Getting Started with Matter
A beginner's guide to Matter: what it is, what you need and how to add your first device.
Updated October 2, 2026 · 10 min read · By MatterCatalog · Based on CSA and platform documentation; we have not performed hands-on testing.
1. What is Matter?
Matter is a cross-platform smart home standard created by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) — backed by Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung. It addresses a common smart home problem: compatibility.
Before Matter, buying a smart device meant checking if it worked with your specific ecosystem. A HomeKit bulb might not work with Alexa. A Google Home sensor might not talk to SmartThings. Matter reduces this — a device with the Matter logo can be added to any Matter platform that supports its device type, though features vary by platform and app.
Think of Matter like USB-C for smart homes
Much like USB-C lets one cable work across many devices, Matter lets one protocol work across the major smart home platforms.
2. Why Matter Matters
No Vendor Lock-in
A Matter device can move to another Matter platform that supports its device type, without replacing it.
Local Control
Devices can respond on your local network, without a cloud round-trip.
Built-in Security
Matter requires encrypted, authenticated communication, and certified devices carry a device attestation certificate.
Cross-Platform
Supported by Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung, and more; features vary by platform.
Multi-Admin
Use one device with multiple apps simultaneously.
Industry Backing
Developed in the Connectivity Standards Alliance with Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung and many other companies.
3. How Matter Works
Matter devices communicate over your local network using one of three transport protocols:
Wi-Fi
Connects directly to your Wi-Fi router. Common for plugs, bulbs and mains-powered devices.
Thread
Low-power mesh network. Ideal for sensors, locks, and bulbs. Needs a Thread border router (built into many smart speakers).
Ethernet
Wired connection, used by some hubs and bridges.
When you set up a Matter device, you scan a QR code or enter a setup code. Your controller (phone/hub) securely pairs with the device over your local network. Pairing happens on your local network; your controller platform (Apple Home, Google Home and others) uses its own account, and some makers' apps add their own.
4. What You Need to Get Started
Essential Checklist
- 1.A smartphone with your platform's current app (Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa or SmartThings); check the platform's minimum iOS or Android version
- 2.A Matter controller — for example a HomePod or Apple TV, a Google Nest speaker or display, a supported Amazon Echo, or a SmartThings hub; check the exact model and generation
- 3.Wi-Fi network — many Matter Wi-Fi devices need a 2.4 GHz network; check the device's requirements
- 4.A Matter device — look for the Matter logo or check our product catalog
- 5.Thread border router (only for Thread devices) — included in some controllers, for example HomePod mini, Nest Hub 2nd gen and Echo 4th gen
5. Setting Up Your First Matter Device
Step 1: Unbox and power on
Plug in or install your Matter device. Many devices enter pairing mode on first power-up; the quick start guide says how.
Step 2: Open your smart home app
Open Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, or SmartThings on your phone.
Step 3: Add new device
Tap "Add Device" or "+" and select "Matter" or "Scan QR Code".
Step 4: Scan the Matter QR code
Found on the device, packaging, or quick start guide. You can also type the numeric setup code printed next to it.
Step 5: Assign a room and name
Choose where the device lives and give it a name you'll remember for voice commands.
Step 6: Done!
Your device is now controllable from the app, by voice and in automations. Matter control runs on your local network; voice assistants and remote access still need the internet.
6. Best First Matter Devices
Not sure where to start? These categories are simple first Matter devices. Each names one example from our catalog; the linked guides compare more.
Smart Lights
A simple first device: a Matter bulb goes into an existing lamp. Check whether the bulb uses Wi-Fi or Thread; a Thread bulb needs a Thread border router.
Example: Nanoleaf Essentials Matter Bulb (A19), Matter over Thread
Smart Plugs
Puts a plug-in lamp, fan or holiday lights on schedules and automations without replacing them.
Example: TP-Link Tapo Smart Plug Mini (P125M), Matter over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
Sensors
Door/window, motion and temperature sensors trigger automations. Battery-powered Matter sensors commonly use Thread.
Smart Locks
Keyless entry you can control from a Matter platform. Check your door fit and whether the lock needs a Thread border router.
7. Pro Tips
Start with one room
Don't try to smart-ify your whole house at once. Pick one room, get it working the way you want, then expand.
Use 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
Many Matter Wi-Fi devices only work on 2.4 GHz. Make sure your router has a 2.4 GHz network available; if setup fails on a combined network, check the maker's setup notes.
Keep firmware updated
Matter is still evolving, and firmware updates can add features and fix bugs. Enable automatic updates when the maker offers them.
Battery devices usually use Thread
Thread is a low-power mesh network, which is why many battery-powered Matter sensors and locks use it. Plan for a Thread border router if you buy them.
Use multi-admin for mixed households
Matter lets you add a device to more than one platform. Pair it with Apple Home and Google Home if your household uses both; features can differ between them.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matter free to use?
Matter is an open standard, and there is no fee for a shopper to use it. Makers pay to certify their products with the CSA (Connectivity Standards Alliance); a certified product can carry the Matter logo. Each product page in our catalog shows whether a CSA certificate is on file.
Do I need a hub for Matter?
You need a Matter controller for your platform, such as a compatible smart speaker, display, streaming box or hub. Wi-Fi Matter devices connect directly to your network. Thread-based Matter devices also need a Thread border router; some controllers include one (for example HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K with Ethernet, Nest Hub 2nd gen and Echo 4th gen). Check the exact model and generation.
Can I mix Matter devices from different brands?
Yes — that's the point of Matter. A Nanoleaf bulb, Yale lock, and Eve sensor can all be added to the same Apple Home, Google Home, or Alexa setup, as long as the platform supports each device type; some features may still need the maker's app.
Will my existing smart devices get Matter support?
Some manufacturers have released firmware updates to add Matter support to existing devices (like Nanoleaf, Eve, and some Aqara products). Check with your device manufacturer for specific update availability.
What's the difference between Matter and Thread?
Matter is the application protocol (the "language" devices speak). Thread is a network protocol (how devices communicate). Think of it like email (Matter) running over Wi-Fi or cellular (Thread/Wi-Fi). Matter can run over Thread, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet.
How many Matter devices can I have?
Matter does not set a small fixed limit for a home. In practice the limit depends on your network: Wi-Fi devices share your router's capacity, which varies by router, and Thread devices form a mesh in which mains-powered devices can relay traffic for others.
Ready to Start Your Matter Smart Home?
Browse our catalog of 1,062 Matter products sold in the US, with each product's certification status on its page.
Related guide: How to Set Up Matter Devices, step by step for Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa and SmartThings.
Browse All Matter Devices →