Google Home Matter hubs: which devices work and which add Thread
Updated
Google lists speakers, displays, a TV streamer and a Wi-Fi router as Matter hubs, but only some are Thread border routers. Learn what each hub does, what Google supports and what to check first.
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What a Matter hub does in Google Home
Google’s compatible-devices page says a Matter hub “is needed to set up, control, and automate Matter devices”, including when you are away from home. The hub also keeps control local: Google says Matter devices work over your home network without sending each command through the cloud, which makes them faster and more reliable. Remote control from outside the house still needs the internet.
A hub has to support Wi-Fi, Thread or both, because some Matter devices talk over Thread. Only the hub’s radio determines what you can add, so check it before you buy sensors or locks. The basics of the standard are in What is Matter?
Which Google devices count as hubs
Google’s “Nest devices with Matter” article groups hubs by connection type:
| Group | Examples of what Google lists | Thread border router? |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi only | Older and smaller smart speakers, the first-generation display, some TVs | No |
| Wi-Fi and Thread | Current speaker, second-generation display, large display, TV streamer, Wi-Fi router | Yes |
| Third-party TVs | Select compatible TVs | Check the manufacturer’s specifications |
Google says many of its hubs have a Thread border router built in, so you often do not need a separate one, and the Wi-Fi-only hubs do not include one. Model lists change; use the article itself as the final word.
Which Matter device types Google Home supports
Google’s developer page (updated December 20, 2024) lists about 30 device types and says types not on the list “are not officially supported”. The list includes:
- Lighting: on/off, dimmable, color temperature and color lights, plus plug-in units
- Sensors: contact, occupancy, temperature, humidity, light, air quality, smoke and carbon monoxide
- Climate: thermostats, fans and air purifiers
- Access: door locks and doorbells; window coverings
- Appliances: dishwashers, washers and robot vacuums
Google’s help article adds that newer Matter versions bring refrigerators, room air conditioners, garage door openers and robot vacuums with mopping. Support expands over time. Remote and voice unlocking is disabled for door locks that do not require a PIN code, so pick a lock with a keypad if you want voice unlock.
Check your network before adding devices
- Update the Google Home app and the hub’s firmware.
- Make sure IPv6 is enabled on your router. Google says that without it setup may appear to work and control then fails. Many routers have it on; if you turned it off, turn it back on.
- Keep the hub on the same network as the phone doing the setup.
- For Thread devices, confirm your hub is a border router. Thread battery devices that sleep, such as sensors, need a hub that supports a sleep period of 3 seconds or less per Google’s developer page.
- Name the device and room in the Google Home app so voice commands and automations are easy to build.
How many hubs do you need?
One hub covers a home when it has strong signal everywhere. For larger homes, several Thread border routers can extend and back up the mesh. A second Wi-Fi hub does not improve Thread range unless it is also a border router. Mains-powered Thread devices such as plugs and bulbs also repeat the signal for battery devices.
Mixing Google with other ecosystems
Matter devices can be controlled at the same time by Google Home, Apple Home and Alexa through multi-admin. Add the device to one ecosystem first, then share it from that device’s settings. See Matter multi-admin for the steps and the limits, and Thread border routers explained if you run border routers from more than one brand.
Shop by need
Wi-Fi Matter plugs and bulbs only
What to look for: Matter logo, support for a category on Google’s list, a hub that already sits on your Wi-Fi
Typical price: $10–$30
See options on AmazonThread sensors and locks
What to look for: a Google hub that lists Thread border router support, Matter over Thread devices, a coin-cell or AA battery
Typical price: $20–$45
See options on AmazonVoice unlock for a door
What to look for: Matter door lock with a PIN keypad (required for remote and voice unlock in Google Home), physical key
Typical price: $130–$300
See options on AmazonFrequently asked questions
Do I need a Google Nest device to use Matter with Google Home?
You need a Matter hub. Google’s lists include Nest speakers and displays, a TV streamer, a Wi-Fi router and some compatible TVs from other makers.
Is every Google Home speaker a Thread border router?
No. Google says some hubs are Wi-Fi only and do not include a Thread border router. Check Google’s article for your model before buying Thread devices.
Why does Matter setup seem to work and then stop controlling the device?
Google notes that IPv6 must be enabled on your home network. If it is turned off, setup can finish but control eventually fails.
Can Google Home control a Matter camera?
Google’s list of supported Matter device types includes doorbells but no camera type. The Matter 1.5 standard adds cameras, so support in Google Home may change; check Google’s page.