Matter was supposed to fix the smart home compatibility nightmare. One standard, all devices work together, no more choosing between Alexa, Google, and Apple ecosystems.
The reality is more complicated. Matter exists and it works, but support is still rolling out. Some hubs have full Matter integration, others added it through software updates, and a few are still “coming soon” despite being promised for months.
I’ve been installing smart home systems for over a decade, and I’ve seen plenty of new standards launch with big promises. Matter is different because the major players (Amazon, Google, Apple, Samsung) are all backing it. That doesn’t mean every hub handles it equally well, though. Some implementations are solid. Others feel like beta software that shipped too early.
This guide covers which Matter-compatible hubs actually work today, what limitations still exist, and whether you should buy one now or wait for better support.
Why Matter Compatibility Actually Matters
Matter changes how devices connect to each other. Instead of locking you into one ecosystem, Matter devices can work across multiple platforms simultaneously.
In practical terms, that means you could buy a Matter smart lock and control it with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit at the same time. You’re not choosing one platform and hoping it supports all your devices. You’re buying devices that work everywhere.
The benefit is biggest for people who mix ecosystems. If you use an iPhone but prefer Alexa for voice control, Matter lets you use both without workarounds or third-party integrations that break randomly. Our guide on how to choose the right smart home ecosystem for your home covers the trade-offs between platforms if you’re still deciding.
The limitation is that Matter is still new. Most smart devices aren’t Matter-compatible yet. The ones that are often require firmware updates or specific hub versions to work properly. You’re buying into a standard that will get better over time, but it’s not fully mature yet.
What to Look for in a Matter-Compatible Hub
Not all Matter support is equal. Some hubs act as Matter controllers, meaning they can manage Matter devices directly. Others work as Matter bridges, letting existing devices communicate with Matter networks.
Controller support is what you want. A Matter controller can discover, pair, and control Matter devices without needing another hub. If your hub is only a bridge, it can translate between Matter and its native protocol, but it still relies on cloud services or proprietary tech.
Thread support makes Matter better. Matter can run over Wi-Fi, but Thread is a more efficient wireless protocol designed specifically for smart home devices. Hubs with Thread radios handle Matter devices more reliably and use less power than Wi-Fi-only implementations.
Firmware updates determine future compatibility. Matter is evolving quickly. New device types get added with each specification update. Your hub needs regular firmware updates to support those new categories. Check if the manufacturer has a track record of updating older hardware or if they abandon products after launch.
Multi-admin capability is the whole point of Matter. This lets one Matter device work with multiple ecosystems at once. If your hub doesn’t support multi-admin, you’re not getting the full benefit of Matter.
Best Matter-Compatible Hubs Available Now
Here’s what actually works if you want Matter support today.
Apple HomePod Mini and Apple TV 4K
Apple updated the HomePod Mini and Apple TV 4K to act as Matter controllers through software updates. Both devices support Thread, which makes them solid choices for Matter setups.
Why they work well: If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, these devices handle Matter without additional hardware. Setup is fast, and the Thread support means Matter devices stay responsive. You can control Matter-compatible lights, locks, sensors, and thermostats through the Home app or Siri.
Limitations: HomeKit’s interface is still more restrictive than SmartThings or Home Assistant. You can’t create complex automations or use custom integrations without workarounds. Matter support is solid, but Apple’s approach prioritizes simplicity over flexibility.
Best for: iPhone and Mac users who want plug-and-play Matter support without learning new apps or platforms.
If you’re wondering whether HomeKit makes sense for your setup, check out what Apple HomeKit actually does in 2026 for a detailed breakdown.
Amazon Echo (4th Gen) and Echo Show
Amazon rolled out Matter support to newer Echo devices through firmware updates. The Echo (4th Gen) and recent Echo Show models now work as Matter controllers and Thread border routers.
Why they work well: Most people already own an Echo device, so adding Matter support didn’t require buying new hardware. The Alexa app handles Matter device pairing, and you can control everything with voice commands or routines. Thread support improves reliability for battery-powered Matter devices.
