At a glance
The easiest way to start a smart home is with a few devices that support Matter, the standard that lets Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home control the same devices. Start with a hub, add lights and a plug, then add sensors for automations.
New to Matter and Thread? Read Matter and Thread, explained.
How we chose
We picked devices that support Matter, are reliable day to day, and are easy for beginners to set up. We favoured brands with large product ranges so you can grow your setup later.
What to look for
- شعار The Matter on the box, so the device works with any assistant.
- A Thread border router if you buy Thread sensors. Many Echo, Nest and HomePod speakers include one.
- Plug type and voltage لعام your country.
Our اختيارات
1. Amazon Echo Show 8
الأفضل لـ: A control screen for your kitchen or living room
A smart display with Alexa that also works as a Matter, Thread and Zigbee hub, so most smart devices connect straight to it. Good for recipes, video calls and camera feeds too.
- Hub for
- Matter, Thread, Zigbee
- Assistant
- Alexa
Pros
- Built-in smart home hub
- Screen for controls and cameras
- Often on sale
Cons
- Shows Amazon promotions on screen
2. Philips Hue White and Color Starter Kit
الأفضل لـ: Reliable colour lighting in every room
The most reliable smart bulbs, with a bridge that keeps them fast and working even when your Wi-Fi is down. Huge range of bulbs, strips and lamps to add later.
- Works with
- Alexa, Google, Apple (Matter)
- Needs
- Hue Bridge (in kit)
Pros
- Very reliable
- Huge product range
- Excellent app and automations
Cons
- More expensive than Wi-Fi bulbs
3. TP-Link Tapo Matter Smart Plug
الأفضل لـ: Making any lamp, fan or appliance smart
The cheapest, easiest first smart device: plug it in, add it with Matter, and control or schedule anything you plug into it.
- Works with
- Alexa, Google, Apple (Matter)
- Hub
- Not needed
Pros
- Very cheap
- Easy setup with Matter
- Compact design
Cons
- Check the plug type for your country
4. Aqara Door and Window Sensor P2
الأفضل لـ: Automations and simple security alerts
A tiny Matter-over-Thread sensor that tells you when a door or window opens, and can trigger lights or alerts. Battery lasts for years.
- Connects
- Matter over Thread
- Needs
- A Thread hub
Pros
- Fast, reliable alerts
- Long battery life
- Works across ecosystems
Cons
- Needs a Thread border router, such as an Echo, HomePod mini or Nest hub
الأسئلة الشائعة
ما هو Matter؟
Matter is a shared smart home standard. A Matter device works with Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home and SmartThings, so you aren't locked into one brand. Our blog explains Matter and Thread in detail.
Do I need a hub?
Wi-Fi devices like smart plugs don't. Thread devices like many sensors need a Thread border router, which many smart speakers and displays already include.