Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.
Published: 25 May 2025
Bring Your Smart Home Together
A smart home hub acts as the brain of your connected setup, allowing devices to talk to each other across different platforms and protocols. In 2025, the best hubs support Matter, Alexa, Google, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi for full ecosystem compatibility.
This guide explores the 5 best smart home hubs for UK users in 2025—ideal for beginners and enthusiasts looking to unify their smart lights, plugs, sensors, locks, and appliances.
Why Use a Smart Home Hub?
- 🔗 Unified control: Manage all your smart devices from one app or voice assistant.
- 🌐 Cross-platform compatibility: Bridge Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi ecosystems.
- 📶 Offline automation: Keep smart routines running even without internet.
- 📊 Smart routines: Create multi-device triggers based on time, location, or sensors.
- 🔒 Increased reliability: Hubs reduce lag and increase automation speed compared to cloud-only systems.
What to Look for in a Smart Hub
- 🧠 Matter support: Ensure compatibility with the newest generation of smart devices.
- 📡 Protocols: Look for Zigbee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth, and Thread where needed.
- 🗣️ Voice assistant integration: Choose Alexa or Google Assistant based on your preference.
- 🛠️ App usability: A clean, intuitive app makes automations and troubleshooting easier.
- ⚡ Local control: Hubs that support local processing improve speed and privacy.
Aeotec Smart Home Hub – Power of SmartThings Read Full Review
This is the official SmartThings hub in the UK, offering robust support for Z-Wave, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, and Matter. It enables powerful automation, scene creation, and compatibility with hundreds of smart devices. Ideal for users who want reliability and wide protocol support in one hub.
Amazon Echo (5th Gen) – Smart Speaker + Matter Hub Read Full Review
The newest Echo now includes a built-in Matter hub and Thread radio alongside Alexa. That means you get full voice control plus smart device syncing without needing extra bridges. An excellent pick for Alexa-focused homes starting out in automation.
Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) – Google Assistant + Smart Display Read Full Review
While not a traditional hub, the Nest Hub acts as a Matter controller with powerful Google Assistant integration. Use it to manage routines, control devices, view cameras, and display live data. Best for Google users who want a visual hub interface.
Samsung SmartThings Wi-Fi Hub – Complete Automation Brain Read Full Review
This classic SmartThings hub version focuses on fast Wi-Fi automation and works well as a coordinator for multiple Zigbee/Z-Wave devices. With SmartThings Edge, local automation is faster and more reliable than ever. Perfect for custom setups.
SwitchBot Hub 2 – Compact, Matter-Ready Bridge Read Full Review
For those using SwitchBot sensors, locks, and curtains, the Matter-ready Hub 2 is a must-have. It connects devices to Alexa, Google, Siri Shortcuts, and more. The compact design, built-in thermometer, and IR control make it a versatile secondary hub.
Ready to Take Control?
With the right smart home hub, your entire system becomes faster, smarter, and more reliable. Whether you prefer voice control, advanced automation, or seamless Matter integration, these top 5 hubs are the best choices for UK homes in 2025.
Explore More Buying Guides