For years, the smart home has been fragmented. Devices that work with Apple HomeKit might not work with Google Home. Amazon Alexa devices don't talk to SmartThings. Enter Matter and Thread - two complementary standards designed to finally make smart home devices work together seamlessly.
What is Matter?
Matter is a universal application-layer protocol developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), backed by Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung, and hundreds of other companies.
Think of Matter as a common language that all smart devices can speak. A Matter-certified light bulb will work with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant - without needing separate apps or cloud accounts.
Universal Compatibility
One device works with all major platforms
Local Control
Devices communicate locally, no cloud required
Secure by Default
Built-in encryption and authentication
Multi-Admin
Control one device from multiple platforms simultaneously
What is Thread?
Thread is a low-power, mesh networking protocol designed specifically for smart home devices. While Matter is the "language" devices speak, Thread is one of the "roads" they use to communicate.
Thread is similar to Zigbee in many ways - both are low-power mesh networks operating on the 802.15.4 radio standard. However, Thread uses IPv6, making it internet-native and easier to integrate with modern networks.
Thread vs WiFi vs Zigbee
| Feature | Thread | WiFi | Zigbee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Usage | Very Low | High | Very Low |
| Mesh Network | Yes | No | Yes |
| IP Native | Yes (IPv6) | Yes | No |
| Hub Required | Border Router | No | Coordinator |
Matter over Thread
Matter can run over multiple transport layers: WiFi, Ethernet, and Thread. For battery-powered devices like sensors and switches, Matter over Thread is the ideal combination - you get the universal compatibility of Matter with the low-power benefits of Thread.
How It Works Together
Thread Border Routers
A Thread Border Router connects your Thread mesh network to your home IP network. Many devices you may already own can act as border routers:
Matter with Home Assistant
Home Assistant has native Matter support through the official Matter integration. You can commission Matter devices directly to Home Assistant and use them alongside your existing Zigbee, Z-Wave, and WiFi devices.
💡 Pro Tip: Multi-Admin
Matter supports "multi-admin" - meaning you can add the same device to Home Assistant AND Apple Home AND Google Home simultaneously. Control it from whichever app you prefer, and automations work across all platforms.
Should You Wait for Matter?
Matter is still maturing. Device selection is limited compared to Zigbee or Z-Wave, and some early Matter devices have had reliability issues. Our recommendation:
- For new smart home setups, consider a mix of Zigbee (more device variety) and Matter (future-proof)
- If you already have Zigbee/Z-Wave devices, there's no rush to switch
- Watch for Matter-over-Thread sensors and switches - these are where Matter shines
- Avoid Matter-over-WiFi when possible - it defeats the low-power benefits
Need Help with Smart Home Protocols?
Choosing between Matter, Thread, Zigbee, and Z-Wave can be confusing. We can design a smart home system that uses the right protocols for your needs - ensuring reliability, compatibility, and future-proofing.