If you have shopped for smart home devices recently, you have probably seen the Matter logo on boxes. Matter is meant to make smart home devices work together across brands and platforms. But what does it actually do, and should it affect what you buy?
This guide explains Matter in plain language, how it relates to Thread and Wi-Fi, how setup works and what limitations to expect. The standard continues to evolve, so check the Connectivity Standards Alliance and device makers for current details.
What Is Matter?
Matter is an open smart home connectivity standard developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), an industry group that includes companies such as Amazon, Apple, Google and Samsung, along with many device makers. The first version launched in 2022, and updates have added support for more device types over time.
The goal is simple: a Matter-certified device should work with any Matter-compatible platform, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home and Samsung SmartThings.
Why Matter Matters
Before Matter, smart home buyers often had to check whether a device worked with their specific ecosystem. Devices sometimes worked with one assistant but not another, or required separate apps and hubs.
Matter aims to:
- Improve compatibility across platforms
- Simplify setup with a common pairing process
- Support local control, so devices can work on your home network without relying entirely on the cloud
- Strengthen security through standardized requirements
How Matter Works
Matter is an application layer, meaning it defines how devices communicate. It runs over existing network technologies:
- Wi-Fi: For devices that need more bandwidth, such as some plugs and appliances.
- Thread: A low-power mesh network, well suited for battery devices like sensors and locks.
- Ethernet: For wired devices such as hubs and bridges.
Bluetooth Low Energy is typically used during initial setup.
What Is Thread?
Thread is a low-power wireless mesh networking protocol. Thread devices can relay messages for each other, strengthening the network as you add devices.
To use Thread devices, you need a Thread border router, which connects the Thread network to your home network. Many smart speakers, displays and hubs include border routers, such as some Apple HomePod and Apple TV models, some Google Nest devices and some Amazon Echo devices. Check specific models.
Matter Controllers
A Matter controller is the device or app that manages your Matter devices, such as an Echo, Nest Hub, Apple TV, HomePod or SmartThings hub. Your phone app works with the controller to add and control devices.
Multi-Admin
One of Matter’s key features is multi-admin, which lets you add a single device to more than one ecosystem. For example, a Matter smart plug could be controlled by both Apple Home and Google Home in the same household. This is helpful for families with mixed phones.
Bridges
Some existing hubs can act as Matter bridges, exposing their non-Matter devices (such as Zigbee devices) to Matter controllers. Examples include some Philips Hue, Aqara and SmartThings hubs. Check your hub maker for support.
Device Types Supported
Matter has added support over time for many device types, including:
- Lights and switches
- Smart plugs
- Locks
- Thermostats
- Blinds and shades
- Sensors (motion, contact, temperature)
- Some appliances, robot vacuums and energy-related devices in later versions
Support for cameras and some other categories has been in development. Not every feature of a device may be available through Matter, and some advanced features may still require the manufacturer’s app.
How to Set Up a Matter Device
- Make sure you have a Matter controller and, for Thread devices, a Thread border router.
- Open your platform’s app, such as Google Home, Alexa or Apple Home.
- Choose to add a device and select Matter.
- Scan the Matter QR code on the device or packaging, or enter the setup code.
- Follow the prompts to name the device and assign it to a room.
Keep the Matter QR code or setup code in a safe place. You may need it to reset or re-add the device.
Limitations to Know
- Feature gaps: Not all features of a device may be exposed through Matter.
- Varying platform support: Platforms adopt new Matter versions and device types at different paces.
- Thread networks: Multiple border routers from different brands can create complexity, though newer updates aim to improve this.
- Troubleshooting: Early implementations sometimes had pairing issues. Firmware updates have addressed some problems.
Should You Buy Matter Devices?
For most new purchases, Matter compatibility is a useful feature that can make your devices more flexible if you switch platforms or use more than one. But do not discard working devices just because they are not Matter-certified, and check that the specific features you need are supported.
See best smart plugs, smart bulbs buying guide and smart locks for renters.
Matter and Security
Matter includes security requirements such as device attestation and encrypted communication. You still need to secure your network and accounts. See how to secure your smart home.
Planning a Matter-Ready Home
If you are starting fresh, a practical approach is to choose one primary controller, confirm whether it is also a Thread border router, and then add Matter devices one room at a time. Label each device clearly and store setup codes in one place, such as a password manager note. Adding devices gradually makes it easier to troubleshoot if something does not pair correctly.
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Matter Device
- Do you already own a Matter controller?
- Is the device Matter over Wi-Fi or Matter over Thread?
- If it uses Thread, do you have a border router?
- Which features are available through Matter, and which need the manufacturer’s app?
Matter Setup Tips
- Update your controller first. Make sure your speaker, hub or phone has the latest software before adding Matter devices.
- Keep the Matter code. Photograph or store the setup code included with each device, since you may need it to add the device to another platform or after a reset.
- Add devices one at a time and name them clearly.
- Check Thread status in your platform’s app if Thread devices are slow or unresponsive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a hub for Matter?
You need a Matter controller, which is often a smart speaker, display or hub you may already own. Thread devices also need a border router.
Is Matter the same as Thread?
No. Matter is the communication standard, and Thread is one of the networks it can run over.
Can I use Matter devices with Alexa and Google Home at the same time?
Yes, through multi-admin.
Do Matter devices work without internet?
Many support local control on your home network, though some features may need the internet.
Will my old devices work with Matter?
Some may receive updates or work through Matter bridges. Check with the manufacturer.
The Bottom Line
Matter is a cross-platform smart home standard designed to make devices work across ecosystems, with local control and stronger security. It runs over Wi-Fi, Thread and Ethernet. Matter-certified devices offer flexibility, but check feature support, controller requirements and Thread border routers before you buy.
Editorial note: Gadget Nestly is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.