Review

Samsung SmartThings Hub 2025: Complete Review

The flagship Matter controller gets smarter — but is it still the best hub for your smart home?

March 30, 2026 | 12 min read

Quick Verdict

Rating: 4.5/5

The SmartThings Hub 2025 solidifies its position as the most versatile smart home hub on the market. With native Matter support, robust automation engine, and broad device compatibility, it's the top choice for serious home automation enthusiasts. The main drawback is the learning curve and occasional cloud dependency.

What's New in 2025

  • Matter 1.3 Support — Native Matter controller with multi-admin for seamless device sharing
  • AI-Powered Automations — New "Routines" feature suggests automations based on your usage patterns
  • Edge Drivers V2 — Faster local processing, reduced cloud dependency
  • Enhanced Security — Hardware-level encryption for all device communications
  • Third-Gen Aeotec Adapter — Included in box for Z-Wave/Zigbee extension

Setup & Installation

Setting up the SmartThings Hub 2025 takes about 15 minutes. Download the SmartThings app (iOS/Android), plug in the hub via Ethernet (recommended) or Wi-Fi, and follow the in-app wizard. The app now uses a card-based interface that makes device grouping intuitive.

Key setup steps:

  1. Connect hub to router via included Ethernet cable (USB-C power)
  2. Download SmartThings app and create/sign into Samsung account
  3. App auto-discovers hub on same network — tap to add
  4. Add devices via "Add Device" or let Matter devices auto-populate
  5. Create your first Room and assign devices

Supported Protocols

ProtocolSupportNotes
Zigbee 3.0YesUp to 50 devices directly
Z-Wave 800YesVia included Aeotec adapter
Matter 1.3YesWi-Fi, Thread, Ethernet
Wi-FiYes2.4GHz & 5GHz
LANYesLocal network control

Automation Capabilities

SmartThings' automation engine is where it truly shines. The new 2025 Routines feature uses AI to learn your habits:

  • Time-based triggers — Sunrise/sunset, specific times, countdown
  • Location triggers — Arrive/leave home, zone entry/exit
  • Device state triggers — Motion detected, temperature above X, switch flipped
  • Multi-condition logic — AND/OR/NOT operators for complex automations
  • Coordinated scenes — Control up to 200 devices in a single routine

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Best-in-class device compatibility
  • Powerful, flexible automations
  • Native Matter support
  • Active developer community
  • Free to use (no subscription required)
Cons
  • Some features require Samsung/SmartThings account
  • Occasional cloud latency
  • Complex for beginners
  • Limited IFTTT-style third-party integrations

Comparison with Competitors

FeatureSmartThings 2025Hubitat ElevationHome Assistant
Matter SupportNativeVia BridgeNative
Local ProcessingPartialFullFull
Mobile AppExcellentBasicBasic
Ease of SetupEasyHardHard
Price$149$149$50-300

Is It Worth Upgrading?

If you're running an older SmartThings hub (V2/V3), the 2025 model is a worthwhile upgrade for the Matter support alone. Existing users of the Aeotec SmartThings hub may find their devices still work well unless they specifically need Matter multi-admin features.

For new users, the SmartThings Hub 2025 is the most future-proof choice among consumer-friendly hubs.

Affiliate Note: This site is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you purchase SmartThings products through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Buy SmartThings Hub

Available on Amazon & Samsung

Check Price on Amazon