Matter and Thread
You might have heard people talking about “Matter over Thread” devices, “Thread Border Routers,” or maybe you have seen a Thread logo on a Matter product’s box. But what does all that mean?
Matter is a “language” that devices use to talk to each other. Just as people connect via call or texts, Matter devices can also communicate across multiple technologies.
Thread is a newer wireless technology designed for smart home devices that is built on the same foundations as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and the Internet itself. That means Thread devices can join your home network, and communicate directly with your other smart home devices.
To connect a Thread device to your home network, you’ll need a networking device called a “Thread Border Router.” But just like a Matter Controller, these are built into many common smart home controllers and hubs.
Thread is a low-power, mesh networking technology.
Low Power
Because some smart home devices send very small amounts of data, rather than high bandwidth data like video, Thread devices can use much lower power radios to send signals farther, which helps devices like sensors and door locks last longer on batteries.
Mesh Networking
A Thread device that has a constant power source, such as a light bulb, can act as a “mesh extender”, relaying signals to other Thread devices. This makes your Thread network stronger and extends its coverage as you add more devices, meaning a light at the end of your driveway can still connect to your home network when there are mesh extender devices nearby.
Thread in Action
Sensors
Because Thread is energy-efficient, your motion, water, contact, and temperature sensors can stay alert for years on a tiny battery.
Smart Buttons
Matter and Thread let you put lighting, shade, and environmental controls where you need them, with long-battery life options.
Door Locks
Thread allows high-security devices like smart door locks to remain responsive and reliable without the need for frequent battery changes.
Lights and Plugs
Always-powered devices like Thread lightbulbs and smart plugs also serve as mesh extenders to boost your network’s coverage.
Blinds and Shades
A wide range of smart window coverings now use Thread to enable simple installation, without the need for a power cord.
Wait, Do I Need a New Router?
Just like you need a Wi-Fi router for your Wi-Fi devices to work, the same is true for Thread. To get your Thread devices talking to the rest of your Matter smart home, you need a device to act as a Thread Border Router, linking your Thread devices with the rest of your home network.
However, there’s a good chance you already have one. Many smart home hubs, smart speakers, smart displays, TVs and even some newer Wi-Fi routers – those same devices that function as Matter Controllers—have a Thread Border Router built in.
What about Wi-Fi?
Matter is a common language, so devices can “speak” over Wi-Fi, Thread, or Ethernet. Once connected to your network, devices on any of these network technologies can speak to any of the others, regardless of which of the three they’re using.
Many Matter devices are available either as “Matter over Wi-Fi” or “Matter over Thread.” Product makers often choose the technologies they’re going to use based on the functions of their device, or the experience smart home brands want to deliver for users.
For example, you will usually see Thread for a coin-cell battery-powered sensor, and Wi-Fi for a 4K streaming camera. You’ll find examples of many Matter devices that use either technology. For example, there are light bulbs that support Wi-Fi and you can also buy lights that support Thread.
You can choose Matter over Wi-Fi, Matter over Thread, or wired Matter over Ethernet devices for your home, and know that they’ll be able to work together as part of your Matter smart home.