Limitations: Matter support on Echo devices feels less polished than Apple’s implementation. Some users report pairing issues or devices dropping off the network randomly. Amazon is fixing bugs through updates, but it’s still rougher than HomeKit.
Best for: Alexa users who want Matter support on hardware they already own.
Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and Nest Wifi Pro
Google added Matter support to the Nest Hub (2nd Gen) and launched the Nest Wifi Pro with built-in Thread. Both devices work as Matter controllers and integrate with Google Home.
Why they work well: The Nest Hub’s touchscreen makes it easier to manage Matter devices visually. The Nest Wifi Pro doubles as a router and Thread border router, so you’re not adding extra devices just for Matter support. Setup through Google Home is straightforward.
Limitations: Google’s Matter implementation is solid for basic devices like lights and plugs, but support for more complex device types (like locks and thermostats) has been slower to roll out. The interface is clean but lacks advanced automation features.
Best for: Google Assistant users who want a visual interface and don’t mind waiting for broader device support.
If you’re comparing Google and Amazon ecosystems, our post on Google Home vs Alexa: which hub works better in 2026 covers the practical differences.
Samsung SmartThings Hub (3rd Gen) and SmartThings Station
Samsung updated the SmartThings Hub to support Matter and launched the SmartThings Station specifically as a Matter controller with Thread support.
Why they work well: SmartThings has the most flexible automation engine among consumer hubs. You can create complex routines, integrate third-party services, and mix Matter devices with Zigbee and Z-Wave gear. The SmartThings Station is compact and acts as both a hub and a wireless charger.
Limitations: The SmartThings app is more complicated than Alexa or Google Home. Setup takes longer, and the interface feels cluttered if you’re only using a few devices. Matter support is solid but requires more manual configuration than plug-and-play hubs.
Best for: People who want maximum flexibility and don’t mind spending time configuring settings.
Aqara Hub M3
Aqara released the Hub M3 as a dedicated Matter controller with Thread, Zigbee, and infrared support. It’s designed to bridge existing Zigbee devices to Matter networks while also controlling native Matter devices.
Why it works well: The M3 supports more protocols than most consumer hubs. You can use Zigbee sensors and lights while adding Matter devices without replacing everything. The infrared support lets you control non-smart devices like TVs and air conditioners through automations.
Limitations: Aqara’s app is functional but not as polished as SmartThings or Google Home. The hub requires an Ethernet connection, which can be annoying if your router isn’t centrally located. Support and documentation are improving but still lag behind major brands.
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want to mix Zigbee and Matter devices without buying multiple hubs.
Home Assistant with Thread Border Router
Home Assistant is an open-source platform that runs on dedicated hardware or a Raspberry Pi. Recent versions added Matter integration and support Thread border routers.
Why it works well: Home Assistant gives you complete control over your smart home. You can integrate Matter devices, create custom automations, and connect to hundreds of services without cloud dependencies. Thread support is robust, and the community updates Matter integration aggressively.
Limitations: Setup requires technical knowledge. You need to install and configure the software yourself, which isn’t beginner-friendly. The interface is powerful but has a steep learning curve compared to consumer hubs.
Best for: Advanced users who want local control and don’t mind troubleshooting configuration issues.
If you’re new to smart home setups and want something simpler, our list of the best smart home hubs for beginners in 2026 covers easier options.
Quick Comparison Table
| Hub | Matter Controller | Thread Support | Best For | Ease of Setup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple HomePod Mini / Apple TV 4K | Yes | Yes | iPhone users | Very Easy |
| Amazon Echo (4th Gen) | Yes | Yes | Alexa users | Easy |
| Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) | Yes | No (use Nest Wifi Pro for Thread) | Google Assistant users with visual interface | Easy |
| Samsung SmartThings Hub / Station | Yes | Yes (Station only) | Maximum flexibility | Moderate |
| Aqara Hub M3 | Yes | Yes | Mixing Zigbee and Matter devices | Moderate |
| Home Assistant | Yes | Yes (with compatible hardware) | Local control and advanced automations | Difficult |
Should You Buy a Matter Hub Now or Wait?
