Smart home hub

A smart home hub is a central device that connects smart devices that do not use Wi-Fi, such as Zigbee, Z-Wave or Thread ones, to your network and apps.

What it means for you

Wi-Fi devices usually do not need one, but a hub can add local control and keep automations running. A speaker or display you already own may be able to act as one, so check before buying another.

Guides on this topic

• Do Smart Plugs Need a Hub?

  When a plug needs a hub: Wi-Fi vs Matter, Thread border routers, Zigbee and Z-Wave.

• Best Thread Border Routers and Matter Hubs

  Which Apple, Google, Amazon and other devices you may already own act as border routers, plus hub picks.

• Best Smart Displays for Matter

  Which Echo Show, Echo Hub and Nest Hub models act as Matter hubs and Thread border routers, and what to check before buying.

• Samsung SmartThings Hub and Matter Setup and Troubleshooting

  SmartThings hub and Station setup, adding and sharing Matter devices over Wi-Fi or Thread, and fixes for onboarding, offline and discovery problems, from Samsung's guides.

Related terms

• Bridge
• Zigbee
• Z-Wave
• Thread border router
• Matter controller
• Smart display

← All glossary terms · Search all guides for “Smart home hub”

Definitions are short and general. For model-specific details, check your device maker’s own documentation.