What is Matter? The New Smart Home Standard Explained

You may have seen the Matter logo on newer smart devices – but what does it actually mean? Matter is the new smart home standard designed to simplify compatibility between brands like Apple, Amazon, Google, and more. In this guide, we’ll explain what Matter is, why it matters, and what products support it in 2025.

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1. Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

Includes support for Matter and Zigbee. A future-proof hub for Alexa-based homes.

Pros:

  • – Built-in Matter controller
  • – Alexa support
  • – Affordable
  • – Doubles as smart speaker
👉 Check price on Amazon

2. Sonos Era 100

A powerful smart speaker with Matter certification, perfect for future-proofing your smart home. Offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and voice control with Amazon Alexa.

Pros:

  • – Matter-certified
  • – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and AirPlay 2
  • – Voice control with Amazon Alexa
  • – Compact design with powerful sound
👉 Check price on Amazon

3. Nanoleaf Essentials A19 Bulb (Matter-enabled)

One of the first bulbs with native Matter support. Works with Alexa, Google, Apple.

Pros:

  • – Matter-certified
  • – 16M colors
  • – No hub required
  • – Fast response time
👉 Check price on Amazon

4. Eve Energy Smart Plug (Matter)

Energy monitoring plug with Matter and Thread. Great for smart energy setups.

Pros:

  • – Supports Matter
  • – Privacy-focused
  • – Energy tracking
  • – Works with multiple platforms
👉 Check price on Amazon

5. Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)

Matter-ready smart display that also controls lights, cameras, and thermostats via voice or touch.

Pros:

  • – Matter hub
  • – Google Assistant
  • – Display & voice
  • – Thread border router
👉 Check price on Amazon

Buyer's Guide

Matter is a universal smart home standard supported by the biggest names in tech. It enables devices to work together regardless of brand. To use Matter devices, you’ll need a Matter controller – often built into products like Echo, Sonos Era 100, or Nest Hub. Matter uses technologies like Thread and Wi-Fi for faster, more reliable connections.

FAQ

Do I need new devices for Matter?
Yes – your devices must be Matter-certified or updated via firmware to support Matter.

Is Matter better than Zigbee or Z-Wave?
Matter aims to replace them by being simpler, faster, and cross-platform. But some older devices may still rely on Zigbee/Z-Wave.

Can Alexa control Matter devices?
Yes – Echo (4th Gen), Sonos Era 100, and other newer devices support Matter and can control compatible products.

Conclusion

Matter is the future of smart homes – making setup easier, improving compatibility, and reducing fragmentation. If you're buying new devices in 2025, look for the Matter logo to ensure they’ll work across platforms. Explore the top Matter-ready devices above and future-proof your smart home today.

Author

  • A former software engineer turned smart home guru, Ethan breaks down complex tech into digestible insights. He’s meticulous, data-driven, and always compares specs before making recommendations.

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