Matter is ready for early adopters, but it’s not essential yet.
If you’re starting fresh with smart home gear, buying a Matter-compatible hub makes sense. You’ll be able to add Matter devices as they become available without replacing your hub later. The major platforms (Apple, Google, Amazon) all support it now, so you’re not betting on a standard that might fail.
If you already own a smart home setup that works, there’s no urgent reason to upgrade just for Matter. Most of your existing devices won’t become Matter-compatible through updates. You’d need to replace them, which gets expensive fast. Wait until you’re naturally replacing devices or expanding your setup.
The exception is if you’re frustrated with ecosystem lock-in. If you want to use devices across multiple platforms or you’re tired of dealing with compatibility issues, Matter solves that problem today. The device selection is limited, but the core functionality works.
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Matter Hub
Assuming all your devices will work with Matter is the biggest error. Matter is forward-compatible, meaning new devices will support it. Most existing devices won’t. Check if the specific model you own or plan to buy supports Matter before assuming it will.
Buying a hub without Thread support limits your options. Matter works over Wi-Fi, but Thread is more efficient for battery-powered devices like sensors and locks. If your hub doesn’t have a Thread radio, you’ll need a separate Thread border router to use those devices.
Expecting perfect reliability right now sets you up for disappointment. Matter is stable, but it’s still new. You’ll encounter bugs, pairing issues, or devices that don’t work exactly as promised. Updates fix most problems, but early adopters deal with more friction than people who wait a year or two.
Ignoring your existing ecosystem wastes time. If you’re deep into Alexa and own dozens of Alexa-only devices, switching to a Matter-only setup doesn’t make sense. Buy a Matter-compatible Echo and add Matter devices gradually instead of replacing everything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my current hub to use Matter devices?
It depends on your hub. Many existing hubs (like newer Echo devices, HomePod Mini, and SmartThings hubs) received Matter support through firmware updates. Check if your current hub is on the list of Matter-compatible devices. If it is, you just need to update the software. If not, you’ll need a new hub.
Will my existing smart devices work with Matter?
Most won’t. Matter is a new standard, and older devices can’t be upgraded to support it. Some manufacturers are releasing firmware updates to add Matter to specific models, but that’s rare. Plan to replace devices over time as you expand your setup, not all at once.
Is Matter better than Zigbee or Z-Wave?
Matter isn’t a replacement for Zigbee or Z-Wave. It’s an application layer that runs on top of protocols like Thread, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Think of it as a universal language that lets devices talk to each other regardless of the underlying wireless technology. You can use Matter alongside Zigbee and Z-Wave in the same setup.
Can I use Matter devices without an internet connection?
Yes, if your hub supports local control. Matter devices can communicate locally over your home network without relying on cloud servers. Home Assistant and some SmartThings setups work offline. Cloud-dependent hubs like most Alexa and Google implementations still need internet for full functionality.
Which Matter hub has the most device support?
Samsung SmartThings supports the widest range of Matter devices right now. Apple HomeKit is close but more restrictive about which devices get certified. Google and Amazon are catching up but have smaller device catalogs at the moment.
Final Thoughts
Matter is real and it works, but it’s not a magic solution yet. The hubs that support it today are solid choices, especially if you’re starting fresh or want to avoid ecosystem lock-in.
If you use Apple devices, the HomePod Mini or Apple TV 4K give you the smoothest Matter experience. Alexa users should stick with a recent Echo device. Google Assistant users get the best results with a Nest Hub or Nest Wifi Pro. If you want maximum flexibility, SmartThings handles Matter alongside other protocols better than anyone.
Matter will get better as more devices ship and software updates improve compatibility. Buying a Matter-ready hub now means you won’t need to upgrade later when the device selection expands.