To connect a Matter device, put it in pairing mode, then in SmartThings open Devices > Add (+) > Add Device and scan its Matter QR code or enter its setup code. Choose a compatible SmartThings controller and room, then follow the prompts to connect it to Wi-Fi or Thread. A Thread device also needs access to a Thread border router.
Before you start: check the device, network and controller
Matter simplifies setup across smart-home platforms, but it does not eliminate the need for a compatible controller. Your phone runs the SmartThings commissioning flow; a supported controller is needed to control the device afterward. Samsung’s Matter setup instructions describe supported SmartThings controllers, but model and firmware support can change. Confirm that your exact controller is supported and online before pairing.
- Check the device’s connection type. Matter devices can use Wi-Fi, Thread or Ethernet. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to identify the transport and whether the product has Thread capability.
- For Thread, check for a border router. A Thread device needs a controller with a Thread border router, or another supported border-router arrangement. Samsung describes using a third-party border router with the SmartThings 2015 Hub for Thread devices; the hub and border router must be on the same Wi-Fi/LAN, and you may be asked for the Thread network key.
- Check compatibility and account access. Samsung requires a Samsung account to use SmartThings. To check whether a product is supported, search for its brand or model, scan its QR code, or use Scan nearby with the device powered on and in pairing mode. See Samsung’s SmartThings compatibility guide and add and manage devices guide.
Samsung’s Matter article, published in 2023, listed Android SmartThings app version 1.7.91 or later, iOS 16.2 or later with SmartThings app version 1.6.94 or later, and hub firmware 45.9 or later for the controllers it covered. These are historical published minimums, not a guarantee of current requirements; follow current app prompts and check current controller support rather than relying on those figures alone.
Pair a Matter device in SmartThings
- Put the device into pairing mode. Use the device maker’s instructions. Keep the device near your phone and controller while setting it up.
- Open the add-device flow. In SmartThings, go to Devices, tap Add (+), then choose Add Device.
- Scan the device’s Matter QR code. If the camera cannot read it, choose Enter for the setup-code option and type the code printed with the device or its documentation. Samsung’s 2023 support article says Matter setup codes may be 11 or 21 digits.
- Select a controller and room. Choose the compatible SmartThings hub/controller, then select the room where the device belongs.
- Connect the device to its network. Wait for SmartThings to find it, then select the Wi-Fi or Thread network if prompted. For the SmartThings 2015 Hub and a third-party Thread border router, choose that Thread network and provide its network key if requested.
- Name and save the device. Follow the remaining prompts to finish. The controls available in SmartThings depend on the product and its implementation; Matter support does not mean every device exposes identical features.
Share an already-added device with another platform
Matter multi-admin can let an onboarded device work with another supported smart-home platform. In SmartThings, open the Matter device and choose More (⋮) > Share with other services > Share device. SmartThings generates a sharing code; scan or enter that code in the other platform’s app to complete setup there.
#1 Best Overall
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The M3 is a versatile hub supporting Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, enabling Aqara-exclusive scenes and signals to sync with Matter ecosystems such as Home Assistant for seamless integration. Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices (** Not third-party Zigbee devices) and 127 Thread devices (Repeaters are needed).
- [Edge Compatibilities and Local Automations] The M3 serves as an Edge Hub, prioritizing local control and automation. Upon integration, it supersedes existing Aqara hubs, shifting the automations among them to local operation (Some cloud-based notifications still require internet). Upgrade-friendly, it supports migrating Zigbee devices from older Aqara hubs.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Optimal Wired and Wireless Connectivity] Offering both wired and wireless solutions, the smart home hub M3 provides dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) with advanced WPA3 security, and a Power over Ethernet (PoE) port. The addition of a USB-C port allows for mini-UPS and power bank connections, delivering unparalleled stability. (2A USB power adapter is not included. ) . Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M3 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- [Privacy-Focused with Encrypted Storage, Easy Setup and Versatile Placement] The M3 prioritizes privacy by excluding microphone or camera components. It boasts 8GB end-to-end encrypted local storage, for device lists, configuration parameters, and automation configuration data. Additionally, it includes a mount and screws for flexible placement on flat surfaces, walls, or ceilings. Magic Pair technology ensures effortless detection by the Aqara Home app upon power-up.
This generated code is a separate sharing credential, not the QR code or setup code printed on the device. Samsung’s 2023 article said a device could connect to up to five services; because platform limits can change, check current SmartThings guidance if the number of connected services matters to your setup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If SmartThings cannot find or connect to the device
- The QR code will not scan: Make sure the code is fully visible and well lit. Use the manual setup-code entry option if needed.
- The controller is missing from the list: Check that it is online and configured in the SmartThings location you are using. Samsung notes that an offline controller may not appear as a selectable option.
- The device is not discovered: Confirm it is in pairing mode and close to the phone and controller. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct way to start pairing.
- The network is weak or incompatible: Move the device closer to the network equipment, then check the device’s supported Wi-Fi band and network security requirements. For Thread, confirm that a compatible border router and the intended Thread network are available.
- Setup still fails: Restart the app, device or controller as appropriate and retry. Factory-reset the device only as directed by its manufacturer; a reset can erase its existing configuration.
For a non-Matter compatibility check, SmartThings also supports searching by brand or model, scanning a product QR code, and scanning nearby devices. Some products may require a physical button press to enable smart features, but follow the device maker’s instructions rather than treating that as a universal Matter pairing step.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 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
Rank #3
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The Aqara Hub M200 is a versatile smart hub that supports multiple advanced features, acting as a Matter Controller, Thread Border Router, and Matter Bridge. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. With advanced Matter bridging functionality, it syncs Aqara-exclusive features with ecosystems like Home Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home for seamless integration. Supports up to 40 Aqara Zigbee devices and 40 Thread devices.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Wired & Wireless Connectivity with PoE Support] Enjoy flexible setup with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) using advanced WPA3 security, and Power over Ethernet (PoE), making the M200 a versatile PoE Ethernet Smart Home Hub. The USB-C port supports mini-UPS or power bank connections for uninterrupted operation, ensuring your energy-saving and security automations stay online. (*2A USB power adapter is not included. )
- [Home Automation and Alarm System] Works with all Aqara devices to create a comprehensive, smart home automation system. The Aqara Hub M200 is equipped with a built-in speaker that can be used in a variety of ways: security alerts, doorbell, alarm clock, and custom audio messages. (** 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝-𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐙𝐢𝐠𝐛𝐞𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬)
- [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 response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notifications, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
Rank #2
- 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.
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