Alexa smart home
Updated
What works with Alexa without a hub, which Echo devices act as Matter controllers or Thread border routers, and the privacy settings to review.
Alexa supports a very wide range of devices, many of them over Wi-Fi with no hub, and some Echo models add built-in Zigbee, Thread or Matter support. Checking what your exact Echo model supports avoids buying a hub you do not need.
Review voice recording settings and Amazon Sidewalk, the shared low-bandwidth network some Echo and Ring devices join by default, and decide what you want enabled.
Kits 1
Guides 5
GuideSmart speaker privacy settings to changeSmart speakers keep a history of what you say unless you tell them not to. Here are the settings to review on Alexa, Google Home and Siri, and how…GuideAmazon Sidewalk explained: should you turn it off?Amazon Sidewalk lets some Echo and Ring devices share a small slice of your internet with neighbors. Here is how it works, what it costs you, and…GuideAlexa without a hub: which smart home devices connectPlenty of smart devices work with Alexa with no extra hub: Wi-Fi gadgets, Matter devices and, on some Echo models, Zigbee gear. Here is what each…GuideAlexa and Matter: Echo devices, Thread and what you can addMost recent Echo devices act as the Matter controller for Alexa, but only some are also Thread border routers. Here is how to read Amazon’s list…GuideWhich smart thermostat works with Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home?Check three things in this order: your HVAC wiring, whether the thermostat speaks Matter or supports your ecosystem, and which features need an…
Comparisons 3
ComparisonSmart display vs smart speaker: screen, camera and hubA speaker is cheaper and listens from any room. A display adds a screen, video calls and camera feeds. Compare the hub role, privacy controls and…ComparisonAlexa vs Google Home: which ecosystem fits your householdBoth control lights, locks and thermostats by voice. They differ on built-in Zigbee, Matter hubs, presence automations and privacy settings. This…ComparisonDedicated smart home hub vs smart speaker or display as your controllerMany speakers, displays and TVs already act as a hub. When is that enough, and when does a dedicated hub earn its $30–$150? Compare radios, local…