Google Home starter kit
Updated
A Matter hub, two plugs, three bulbs and two door sensors: a first Google Home shopping list, with the optional thermostat, doorbell and lock, and what to check before you buy.
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Before you buy
Before you buy
- Pick a hub that fits your devices. All Google Matter hubs handle Wi-Fi devices. Only some include a Thread border router. Check Google’s “Nest devices with Matter” article. See Google Home and Matter: which devices are hubs.
- Turn on IPv6 on your router if it is off. Google says setup may seem to work but control will eventually fail without it.
- Check the device type against Google’s supported list. Types that are not on it are “not officially supported”.
- Keep it local where you can. Matter devices work over your home network without routing each command through the cloud, per Google.
Presence automations
Google’s presence sensing can use phones, Wi-Fi and device activity to run Home and Away automations. Set it up after the basics and ask every adult to enable their own phone. Read Google Home presence sensing and automations.
What each piece does
| Piece | Network | Example automation |
|---|---|---|
| Hub | Wi-Fi, plus Thread on some models | Runs automations and voice commands |
| Matter plug | Wi-Fi or Thread | Lamp on at sunset |
| Matter bulb | Wi-Fi or Thread | Dim to 30% after 9 PM |
| Contact sensor | Thread or Wi-Fi | Door opens → entry light on |
Core items
Google Home Matter hub (speaker or display)
$50–$200Google says a Matter hub is needed to set up, control and automate Matter devices. A display also shows cameras and controls on a screen.
What to look for: a Google speaker, display, TV streamer or router that Google lists as a Matter hub; Thread border router support if you plan to use Thread devices
See options on AmazonMatter smart plugs × 2
$10–$25The simplest first devices: lamps, fans (check the label) and seasonal lights. Matter lets you add them to other ecosystems later.
What to look for: Matter logo, 15 A / 1,800 W rating, plug-in unit type on Google’s list, energy monitoring if you want usage
See options on AmazonMatter smart bulbs (E26) × 3
$10–$25Use them in the living room and bedroom for schedules and voice control.
What to look for: Matter logo, E26 base, brightness and color temperature range that matches your old bulbs
See options on AmazonContact sensors for doors and windows × 2
$20–$40Open/closed sensors trigger lights and alerts. Google’s Matter types include contact sensors.
What to look for: Matter over Thread or Wi-Fi, replaceable battery, a hub that supports the transport
See options on AmazonNice to have
Smart thermostat compatible with Google Home
$80–$280Heating and cooling are usually the biggest energy cost, and Eco and away modes pair with presence sensing.
What to look for: 24 V compatibility with your system, Google Home support, C-wire or included adapter; see our C-wire guide
See options on AmazonVideo doorbell
$60–$250A familiar upgrade after the basics, with notifications on your display.
What to look for: Google Home support, wired or battery, subscription-free local options, a chime for the house
See options on AmazonMatter smart lock with PIN keypad
$130–$300Google disables remote and voice unlock for locks that do not require a PIN, so a keypad lock fits voice use.
What to look for: Matter, PIN keypad, physical key backup, fit for your door
See options on AmazonStep by step
- Set up the hub in the Google Home app and update it. Confirm that IPv6 is enabled on the router.
- Add the smart plugs: choose Add device, then Matter-enabled device, and scan the QR code.
- Add the bulbs and sensors, then assign them to rooms.
- Create two automations: one scheduled (lights at sunset), one sensor-based (door opens → hallway light).
- Test with your voice and the app, then try the app away from home Wi-Fi to confirm remote access.
Cheaper or upgraded versions
Budget version, about $40–$100: a hub you already own plus two plugs and two bulbs. Skip sensors until you need automations.
Expanded version, often $410–$1,240: the core kit plus a thermostat, a video doorbell, a PIN keypad lock, a Thread-capable hub in a second part of the house and additional sensors.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Nest display, or will a speaker do?
Google lists speakers, displays, a TV streamer and a router as Matter hubs. A display adds a screen, but any listed hub can coordinate Matter devices.
Are all Matter devices supported by Google Home?
No. Google supports a list of device types and says unlisted types are not officially supported. Check the list before you buy.
Do I need a subscription?
The core kit does not. Some camera and doorbell features may need a paid plan; check the camera maker and Google before you buy.
Will these devices work with Alexa and Apple Home too?
Matter devices can, through multi-admin. Add the device to one ecosystem, then share it from its settings.