The Smart Home Hub: Still Relevant?

The smart home landscape has transformed dramatically over the past few years. With the arrival of the Matter protocol — a universal smart home standard backed by Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung — many people are wondering: do you still need a dedicated smart home hub, and if so, which one makes sense?

What Is Matter and Why Does It Matter?

Matter is an open-source, royalty-free connectivity standard designed to make smart home devices work seamlessly across platforms. Before Matter, a smart bulb might work with Alexa but not HomeKit. With Matter, compatible devices work with all major ecosystems simultaneously.

This is a fundamental shift. It means you're no longer locked into one brand's ecosystem when building your smart home. However, to use Matter devices, you still need a Matter controller — and that's where hubs come in.

The Major Smart Home Hubs Compared

Amazon Echo (4th Gen) / Echo Hub

Amazon's Echo devices function as Matter controllers while also running Alexa. The Echo Hub — a dedicated wall-mounted control panel — is particularly interesting for households deeply invested in Alexa routines. It supports Matter, Zigbee, and Z-Wave (with adapter), making it one of the more versatile options.

Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) / Nest Hub Max

Google's Nest Hub devices serve as Matter and Thread border routers. If you rely on Google Home, Google Assistant, and Google services, the Nest Hub Max (with its large screen and built-in camera for video calls) is a compelling all-in-one device.

Apple HomePod mini / HomePod (2nd Gen)

Apple's HomePod mini punches well above its price as a Matter controller and Thread border router. It integrates deeply with HomeKit and Siri, and its compact footprint makes it easy to place anywhere. The full-sized HomePod adds impressive spatial audio capabilities.

Samsung SmartThings Hub

Samsung's SmartThings platform is one of the most versatile, supporting Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and a massive library of third-party devices. SmartThings is often the choice for technically inclined users who want granular automation control.

Key Features to Look for in a Smart Home Hub

  • Matter and Thread support: Essential for future-proofing your setup
  • Local processing: Automations that run locally (not cloud-dependent) are faster and more reliable
  • Protocol support: Zigbee and Z-Wave support lets you integrate older smart devices
  • Ecosystem compatibility: Make sure the hub works with the voice assistant and apps you already use
  • Display: Screen-based hubs double as dashboards and video call devices

Do You Even Need a Dedicated Hub?

For many users, a smart speaker or display that acts as a Matter controller is enough. If you're building a basic smart home with lights, plugs, and a thermostat, you likely don't need a separate hub — your Echo, HomePod mini, or Nest Hub covers it.

You might want a dedicated hub (like SmartThings) if you:

  • Have a large home with dozens of devices
  • Want complex, multi-condition automations
  • Need to integrate older Zigbee or Z-Wave devices
  • Want robust local processing without cloud dependency

The Bottom Line

Matter has genuinely simplified the smart home, but the hub question isn't fully answered by it. Your best hub is the one that aligns with the voice assistant you prefer and the devices you plan to use. Start with what fits your ecosystem, and expand from there — Matter means you're no longer betting on just one horse.