Matter and Thread: one standard for the smart home
Matter is an open smart home standard that lets bulbs, plugs, sensors and locks from different brands work with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa and SmartThings. Thread is an energy-efficient mesh network that such devices often use to communicate.
In plain words
The smart home used to be like a party where every guest spoke a different language: one brand's bulb could not understand another brand's sensor. Matter is a common language for all the guests. Thread is like word of mouth: each device passes the message to its neighbour, so even a small battery-powered sensor can reach the far room.
How it works
- A device with the Matter logo is added to your system via a QR code.
- It can work over Wi-Fi, Ethernet or Thread.
- Thread devices form a mesh network, relaying signals for one another.
- Thread needs a "border router" - a smart speaker or hub.
- One device can be used in several ecosystems at the same time.
Where you'll see it
Matter and Thread are supported by new smart bulbs, plugs, sensors, locks and thermostats (Philips Hue, Eve, Aqara, TP-Link Tapo, IKEA and others). Apple HomePod mini, Apple TV, Google Nest Hub and some routers and hubs can act as Thread border routers.
Does it matter when buying
If you are building a smart home from scratch, choose Matter devices: less dependence on one brand and app. For Thread sensors you will need a hub or speaker that acts as a border router. If you already have a Zigbee system, you can combine them through a hub.
Myths
- Myth: Matter is a new wireless technology. Reality: It is a "language"; the data travels over Wi-Fi, Ethernet or Thread.
- Myth: With Matter, everything works perfectly across all brands. Reality: Basic functions do, but advanced features may only be available in the brand's own app.
FAQ
How is Thread different from Zigbee?
Both are energy-efficient mesh networks, but Thread runs on IP and is part of Matter.
Does Matter work without internet?
Local control does - that is one of its advantages.
What is a Thread border router?
A device that connects the Thread network to your home Wi-Fi network.