The 5 biggest smart home trends that Matter is enabling in 2025

If Matter is the future of the smart home, these are the trends you should be following.

Honeywell Home Smart X2S Thermostat review: Is this a smart thermostat for the masses?

The Honeywell Home Smart X2S Thermostat looks functional enough, but does its Matter-compatibility deliver the smart home integrations you need?

Switchbot Motion Sensor review: an affordable automation building block

Compared to some of the alternative Matter-compatible motion sensors, SwitchBot's is rather basic. But does this mean you should't buy it?

Too many Matter devices still require you download another app first

Matter promises a smart home that you can set up and manage entirely offline - but are we there yet?

Installing a smart switch or outlet is easier than you think

Installing smart switches doesn't mean rewiring your house.

SwitchBot Meter Plus review: A smart way to monitor comfort

SwitchBot Meter Plus offers simple temperature/humidity readings and Matter compatibility via a SwitchBot hub. But does this make it the reliable, affordable smart home addition you're looking for?

Smart relays vs smart switches: which is right for you?

If you're looking for a new smart home lighting solution, the answer isn't as straightforward as you might think.

Which smart home platform is best on a Google Pixel?

Pixel users have multiple Matter smart home hub options: Google Home, SmartThings (Samsung hub needed), Home Assistant (privacy-focused), Amazon Alexa, or TP-Link Deco routers.

Which smart home brands are truly investing in Matter? (And which just slapped a logo on the box...)

Save yourself the frustration and shop brands that are all-in on Matter.

This one thing makes most smart home platforms vulnerable

Most smart homes get a lot less smart when the internet goes out. Not all Matter-compatible platforms are affected by this, but it's something you should plan for.

Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread? What to know before buying your next smart home device

If you're building a smart home, you might be confused: Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread? Well, the answer is straightforward -- when in doubt, look for Matter.

Google Home vs. Apple Home - How do they differ & which one is better?

Should you embrace the smart home platform that comes with your phone? We take a look at Google Home and Apple Home.

A look at controlling Matter with a smartwatch

A smartwatch is like a smart speaker that's always on your wrist, plus it has a screen, making it perfect for controlling your Matter smart home.

How do air purifiers benefit from Matter compatibility?

Matter doesn't currently add much to air purifiers, but compatibility is still a feature worth having.

Will SmartThings work with Matter?

Thanks to Samsung's popularity, SmartThings is the easiest way to dabble with most Matter devices on the market.

The 4 ways I control Matter devices in my smart home

You can control any Matter-enabled gadget using the phone in your hand, but that's only the beginning.

What Nest devices have a Matter hub built In?

Thinking about buying a Google Nest device for your smart home? These Matter-compatible devices are a good option to future-proof your home.

Does Google Home Support Matter?

Google Home is a viable option for a smart home, but its Matter support is woefully behind.

6 ways you can take Matter outdoors

There's no reason smart home tech has to stay inside your home. Whenever you're setting up new lights or sensors outside your home, check for Matter-compatibility.

Matter-compatible smart plugs vs. outlets: when should you use which?

You could buy a smart plug, or opt for a more permanent solution with a smart outlet. But which option is best for you?