Hubs & Controllers
The best smart home hubs and controllers we tested in 2026 — ranked by performance, compatibility, and real-world reliability.
Aqara Hub M3
Best overall universal Matter controller. Excellent Zigbee + Thread + Matter support across Apple, Google, Alexa and SmartThings.
Homey Pro (2026)
The most powerful multi-protocol hub available. Doubled RAM, excellent local automations, and outstanding device support.
Home Assistant Green
Best official way to run Home Assistant. Fully local, private, plug-and-play, and extremely future-proof.
Apple HomePod mini
Best budget Apple Home hub. Excellent Thread border router and the simplest way into a proper Apple smart home.
Amazon Echo Hub
Dedicated 8-inch Alexa smart home control panel. Excellent for wall mounting and managing cameras, lights and routines.
Aeotec Smart Home Hub
Reliable SmartThings-compatible hub with solid Zigbee and Z-Wave support. A dependable middle-ground option.
Samsung SmartThings Station
Compact hub + wireless charger with a programmable button. Great affordable Matter & Thread option.
Google Nest Hub Max
Google’s largest smart display. Still a capable visual hub for Google Home users, though the hardware is aging.
Ikea Dirigera
Best budget Matter hub. Minimalist design, simple setup, and excellent value — especially with Ikea smart products.
Amazon Echo Studio (Echo Dot Max / Echo Studio)
Modern Echo speakers that also work as solid Matter/Thread hubs. Great everyday speaker + hub combination for Alexa users.