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No—not for every setup. You can use Samsung SmartThings with some devices that connect directly through the app, Wi-Fi, a manufacturer’s cloud service, or a Galaxy phone. A SmartThings-enabled hub is required for Zigbee, Z-Wave, and LAN-connected devices. Matter devices need a Matter controller, and Matter over Thread also needs Thread border-router capability. Before buying anything, check the exact device model and your region’s compatibility list; a Samsung product you already own may include the needed hub features.
When you need a hub—and when you may not
SmartThings is both a mobile app and a smart-home platform that can connect devices in different ways. Using the app does not, by itself, mean you need to buy a standalone hub. SmartThings describes direct, cloud, mobile, and hub-connected device paths in its device support guidance.
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The deciding factor is how a particular device connects to SmartThings—not simply whether it is marketed as a smart-home product. SmartThings says Zigbee, Z-Wave, and LAN-connected devices require a SmartThings-enabled hub. Other connections may work without a separate hub, provided the exact device and integration are supported.
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Check the device’s connection type
| Connection type | Is a separate SmartThings hub required? | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Wi-Fi | Often not, if that model supports direct SmartThings setup | Look up the brand and exact model in the SmartThings app. Some Wi-Fi devices connect through a manufacturer’s cloud integration instead of pairing directly. |
| Cloud-connected service or device | Not necessarily | Confirm the service’s SmartThings integration is currently supported. |
| Bluetooth or mobile connection | Not necessarily | SmartThings documentation describes some devices connecting through a Samsung Galaxy device; check the particular device’s supported connection path. |
| Zigbee or Z-Wave | Yes | Use a compatible SmartThings-enabled hub, and confirm the device itself is supported. |
| LAN-connected device | Yes, according to SmartThings support | Check how the device integrates. LAN-connected does not necessarily mean it can be treated like a directly paired Wi-Fi device. |
| Matter over Wi-Fi or Ethernet | A Matter controller is required, but it is not necessarily a separate SmartThings-branded box | Check that both the controller and the Matter device are supported. |
| Matter over Thread | A Matter controller with Thread Border Router capability is required, or a compatible third-party border router may be used with the documented network setup | Verify the controller, border-router function, Thread network, and device setup requirements. |
These are general connection categories, not guarantees for every product using a given protocol. SmartThings advises checking supported devices in the app; availability and compatibility can vary by region and exact model. See its supported-device guidance before buying.
#1 Best Overall
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
Matter needs a controller; Thread adds another requirement
A Matter device needs a Matter controller to control it after onboarding. SmartThings’ Matter support page names the SmartThings 2018 Hub (IM6001-V3P01) and Aeotec Smart Home Hub as controllers. It also says the SmartThings 2015 Hub can control Matter devices using Wi-Fi or LAN, but does not provide a Thread router.
For a Matter device that uses Thread, the controller needs Thread Border Router capability. The SmartThings guidance also describes using a suitable third-party border router with the required network setup. Check the current support page for compatible models and software requirements: its published version requirements may change over time, particularly when considering older hardware.
Rank #2
![SmartThings Hub 3rd Generation [GP-U999SJVLGDA] Smart Home Automation Hub Home Monitoring Smart Devices - Alexa Google Home Compatible - Zigbee, Z-Wave, Cloud to Cloud Protocols – White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/21hChu0ounL._SL160_.jpg)
- Monitor and control compatible devices in your home using a single smartphone app for your phone
- Automate connected devices in your home and set them to turn on or off when doors are opened, people come and go, and much more
- Works with a wide range of smartphone compatible products
Your Samsung TV or other device may already include hub features
A separate box may be unnecessary if you own a compatible Samsung product with built-in hub functionality. SmartThings identifies some Samsung TVs, Smart Monitors, Family Hub refrigerators, SmartThings Station, and recent Samsung Soundbars as products that can include hub features. The category name alone does not confirm compatibility: check the exact model against Samsung’s current hub guidance.
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- Identify the exact device. Note its model number and the protocol or integration it uses; a product’s “Wi-Fi” or “Matter” label alone does not establish its SmartThings setup path.
- Check SmartThings support in the app. Search by brand or device type and confirm the exact model and regional availability.
- Match the connection requirement. Zigbee, Z-Wave, and LAN-connected devices require a SmartThings-enabled hub. Matter devices need a controller; Matter over Thread also needs Thread border-router capability.
