Explainer

The best Matter air quality sensors you can buy right now

Gain valuable insights into your home's environment with the best Matter-compatible air quality sensors.

Christopher Close Friday, February 27, 2026

What is Thread, and how does it fit into Matter?

Thread is a low-power, IPv6-based mesh networking protocol built for modern smart homes. Learn how Thread works, where it came from, how Border Routers fit in, and why it’s central to the Matter standard.

James Bruce Wednesday, February 25, 2026

The companies behind the Matter smart home standard

Behind Matter is the CSA, a 700-member alliance where rivals like Apple and Google collaborate to build a unified, open-source future for the smart home.

Christian Cawley Monday, February 23, 2026

The best Matter-compatible smart door locks

Boost your home's security while adding a touch of convenience with the best Matter-compatible smart door locks.

Christopher Close Friday, February 20, 2026

How to set up a smart home device with Matter

Matter is making the smart home more accessible, but getting started requires the right hub. Here’s how to set up controllers, QR codes, and automations easily.

Christian Cawley Thursday, February 19, 2026

The best Matter-compatible smart outdoor dimmer plugs

Give your outdoor lighting a smart makeover with Matter and a dimmable plug.

Christopher Close Wednesday, February 18, 2026

AI won't fix your smart home anytime soon—and it might just break it

As is often the case, the hype doesn't always match reality.

Bertel King Saturday, February 14, 2026

When it comes to an IKEA smart home, you can't have too many AAA batteries

For IKEA's line of Matter devices, what's on the sticker isn't the full price.

Bertel King Thursday, February 12, 2026

Matter's lighting controls are rather basic—will you still need a companion app?

Matter-compatible lights can do so much, but not always via Matter.

Bertel King Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Texas Instruments to acquire Silicon Labs: What does this mean?

A business merger that may bring cheaper Matter devices to the market.

Ward Zhou Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Is IKEA unfairly taking the heat for Matter’s growing pains?

How IKEA’s massive rollout has become a stress test for Matter.

Ward Zhou Friday, February 6, 2026

Are local Matter hubs truly private? What you need to know

Some privacy is better than none.

Bertel King Friday, February 6, 2026

Why choose a local Matter hub over a cloud-based one?

A smart home doesn't have to live in the clouds.

Bertel King Thursday, February 5, 2026

Quick guide to visualize your Thread network with Home Assistant

The ultimate tool to troubleshoot your Thread mesh.

Ward Zhou Monday, February 2, 2026

The best Matter-compatible smart dimmer plugs

Add a touch of ambience right from the comforts of your favorite smart home ecosystem with these Matter-compatible dimmer plugs.

Christopher Close Friday, January 30, 2026

What is IP65 weather proofing and does your smart home need it?

More smart home products are exposed to the elements than you might think.

Bertel King Friday, January 30, 2026

How the SwitchBot Hub 3 became the go-to smart controller in our home

The SwitchBot Hub 3 is more than a gateway; with cable-mounted sensors and a tactile dial, it’s a versatile, high-accuracy anchor your Matter smart home needs.

Christian Cawley Wednesday, January 28, 2026

The best Matter-compatible night lights

Whether you are looking for a simple plug-in unit to light a dark hallway or a lamp that can help promote sleep, there's a Matter-compatible night light for almost any need.

Christopher Close Saturday, January 24, 2026

IKEA is about to take over my smart home for these four reasons

Yes, IKEA, take my money.

Bertel King Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Most anticipated Matter features and devices in 2026

Top Matter categories to follow in 2026

Ward Zhou Monday, January 19, 2026