Best Smart Home Hubs
A comparison of smart home hubs based on listing specs, covering protocols, local automation, setup and voice assistant support. Check each listing for current details.
Hubs & Controllers
Smart home hubs, Matter controllers, Thread border routers and local automation controllers.
Best Home Automation Controllers
Ten home automation controllers compared by listing specs, from Home Assistant and Hubitat hubs to IR blasters and wall panels. Not hands-on tested.
How to Set Up a Smart Home Hub
Place your hub centrally, away from metal and other radios. Create an account, update firmware, then pair devices one at a time close to the hub.
Smart Home Hubs: What a Hub Does and Which Protocols It Speaks
A smart home hub translates wireless standards so different devices can work together. This guide covers hub types, protocols, local versus cloud processing, and when you may not need one.
Matter Controllers and Thread Border Routers Explained
A Matter controller manages device setup and control across platforms, while a Thread border router connects Thread devices to your home network. Here is how they work.
Local Smart Home Controllers: Automations Without the Cloud
Local smart home controllers keep automations running without the cloud, improving speed and privacy. Compare local vs cloud-first platforms.
Hubs & Controllers: Device Guide
Start by understanding the role of a smart home hub. The smart home hub guide explains the functions and protocols these devices use.
If you prefer automations that work without an internet connection, look into local home automation controllers. They keep your system running even if the cloud is down.