- Check hardware you already own. Confirm whether a compatible Samsung TV, monitor, refrigerator, Station, or Soundbar has the specific hub capability your setup needs.
- Buy only if there is a gap. If your device needs a hub or controller and you do not already have compatible hardware, compare supported SmartThings-enabled hubs. The Aeotec Smart Home Hub is one controller named by SmartThings for Matter, but confirm protocol support, regional compatibility, and any Thread requirement for your device first.
SmartThings’ hub overview describes hubs as the connection point for Zigbee, Z-Wave, and LAN-connected devices: SmartThings Enabled Hubs.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Multi-Protocol Smart Hub with Matter Bridge – The M100 is a versatile smart hub compatible with Thread devices and Aqara Zigbee (** Not third-party Zigbee devices), supporting up to 20 Aqara Zigbee devices and 20 Thread devices. As a Matter Bridge, it connects Aqara Zigbee products to other smart home ecosystems, compatible with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Home Assistant, etc. Note: Use a 5V⎓0.5A power adapter (not included) and keep the product continuously powered during use.
- Advanced Matter Bridging for Seamless Smart Home Integration – The M100 enables Aqara’s unique features, such as facial recognition and complex automation, to work across Home Assistant and other Matter ecosystems. Expand your smart home with Aqara or third-party Matter devices (requires a Matter-enabled hub). Currently supports lights, thermostats, plugs, switches, buttons, and various sensors (motion, light, door/window, temperature/humidity), with more devices to be added in the future.
- Local Automation for Reliable Performance – Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond-level response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notification, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
- Flexible Power & Small Size – Features a universal USB-A port for power and data, allowing connection to power banks, wall outlets, PCs, or routers for a simple and quick setup. The Hub M100's shaft can be adjusted within a 210-degree range, making its placement extremely flexible.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 for Faster & Security—This product supports a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 wireless network connection, which enables more efficient connections with advanced WPA3 security. Wi-Fi 6 ensures smoother performance even in high-traffic environments, allowing multiple devices to connect without compromising speed or reliability. Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M100 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
Rank #3
- LOCAL PROCESSING FOR INSTANT RESPONSE: The Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro runs automations directly on the hub, not on remote servers, so lights, locks, thermostats, and routines keep working even when your internet goes down; this local-first architecture delivers near-instant response to every trigger without relying on remote servers to process commands; compatible with 1,000+ devices across 100+ brands, and device data stays at home for enhanced privacy
- WORKS WITH ALEXA, GOOGLE HOME, AND APPLE HOMEKIT: Connect your preferred voice assistant and start controlling your smart home from day 1; the C-8 Pro is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, so your existing ecosystem works alongside the hub without compromise; Ring camera integration adds a concrete layer of security awareness; approachable setup is supported by step-by-step documentation and an active online community ready to guide you through every stage
- MULTI-PROTOCOL SUPPORT WITH EXTENDED RANGE: A single hub covers Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 Series with Long Range, Zigbee 3.0, and Bluetooth, so existing devices stay compatible without extra bridges or adapters; 800 Series Z-Wave and Zigbee 3.0 deliver improved reliability and mesh stability, backed by Z-Wave Alliance membership; 2 dedicated external antennas, one for Z-Wave and one for Zigbee, extend wireless reach in larger homes and device-dense environments where signal consistency is critical
- AI-ASSISTED AUTOMATION AND ADVANCED RULE ENGINE: The AI-assisted routine builder suggests and builds automations based on your connected devices, no programming required; Rule Machine enables multi-condition logic across lighting scenes, geofenced arrivals, layered security responses, and whole-home scheduling; when your family arrives after dark, the hub can unlock the door, activate pathway lights, and adjust the thermostat, turning complex sequences into reliable hands-free routines
- NO SUBSCRIPTION REQUIRED AND CONTINUOUS UPDATES: Full platform functionality needs no recurring subscription; every automation, integration, and advanced feature is available from setup; continuous platform updates since 2018 have expanded compatibility without requiring new hardware; an active community of tech-savvy homeowners and DIY smart home builders shares custom apps, drivers, and automation blueprints for ongoing value; compact at 3.23 x 2.95 x 0.67 in and just 0.16 lb, it fits anywhere
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
