outlet Bluetooth hose faucet timer, sold as 21205 and as 90205Z. Orbit says it uses the latest Bluetooth and Wi-Fi standard for more range and better connectivity. Its listing also describes improved water ingress prevention. Other Gen 2 listed features:
- Bluetooth built in for setup, scheduling and local control from the app within range.
- A built-in flow meter that tracks water use. The timer alerts you if it is set to water while the water is turned off.
- IPX-5 certification, which protects against low-pressure water streams from any angle.
- AA battery power (shown on the Gen 2 bundle listing).
How do they compare?
| Gen 1 | Gen 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Models | 21005 (kit 21004), also 04138 in the manual group | 21205, 90205Z |
| Outlets | 1 | 1 |
| Hub | Gen 1 hub, 21006 | Gen 2 hub, 21027 |
| Works with XD timers and flood sensors | No | Yes, via the same Gen 2 hub |
| Bluetooth without a hub | Yes (bluetooth hose valve) | Yes |
Orbit's listings do not give every Gen 1 spec in the same detail as Gen 2, so this table does not compare battery, flow or pressure ratings.
Do Gen 1 and Gen 2 work together?
Not on one hub. Orbit states the Gen 2 hub is not compatible with Gen 1 hose timers, and the Gen 2 timer listing says the timer is not compatible with Gen 1 bridge devices. Flood sensors and XD timers also need a Gen 2 hub.
Which bundle is which?
Do not confuse the timer with its packages:
- 21205 and 90205Z are the timer on its own. You need a Gen 2 hub for remote access.
- 21204 (and the 90204 listing) is the Gen 2 timer with a Gen 2 hub.
- 21206 is a 2-pack with a Gen 2 hub. Orbit's descriptions also mention a Y hose splitter for this bundle, so check the package contents.
- 21207 is a four-pack bundle with a hub and manifold. Four timers on a manifold are not one timer with four outlets. For that, see XD 1, 2 and 4-port timers compared.
Which should I buy?
If you already own Gen 1 timers and a Gen 1 hub, stay with Gen 1 for any added timers. If you are starting new, or you already have XD timers or flood sensors on a Gen 2 hub, Orbit's listing recommends the Gen 2 timer so all devices share one hub.
Related
Which B-hyve Hub Works With My Timer?
B-hyve hub guide: the Gen 1 hub (21006) works only with Gen 1 hose timers; Gen 2 timers, XD timers and flood sensors need the Gen 2 hub (21027).
B-hyve XD 1, 2 and 4-Port Timers Compared
B-hyve XD 1, 2 and 4-port timers compared: models 24511, 24632, 24634, plus hub bundles 24637 and 24639. All need a Gen 2 hub for Wi-Fi features.