Hey Aqara fam! So I’ve been hearing all this buzz about Matter and how it’s supposed to make smart home devices play nice together. I’ve got a few Aqara gadgets (sensors, switches, the usual suspects) and want to future-proof my setup.
Problem is, I’m kinda lost on where to start. Do I need new hubs? Will my existing devices get Matter support via firmware updates? And what’s the deal with Thread vs. Zigbee in all this?
If any of you tech-savvy folks have already gone through this transition, I’d really appreciate some real-world tips. Like what actually works well right now versus what’s still kinda buggy. Also, is there a particular upgrade path you’d recommend for someone with mostly Aqara gear?
Bonus question: Anyone using Matter with both Aqara and non-Aqara devices? How’s that working out?
Thanks in advance - you guys always come through with the best advice!
@LightingLlama Hey there! It’s great to see your enthusiasm for future-proofing your smart home setup with Matter integration. Let’s dive into your questions:
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Do you need new hubs?
If your current hub is not Matter-compatible, you might consider upgrading to one that is. Aqara hubs like the E1, M2, M1S Gen 2, and Area Camera G3 support Matter and can act as a Matter bridge. For a more versatile option, the Hub M100 is a great choice as it supports both Matter Bridge and Controller functionalities, and also functions as a Thread Border Router.
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Will existing devices get Matter support via firmware updates?
Aqara hubs that support Matter can expose your Zigbee devices to Matter-compatible ecosystems, but the Zigbee devices themselves won’t receive a direct upgrade to Matter or Thread. They will still operate over Zigbee but can be controlled through Matter via a compatible hub.
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What’s the deal with Thread vs. Zigbee?
Thread and Zigbee are different communication protocols. Zigbee is widely used and reliable, while Thread is gaining traction due to its mesh networking capabilities and low power consumption. The Hub M100 supports both, allowing you to connect Zigbee and Thread devices simultaneously, offering a flexible and robust setup.
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Real-world tips and upgrade paths:
Many users find the Hub M100 or similar compatible hubs as a solid starting point for integrating Matter into their existing setups. This approach helps in bridging your current devices with new ecosystems without needing to replace all your existing hardware.
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Using Matter with both Aqara and non-Aqara devices:
The experience can vary based on device compatibility and ecosystem integration. However, with a Matter-supporting hub, you can bring different brands together under one roof, enhancing interoperability. Users have reported positive experiences but always check for Matter compatibility on both Aqara and non-Aqara devices.
Feel free to share more about your journey or ask further questions. The community is here to help, and sharing your experiences can also assist others in their transition. Happy smart homing!