Samsung SmartThings is an app and platform for controlling compatible Samsung and partner smart-home devices, including appliances, TVs, sensors and lights. Whether a particular product connects—and whether you need a separate hub—depends on its exact model, region and connection requirements.
What the SmartThings app does
SmartThings brings supported devices into one app so you can control them from a compatible phone or other supported device. It can serve as a central control point for a mixed Samsung and third-party setup, but it does not make every product from a participating brand compatible. Features and availability can also differ by model and region.
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Samsung’s overview describes a hub as a way to connect and control a wider variety of smart devices, while noting that some devices require one. Some Samsung TVs and other products have built-in hub functions, but that capability is model-specific; check the product page for the device you own rather than assuming it includes one. Samsung SmartThings overview
Check whether a device is compatible
Check the exact product name or model before buying. In the SmartThings app, open Devices, tap Add, then search by device name or model. Samsung’s setup instructions also describe browsing device categories and partner brands, scanning a QR code, or scanning for nearby devices when a product is powered on and in pairing mode. If the product does not appear in search, Samsung’s check indicates it is not compatible through that flow.
#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
- Open SmartThings and select Devices.
- Tap Add.
- Search for the exact product name or model, or use the available browse, QR-scan or nearby-device options.
- Confirm that the listing matches the model and region you intend to use, then follow the in-app setup steps.
Use Samsung’s device setup and compatibility instructions alongside the current supported-device information. A brand-level claim is not enough: products from one manufacturer can differ in model support and available features. Samsung notes that supported environments may change.
When you need a hub
Not every SmartThings-compatible product needs a separate hub. Some connect directly, while others need a SmartThings-compatible hub for their protocol or setup. A hub can widen the range of devices you can connect, but buying one before checking the target product’s requirements may not solve a compatibility problem.
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
First check whether your existing Samsung TV, monitor, refrigerator, soundbar or Station has the specific hub function required by the device. Built-in capability and support differ by model, and older products may require a separate dongle for particular functions. Consult the detailed product page for your exact model and verify regional support before adding hardware. Samsung SmartThings hub information
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What to verify for Matter devices
A Matter badge by itself does not establish that a device will work in your SmartThings setup. SmartThings’ Matter guidance names supported controllers, including the SmartThings 2018 Hub (IM6001-V3P01) and Aeotec Smart Home Hub. The app alone does not take the controller role described in that guidance; check which controller the device requires, along with any Thread border-router requirement.
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
The same support page documents minimum software requirements for the setup it covers: Android SmartThings app version 1.7.91 or later; iOS 16.2 or later with SmartThings app version 1.6.94 or later; and firmware 45.9 or later for the specified Samsung controller. These are documented requirements, not a guarantee that every current Matter setup uses the same versions. Check the current support page and app-store listing before setup, and confirm the controller and device requirements for your region. SmartThings Matter support guidance
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.
A practical compatibility checklist
- Match the exact product model—not just the brand—to Samsung’s current compatibility information.
- Confirm that the listing and features apply in your region.
- Check whether the product connects directly or requires a hub, controller, dongle or Thread border router.
- Verify whether an existing Samsung product has the needed built-in hub function.
- For Matter, check the controller and software requirements as well as the device’s own setup instructions.
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